Photo of Chelsea Graham, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Chelsea Graham
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
I have experience working with individuals who are faced with addiction, sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as those seeking support for self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, stress and anger management, grief/loss, self-harm and other obstacles that present themselves at any stage of life.
As a Registered Psychotherapist, I pride myself on creating a safe and compassionate environment for clients to begin their healing process. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is most effective when it is based on collaboration, trust, and openness. In my experience, all clients are unique and my priority is to mold my therapeutic approach to suit each individual's needs. I focus on building every client’s strengths in order to assist them in enriching all areas of life and and help them move toward whole-hearted living. I take a holistic approach by incorporating techniques from various treatment modalities.
I have experience working with individuals who are faced with addiction, sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as those seeking support for self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, stress and anger management, grief/loss, self-harm and other obstacles that present themselves at any stage of life.
As a Registered Psychotherapist, I pride myself on creating a safe and compassionate environment for clients to begin their healing process. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is most effective when it is based on collaboration, trust, and openness. In my experience, all clients are unique and my priority is to mold my therapeutic approach to suit each individual's needs. I focus on building every client’s strengths in order to assist them in enriching all areas of life and and help them move toward whole-hearted living. I take a holistic approach by incorporating techniques from various treatment modalities.
(613) 831-4547 View (613) 831-4547
Photo of Anna Seifried , Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Anna Seifried
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MPH, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
Je suis bilingue & j'offre mes services and anglais et en français. An Associate at Laura Murton Psychotherapy, I work with clients to alleviate symptoms; cope in new ways with grief, life transitions, family and parenting issues, breakups, separation, divorce, infidelity, social issues, school issues, and work-related issues; and heal from trauma, domestic and family conflict or abuse, sexual abuse or assault, and attachment issues. I serve the general population, and also focus on sexual assault survivors, gifted and high achieving adults, parents, healthcare workers, and humanitarian aid and international development workers.
Je suis bilingue & j'offre mes services and anglais et en français. An Associate at Laura Murton Psychotherapy, I work with clients to alleviate symptoms; cope in new ways with grief, life transitions, family and parenting issues, breakups, separation, divorce, infidelity, social issues, school issues, and work-related issues; and heal from trauma, domestic and family conflict or abuse, sexual abuse or assault, and attachment issues. I serve the general population, and also focus on sexual assault survivors, gifted and high achieving adults, parents, healthcare workers, and humanitarian aid and international development workers.
(343) 321-0135 View (343) 321-0135
Photo of Wesley Moore, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Wesley Moore
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Z
Waitlist for new clients
Born and raised in the Maritimes, Ottawa has been home since 2004. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) . Locally, I have worked in mental health since 2006 and opened my practice in 2010. A specialization is work with men whom identify as survivors of sexual trauma and/or childhood sexual abuse. Additionally, I can address addiction, anxiety, anger management, depression, and relational problems. Other areas in which I work include sexuality, men's issues, and LGBT concerns. .
Born and raised in the Maritimes, Ottawa has been home since 2004. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) . Locally, I have worked in mental health since 2006 and opened my practice in 2010. A specialization is work with men whom identify as survivors of sexual trauma and/or childhood sexual abuse. Additionally, I can address addiction, anxiety, anger management, depression, and relational problems. Other areas in which I work include sexuality, men's issues, and LGBT concerns. .
(343) 308-6412 View (343) 308-6412
Photo of Ashley MacLellan, Counsellor in Ottawa, ON
Ashley MacLellan
Counsellor, MEd, RP, SEP-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
I am certified in Complex Trauma and Child Sexual Abuse Intervention in addition to a Masters degree in Counselling.
"Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it" (H. Keller) is a statement which motivates me to be versatile and adaptive so I may best meet my client's needs in an integrated practice, to facilitate empowerment and holistic well-being. I utilize strength-based, somatic, creative and expressive modes of therapy tailored to suit the unique needs of individuals from various walks of life.
I am certified in Complex Trauma and Child Sexual Abuse Intervention in addition to a Masters degree in Counselling.
"Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it" (H. Keller) is a statement which motivates me to be versatile and adaptive so I may best meet my client's needs in an integrated practice, to facilitate empowerment and holistic well-being. I utilize strength-based, somatic, creative and expressive modes of therapy tailored to suit the unique needs of individuals from various walks of life.
