Hello & Welcome to my page!
My name is Chelsea and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying).
My journey to becoming a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) began through my own navigation of mental health challenges and trauma throughout my life and always wanting to connect with someone, but never being able to find a person I truly connected with, let alone a person to listen to all of my most intimate thoughts. With this challenge, my mission began to help other people on their journey in finding someone to connect with, to feel less alone, to heal from the past and to cope with the present.
I began my undergraduate work in Honours Psychology at Wilfrid Laurier University before continuing my education at Yorkville University with a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. My work prior to finding my passion of psychotherapy included providing case management services with the Canadian Mental Health Association and providing mental health services in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. Along side these experiences, I have worked in multiple shelter settings providing harm-reduction education and responding to crisis with the unhoused population.
My approach to therapy is client centred and grounded in the belief that everyone deserves a space to share their experiences with someone offering empathy, compassion, and unconditional positive regard. I work from a collaborative, trauma-informed and strengths-based perspective.
I work with individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds navigating a variety of mental health challenges and emotional issues including anxiety and stress, ADHD, depression, life transitions, relationship conflicts, chronic illness, confidence and self-esteem issues, and struggles with intimacy and sexuality. My therapeutic approach is integrative and incorporates several modalities including Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I also incorporate elements of mindfulness throughout my practice.
My hope for therapy is to foster a greater sense of awareness, empowerment, and self-acceptance within my clients. Together, we will identify and explore the presenting issues and problem solve in a safe environment. We will also find effective coping skills tailored to you while also looking at the root of the problem.
I recognize that starting therapy can feel intimidating and vulnerable. I emphasize the importance of creating a secure and trusting rapport, in order for my clients to feel understood, comfortable, and a place to be your true self.
If you feel that working together could be a good fit, I would love to connect over a 15 minute free consultation to learn more about you and what you are looking to gain from therapy. I can be contacted at chelsea@chelseagaytherapy.com.
I typically respond to emails within one business day. If you find that you haven't heard from me after an inquiry, please check your 'junk' mailbox.
I look forward to connecting!
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) #12091
Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association #11243143
M.A. in Counselling Psychology
B.A. in Psychology (Honours)
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Additional Certifications
Gottman Level 1 (2022)
NCVI & ASSIST (2020)
2SLGBTQ2+ Foundations I & II (2022)
Indigenous Canada (2020)
Mastering Mindfulness (2022)
Assessments & Interventions in Trauma (2023)
Clinical Standards of Trauma Care: Attachment, Systems & Context (2023)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Trauma (2023)
Contact Information:
Email:
chelsea@
chelseagaytherapy.com
Phone:
(226)-336-3529
Online Booking Link:
https://chelseagaytherapy.janeapp.com/
