Hello, I'm Alanna - I’m a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist with over a decade of experience working in mental health. I have worked in various settings including community resource centers, drop-in centres, shelters, counselling centers, walk-in counselling clinics and private practice. I also have a Child and Youth Worker diploma and love working with youth! I support individuals, couples, and adolescents (12+) in working with trauma (developmental, attachment and childhood), ADHD and neurodivergence, anxiety (generalized and social anxiety), depression, self-esteem/self-worth issues and relationship difficulties. I approach therapy from a person-centred, anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, non-judgemental and inclusive space.

As we are all different, I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Therefore, I integrate various modalities into my sessions such as Somatic Experiencing (SE), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Self-Compassion, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), The Gottman Couples Therapy Method and I also incorporate Expressive Arts and Play Therapy.

I honour lived experiences of all kinds and strive to create a warm, inclusive and welcoming space where clients from diverse backgrounds - including BIPOC, LGBTQ2S+, and neurodivergent communities - feel seen, heard, supported and respected. I believe the therapeutic relationship is fundamental to the success of therapy. As a therapist, I am trauma-centred, neurodiversity-affirming and operate under the principles of health at every size (HAES®)

Outside of sessions, you’ll find me walking or playing with my dog, Millie. I love getting into a creative flow, spending hours in my art studio painting while listening to music. I’m a big true crime fan and can’t resist a good cult documentary. I also enjoy unwinding with board games with my partner and friends. On the weekends, I love antique shopping and thrifting and am always on the hunt for unique treasures.

I believe in meeting clients where they are, honouring their unique experiences and strengths. My integrative approach draws from various modalities to tailor therapy to each individual's needs. These include:

• Somatic Experiencing

• Narrative Therapy

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

• Internal Family Systems (IFS)

• Mindfulness Practices

• Expressive Arts and Play Therapy

• Polyvagal Theory and Attachment-Based Techniques

• Gottman Couples Therapy Method 

My goal is to foster a therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy, authenticity, and creativity, empowering clients to move toward healing and fulfillment.

Education

• Carleton University
  Master of Social Work
  2016 – 2017

• Ryerson University
  Bachelor of Social Work
  2012 – 2016

• Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology
  Child and Youth Worker Advanced Diploma, Family and Community Services
  2007 – 2010

Licenses & Certifications

Somatic Experiencing® Training

• Beginning Level 1
  Issued Sep 2022

• Beginning Level 2
  Issued Jan 2023

• Beginning Level 3
  Issued Apr 2023

• Intermediate Level 1
  Issued Sep 2023

• Intermediate Level 2
  Issued Jan 2024

• Intermediate Level 3
  Issued Apr 2024

Other Certifications

• The Gottman Couples Therapy Method – Level 1
  Issued Oct 2022

• Collaborative Practice Study Group (CPSG)
  Glebe Institute of Ottawa – Issued Sep 2021

Professional Licensure

• Registered Social Worker
  Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) Sept 2017

• Social Worker
  Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW) Sept 2017