I hold a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto, and a four-year honours undergraduate degree in Psychology from York University.
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I first worked in a psychiatric setting for eight years. It was a hierarchical environment in which patients had very little power. I soon began learning about sexual issues that both men and women experience and lectured to fellow staff on these topics. I saw patients experiencing numerous sexual/intimacy issues, as well as dealing with sexual orientation concerns and
transgender thoughts and feelings. As I began building my private practice I lectured through AAMFT in Canada and in the U.S. I have also authored a few papers covering sex therapy which have been published throughout the course of my career.
The field of sex therapy has changed over time. There is more evidence-based research and information available and accessible now more than ever. As a sex therapist, I keep up with emerging research and topics to ensure that I have the latest information at hand in order to best help my clients.
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In my private practice I adhere to a Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice which are integral to my work with clients. This is in conjunction with all applicable legislation, combined with my judgement as a professional and as a member in good standing as a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. (referred in part from OCSWSSW)
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As a Certified Sex Therapist (BESTCO), I adhere to the highest standards of practice that are expected of me. I stay current with research and evidence-based practices, including work that depathologizes women's sexual concerns and all sexual/intimacy and sexual orientation, sexual identity areas of concern.
Membership & Therapeutic Approach
I am a member of the following associations and councils:
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OAMFT (the Ontario Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (www.oamft.com)
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AAMFT (the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, www.aamft.org), as a Clinical Fellow
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CAMFT (the Canadian Association for Marriage and Family Therapy) as a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist (RMFT).
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OASW (the Ontario Association of Social Workers) (www.oasw.org)
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SIECCAN (the Sex information and Education Council of Canada) which provides members with the Journal of Human Sexuality; essential for all sex therapists, researchers, and educators.
My approach to therapy has been influenced by the variety of learning experiences I have been fortunate to have had over the years. As a therapist, I have also seen how women are undervalued in our society, and recognize that abuse against women and girls is highly under-reported. I work with women, and at times with men, who have been dealing with the after-effects of trauma in their lives. I have attended workshops on violence against women in Indigenous communities in recent years, and continue to explore this area.
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In my practice, I combine various forms of therapeutic approaches and theories given what works best with each client I see. I also depend a great deal on my own sense of self, my years of experience, while bringing together and continually analyzing complex/multiple issues that may arise. I depend on Collaborative Therapy, Sex Therapy Techniques, some Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapies, Psychodynamic Therapy, Therapy for Post Traumatic Stress as needed. Although, foremost is the relationship I form with my clients as an approachable, flexible, caring, and direct therapist.
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