As a teenager I never felt that I fit in, and could not fully cope with the physical, emotional and the cognitive changes that were happening within me. I wanted to be independent, at the same time I could make really unwise decisions – like hanging out with the wrong crowd, underestimating who I was, and even allowing myself to be mistreated by others. In trying to find my freedom, I could put myself in dangerous situations, and even cause personal harm. When my parents disciplined me, this would actually make things worse.
During this time period, I struggled to love my body, my surroundings, and I had difficulty managing my emotions. It took me years to understand the concept of self-love, and even more time to actually get to the point where I was happy about the person I was. Even now, I am still working on myself, because one can never stop improving.
As a teenager, I would try to avoid my parents, and kept my friends at a distance. There was no one in my life that was close enough for me to be comfortable sharing my feelings. Looking back, I wish that there had been a person with the specific knowledge required to communicate, so that I could have asked for help when it was needed. Discovering that there were people who filled this helpful role, it is those experiences in adolescence that encouraged me towards this path. Helping people to realize their potential, finding meaningful purpose and the growth that comes from it, is a passion of mine.
I believe that every child has all the necessities to be happy and successful in life. Sometimes they just need support in discovering their strengths and talents. As their therapist I will do just that, assisting them in achieving their true potential in their journey of acceptance and self-love.
I possess a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University in Kitchener, Ontario. I am a registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
I offer counselling and therapeutic services for children, adolescents, and families who are experiencing challenges in different areas of life. I generally combine Attachment and Client-Centered Theories in practice and I frequently use CBT, ACT, play therapy and art therapy techniques.
My goal is to remain approachable and easy to talk to and I present a calming, positive outlook on life. I bring a curious and authentic interest in helping my clients live their best life.
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