Attachment-based Therapists in Oakville, ON
I have been working with children, adolescents, and autistics across all lifespans for about 30 years. I’m a neurodivergent affirming psychotherapist. Most of my experience has been working with ASD,OCD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Childhood Attachment & Trauma, Transgender Teens, Social Skills, LGBTQ2s+, Executive Functioning & Emotional Regulation. I use a personalized approach with each individual, includes psychodynamic psychotherapy, the use of assessment tools, individual interviews, child developmental and adult history, attachment theories, sensorimotor activities, play and art-based therapy, CBT, and mindfulness.
I have been working with children, adolescents, and autistics across all lifespans for about 30 years. I’m a neurodivergent affirming psychotherapist. Most of my experience has been working with ASD,OCD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Childhood Attachment & Trauma, Transgender Teens, Social Skills, LGBTQ2s+, Executive Functioning & Emotional Regulation. I use a personalized approach with each individual, includes psychodynamic psychotherapy, the use of assessment tools, individual interviews, child developmental and adult history, attachment theories, sensorimotor activities, play and art-based therapy, CBT, and mindfulness.
I aim to work with you collaboratively to enable individuals to solve their social/emotional concerns. Over the years I’ve supported individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress management, coping skills, self harming behaviours, relationship issues and parent teen conflict. I understand stressors of life and how they may have an impact on individuals. Thus I seek to help individuals locate themselves in their daily situations, reflect and influence positive change.
I aim to work with you collaboratively to enable individuals to solve their social/emotional concerns. Over the years I’ve supported individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress management, coping skills, self harming behaviours, relationship issues and parent teen conflict. I understand stressors of life and how they may have an impact on individuals. Thus I seek to help individuals locate themselves in their daily situations, reflect and influence positive change.
Throughout our lives we naturally experience ups and downs. These fluctuations in mood may also bring about challenging thoughts and feelings that we hold onto, unsure of how to let them go. I believe that collaboratively working with individuals to explore these thoughts and feelings in a safe, trusting, and non-judgemental environment can help them get where they want to go. In encompassing a person-centered approach to therapy, I believe that you are the expert on your own life. My goal is to help guide and support you on your journey of self-discovery and self-exploration.
Throughout our lives we naturally experience ups and downs. These fluctuations in mood may also bring about challenging thoughts and feelings that we hold onto, unsure of how to let them go. I believe that collaboratively working with individuals to explore these thoughts and feelings in a safe, trusting, and non-judgemental environment can help them get where they want to go. In encompassing a person-centered approach to therapy, I believe that you are the expert on your own life. My goal is to help guide and support you on your journey of self-discovery and self-exploration.
Do you ever feel like your brain won’t stop spiraling—like the worry, the intrusive thoughts, or the pressure to “hold it together” never lets up? Maybe school, friendships, family, or perfectionism feels overwhelming. Maybe anxiety or OCD loops keep pulling you back in. You’re exhausted from trying to manage it all alone. You want things to feel lighter, calmer, and finally under control. You want to feel like you again! I’m here to help you get there, step by step.
Do you ever feel like your brain won’t stop spiraling—like the worry, the intrusive thoughts, or the pressure to “hold it together” never lets up? Maybe school, friendships, family, or perfectionism feels overwhelming. Maybe anxiety or OCD loops keep pulling you back in. You’re exhausted from trying to manage it all alone. You want things to feel lighter, calmer, and finally under control. You want to feel like you again! I’m here to help you get there, step by step.
You’re feeling anxious, unhappy and stuck, but unsure what to do. Everyone thinks you have it all, but underneath the facade you know that something is not right. You see others who seem to be coping well during this time, but you don’t think this is possible for you. You want to stop the negative self defeating thoughts that keep you so anxious but can’t. Deep down you know you could have greater satisfaction in your relationships, be healthier and enjoy your job, but you don’t have the tools required to make lasting change. You long to be a better parent to your children but can’t seem to communicate effectively with them.
You’re feeling anxious, unhappy and stuck, but unsure what to do. Everyone thinks you have it all, but underneath the facade you know that something is not right. You see others who seem to be coping well during this time, but you don’t think this is possible for you. You want to stop the negative self defeating thoughts that keep you so anxious but can’t. Deep down you know you could have greater satisfaction in your relationships, be healthier and enjoy your job, but you don’t have the tools required to make lasting change. You long to be a better parent to your children but can’t seem to communicate effectively with them.
