Hi, my name is Natalie.
I'm your Millenial Somatic Art Psychotherapist.
I’m so glad that you’re here! :)
My personal healing journey as a neurodivergent trauma survivor has led me to honour the power of imagination in the therapeutic process and to better understand the complexity of the human mind.
My mission is to help clients resolve the consequences of their past and reconnect with their authentic selves in the present moment.
In my sessions, I provide a warm space to explore what lies beneath the surface through talking, art-making, somatic awareness, parts work, mindfulness meditation, and relational therapy.
I believe that everyone is creative in their unique ways, while our bodies already know what is necessary to heal.
If you are ready to gain more insight into your thoughts, feelings, and patterns, I am here for you. Let’s work together to find the source of the issue that’s stopping you from living your life to the fullest!
Credentials: Registered Psychotherapist (RP) CRPO license #11686, Art therapist (DTATI), Professional member of the Canadian Art Therapy Association
I strive to provide a safe and loving space for members of the LGBTQIA2S+ and neurodivergent communities.
Is my approach for you?
My approach can be a good fit if you identify with any of the following:
- you're self aware and creative
- you find it hard to "feel" your feelings OR feel lots of "big" feelings
- you experienced childhood trauma or sexual abuse
- you struggle with anxiety
- you see your attachment style as a barrier to fulfilling relationships
- you want to feel more present in your life and let go of perfectionism
- you experienced eating disorders or body dysmorphia
- verbal therapy reached a plateau and you want to challenge yourself with a different therapeutic modality
- you feel stuck in life, work, or relationship
- struggle with low self-esteem or negative self-image
- identify with CPTSD, ADHD, GAD, ASD, BPD, ED
- you seek change
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What do my sessions look like?
In each session, I combine the approaches below to find the right fit for your individual needs.
Somatic
Somatics is about learning how to hear the subtle whispers of our bodies among the chaos of the cognitive mind.
You want to heal it? You need to feel it first.
This bottom-up approach focuses on bodily sensations evoked by familiar feelings and teaches you how to provide support to resolve them safely in- and outside of session.
The fluttering in your chest? Burning in your stomach? Knot in your throat?
That's somatics.
Picture gentle movement, breath work, meditation, and mindfulness exercises.
Art-based
If you are a visual person, this approach can be life changing. Even simple napkin scribbles can reveal a lot about our unconscious state.
Art making helps many of my clients identify their feelings through line, shape, and colour. Drawing and painting can also be a way to effectively regulate the nervous system when processing trauma memories or get a new perspective.
Don't want to make art? No problem.
Relational
The relationship between you and I becomes the central focus of our work and a reflection of how you interact with the world around you.
And yes, that means you get to be mad at me, wish I would take care of you, try to please me by being "the best client", feel annoyed or disappointed with what I said. You can tell me and I will hold space for your feelings.
I have a deep sense of compassion for attachment wounds of the parts that are frozen in time inside our bodies.
Parts work
The parts model of the mind assumes that we are all made of distinct parts that coexist in a bigger system (remember Inside Out?).
Often left unheard for long periods of time, parts can take over the steering wheel and go on autopilot of familiar patterns (impulsivity, panic attacks, dissociation, numbing out, indecision, addictions, rumination, feeling stuck...) Some parts don't get along and need external guidance.
Our work will help you identify your inner parts and their needs in order to reach an equilibrium.
Who is this for?
adults and young adults 18+
Cost: $150 per 50m session
Format: online only, individual sessions
Insurance: Covered under most plans as "psychotherapy".
Available for clients residing in: Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia
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What should I expect in session?
To put it simply- we will meet, we will talk, we will feel, and we will draw. Let's take it at your pace.
This is a judgment free zone for your art. I am not an art teacher and I will not comment on your technique or artistic ability! I will, however, get curious about the personal meaning behind your artwork. Whether you are a professional artist or you have never made art, my doors are open.
No art experience is necessary.
From my heart to yours:
In my free time I enjoy yoga, my art practice, cozy nights in, tea and board games, hanging out with my dog Elyza, gardening,
embracing a slower pace of living, arranging flowers, quiet walks by the water, mountain hikes in the summer, and ultimately trying to understand the complexity of the human mind.
Check me out on Psychology Today for more information!
Resonance check
It's hard to tell from reading an online profile whether I am the therapist for you. I believe that it's very important to hear each other's voice and feel the energy before committing to a relationship.
Feel free to book now or fill out this form to get in touch at any time! I will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Talk very soon,
Natalie
Photo credit by Margosia.