PSYCHOLOGY OF US

Our thoughts directly impact our emotions. One way to change the way we feel is to change the way that we think. In order to
change our thoughts, we first need to become aware of our thinking.

Whenever we feel distressed, anxious, or down, we tend to exaggerate, oversimplify or make harsh judgments. These are called
‘cognitive distortions,’ which is therapy-speak, for thoughts that might sound rational and true but are twisted by our fears. They are
distortions of the truth and facts. They are the emotional hooks that make us spiral and feel hopeless about the future.

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a principal component of my practice. Whereas CBT focuses on cognition and behaviour, IFS focuses on emotional reactions and relating. Because our individual needs vary and one may need different approaches at different times, I also incorporate CBT and Brainspotting, working flexibly and collaboratively to find the best healing path […]

Shame hides. It’s as if it is ashamed of itself. Often we have lived with shame for so long, we are unaware that it is there, driving our beliefs, actions, and emotions. Shame maintains itself. When we feel ashamed, we are less likely to try to repair the damage, reconnect with the hurt party, or learn […]

Guilt feelings are common, healthy, and useful in short durations. However, when they linger passed their usefulness, guilt feelings can cause emotional distress and lead to more serious psychological issues. Monkey therapy combines Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Internal Family Systems, as well as neuroprocessing interventions that address all the aspects of overactive guilt: cognitions, emotional reactions, […]

Stress is our brain’s way of protecting us. While stress overload is harmful, hindering us in the face of difficult life events, other forms of stress invigorate us to rise to the challenge. This positive version of stress is known as eustress. Whether we find a situation distressing or eustress-ing has less to do with […]