I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker specializing in Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). My work is informed by over 14 years of clinical practice and a deep commitment to emotional growth and healing.
I was first introduced to ISTDP in 2007 through my own therapy experience - an experience that profoundly influenced both my personal development and professional direction.
Before entering the field of psychotherapy, I worked for over 20 years as a professional violinist. Performing at a high level cultivated discipline, emotional attunement, and sensitivity to nuance - qualities that continue to inform my clinical work.
I completed an IEDTA-certified core training program in ISTDP with Jon Frederickson, MSW, followed by advanced training with Jon Frederickson and Patricia Coughlin, PhD. I continue to engage in ongoing supervision, consultation, and advanced training
My Approach
My approach is direct, empathic, and focused. I work with individuals to identify and work through the emotional and psychological patterns that contribute to distress, including anxiety, depression, relational difficulties, trauma, and somatic symptoms.
From an ISTDP perspective, many psychological and physical symptoms are maintained by unconscious emotional avoidance and long-standing defensive patterns. Therapy involves carefully helping clients become aware of and experience underlying emotions that have been out of awareness, so that symptoms can resolve and greater emotional clarity can emerge.
My role is to support this process with precision, respect, and attention to your individual capacity and pace.
Areas I Work With
I work with adults experiencing:
Anxiety and panic
Depression and emotional distress
Relationship difficulties
Trauma and attachment-related patterns
Grief and loss
Somatic symptoms and Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)
Credentials and Training
BM, Eastman School of Music
MSW, Wilfrid Laurier University
Registered Clinical Social Worker
ISTDP Training:
Core Training (IEDTA-certified) with Jon Frederickson, MSW
Advanced Training with Jon Frederickson, MSW
Advanced Training with Patricia Coughlin, PhD
Fragile Case Rounds with Allan Abbass, MD
Ongoing ISTDP supervision (Diane Byster, Esther Rosen-Bernays, Johannes Kieding)
Regular participation in IEDTA conferences and advanced workshops
Clinical practice since 2012
Introduction to ISTDP through personal therapy in 2007
Insurance Accepted
Please confirm that your insurance plan covers psychotherapy services provided by a Registered Social Worker (RSW/MSW). A receipt will be provided for reimbursement purposes.