My main approach for trauma and abuse is EMDR – Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. The current treatment guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association and the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies designate EMDR as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress.

In addition to treating trauma, EMDR has also been proven to be effective for the associated symptoms that develop out of childhood abuse and trauma like anxiety, depression, anger, eating disorders, addictions and others. To find out more about EMDR visit www.emdrcanada.org.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) identifies and challenges the problematic and recurring thoughts and beliefs you may have about yourself.

Together we come up with more beneficial ways of thinking that will help you feel better about yourself. I will also teach you new skills to help change behaviors that are no longer working for you.

Clinical hypnosis is an altered state of awareness, perception or consciousness that is used, by licensed and trained professionals, for treating a psychological or physical problem. It is a highly relaxed state. Hypnosis is a state of inner absorption, concentration and focused attention. When our minds are concentrated and focused, we are able to use more of our potential.

One common misconception about hypnosis is that a hypnotized person loses their will and is partially or completely under the command of the hypnotist. Nothing could be further from the truth. You are in control of yourself, and cannot be made to do anything that is against your will.

Mindfulness has been adopted by many psychologists and clinical therapists, and is helpful for developing greater self-awareness and self-acceptance.

With a focus on the “present moment” you will start to experience your thoughts, feelings and physical sensations as they really are, not how you think they should be or would like them to be. This will help you to develop compassion for yourself.

Emotionally Focused Therapy was first developed at the University of British Columbia in the early 1980’s. Since then it has become widely known, and is being used successfully around the world. What makes this model so effective?  EFT is based on the now well-validated premise that the quality of our attachment relationships profoundly affects our sense of wellbeing and quality of life. When our most important relationships feel insecure, distant or in conflict, it is understandable that we become emotionally distressed.

The Developmental Model was refined by Dr Ellyn Bader and Dr Peter Pearson in the 1980s. It helps couples to understand the normal and natural stages and struggles that couples cope with. It's a positive approach that focuses on growth, development and being in control of yourself instead of focusing on a partner's failings or faults. You focus on taking responsibility for your own life and being the best person you can be, as an individual and in your relationship.

Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is based upon the idea that every person has multiple sub-personalities which can be in conflict with each other. This can lead to problematic habits and behaviors. The goal of IFS therapy is to help people identify and accept the different parts of themselves and heal the parts that are wounded.