My areas of practice are Clinical Psychology and Clinical Neuropsychology with both adults and seniors. Most commonly I work with people trying to cope with issues such as anxiety, depression, low-self-esteem, stress, relationship difficulties, body image issues, adjusting to challenging situations, as well as grief and loss. You don't need to know your diagnosis or treatment goals to get in touch with me, knowing that something is concerning or confusing you is sufficient.

From the first session, we will work collaboratively to help you better understand and manage upsetting experiences, reduce distressing symptoms, and find new, more adaptive ways of relating to yourself, others, and the world around you. I will be asking questions to better understand you and what is concerning or confusing you. There will be many opportunities for you to ask questions as well. At the end of the first session, we will discuss options for the next steps.

People are often surprised to learn that Sigmund Freud engaged his Chow, Jo-Fi, in his psychotherapy sessions with patients; he described Jo-Fi's presence as having a calming effect (Coren). Recent research has provided additional insight on the role dogs play in Psychotherapy. Indeed, the presence of a dog has been shown to lead to physiological changes indicative of a reduction in stress (Beck & Katcher). Petting a dog has been shown to increase oxytocin and dopamine levels in both the human doing the petting and the dog receiving the petting. Humans had the added benefit of a decrease in cortisol levels (Odendall & Meintjes). In her role as a Therapy Dog, Pavlov has proved to be an integral component of my practice. Intuitively, she seems to know when to snuggle close to someone who is crying, give space to someone who is feeling distracted, and provide a warm greeting to someone who has been having a rough day.

Yes. Some, but not all of my patients request the presence of Pavlov in their sessions. In fact, Pavlov is never present in the first session so that we have the chance to discuss your preferences in this regard.

Yes. Psychologists in Ontario are regulated by The College of Psychologists of Ontario.

Yes! Evening appointments are available at both the West end and Downtown locations.

Many people have extended health care coverage through their employer. Commonly, health care plans pay all or a portion of the costs of seeing a Registered Psychologist. Additionally, the Canadian Revenue Agency lists Psychologists as “Authorized medical practitioners by province or territory for the purposes of claiming medical expenses”. Payment is submitted via cash or check at the end of each session. Unfortunately, I am not equipped to accept credit/debit cards at this time. The session fee is $225. I will provide you with a receipt for payment.