Meet Vanessa, your supportive and relatable therapist.
Welcome! I’m Vanessa, a registered social worker and psychotherapist supporting individuals locally in Waterloo, ON and surrounding areas and virtually across Ontario. I’m here to help you navigate life challenges anxiety, overwhelm, and stress with greater ease and confidence!
As a therapist specializing in high-achieving millennials, I understand the unique pressures you face. Balancing your drive for success with the constant demand for perfection, all while juggling numerous life responsibilities can be incredibly taxing.
Together, we'll discover the resources and tools you need to:
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Manage your emotions effectively
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Break unhelpful patterns
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Achieve balance and fulfilment
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Build confidence in handling life's challenges
You don't have to face these struggles alone. Reach out for a free 15-minute consultation, and take the first step towards a more empowered and grounded version of yourself.
Do You Ever Feel Like You’re
Running on Empty
Continuously Stuck on the
Hamster Wheel of Life?
Do you find yourself racing through life, ticking off endless to-do lists, yet feeling like you're getting nowhere? It's as if you're sprinting on a treadmill, exhausted but unable to hop off.
You're not alone in this whirlwind!
Many of us high-achievers find ourselves caught in this cycle - juggling career ambitions, personal goals, and societal expectations, all while trying to maintain that picture-perfect Instagram life.
It's no wonder anxiety creeps in, and overwhelm becomes your unwelcome companion. But here's the good news: you don't have to stay stuck in this loop.
Together, we can slow down that hamster wheel, help you catch your breath, and rediscover what truly matters to you. I'm here to guide you in finding balance, managing stress, and rekindling your inner spark. Let's turn that exhausting sprint into a fulfilling journey where you're not just surviving, but thriving.
Ready to step off the wheel and onto a path that feels more like you?
My Approach & Education
My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, and direct. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings. I listen deeply and strive to understand your unique experiences, validating your struggles while gently guiding you toward solutions.
My direct style ensures that we address the core issues head-on, empowering you to make meaningful changes in your life. With a blend of evidence-based techniques and a compassionate heart, I aim to foster a collaborative relationship where you feel heard, understood, and motivated to grow. Together, we'll navigate your journey with honesty and kindness, helping you uncover the strength and resilience within you.
I practice using an integrative approach combining several different therapeutic approaches including:
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT)
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Motivational Interviewing (MI)
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Psychodynamic techniques.
Using an integrative approach allows me to meet your needs as I can draw on the techniques that would be most helpful to you. I also work through a trauma-informed, strengths-based and anti-oppressive lens to ensure therapy is both empowering and considerate of your lived experiences.
Education & Trainings
2016-2019
Master of Social Work
University of Windsor
During my Master of Social Work, I honed my skills in evidence-based therapies, focusing on treating anxiety, stress, and emotional dysregulation through a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lens. My clinical practicums provided hands-on experience in applying these approaches, enabling me to effectively support clients in various settings.
2009-2013
Bachelor of Arts, Honours Specialization in Psychology
Western University
I developed a strong foundation in understanding human behaviour and cognitive processes. A significant achievement during my degree was completing my honours thesis, which focused on cognitive biases related to substance use.
2022
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Certificate
University Of Toronto
I gained advanced skills in emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. This training allows me to help clients manage intense emotions, build resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.
2022
CBT for PTSD,
OASW Learning Centre
I gained skills to guide clients in identifying and challenging trauma-related thoughts to reduce distress and improve emotional well-being.
2020
Solution Foced Therapy
Frame Learning Institute
I gained tools to help clients focus on strengths and solutions rather than problems, fostering quicker, goal-oriented change.
2018
Motivational Interviewing & Managing Ambivalance Certificate
York University
I gained tools tohelp clients strengthen their motivation for change by exploring and resolving ambivalence in a supportive, collaborative manner.