The adolescents I work with are often experiencing depression, anxiety, self-harm or self-injurious behaviour, suicidal thoughts or gestures, difficulties with school attendance, or the impact of past or recent trauma. In the context of the family there may be separation or divorce, relationship difficulties and breakdown, the death of a loved one, or the blending of a family. Depending on your preference and the unique needs of your adolescent and family, I may work with you as parents, the adolescent alone, parent and child pairs, siblings together, or the family as a whole. The majority of families find a combination of these to be most helpful.
My work is attachment-based, which means it focuses on the importance of the adolescent and parent relationship to foster healthy, adaptable, and open families and relationships. I utilize a variety of methods based on the age, needs, and interest of each unique client. These methods include Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), EFFT Parent Skills Training, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy including art-based interventions, and Narrative Therapy. All therapeutic work is tailored to the individual needs, goals, and developmental stage of the adolescent and family.
Adolescents
My therapeutic work with teens happens in a relaxed, friendly, and most importantly nonjudgmental environment. Sessions may incorporate videos, apps, and other forms of age-appropriate technology based on the preference and interest of the client. The family's approach and attitude toward technology use is always discussed with the parent/caregiver first in order to align with family values and house rules.
If you are specifically interested in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for your teen, please click here for more information.
Parent-teen sessions are often incorporated into adolescent work to encourage continued, age-appropriate attachment and attunement. Feeling connected and knowing that their parent or caregiver understands them will help your teen become more independent and self-assured as they move toward adulthood.
Families
Family therapy often incorporates many forms of work (individual, parent or caregiver, parent or caregiver and child, siblings, whole family) in order to address the complex relationships and dynamics that exist in families. Depending on the interests and developmental stages of family members, play-based techniques, art, and talk-therapy will be used to help each member participate fully and effectively.
I respect that each family I work with is unique, creative, and trying their very best. I will work with you to increase open communication, help families members to better understand each other's perspectives and experiences, and connect more fully on an emotional level.