psychotherapist, family counsellor, & life coach
At McGill University I completed my PhD in Communications Studies and took courses in negotiation at the business school. During my studies at Columbia University and the University of Toronto I applied game theory to conflict management. As a therapist and coach a significant component of my practice draws on my understanding of relationship and communication principles.
Some of the work I encounter deals with exploring underlying emotions, improving communication skills, setting boundaries, enhancing empathy and understanding, and developing healthier relational patterns in the following contexts:
Poor Communication: Difficulty expressing thoughts, feelings, and needs effectively, leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, or feelings of being unheard.
Lack of Trust: Issues related to trust, such as betrayal, secrecy, or past traumas, impacting the ability to feel safe and secure in the relationship.
Conflict Resolution: Struggles in resolving conflicts constructively, leading to recurring arguments, resentment, or avoidance of addressing underlying issues.
Boundary Issues: Difficulty establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries in relationships, resulting in feelings of being overwhelmed, intruded upon, or neglected.
Intimacy Issues: Challenges in fostering emotional, physical, or sexual intimacy, leading to feelings of disconnection, dissatisfaction, or lack of fulfillment.
Power Imbalance: Disparities in decision-making, control, or influence within the relationship, leading to feelings of inequality, resentment, or disempowerment.
Codependency: Enmeshed or overly dependent relationships characterized by a lack of autonomy, identity fusion, or excessive caregiving, often resulting in unhealthy dynamics and individual well-being concerns.
Cultural or Generational Differences: Variances in cultural backgrounds, values, or communication styles that contribute to misunderstandings, conflicts, or challenges in relating to one another.