ABOUT SUSAN

BACKGROUND

On a personal level, dealing with loss/grief, anxiety, career and relationship changes — including the various stages of parenting — provided me with invaluable life experience,

and a deep regard for the value of authenticity. In the course of grappling with life's twists and turns, I have also benefited from my own in-depth process of soul searching and personal psychotherapy (so I know what it's like to be on the other side of the therapy room!)

My professional background was in the social services field, working with individuals who faced a variety of challenging life circumstances and systemic barriers. Through that work, as well as further post-graduate education and exploration, I became interested in more inclusive, holistic, and anti-oppressive approaches to counselling and change.

THERAPEUTIC APPROACH

I've been in private practice for over fifteen years, and have a supportive, trauma-informed approach to therapy, with a focus on healing, personal growth, and self-awareness.

Through mindfulness, therapeutic inquiry, and collaborative exploration, I help clients connect with their inner resources and resilience. My approach is integrative and personalized to each individual, depending on their unique set of needs and circumstances.

Remaining actively engaged in ongoing learning and professional development is important to me, and continues to build on my skills and experience. I am passionate about this work and committed to the growth and empowerment of my clients.

EDUCATION

M.Sc. Psychology

2009, Walden University

Master of Science

B.A. Sociology

1992, Trent University

Bachelor of Arts

Mindfulness Professional Training

2007, University of Toronto

Certificate

Diploma, Holistic Psychotherapy

2006, Transformational Arts College

Diploma

EXPERIENCE

Registered Psychotherapist

2007 - Present

Private Practice

Social Services Caseworker

1994 - 2008

City of Toronto

Volunteer Advocacy

2002 - 2006

Massey Centre for Young Mothers

Clinical Member, OSRP

2016 - Present / Ongoing

Ontario Society of Registered

Psychotherapists

METHODS & FOCUS

The primary focus of my practice is adult (18 and older) individuals seeking healing, change, and greater life satisfaction.

My style of therapy is holistic, integrative, and mindfulness-based. The foundation of my training was in humanistic, transpersonal and psychodynamic therapy.

I have also trained in cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness group facilitation, somatic therapies, trauma treatment, and the internal family systems approach.

COMMON ISSUES

I work with a variety of clients addressing such issues as:

Anxiety
Grief and loss
Self-esteem
Trauma
Stress management
Life transitions
Sexuality and intimacy