Nice to meet you!
Find out more about me and my approach here.
Laura Shay, RCT-C
Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate (RCT-C) with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists, License #: RCT-C23-039
M.A., Counselling Psychology (Yorkville University)
M.Sc., International Development Studies (University of Amsterdam)
B.A., Anthropology (University of British Columbia)
Life can be challenging and sometimes it can be hard to know the steps we need to take to better understand ourselves and live the life we want to live.
I work from the perspective that being a human is hard and that we all face struggles throughout our life. While these challenges may be unavoidable, therapy can provide a place to feel seen and help shift your perspective, discover more about yourself, connect with your feelings, and discover meaning from your experiences.
My Approach
I use a client-centered approach which means we work together to find what works for you.
The foundation of how I understand my clients and their concerns is Internal Family Systems (IFS). IFS is an evidence-based model that helps people build relationship, connection, and understanding of themselves and heal their wounded parts.
I also use a variety of other modalities including Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
With couples, I also use the Gottman Method.
Social justice issues are also relevant for personal work and I incorporate systemic considerations into the conversation. Understanding the cultural environment where clients grew up and currently live can provide a more complete picture of their context and potential sources of distress. This means considering how capitalism, racism, misogyny, ableism, homophobia, and other forms of oppression contribute to the client’s experience of the world.
Training and Certifications
Internal Family Systems, Level One (scheduled completion date September 2024)
Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Levels One and Two
Emotion-Focused Therapy: Attachment-Based Interventions for Couples in Crisis
Integrative Sex and Couple Therapy Certificate
Internal Family Systems Online Circle Training
More About Me
Coming soon
Coming soon