Find out more about me before you reach out
Hello, I’m Denise, and I’m so happy you’re here!
Since a young age I have been passionate about connecting with people. I was the kid who got the comment “Denise talks too much in class” on every report card. As a teenager I found myself being the go-to person for all of my friends when they needed support, advice or a shoulder to cry on. This led to a strong desire to help those who are struggling and ultimately to an education and career in Social Work. For over 18 years I have worked with people of all ages in both the private and public sector.
I truly love getting to know people and learning about their unique personalities and strengths. I believe strongly in human connection and the importance of a good relationship between my clients and I that is focused on openness and authenticity. I believe in the value of sharing my personal experiences when appropriate and want my clients to see me as a real person who has also struggled and who used those experiences as opportunities for growth. I would love to help you do the same.
What can you expect during counselling sessions?
It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous going into your first counselling session. I will do my best to make you as comfortable as possible. I’m laid back and open which leads to relaxed and informal conversations where we can both be ourselves. During the initial session, we’ll talk about your current struggles, your goals and where you want to be in the future.
As our sessions go on, we’ll explore your experiences and challenges, working together to gain deeper insights, develop effective coping strategies and achieve your goals.
Phone consultation
Conducted by phone
Consultation length: 15 Minutes
FREE
Individual session
Conducted online: phone or video
Session length: 60 Minutes
$185
Availability
Flexible weekday and evening appointment hours are available.
Insurance
Sessions are covered by many extended health/employment benefits under Social Work. A receipt will be issued at the end of the session for you to submit to your provider which includes my registration number with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
Cancellation Policy
Appointment times are reserved especially for you. I understand that sometimes things come up and dates/times need to be changed or cancelled. I kindly ask that you let me know at least 24 hours in advance, otherwise the full session fee will be charged.
Payment
Payment is due at the end of the session and can be made by e-transfer.
How I can help you
I specialize in anxiety treatment, life transitions, relationships and stress. Here’s how I can help you improve your mental wellbeing.
Anxiety can interfere with your daily activities and make you unhappy. Learn how to deal with it and regain control over your life.
Work can be very stressful and so can the rest of our lives. I will help you develop a healthier work-life balance and provide you with stress-management tools.
Relationships take work and can be complicated! Let’s work on the skills needed to improve your existing relationships, move on from ones that aren’t serving you or build new meaningful ones.
A big or unexpected life change can be overwhelming. I’ll help you navigate the transition and adjust to your new circumstances.
If you change the way you look at things,
the things you look at change.
Wayne Dyer
My professional background
Currently, I’m a Registered Social Worker
I attended Toronto Metropolitan University where I got my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree with a Minor of Psychology (2006) and the University of Sydney where I got my Master of Social Work degree (2008)
I’ve been practising for over 18 years and have worked in both the private and public sector with children, teens and adults, both individually and with families
I’m registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
I’m a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers as well as the Canadian Association of Social Workers
I’ve completed training on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Attachment and Trauma, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Pregnancy, Postpartum and Parenting as well as numerous others over the years. I love learning and am always looking to expand my knowledge!
What can you expect from therapy with me?
Non-judgmental space: In our sessions, I strive to create a 100% safe and non-judgmental space where you can express yourself freely. I’m here to listen and support you with lots of empathy and compassion and without criticism or bias.
Full focus on you: I want to understand your unique experiences and help you find the best path forward. I promise no cliches and empty statements you’ve heard hundreds of times in the past.
Easy-going counselling: I believe in easy-going counselling, where we can talk openly in a friendly, honest and relaxed way. Together, we'll work through your challenges in the way that you feel comfortable with!
Tailor-made collaboration: I’m here to support you; we’ll work as a team and create a tailor-made plan that leads to you achieving your counselling goals. No one-size-fits all approaches!
Take the next step – book a free consultation
If after reading this page you feel like we might be a good fit, I’m excited to meet you! I want you to make an informed decision about counselling; I understand that it’s not a light decision and I want to make it easier for you.
That’s why I invite you to start by booking a free 15-minute phone consultation. You’ll get the chance to ask your questions about therapy, and I’ll tell you a bit more about how we can work together to help you achieve your goals and overcome your challenges.
But I promise that I won’t expect you to book ongoing counselling sessions with me if you don’t feel ready.
I’m excited to talk to you!
Denise
