Susan Baum

"When we are no longer able to change a situation—we are challenged to change ourselves."

Victor Frankl

To have my clients take up the challenge to change—that is the power I try to help them achieve.  I work towards creating an atmosphere of comfort, safety, compassion, and respect to facilitate this change.  

 

I have over  30 years of extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families. This experience includes many areas of  challenges:

anxiety

stress

trauma

PTSD

abuse - physical mental and sexual

grief

relational/interpersonal

life transitions

Cross cultural 

I have an eclectic approach using various strategies to best meet the needs of each client. This begins with a foundation in psychodynamic theory.  Cognitive behavioural therapy,  mindfulness, family and inter generational, relational, interpersonal and somatic strategies are woven in as necessary. I work both in a short term and long term timeframe.  

The overall goal of therapy is to realize self understanding, acceptance, and esteem. The goal is to help clients function better in the world. The goal is to find purpose, meaning, and peace.

For clients who can’t face the workday, who are on stress leave and temporarily unable to function in their daily lives for psychological and/or physical reasons, I use additional resources. Working with rehabilitation organizations and insurance companies, I help my clients overcome their difficulties in functioning and facilitate their successful return to work. 

I also work with clients as an executive coach to support them to move forward in their career or to create a new career path.  Leadership development, working with challenging co-workers, skill enhancement, workplace balance, mentorship, handling change, networking and women's issues are some areas  of skill development I support clients with. Retirement and issues of older age are included in life transitions and area of expertise.

As a registered psychologist, my fees are usually partly or fully covered by extended health plans and private health insurance. Employee assistance plans also cover registered psychologists. Psychological services are eligible as a health care expense on income tax.

I welcome your calls or emails for more information and would be happy to discuss your particular situation, assess your needs and determine how I may help you. If my services aren’t suited to meet your needs, I’ll refer you to another trained professional. My schedule is flexible, including sessions in the mornings and weekends—opportunities for you to review your situation, renew your approach and realize the benefits of self-knowledge and mindful actions.