Kathleen Cain

Life can be really hard sometimes, for a lot of different reasons. And sometimes, what makes it even harder, is feeling alone in it. This can make us feel confused, hurt, angry, anxious, depressed, isolated, overwhelmed and stressed out. But just because life is hard, doesn’t mean we are doing it wrong. Having support can make us feel less alone and can help life become more manageable.
I provide counselling (in-person and online) to adults who are looking to find a warm, compassionate, nurturing relationship, where you can safely process emotions that may feel too threatening or frightening, and where you can let your defenses down, and be seen, understood, and fully accepted. Counselling also allows you opportunities to explore new ways of being in the world, or discovering parts of yourself that have been laying dormant that you may want to reclaim.
My approach is very relational and I deeply value and prioritize the therapeutic relationship. I believe (and a lot of science validates this) that a lot of healing can occur in relationships that feel authentic and secure enough to explore feelings, thoughts and concerns, and to have reparative experiences, without fear of judgement or shame. I am very person-centered and strengths based, which means I consider you to be the expert of your own life and I respect your lived experiences, and all the things you have done and the ways you have coped, that have gotten you to this point in your life that you are at right now. Our work together will be authentic, collaborative and integrative, meaning we can pull in lots of different strategies as we find the ones that fit best and resonate most with you, as we work towards your goals. Some therapeutic approaches I use are from narrative therapy, AEDP (accelerated experiential dynamic psychotherapy), solution focused therapy, IFS (internal family systems), CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) and mindfulness and compassion-based practices. I also practice from a trauma-informed and HAES (health at every size) lens. Above all, I pay attention to your process, and your unique personality. I am able to hold space for all the heavy emotions, while also being light-hearted and love laughing and celebrating with my clients. In our counselling relationship, I hope that you will feel empowered to make the changes you choose for your life, while also being reminded of your innate capacity for healing and wholeness.