Who Am I?

HI! My name is Imane, I am Moroccan-American woman, raised in Minnesota with a dream to one day make a difference in the world through mental health and psychology. I completed my masters in Psychological Sciences in Duluth, Minnesota. Following, I decided to move somewhere colder (because -30 was not enough), fast forward a year and here I am, a Provisional Psychologist in Edmonton, Alberta!

From a young age, my passion has always been helping people. I am dedicated to providing mental health services to all individuals regardless of race, religion, color or creed. I believe that all people deserve compassion. I work to incorporate cultural competency and unconditional positive regard in my work. During my time in the field thus far, I have had the privilege of working with individuals overcoming trauma, neglect, abuse, anxiety and depression. My goal is to help people find their sense of self, empowerment and build the skills to reach their potential in life.

I understand firsthand how difficult asking for help can be. I am committed to providing you with a safe space where you can express yourself without judgement and where you can pursue your journey of growth at your own pace.

Working With Me

You are the expert of your own life. It is my opinion that you know yourself and your needs better than anyone else. Following a briefing on ethics and the ethical guidelines surrounding the client – my main goal in our first couple of sessions is to get to know you. I will ask you about your goals and intentions regarding why you decided to come to therapy and about your present and past circumstances. Do not feel pressured to address everything all at once. Our goal is to explore your needs and goals at your own pace.

In our first few sessions we will also likely spend some time talking about your expectations for me. I find that it can feel a little overwhelming to work with a stranger and, especially for those who have not worked with a psychologist before, it’s hard to know where to start. It is my goal to make it as easy as possible for you and give you the opportunity to ask me questions and to communicate to me your expectations. Therapy is your time, it is you-focused and it’s guided by you.

I am there to provide you with guidance through your journey, to offer you insight into internal and external conflicts you may be facing, and to provide you with tools and skills that you can implement in your life. Regardless of where you are right now, I am here to support you in whatever you need. If you are interested in working with me, please feel free to reach out for a consultation or book an appointment.

I look forward to embarking on this therapeutic journey with you!

Who Am I? HI! My name is Imane, I am Moroccan-American woman, raised in Minnesota with a dream t... Read More

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Life is a journey. An oh so difficult one. But something profound can happen. As Scott Peck wrote in the Road Less Traveled, once we realize and accept this truth, life is no longer difficult.

Of course, this is by no means an easy task and can often feel like a lonely one. That’s where I can help. Hi, I’m Pooja, an East Indian Scottish woman who is trying to make a difference in the world. After completing a Masters of Science in Psychological Counselling in my hometown, I made it all the way here and become a Registered Provisional Psychologist.

Within that time, I have had the privilege in working with people who wanted to know more about their Self, improve their relationships and build their potential. This includes people with autism spectrum disorder and their caregivers and people who have experienced trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression.

Having been on both sides of the therapy room, I can understand some of the fears about embarking on a journey with pretty much a stranger. But with our experiences, I will provide a safe space for you and connect with you as we journey along the path of growth.

Life is a journey. An oh so difficult one. But something profound can happen. As Scott Peck wro... Read More

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Who Am I?

Qigong is a mind-body-spirit practice originating in China that uses your vital life energy to create and maintain a healthy mind and body. It uses simple poses and slow, purposeful movements along with breath and body awareness to create a healthy flow. Proper flow of our life force energy, or Qi, allows the bodies to use its own healing processes, and prevents the energy from becoming “stuck”, which is what can interfere with health and healing. Some reported benefits of this practice include:

Reduces stress. Balances emotions. Improves overall well-being. Improves memory. Increased Energy and Vitality. Builds the immune system. Improves sleep. Greater flexibility. A sense of contentment and peace.

