I have over 15 years of experience in clinical social work. I have worked with individuals, couples and families in different mental health settings, both community and hospital-based. I have supported clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship issues such as attachment injuries, infidelity, separation, and divorce. Through my counselling practice, I provide clients with the skills and tools they need to manage their emotions and conflicts more effectively. My role as a therapist is to support clients in making positive changes that improve their lives and relationships. My goal is to help my clients gradually become their own caring and supportive therapist and for couples to become excited about their relationships.
I focus my practice in:
· Marital/Relationship Issues
· Communication Issues
· Attachment Injuries
· Separation/Divorce
· Anxiety
· Depression
· Emotion Regulation
I have the following Professional Accreditations and Training:
· Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, Member in Good Standing
· Ontario Association of Social Workers, Member
· HeartMath® Certified Practitioner, HeartMath® Institute
· Attachment and Interpersonal Neurobiology in Couples, Mindsight Institute (with Dr. Dan Siegel)
· Adult Attachment Interview Institute, Center for Attachment Research at The New School (with Drs. Miriam and Howard Steele)
· The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work – Leader Training, The Gottman Institute
· Level 3 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, The Gottman Institute
· Couples and Addiction Recovery, The Gottman Institute
· Treating Traumas and Affairs, The Gottman Institute
· Emotion Coaching: The Heart of Parenting, The Gottman Institute
· Core Skills Training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, ICEEFT
· Externship in Emotionally Focused Therapy, ICEEFT
· Level 2 Training in Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy and Trauma, ICEEFT
· Certificate in Family Mediation, York University
· Certificate in Discernment Counselling, Doherty Relationship Institute
· Certificate in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, University of Toronto
· Certificate in Trauma Counselling, Hinks-Dellcrest Centre
· PhD (Social Work), Wilfrid Laurier University (2021)
· MSW (Mater's of Social Work), University of Toronto (2008)
· BA (Sociology and Psychology), University of Toronto (2006)
In my work with clients, I prioritize understanding each individual's unique background, including family life, culture, ethnicity, values, and beliefs. These aspects often play a crucial role in shaping our thoughts, behaviors, and emotional responses. When you work with me, you'll find a welcoming space where all emotions are acknowledged and respected.
My approach is experiential, meaning you'll have the opportunity to practice communication, relationship, and emotional regulation skills directly in our sessions. These are essential skills that can be learned and improved with practice and support. By working together, you'll gain the confidence to apply these skills in your everyday life, allowing you to navigate challenges more effectively. For those who prefer, I also offer therapy in Korean.