Hi, I’m Colleen, a Trauma Therapist in Ontario

About my background and lived experience

Originally from the beautiful Madawaska Valley, I have a deep appreciation for nature, which grounds me and guides my self care practices. My connection to the natural world informs my therapeutic approach, helping me remain present and attuned to the needs of my clients.

My educational journey reflects a lifelong commitment to social justice and healing, beginning with an degree in International Studies and continuing with a diploma in gender-based violence counselling/advocacy, and eventually a Master of Social Work. My own transformative experience with therapy ignited my passion for this field. As a trauma survivor and someone who has navigated the challenges of pregnancy loss, I deeply understand the vulnerability and tenderness that therapy can evoke, as well as the profound healing power of counselling.

I am a Registered Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in the realm of housing, concurrent disorders, gender based violence, and post-secondary education, and many years of my professional experience have been rooted in the Indigenous community in Toronto. I’ve had the privilege of working with adults, children, and youth in different therapeutic settings providing individual, family, and group therapy for the past 8 years. Outside of my professional life, I cherish my roles as a daughter, sister, partner, and mother, which further enrich my understanding of the complexities of relationships and personal growth.

I look forward to partnering with you on your healing journey.

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Evidence based, Therapeutic Modalities

I am an integrative therapist who draws from the following evidence-based cognitive, somatic, and expressive modalities:

  • EMDR

  • Somatic therapy

  • Narrative therapy

  • Expressive Arts

  • Self compassion

  • Mindfulness

  • Internal family systems (IFS) informed/parts work

  • Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)

  • Focusing oriented therapy

  • ARC (Attachment, Regulation, and Competency) trauma framework

  • Circle of Security Parenting certified facilitator

  • Trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

  • Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)

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Learn more

Therapeutic Approach

At the heart of my practice is an integrative approach that draws from a variety of evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, parts work, cognitive therapies, somatic techniques, and expressive arts. As a curious and attuned therapist, I approach our sessions with an open heart and mind. I value the importance of humour and realness, believing that these elements can be powerful tools for healing.

  • My approach is grounded in trauma-informed care, which means I prioritize your safety, empowerment, and choice throughout our work together.

    I understand that trauma can impact your life in profound ways, and I am committed to providing a supportive environment where you can feel secure and validated as you navigate your healing process. Trauma informed care often involves building skills to ground and cultivate safety, connecting to internal and external resources, and processing traumatic experiences.

  • Some experiences live beyond words. Even when you’ve spoken your story, your body may still carry the wounds of what you’ve been through.

    When stress or trauma has been part of your life, connecting with the mind/body through somatic informed therapy can support greater connection and regulation of your nervous system, not just by talking about what happened, but by gently working with what your body is holding. This can lead to feeling more grounded, less overwhelmed, and more present in your everyday life.

    A somatic approach helps you tune into your body’s wisdom to feel grounded, calm, and safe again.

  • I view healing from a framework of holistic well-being, recognizing that wellness encompasses mind, body, and spirit. Rather than focusing exclusively on problems in isolation from the broader context of your unique life experiences, I aim to offer support in a way that honors your individuality and strengths, while fostering a deeper understanding and connection.

    I collaborate with you to uncover inner strengths and motivations, clarify your values, set realistic goals, and develop actionable strategies for positive change. Together, we’ll create a safe space for you to explore your inner world and find the path that resonates with you, supporting your journey toward healing and growth.

  • My work is deeply rooted in a strong social justice lens. I strive to understand the broader contexts of your life, acknowledging the systems and structures that impact your well-being, particularly how overlapping identities, including race, culture, class, gender, sexuality, and more, can shape experiences.

    I understand the significance of recognizing my own privileges and biases both personally and professionally. I am dedicated to continuous professional development in Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppressive principles and I participate in regular clinical supervision to ensure I am following best practices while supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds.

  • Attachment informed therapy recognizes that relationships are where many of our wounds, and much of our healing, happen. We may explore how relationships have shaped your thoughts, emotions, and how your body responds to closeness, stress, and care.

    By paying close attention to safety, trust, and connection in the therapy relationship, we will work together to gently rebuild safety, reconnect mind and body, and support lasting change in how you relate to yourself and others.

In our therapeutic relationship, you can expect a compassionate guide who is dedicated to fostering balance and wholeness in your life. We will explore the challenges you are navigating, finding insights and recognizing resilience along the way. Let’s embark on this journey together, honoring your unique story and working towards the goals that matter most to you.

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