Kelsy

Hello everyone! My name is Kelsy and, like you, I have had experiences in my life that have informed the ways I show up in and view the world. Being queer and neurodivergent I have had certain experiences that have led me to develop my approach to therapy and the therapeutic relationship. Most specifically I work from an anti-oppressive and strengths-based lens in my therapeutic space. Being strengths-based means that we will identify what strengths, skills, and interests you have and will utilize them in our pursuit of change. Being anti-oppressive means that my approach is grounded in principles of social justice and looks at the systemic and structural forms of oppression that may be impacting your mental health. I believe in being curious about my client’s experiences, beliefs, values, and thought processes, you are the expert in your life and I want to hear about it.

I believe that everyone has the ability to find change and progress in their mental health with the appropriate type of therapy for them, and I will work with you to figure out if I can provide the type of therapy you want and need. This is to say that my therapeutic approach is client centered and it draws from various modalities including parts work, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), emotion focused therapy (EFT), humanistic therapy, and narrative therapy.

Some populations that I enjoy working with include those who are 2SLGBTQ+, neurodivergent, highly-sensitive, young adults, students, and those with religious trauma. Another specific area of interest is fat liberation. I firmly believe in health at every size, and you will not hear me telling any of my clients to lose weight, body image is an issue that requires a holistic mental health approach that does not include diet talk

In my therapy sessions you can expect that the therapeutic relationship is going to be a focus of our work together, not only does it help inform my approach, but I genuinely want to know about my clients. We will set goals so we have something to work towards, and I welcome any and all feedback on how you feel our sessions are going.

On a personal note, I have a sweet but spicy cat named Chili and I love all animals. I love spending time in nature, especially swimming in rivers and lakes in the warm months. I have recently gotten back into swimming with a club and have been loving it. I believe that having outlets of joy and mastery are important.