(855) 976-4252 View (855) 976-4252
Photo of Aurela (Ela) Vangjeli, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Aurela (Ela) Vangjeli
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Z
My specialty is helping people with lived experiences of childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and anxiety.
You cannot do it alone and no one can do it for you" P.L. You may have noticed that your mood fluctuates between feeling anxious and/or depressed. And you don't know how to navigate or interrupt this cycle. Life is nudging you towards seeking support because at times holding it all by yourself feels like too much. In therapy with me, you will feel heard, and understood. You will learn what is overwhelming your internal system (thoughts, feelings and experiences in the body) and be able to move towards regulation, ease and balance. I bring a sense of curiosity and compassion and empower you to lead with courage and confidence.
My specialty is helping people with lived experiences of childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and anxiety.
You cannot do it alone and no one can do it for you" P.L. You may have noticed that your mood fluctuates between feeling anxious and/or depressed. And you don't know how to navigate or interrupt this cycle. Life is nudging you towards seeking support because at times holding it all by yourself feels like too much. In therapy with me, you will feel heard, and understood. You will learn what is overwhelming your internal system (thoughts, feelings and experiences in the body) and be able to move towards regulation, ease and balance. I bring a sense of curiosity and compassion and empower you to lead with courage and confidence.
(365) 298-0239 View (365) 298-0239
Photo of Karoline Achille, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Karoline Achille
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
Je parle français - I am a bilingual psychotherapist fluent in both English and French. My passion lies in working with BIPOC individuals, providing support and guidance as they navigate the complexities of trauma-related issues. With a focus on adult clients, I specialize in addressing a range of traumatic experiences, including childhood trauma, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, and more.
Je parle français - I am a bilingual psychotherapist fluent in both English and French. My passion lies in working with BIPOC individuals, providing support and guidance as they navigate the complexities of trauma-related issues. With a focus on adult clients, I specialize in addressing a range of traumatic experiences, including childhood trauma, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, and more.
(343) 453-5939 View (343) 453-5939
Photo of Kris Cormier, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Kris Cormier
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
APRIL 2024 - Accepting both individual clients & couples! Get support for coping with anxious thoughts & regulating emotions. Explore 2SLGBTQ+ identities, queer relationships, or an interest in polyamory (CNM/ethical non-monogamy). Work on improving interpersonal relationships or dealing with family conflict. Get help with addiction to substances (alcohol or drugs) or addiction to problematic behaviour (gambling or shopping). Heal the wounds of past trauma (sexual assault, childhood abuse, domestic or intimate partner violence). Discover something very different than the “vent for an hour & nothing ever changes” experience!
APRIL 2024 - Accepting both individual clients & couples! Get support for coping with anxious thoughts & regulating emotions. Explore 2SLGBTQ+ identities, queer relationships, or an interest in polyamory (CNM/ethical non-monogamy). Work on improving interpersonal relationships or dealing with family conflict. Get help with addiction to substances (alcohol or drugs) or addiction to problematic behaviour (gambling or shopping). Heal the wounds of past trauma (sexual assault, childhood abuse, domestic or intimate partner violence). Discover something very different than the “vent for an hour & nothing ever changes” experience!
(343) 801-0641 View (343) 801-0641
Photo of Jessica Trainor - Trauma Therapy (EMDR and BSP), Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Jessica Trainor - Trauma Therapy (EMDR and BSP)
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1M  (Online Only)
Childhood Sexual Abuse & Trauma Therapy - I help intra-familial childhood sexual abuse survivors own their enoughness. Painful past experiences shape the way we show up and navigate through our present day lives and the world around us. Without deep healing of these experiences, we can feel stuck; like nothing is working. It feels hopeless and discouraging. You likely landed here because it’s all gotten to be too much - I see you and I am so glad you're here. I provide a warm space to explore present day anxieties and get you past that feeling of stuckness. Let's help you rebuild your mind-body connection.
Childhood Sexual Abuse & Trauma Therapy - I help intra-familial childhood sexual abuse survivors own their enoughness. Painful past experiences shape the way we show up and navigate through our present day lives and the world around us. Without deep healing of these experiences, we can feel stuck; like nothing is working. It feels hopeless and discouraging. You likely landed here because it’s all gotten to be too much - I see you and I am so glad you're here. I provide a warm space to explore present day anxieties and get you past that feeling of stuckness. Let's help you rebuild your mind-body connection.
