My experience
I have a Master of Social Work degree, a graduate certificate in Trauma-Informed Care from the University of Milwaukee-Wisconsin and a 2-year certificate in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. I completed a fellowship program in Youth-oriented substance use and trauma counseling. I have experience in community-based, hospital, inpatient, outpatient and harm reduction mental health services. I speak English and French.
I enjoy learning and am usually engaged in some type of training at any given moment as well as reading numerous books about psychology, philosophy and politics. I can highlight some clinical trainings that have been especially influential in my practice:
- Graduate certificate in Trauma Informed Care
- Certificate in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy (2 year)
- Brainspotting level I and II
- Trauma-focused Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
- Internal Family Systems Introduction
- Mindfulness and Community Building
- Psychedelic Integration Essentials
- Behavioral Health Care for Transgender Adults
- Hypnosis Techniques in Psychogastroenterology
My specializations
We are all much more complex than a single clinical term. All the same, I know that sometimes it helps to have a word to describe our suffering.
These are some areas I typically work with: simple and complex trauma, anxiety, depression, insecure attachment, phobias, substance use. Issues and concerns related to relationships, social groups, identity, work/career, coping with chronic illness.
I also have a sub-specialty in gut-directed hypnotherapy for people diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, visceral hypersensitivity or who experience anxiety around digestion.
My Approaches
I aim to create a warm, empathetic and non-judgmental therapeutic space first and foremost. Within that space, I will invite you to share your experiences, perspectives, thoughts, emotions and values. Together, we will get to know who you are and what you want.
My approach is insight-oriented, meaning that I believe it is more helpful and empowering to get to know our selves, history, patterns, strengths and gifts and use that information to guide change and choice.
I use brainspotting, mindfulness and psychodynamic approaches to work with trauma and adverse experiences that have affected your nervous system. I believe that combining both talk and body-focused therapy are the most effective way to feel more regulated and comfortable in our bodies and minds.
I hold an intersectional understanding of power, privilege and mental health. I understand that our economic, political and social systems have a profound effect on individual wellbeing. I aim to provide care that is anti-oppressive and affirming of your sexual orientation, gender, size, ability, race, ethnicity, culture, spirituality, religion and lifestyle.
I typically do not disclose a lot about myself personally upfront but am always happy to answer questions if there are aspects of my identity, background or personal beliefs that you would feel more comfortable knowing. Our relationship is at the forefront of all of our work together.