Have you ever felt like you do not belong, that you are gravely misunderstood? What about striving for perfection in all aspects of your life? Or constantly feeling like a stranger in your own body? Does any of this sound familiar to you? I can assure you that you are not alone in these struggles. We might try to put on a brave face for the world; however, cracks begin forming in our façade, and self-doubt creeps in and eats away at our sense of self. I am here to normalize these feelings and empower you to become the best version of yourself, whatever that might look like. You are allowed to take up space in your own healing.
Have you ever felt like you do not belong, that you are gravely misunderstood? What about striving for perfection in all aspects of your life? Or constantly feeling like a stranger in your own body? Does any of this sound familiar to you? I can assure you that you are not alone in these struggles. We might try to put on a brave face for the world; however, cracks begin forming in our façade, and self-doubt creeps in and eats away at our sense of self. I am here to normalize these feelings and empower you to become the best version of yourself, whatever that might look like. You are allowed to take up space in your own healing.
Rachel brings experience in individual, couple and family therapy. Her career passion is connecting with and supporting teens, adults, families, parents and couples; working together to create opportunities for change in challenging situations. The profile of Rachel's clients typically struggle with depression, anxiety, family conflict, infertility, grief, emotion regulation difficulties, performance stress (work/athletics/school) and life transitions. Rachel has been able to provide her clients with useful skills/tools to navigate complex situations while providing them with an emotionally safe space to process their feelings.
Rachel brings experience in individual, couple and family therapy. Her career passion is connecting with and supporting teens, adults, families, parents and couples; working together to create opportunities for change in challenging situations. The profile of Rachel's clients typically struggle with depression, anxiety, family conflict, infertility, grief, emotion regulation difficulties, performance stress (work/athletics/school) and life transitions. Rachel has been able to provide her clients with useful skills/tools to navigate complex situations while providing them with an emotionally safe space to process their feelings.
If you’re seeking a warm and supportive therapist to help you find joy and hope, you’ve come to the right place! Cara has experience with diverse clients, including first responders and foster parents, and specializes in addressing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression and relationships.
If you’re seeking a warm and supportive therapist to help you find joy and hope, you’ve come to the right place! Cara has experience with diverse clients, including first responders and foster parents, and specializes in addressing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression and relationships.
As a therapist, I bring a grounded, down to earth, empathetic, and collaborative approach to our work together. Whether you're navigating a major life transition, healing from trauma, or struggling with perfectionism, anxiety, or depression, I offer a supportive and inclusive environment for you to get the most out of therapy. I support individuals who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves. Together, we’ll explore what matters most to you, at your pace, in your voice.
As a therapist, I bring a grounded, down to earth, empathetic, and collaborative approach to our work together. Whether you're navigating a major life transition, healing from trauma, or struggling with perfectionism, anxiety, or depression, I offer a supportive and inclusive environment for you to get the most out of therapy. I support individuals who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves. Together, we’ll explore what matters most to you, at your pace, in your voice.
My name is Dr. Joy Andres-Lemay. I have worked with children, teens, and families in Halton since 2001. I provide assessment services for developmental issues, learning disabilities, and mental health concerns. The treatment services I provide include individual and family treatment for children and adolescents with mental health concerns such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, life stressors (e.g., family breakdown, self-esteem), and parenting support. My approach to treatment is eclectic, integrating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy approaches, attachment theory and systemic approaches.
My name is Dr. Joy Andres-Lemay. I have worked with children, teens, and families in Halton since 2001. I provide assessment services for developmental issues, learning disabilities, and mental health concerns. The treatment services I provide include individual and family treatment for children and adolescents with mental health concerns such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, life stressors (e.g., family breakdown, self-esteem), and parenting support. My approach to treatment is eclectic, integrating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy approaches, attachment theory and systemic approaches.
I use EMDR and attachment-based therapy, along with understanding how the brain and nervous system respond to stress, to keep therapy manageable, grounded, and supportive.
Jessica MacDonald - MSW, RSW. EMDR trained therapist. Offering VIRTUAL sessions ONTARIO wide. Accepting NEW clients for VIRTUAL appointments.