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Photo of Jathina Blais, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Jathina Blais
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1M
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked for over 15 years with survivors of sexual abuse/assault and domestic violence, as well as with people experiencing self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues.
Many of us silently cope with difficulties in our lives. But you don't have to. Reaching out to a counsellor for support gives you the opportunity to explore what is holding you back and start improving your quality of life. People have the capacity to make positive changes in their lives with the right support and guidance. With support, you will tap into your strengths, find hope and heal emotional wounds. I work with individual adults who are experiencing mental health issues, trauma, negative self-esteem, sleep issues and relationship issues.
I have worked for over 15 years with survivors of sexual abuse/assault and domestic violence, as well as with people experiencing self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues.
Many of us silently cope with difficulties in our lives. But you don't have to. Reaching out to a counsellor for support gives you the opportunity to explore what is holding you back and start improving your quality of life. People have the capacity to make positive changes in their lives with the right support and guidance. With support, you will tap into your strengths, find hope and heal emotional wounds. I work with individual adults who are experiencing mental health issues, trauma, negative self-esteem, sleep issues and relationship issues.
(613) 909-8056 View (613) 909-8056
Photo of Kara Peet, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Kara Peet
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
The body keeps the score. I help trauma survivors live full, and connected lives. I have many years of experience working with survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, as well as harmful, abusive, or neglectful childhood experiences. Trauma may impact your self-esteem, or create relationship issues, anxiety, alienation from the body, feelings of being disconnected from yourself and others. A central focus of my work has been supporting clients impacted by trauma without the lens of pathology. That’s to say: there’s nothing wrong with you at all. Your way of being in the world was developed as means of protection.
The body keeps the score. I help trauma survivors live full, and connected lives. I have many years of experience working with survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, as well as harmful, abusive, or neglectful childhood experiences. Trauma may impact your self-esteem, or create relationship issues, anxiety, alienation from the body, feelings of being disconnected from yourself and others. A central focus of my work has been supporting clients impacted by trauma without the lens of pathology. That’s to say: there’s nothing wrong with you at all. Your way of being in the world was developed as means of protection.
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Photo of Palvi B. Kohli, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Palvi B. Kohli
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed therapist and have worked with clients struggling with intergenerational trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, dysfunctional family systems, childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, workplace stress, and more.
“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity”; although that can be true for some, it is not true for most people, therefore it is easier said than done. Life can be challenging at times and we often suffer alone due to complex emotions of shame and helplessness, but I am here to tell you that you do not have to go through difficult times alone!
I am a trauma-informed therapist and have worked with clients struggling with intergenerational trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, dysfunctional family systems, childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, workplace stress, and more.
“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity”; although that can be true for some, it is not true for most people, therefore it is easier said than done. Life can be challenging at times and we often suffer alone due to complex emotions of shame and helplessness, but I am here to tell you that you do not have to go through difficult times alone!
(613) 801-2463 View (613) 801-2463
Photo of Karen Connelly, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Karen Connelly
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Z
Welcome, courageous human. If you recognize your patterns (& still struggle to change the harmful ones) . . . if you find yourself overwhelmed/triggered all over the place by the state of this world, or your family, or your relationships, I see you. Come in to the courage room. (The good news: you're already there, in the courage room of your brain-body-spirit.) If you want to heal: betrayal trauma (including sexual assault, incest); anxiety or stuckness; or require support during a big transition, please reach out. (FYI, my hypnotherapy work is different than regular therapy. Learn more about both here: www.karenconnelly.ca).
Welcome, courageous human. If you recognize your patterns (& still struggle to change the harmful ones) . . . if you find yourself overwhelmed/triggered all over the place by the state of this world, or your family, or your relationships, I see you. Come in to the courage room. (The good news: you're already there, in the courage room of your brain-body-spirit.) If you want to heal: betrayal trauma (including sexual assault, incest); anxiety or stuckness; or require support during a big transition, please reach out. (FYI, my hypnotherapy work is different than regular therapy. Learn more about both here: www.karenconnelly.ca).
