Aleesha's Story
I'm a compassionate and dedicated social worker with a Master’s in Social Work and trauma-informed psychotherapy training. With over five years of experience counselling adults, adolescents, and children, I am deeply committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where my clients feel empowered to begin their healing journey.
How can Aleesha help you?
As a Black, queer-identifying counsellor, I am guided by empathy and a respect for intersecting cultural, gender and sexual identities. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing trauma, depression and anxiety, sexual assault, childhood sexual, physical and emotional abuse, domestic violence, self-esteem and body image issues, and relationship difficulties, such as issues with boundary-setting and communication. By supporting you using a collaborative and trauma-informed approach, we can process your trauma, and gain effective emotional regulation and interpersonal skills. I believe that you are champions of your own story. My ultimate goal is to give you tools so that you can believe it yourselves.
Therapeutic Approach
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IFS-informed; a somatic and body-centered approach used to identify and support the wounded parts of us that have emerged following traumatic events. This is a non-pathologizing and empowering approach that encourages clients to reconnect with their true selves and ultimately lead their own healing journey.
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress, anxiety and depression
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Dialectical Behavioural Therapy( DBT) for identifying challenging behaviours and emotions that contribute to emotional distress and relationship difficulties
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Survivor-centered, trauma-informed support for survivors of sexual violence and domestic violence
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Support in improving relationships, boundary-setting, and communication skills
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Support in gaining emotional regulation and stress-management skills
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Non-judgmental support in crisis management, suicidal ideation, and self-harm to encourage hope and resilience
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Culturally sensitive and LGBTQIA2+ inclusive support in identifying and addressing systemic barriers to promote resilience.
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Humanistic approaches helping with self-exploration and self-awareness, encouraging to reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, helping you develop a deeper understanding of your true self.
Professional Associations and Qualifications
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Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, McGill University
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Master’s Degree in Social Work from McGill University
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Member of the Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ)
Key Areas of Focus
Key Areas of Focus:
Anxiety and Depression
Domestic Violence Sexual Assault
Childhood Abuse ( sexual, physical, emotional & psychological)
Trauma Suicide and Self-harm Relationship difficulties
Burnout
Self-Care and Self-Compassion
Coping Skills and Stress Management
Self-Esteem and Identity
Personality Disorders