EMDR can help if you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or stuck on past experiences. It can be helpful for overwhelmed parents or busy professionals who take on a lot and don’t have the time or energy to keep circling the same struggles. EMDR helps the brain process what’s been keeping you stuck so you can feel calmer, more in control, able to move forward, and be the version of yourself you want to be — often quicker than with talk therapy alone.
I use EMDR and attachment-based therapy, along with understanding how the brain and nervous system respond to stress, to keep therapy manageable, grounded, and supportive.
Jessica MacDonald - MSW, RSW. EMDR trained therapist. Offering VIRTUAL sessions ONTARIO wide. Accepting NEW clients for VIRTUAL appointments.
EMDR can help if you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or stuck on past experiences. It can be helpful for overwhelmed parents or busy professionals who take on a lot and don’t have the time or energy to keep circling the same struggles. EMDR helps the brain process what’s been keeping you stuck so you can feel calmer, more in control, able to move forward, and be the version of yourself you want to be — often quicker than with talk therapy alone.
For several years, Lola worked at the Hospital for Sick Children and CAMH, where she developed a strong foundation in complex mental health care and family systems.
Today, she specializes in working with adults and couples navigating anxiety, burnout, depression, trauma, relationship strain, chronic illness (including cancer), and major life transitions.
Lola works with individuals who feel disconnected or exhausted behind the scenes, including those coping with the emotional and relational impact of ongoing health challenges.
For several years, Lola worked at the Hospital for Sick Children and CAMH, where she developed a strong foundation in complex mental health care and family systems.
Today, she specializes in working with adults and couples navigating anxiety, burnout, depression, trauma, relationship strain, chronic illness (including cancer), and major life transitions.
Lola works with individuals who feel disconnected or exhausted behind the scenes, including those coping with the emotional and relational impact of ongoing health challenges.
When you carry things for a while, they can feel unbelievably heavy. Are you struggling with ADHD, relationship concerns, chronic illness, a big life change, anxiety, or feeling burnt out and overwhelmed by your emotions? If so, I would be honoured to work together. My goal is to create a space where you can show up as your authentic self and be met with genuine, unconditional support. No matter what your hopes might be for therapy, I am here to meet you with warmth, empathy, and understanding each step of the way.
When you carry things for a while, they can feel unbelievably heavy. Are you struggling with ADHD, relationship concerns, chronic illness, a big life change, anxiety, or feeling burnt out and overwhelmed by your emotions? If so, I would be honoured to work together. My goal is to create a space where you can show up as your authentic self and be met with genuine, unconditional support. No matter what your hopes might be for therapy, I am here to meet you with warmth, empathy, and understanding each step of the way.
You may have those moments - times when you're sad or frustrated, or struggling with the ups and downs of life. These moments can sometimes pass fairly quickly. And other times, they may not. I am deeply respectful of this journey you're on - where you've come from, what you've been through, and where you'd like to be. In a space of safety and honesty, it is my hope that together we can explore those tough moments and gain a better understanding of the blocks to achieving your therapy goals.
You may have those moments - times when you're sad or frustrated, or struggling with the ups and downs of life. These moments can sometimes pass fairly quickly. And other times, they may not. I am deeply respectful of this journey you're on - where you've come from, what you've been through, and where you'd like to be. In a space of safety and honesty, it is my hope that together we can explore those tough moments and gain a better understanding of the blocks to achieving your therapy goals.
Balance is the key to wellbeing. Life brings its ups and downs and there are times we struggle to keep our balance and harness our inner strength. If you or someone else in your life is going through a difficult time, emotionally or in relationships, I am able to provide therapeutic support. I use a combination of evidence based and creative approaches, that are effective in addressing a variety of concerns.
Balance is the key to wellbeing. Life brings its ups and downs and there are times we struggle to keep our balance and harness our inner strength. If you or someone else in your life is going through a difficult time, emotionally or in relationships, I am able to provide therapeutic support. I use a combination of evidence based and creative approaches, that are effective in addressing a variety of concerns.
You look like you have it all together, but inside, you feel drained. You give everyone else your best self while running on empty, wondering why you can't extend the same kindness to yourself that comes so naturally with others.