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Photo of Ken Raymond, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Ken Raymond
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N
IN-PERSON and ONLINE sessions are now available in Ontario and Western Quebec. Your decision to start therapy is essential for personal understanding, healing, and growth. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, addictions, sexual abuse (current or past), or are overwhelmed by events, I can help. My first objective is to provide a warm, safe, non-judgmental environment for your therapeutic experience. My second objective is to provide you with the most up-to-date, evidence-based therapeutic approaches that get actual results in the least amount of time.
IN-PERSON and ONLINE sessions are now available in Ontario and Western Quebec. Your decision to start therapy is essential for personal understanding, healing, and growth. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, addictions, sexual abuse (current or past), or are overwhelmed by events, I can help. My first objective is to provide a warm, safe, non-judgmental environment for your therapeutic experience. My second objective is to provide you with the most up-to-date, evidence-based therapeutic approaches that get actual results in the least amount of time.
(343) 313-1407 View (343) 313-1407
Photo of Michael Holuj, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Michael Holuj
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
I help clients that have experienced issues that include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual abuse, ADHD, and PTSD.
Your experience of life is unique to you. Whatever your situation, my goal is to hear you and understand your experience from your perspective. I aim to create a safe place and a strong alliance so we can understand where you are now, define your goals, and how we can achieve them. With a focus on developing a confident, positive mindset, we will connect your triggers, emotions, and actions, make corrective experiences, and align your actions with your values and needs so you can thrive in your life. I primarily work with individuals and couples.
I help clients that have experienced issues that include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual abuse, ADHD, and PTSD.
Your experience of life is unique to you. Whatever your situation, my goal is to hear you and understand your experience from your perspective. I aim to create a safe place and a strong alliance so we can understand where you are now, define your goals, and how we can achieve them. With a focus on developing a confident, positive mindset, we will connect your triggers, emotions, and actions, make corrective experiences, and align your actions with your values and needs so you can thrive in your life. I primarily work with individuals and couples.
(343) 338-3723 View (343) 338-3723
Photo of Lucie Brandt, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Lucie Brandt
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
Welcome to Lucie Brandt Psychotherapy Services. Since I began my practice in 2011, my areas of focus have included: single and multiple incident traumas, accidents on work sites, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, medical trauma, serious or terminal illness, fertility stress, pregnancy loss, physical & emotional violence, political, societal, systemic traumas. I support people who have been in war and conflict zones, survivors & family members of MMIWG and of the Indian residential school system in Canada. I work with grief, including the impacts of a sudden death, suicide, homicide, and people whose family members have gone missing.
Welcome to Lucie Brandt Psychotherapy Services. Since I began my practice in 2011, my areas of focus have included: single and multiple incident traumas, accidents on work sites, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, medical trauma, serious or terminal illness, fertility stress, pregnancy loss, physical & emotional violence, political, societal, systemic traumas. I support people who have been in war and conflict zones, survivors & family members of MMIWG and of the Indian residential school system in Canada. I work with grief, including the impacts of a sudden death, suicide, homicide, and people whose family members have gone missing.
(343) 306-4485 View (343) 306-4485
Photo of Makayla Chartrand, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Makayla Chartrand
Registered Social Worker, MA, OCSWSSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2H
I have experience in social housing, supporting sex-trafficking survivors, sexual assault and crisis, and mental health.
I aim to work collaboratively with clients on various issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship counselling, substance use and addiction, 2SLGBTQ+ support, life transitions and more. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness into my interventions with clients, acknowledging that each client holds a unique and individualized life story. I value compassion, empathy, empowerment, and the development of coping skills and emotional regulation.
I have experience in social housing, supporting sex-trafficking survivors, sexual assault and crisis, and mental health.
I aim to work collaboratively with clients on various issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship counselling, substance use and addiction, 2SLGBTQ+ support, life transitions and more. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness into my interventions with clients, acknowledging that each client holds a unique and individualized life story. I value compassion, empathy, empowerment, and the development of coping skills and emotional regulation.
