Based on the premise that we all have different “parts” within ourselves, each with their own unique feelings, beliefs, and motivations. These parts can either be in harmony or in conflict with one another. Some parts may have taken on extreme roles in order to protect us. Some parts are adaptive and oriented to time and space, where they are driving our successes and achievements. Other younger parts may be trapped in the past, holding onto past traumas, including feelings of fear and shame.

By understanding and engaging with our “parts”, IFS provides an empowering opportunity to cultivate self-compassion, self-acceptance, and resolve inner conflicts.

Eye Movement Desensitization + Reprocessing (EMDR) is an extensively researched form of therapy, which is effective in treating symptoms of PTSD and trauma. It operates from the premise that negative beliefs, feelings, and behaviours are the result of unprocessed memories.

In session, clients are asked to focus on a specific traumatic memory with attention given to the negative image, belief, and body sensations related to this memory. Clients are then asked to focus on a positive belief that would indicate the issues was resolved. While focusing on the distressing memory, the therapist will begin sets of side-to-side eye movements or tapping and the client will be guided to notice what comes to mind after each set. Experiences include shifts in insight or changes in images, feelings, or beliefs regarding the past event, including a reduction of distress associated with the memory.

‘Soma’ is a Greek word that means ‘the body living in its wholeness’. Somatics is an inquiry into knowing ourselves and the world around us, by listening to the body and its language (which is sensation-based).

A somatic approach differs from top-down modalities that encourage people to follow an outside-in formula for change and healing, somatic learning guides you to form a unique and FELT relationship with yourself and your own wisdom, by connecting with the felt sense: bringing our presence and awareness to the sensations, feelings, emotions, and images contained and spoken by our nervous systems.

I draw from somatic techniques from somatic psychology, and a variety of different modalities, including Somatic Experiencing, Focusing, Trauma-Informed Yoga, and Hakomi.

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy is a form of behavioural therapy that supports clients to build psychological flexibility, self-acceptance, and engage in committed action in accordance to one’s values.

Mindfulness skills are offered to support the client to stay in contact with the present moment, regardless of difficult thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations (Acceptance). The client is support to identify and pursue actions that are aligned with their values (Commitment).