Together, we can explore how to manage your concerns, be that anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, or family conflict.
This may involve: Learning practical tools to quiet your inner critic,
Developing boundaries that protect your energy without guilt, and
Creating a self-care routine that fits your busy life.
You look like you have it all together, but inside, you feel drained. You give everyone else your best self while running on empty, wondering why you can't extend the same kindness to yourself that comes so naturally with others.
Together, we can explore how to manage your concerns, be that anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, or family conflict.
This may involve: Learning practical tools to quiet your inner critic,
Developing boundaries that protect your energy without guilt, and
Creating a self-care routine that fits your busy life.
Maintaining strong, intimate adult relationships is a challenge for anyone in today's busy world. For some people, anxiety and depression may be impacting their personal happiness, parenting, marriage or career. Others have had painful life histories that interfere with being able to feel safely connected with loved ones and peers. Grief, family transition, communication problems, trauma, and ADHD can make it difficult to find the meaning and connection that give life its joy. As founder of the Oakville Schema Therapy Center, I use my extensive experience in ST as a powerful, effective approach to making changes in your life.
Maintaining strong, intimate adult relationships is a challenge for anyone in today's busy world. For some people, anxiety and depression may be impacting their personal happiness, parenting, marriage or career. Others have had painful life histories that interfere with being able to feel safely connected with loved ones and peers. Grief, family transition, communication problems, trauma, and ADHD can make it difficult to find the meaning and connection that give life its joy. As founder of the Oakville Schema Therapy Center, I use my extensive experience in ST as a powerful, effective approach to making changes in your life.
Welcome. If you’re here, something in your life may feel heavy, confusing, or simply harder than it should be. You might find yourself overthinking, feeling emotionally drained, struggling in relationships, or trying to hold everything together while quietly carrying stress, sadness, or self-doubt. Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, capable individuals who have been managing a lot on their own for a long time, including navigating anxiety, depression, grief, past trauma, relationship difficulties, or the many pressures that come with parenting and family life.
Welcome. If you’re here, something in your life may feel heavy, confusing, or simply harder than it should be. You might find yourself overthinking, feeling emotionally drained, struggling in relationships, or trying to hold everything together while quietly carrying stress, sadness, or self-doubt. Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, capable individuals who have been managing a lot on their own for a long time, including navigating anxiety, depression, grief, past trauma, relationship difficulties, or the many pressures that come with parenting and family life.
If you or someone in your life is struggling with depression, anxiety, addictions, grief or relationship conflicts, know that you don't have to do it alone. For the past 28 years I have worked in a variety of community, mental health and educational settings. I am able to help clients with a wide range of issues including stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, relationship-family conflicts, infidelity, anger management, and in coping with difficult life transitions.
If you or someone in your life is struggling with depression, anxiety, addictions, grief or relationship conflicts, know that you don't have to do it alone. For the past 28 years I have worked in a variety of community, mental health and educational settings. I am able to help clients with a wide range of issues including stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, relationship-family conflicts, infidelity, anger management, and in coping with difficult life transitions.
Life’s stressors can leave us feeling lost, overwhelmed, and disconnected from our true selves. You may find yourself constantly battling negative thoughts, feeling isolated from those who cannot understand your struggle, or burdened by your strife for perfectionism. You may not even remember a time when you didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you are ready for a change! You would like to manage life’s transitions without them overwhelming you. You want to wake up each morning with a sense of calm and purpose. Most of all, you are eager to rebuild your self-esteem and face your future with a renewed sense of hope.
Life’s stressors can leave us feeling lost, overwhelmed, and disconnected from our true selves. You may find yourself constantly battling negative thoughts, feeling isolated from those who cannot understand your struggle, or burdened by your strife for perfectionism. You may not even remember a time when you didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you are ready for a change! You would like to manage life’s transitions without them overwhelming you. You want to wake up each morning with a sense of calm and purpose. Most of all, you are eager to rebuild your self-esteem and face your future with a renewed sense of hope.
See more therapy options for Oakville
Nearby Attachment-based Counsellors Searches for Oakville
See More Attachment-based Counsellors Attachment-based Counsellors
Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?
Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.
What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?
Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.
How long does attachment-based therapy last?
Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.
Does attachment-based therapy work?
Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.