Approach to Therapy

We know that the therapeutic relationship between client and clinician is one of the best predictors of positive treatment outcomes. This is why, as helpers, we strive to embody the qualities that support trusting relationships, including warmth, compassion, and genuinely ‘showing up’ alongside clients.

We want people to feel that they can connect with us easily and quickly. We’re all just human beings at the end of it all, trying our best, every (sometimes very difficult) day. Therefore, it is important that we offer warmth and compassion, as well as kindness, empathy, humour (when appropriate), and a judgment-free space. 

When we show up with these qualities, we are co-creating a space for clients to be vulnerable and speak openly about the issues that have brought them to therapy. We want our clients to feel a sense of safety and freedom to be their authentic selves in the space. 

Why pick us? Click here to check out our FAQs.

The How

Together, we’ll turn down the volume of all the noise and take the heat off so that you can settle into the therapeutic process. Exhale. We want you to feel comfortable, held, and seen.

Together, we’ll build an understanding of the origin story for your presenting concern. What are the patterns of thought, feelings, and behaviours, early life experiences, relationships, and external structures that have influenced your understanding and experience of self?

Together, we’ll take steps towards the life that you want to live by shifting long-held narratives, doing things differently while starting small, and building resiliency.

Therapeutic Modalities

In addition to and of course (!!!), it is just as important that clients are offered clinical skill and experience. Our approaches use an integrated model of care to bring together counselling frameworks, interventions, and evidence-based modalities, dependent on the client and their needs. We regularly engage in professional development in celebration of life-long learning and human evolution.

Molly and Olivia are both certified in cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), while also drawing from compassion-focused therapy, skills from dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), somatics (body-based interventions), attachment-based therapy, and consideration of early life experiences. Both Molly and Olivia are trained and experienced in working with trauma, utilizing strategies from internal family systems, the attachment, regulation, and competency (ARC) framework, and trauma-focused cognitive behaviour therapy (TF-CBT). 

Our work is really determined by whatever is the best fit for you and your goal.

 

More about the modalities we draw from…

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a goal-oriented psychotherapeutic approach focusing on the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In CBT, individuals work with a therapist to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, fostering positive changes in emotions and actions. This evidence-based therapy is effective for addressing various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and stress.

 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a mindfulness-based psychotherapeutic approach emphasizing acceptance of thoughts and feelings. This evidence-based therapy encourages individuals to identify core values and commit to meaningful actions, promoting psychological flexibility. ACT is effective for improving overall well-being, enhancing acceptance, and aligning actions with personal values.

 

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a highly effective form of cognitive-behavioral therapy designed for individuals dealing with emotional dysregulation, self-harm, and relationship challenges. Developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, DBT emphasizes distress tolerance, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. Learn practical skills to improve mental health and well-being through evidence-based strategies in this comprehensive therapy approach.

 

Attachment-Based Therapy

Attachment-based therapy helps individuals build stronger emotional connections by exploring and understanding early relationships. Therapists collaborate with clients to identify attachment styles and relational patterns, while fostering open communication and a safe environment. This approach doesn’t just tackle immediate issues but aims to transform root causes, enabling individuals to build lasting, positive connections and navigate relationships with greater resilience.

 

ARC Framework

The ARC (Attachment, Regulation, and Competency) framework is a holistic approach to supporting individuals who have experienced trauma or adversity. It focuses on three key areas: building secure attachments, regulating emotions, and developing essential life skills. By addressing these components, the ARC framework helps individuals heal from their past and navigate challenges more effectively. This approach empowers individuals to strengthen relationships, manage emotions, and enhance overall well-being. 

 

Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy

Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is like a journey within yourself, exploring the various “parts of you” that make up your inner world. In this approach, each part has its own feelings, memories, and roles. The goal is to understand and harmonize these internal dynamics. Therapists help individuals identify and communicate with these parts, fostering self-awareness and healing. By acknowledging and respecting each part’s role, IFS supports individuals in transforming internal conflicts into a more balanced and integrated self.  

We look forward to hearing from you!

© 2023 Heffernan Counselling

Offering in-person counselling in Burlington, Ontario and virtual counselling across Ontario, Canada.

Location: The Therapy Commons
3425 Harvester Road, Suite 213
Burlington, ON L7N 3N1

Contact Molly: (226) 779-4493
Contact Olivia: (289) 401-5174

Proud ally and 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming care provider

Neurodivergent affirming care provider

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