(343) 633-0376 View (343) 633-0376
Photo of Annick Lavoie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ottawa, ON
Annick Lavoie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, TSI
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
As a Registered Social Worker practicing psychotherapy, I offer individual counselling to adults presenting with a variety of issues. My areas of expertise include trauma, intimate partner abuse, childhood sexual abuse, anxiety, sexuality, grief, relationship problems, depression and family of origin issues. I am also very committed working with members of the LGBTTQ+ community around issues of coming out, gender identity, heterosexism and internalized homophobia.
As a Registered Social Worker practicing psychotherapy, I offer individual counselling to adults presenting with a variety of issues. My areas of expertise include trauma, intimate partner abuse, childhood sexual abuse, anxiety, sexuality, grief, relationship problems, depression and family of origin issues. I am also very committed working with members of the LGBTTQ+ community around issues of coming out, gender identity, heterosexism and internalized homophobia.
(343) 500-7331 View (343) 500-7331
Photo of Sandra E LeBlanc, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Sandra E LeBlanc
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2M
I have extensive training in areas such as anxiety, depression, attachment issues, foster care, adoption, trauma, including treatment of child sexual abuse, sexualized behaviours, bullying issues, grief and loss, separation, divorce issues, and LGBTQ2s+.
I am a registered social worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have over 25 years experience providing therapy with, children, adolescents, adults and families. I am very passionate about my work and feel blessed to have walked alongside my clients over the years and share in their journey of growth and healing. My life experiences and role as a parent have also helped me become the clinician I am today.
I have extensive training in areas such as anxiety, depression, attachment issues, foster care, adoption, trauma, including treatment of child sexual abuse, sexualized behaviours, bullying issues, grief and loss, separation, divorce issues, and LGBTQ2s+.
I am a registered social worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have over 25 years experience providing therapy with, children, adolescents, adults and families. I am very passionate about my work and feel blessed to have walked alongside my clients over the years and share in their journey of growth and healing. My life experiences and role as a parent have also helped me become the clinician I am today.
(343) 313-0344 View (343) 313-0344
Photo of Cassandra Tenneriello in Ottawa, ON
Cassandra Tenneriello
MACP, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
I have over six years of experience working with individuals of all ages who are faced with trauma, addiction, sexual assault, and intergenerational trauma.
It takes great courage to begin taking steps towards starting therapy. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you on your therapeutic journey. My initial goal is to create a safe and compassionate environment for you to begin your healing process. From experience, all clients are unique, and my priority is to mould my therapeutic approach to suit your individual needs and goals. I use a strength-based, client-centred and collaborative approach meeting you where you are in your journey and empowering you to achieve growth.
I have over six years of experience working with individuals of all ages who are faced with trauma, addiction, sexual assault, and intergenerational trauma.
It takes great courage to begin taking steps towards starting therapy. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you on your therapeutic journey. My initial goal is to create a safe and compassionate environment for you to begin your healing process. From experience, all clients are unique, and my priority is to mould my therapeutic approach to suit your individual needs and goals. I use a strength-based, client-centred and collaborative approach meeting you where you are in your journey and empowering you to achieve growth.
(343) 300-0235 View (343) 300-0235
Photo of Kaysia Saliba, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Kaysia Saliba
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with First Responders, survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence and, in general, people looking to heal from traumatic experiences.
Trauma, anxiety and difficulties within relationships can affect your life in so many ways. In my practice, I can help you become "unstuck", to work through and move forward from the feelings, behaviors, memories or situations that are preventing you from living how you want to. I use effective treatment approaches in a welcoming, safe and nonjudgmental environment so that we can work together towards the changes you want to make. In my work, I help those age 16+ struggling with PTSD, the after effects of trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties (including domestic violence) and childhood abuse and neglect.
My experience includes working with First Responders, survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence and, in general, people looking to heal from traumatic experiences.
Trauma, anxiety and difficulties within relationships can affect your life in so many ways. In my practice, I can help you become "unstuck", to work through and move forward from the feelings, behaviors, memories or situations that are preventing you from living how you want to. I use effective treatment approaches in a welcoming, safe and nonjudgmental environment so that we can work together towards the changes you want to make. In my work, I help those age 16+ struggling with PTSD, the after effects of trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties (including domestic violence) and childhood abuse and neglect.
(343) 307-0530 View (343) 307-0530

See more therapy options for Ottawa


Sexual Abuse Counsellors

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.