Working With Me

Bob has been practising Qigong since 2014 and received his Level 1 & 2 in Qigong in 2016. He attended the Five Elements Healing Retreat in 2018 and practises Qigong on a daily basis. He incorporates various Qigong movements and breathing patterns so the students can experience their own Qi or energy first hand. We are so excited to have him join the Dóchas team as he brings a light-hearted, compassionate, and calming essence to support the work we are doing!

Who Am I? Qigong is a mind-body-spirit practice originating in China that uses your vital life e... Read More

Who Am I?

“Life is pain, highness. Anyone who tells you differently is selling something.” – William Goldman (from The Princess Bride). All sarcasm aside, life can be painful. Not being okay can be scary, especially if no one in your support system feels comfortable talking about emotions or mental health. If you’re looking for someone to talk to, you’ve probably gotten to the place where seeking help is less scary than staying where you are right now. I’ve been there. Asking for help goes against what Western society tells us: that we should be able to figure it all out on our own while also being productive. No wonder we don’t like feelings.

I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety at 13 after self-harming and suicide attempts. Even before the diagnosis, I knew I was different and wished I was less ‘sensitive.’ Emotions and tears are natural, but if no one teaches us how to accept and communicate them, we will feel lost. Self-acceptance and love are game changers but takes time and effort.

Working With Me

As a Counseling Psychology student, I balance listening deeply with challenging clients to acknowledge blind spots. I trust you to trust yourself – even the parts you don’t like or want to get rid of. Acceptance is a key buzzword for me. I will meet you where you are now, and we can explore where you want to go. You are not alone in this journey. Chat soon!

Who Am I? “Life is pain, highness. Anyone who tells you differently is selling something.” – Wil... Read More

Who Am I? I will never forget the day I was offered a counselling position at a non-profit over 6 years ago. I was 28 years old, and my dad passed away shortly after. I knew my dad would have been proud. He would have wanted me to keep going. So I did.

I mustered up the courage and strength to keep pursuing my dreams for my father, the sacrifices and trials my family endured while escaping the civil war in Sudan, and my deep desire to help people heal. As a result, I poured my heart into my role and a master’s program in counselling psychology with no regrets whatsoever because it has confirmed my purpose to serve others in this way.

Thankfully, I have had some enriching life experiences, such as studying abroad in Cuba, volunteering in Morocco, and becoming a proud member of Pi Beta Phi, which values philanthropy, scholarship, leadership, and sisterhood. My journey started when I was a girls’ counsellor at a summer camp at a young age, but that has since led me to where I am today.

In my spare time, you will find me listening to a podcast, doing karaoke, enjoying the sunset, getting hooked on an engaging documentary, travelling, doing something crafty, doing a photoshoot, or having enriching heart-to-heart conversations with loved ones (and sometimes strangers).

Lastly, I completed a Grief Recovery Method Specialist training in March 2023, which allowed me to learn a skill that is so near and dear to my heart. Thus, when I am not doing the above activities, you can also find me thoroughly enjoying learning, whether a new recipe, a mental health topic, or an organizational life hack.

Working With Me My counselling style has an ‘in it together’ collaborative approach designed to leave you feeling heard, supported, empowered, respected, and connected. As a practicum intern placed for the January 2024 cohort at Dochas, I am thrilled to walk alongside you as you navigate what life throws at you. Under the guidance and supervision of Kim Long, I will do everything in my power to offer kindness, hope, peace, a safe space, and a professional atmosphere in which you are genuinely cared for.

Who Am I? I will never forget the day I was offered a counselling position at a non-profit over 6... Read More

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Who Am I? Hi, I’m Skye!

Here is a little about me on a personal level-

I am Mama to two sweet but spicy girls; one doodle girl and one toddler girl. Being a Mama is the best job in the world to me, but also the most challenging role I’ve had. I have learned so much about myself since my daughter was born and love teaching her everything I know.

What else?

I love the mountains, travel, hot yoga, and hiking.

I am fun loving, easy going, and love connecting with people.

There is something about sunshine, heat, fresh flowers, and coffee that make me happy.

