Services

capABILITY FIRST

CapABILITY FIRST is more than just therapeutic support and is grounded within the capability approach (CA) theoretical framework towards disability and social justice. Developed by Amartya Sen & Martha Nussbaum, the capability approach suggests that the freedom to achieve wellbeing is of primary moral importance and to achieve wellbeing, it is to be understood in terms of peoples capabilities, that is people’s real opportunities to do and be what they have reasons to value. The core focus of my counselling, consultation and lifeskills support and planning is grounded on what people are able to do/ capable of doing.

Therapy

I offer a collaborative and client-centred approach that is highly individualized to your needs, goals, strengths, and interests. My approach to therapy is eclectic and integrates techniques from several evidence-based therapeutic models:

  • Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy
  • Narrative Therapy
  • Solution Focused Therapy
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

I provide adapted counselling/ therapeutic support for people living with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disability, and Learning Disability).

I operate from a highly developed anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed lens to empower you to address life’s messy moments. The hope is that with my help, you will be able to build on your resilience coping and agency in a safe and supportive environment on your journey to recovery and healing.

Sessions are offered in person, over the phone or by Skype, whatever works best for you.

At this time I offer individual counselling geared to adolescents and adults (16+). I do not provide counselling to children, couples or family.

Consultation

Psychoeducation, System Navigation & Advocacy

I assist caregivers and individuals in developing their knowledge concerning system-level supports, for example, the Developmental Services Ontario:

  • Reviewing previous assessments to help caregivers and individuals better understand them;
  • Psychoeducation on the individual’s diagnosis and treatment plan;
  • Helping caregivers/ Individuals better advocate for their adult child/themselves through developing their knowledge of the mental health and developmental sector systems;
  • Help with service navigation to improve with emotional and practice support for caregivers/individuals;
  • Help with transitional planning and support (adolescence to young adult).
  • Person Directed planning

Lifeskills Coaching

For people with Intellectual and Developmental disabilities.

I will assist you in learning, reaching and exceeding your personal/ professional goals. During the process, we will look at specific areas of your life (employment, independent living, self-care, relationships) and will work together to discover what the challenges and barriers might be and will work collaboratively on how to overcome those challenges leading to your desired goals.