Alexandria Butterfield

I provide therapy for those wanting support with anxiety, body image, adjusting to university, burnout and self-esteem struggles. While these challenges may seem separate, from my experience, they often stem from unwanted intrusive thoughts, unsettling physical sensations and the individual feeling lost in what will help. My approach is to give you practical skills and work with you to create action plans. I use ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) primarily and draw on other techniques to help clients find the best coping skills for them. I also use expressive arts therapy which can be great in clients gaining a deeper understanding of themselves and want an alternative to talking for an entire session.  

With over seven years experience providing therapy for those with eating disorders, I now provide supervision and consultation to other clinicians in providing a social justice lens to eating disorder work. I work with clients who are in recovery from an eating disorder and/or live with AFRID (Avoidant Restrictive Intake Disorder). Goals for these clients may include trying out ‘fear foods, practice communicating with others about their needs, engaging in joyful movement, and building self-esteem outside of food and body image. I incorporate a harm reduction approach into my work and continue my education in inclusive care through Nalgona Positivity Pride and other BIPOC-led organizations. 

I enjoy working with neurodivergent clients (ADHD, Autism, ect.) and support clients who have been diagnosed or self-identify with this label. I find ACT and expressive arts especially helpful in breaking away from the traditional talk therapy model to make counselling more comfortable and effective. I also work with individuals who have a history of sexual trauma to develop coping skills when memories and triggers come up. 

In our first few sessions, I will help you identify your values and strengths to create individualized goals both inside and outside of the therapy room. Therapy should provide the space to talk about the things that are hard, and also celebrate the wins and connect on values, interests and humor. I provide services both in person and online. Clients typically have 50 minute sessions, though some will come for 80 minutes as a longer time can be helpful in being able to dive in more and feel less rushed. 

If you or someone you love is wanting support please reach out through the contact form on my website - I would love to connect!