The problem isn't having fear - without it we'd be emotionally handicap. The problem is having more fear for a situation than we should have. Fortunately, there are many tools to help with this.
Mental health support for physical illness, pain and uncertainty. Apprehension and worry about the future, hypervigilance towards body sensations and re-living the past are common distressing patterns. We know that anxiety, depression and chronic stress often occur in tandem with physical illness but can be overlooked or we may fear addressing these mental health challenges directly. We often take our health for granted until it's called into question. And then you may find it hard to focus on anything else.
Anxiety disorders can rob a person of joy by intruding into any moment of the day to remind you of problems you likely cannot fix at that time. I work with anxiety by helping you name what the thoughts are that keep coming in and practicing steps to gain your life back from them.
As a natural response to stress or fear when anxiety prevents one to lead a normal life it should become one’s priority to control it and take professional help before it becomes more severe and causes anxiety disorders, depression and may effect one’s mental health.
My approach is grounded in authenticity, trust, and often humour. I believe you have the wisdom to navigate life’s challenges and I strive to help empower you to facilitate change in therapy. Therapy can serve as a great space to understand and cope with your experience of anxiety. I work with individuals, couples, children and families offering a free consultation to ensure we are a good fit. I carry a systemic lens, exploring the way culture, community and family shape our experiences and aspirations. I am committed to strength-based and anti-oppressive practice in my work. I recognize the importance and responsibility I have as a therapist, to address the systemic inequalities impacting clients in their lives.
Anxiety and fear can create a magnitude of symptoms which can impact quality of life. Mental health impacts 1 of 5 Canadian's highlighting the importance of having adequate supports. Over the years, I have supported individuals both within hospital psychiatric settings and one-to-one counselling. Each individual and their concerns are unique, and it is possible to overcome mental health and live a fulfilling and happy life! Together we will develop a plan to meet your needs and put you on the road to recovery.
Does your anxiety take over your life? Stop you from doing things you want to do? Socializing? Let's work together to identify the root of your anxiety/fears, and find tools to help you work through it.
Each person’s experience with anxiety is unique, however, it often has similar effects in peoples lives as a thief of joy, rest, and connection.
Is your personal identity strongly linked with the label of anxiety? Do you often say “I am anxious” or “I’m an anxious person”? This type of identification is so common, with the person and problem combined into one single entity. Taking a Narrative approach to anxiety means we spend time understanding the problem role anxiety plays in your life, and discovering all the ways you are more than your anxiety.