deirdre mclaughlin, rcc-acs, phd

what makes for a good fit in therapy? this is such an important question. finding the right
counsellor is like any relationship in your life. it's important to feel a connection, and have the ability to imagine opening up to that person. i've spent many years studying mental health, eating disorders, and sexuality and how they intersect with our emotional, spiritual, physical, and social selves. i'm a registered clinical counsellor, approved clinical supervisor, sexual health educator, and recently completed a ph.d in clinical sexology.

though i see all types of mental health presentations (unsure? just ask), eating disorders and sexuality are my areas of specialization. both are shaped by cultural messages and involve the interplay of desire and denial. both happen to the body and often involve some element of shame or trauma.

i take an eclectic approach to which types of therapy i use, including cognitive, behavioural, and somatic (body-based) frameworks. i track the nervous systems of myself, of you, and of the space between us. when your nervous system is calm and settled, when it feels safe-enough to be present, that is when you can really learn in therapy. if what i've written here resonates with you, book a consult and we can chat more. let's see if it's a good fit!