I love to read the first chapter of a book, get busy, and re-read it months later. Repeat.

Working With Me I have always been deep feeling and curious about behaviour. In short, I believe that our world needs less judgment and more love! Somewhere along the way, I developed a passion for assisting individuals to heal, find peace, and have the courage and confidence to navigate challenges. Everyone needs a little support every now and again.

My goal is for clients to feel seen and heard, but also empowered. I am not here to solve your problems or answer your questions persay, but rather to give you the space to explore your needs, values, and goals to do that for yourself.

As a student, I am thrilled to explore my professional identity and ultimately learn and grow alongside you.

Who Am I? Hi, I’m Skye! Here is a little about me on a personal level- I am Mama to two sweet b... Read More

Who Am I?

Hello! My name is Melanie. Daughter, wife, mother, aunt, and grandmother are some of the roles I fill in my personal life. It is after a lifetime of living that I find myself realizing my dream of helping others as part of the team at Dochas Psychological Services.

In 1994 when I was 18 years old, I took my first psychology course and was completely fascinated by what I learned and was interested in going further in this field. However, as I like to say, you make plans and then life happens. As a newly married woman I had my first child in 1996 and life took me on another path. After raising my 3 sons and retiring from the accounting field, I have been blessed with the opportunity to focus on helping others.

In the last 5 years I have been working along side of others who are overcoming addictions, depression, anxiety, anger, childhood trauma, and other mental health issues. I have also had the privilege to work along side a psychologist as a psychometrist completing forensic psychological assessments. Through my experience I have learned that life can throw you some curveballs and having someone walk alongside you through these twists and turns will make the journey much more meaningful.

Working With Me

Client safety and progress is my top priority.

I approach sessions with a Cognitive Behavioural lens which is an evidence-based approach to helping others resolve problems and reach goals. I believe that a person-centered approach is important as it keeps you in the driver seat of our sessions ensuring we don’t venture into areas before you are willing or ready to do so. I know that beginning therapy can be a daunting task but I have confidence that you can take this courageous step towards wellness and healing!

Who Am I? Hello! My name is Melanie. Daughter, wife, mother, aunt, and grandmother are some of t... Read More

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Who Am I?

Hey! My name is Rachael, but feel free to call me Rach.

Growing up in Alberta, I moved from a small hamlet to a small town, and finally to Edmonton. The diversity in the areas I have lived in has allowed me to cultivate a variety of interests from outdoors activities, like camping and hiking, to embracing the arts by supporting and visiting art galleries, theatre, and music.

As a kid, I always wanted a career helping people and originally was pursuing a career as a medical doctor. However, as I got older, I noticed the increased need for mental health workers and felt that pursuing a career in counselling and psychology was a better fit for me. I was drawn to counselling as there is greater time dedicated to learning and developing understanding and a relationship with a client and their situation prior to working on developing solutions. I have found that helping people through developing that healing connection, which is often missing with doctors, was more important to me than all the cool science stuff medical doctors learn. However, I am still very much a nerd about the science of the human body and mind, and am always willing to learn more or talk about the biological and chemical processes that make us tick.

Working With Me

During our first session we will begin by discussing the important ethical information of engaging in therapy, what a registered provisional psychologist is, and the role of my supervisor. Then we will begin learning more about you and what brought you to therapy.

When I think about mental health, I like to compare it to the weather. Sometimes everything is good, at times we can tell a storm is brewing (problems starting), now and then we find ourselves in the middle of a massive storm, and other times we are cleaning up after a storm. No matter what the weather is like in your world, I am here to help you maintain the calm, navigate through the storm, or clean up after. My role is to help you develop and recognize the skills needed to ensure you can handle whatever weather (mental health issues) come your way.

Even though I am here to help you prepare or find your way through difficult times, you are still the expert in all things you. So, as we work together, it is important to openly communicate about what you are experiencing so we can make sure we tailor our work to your needs. And, if you feel like I am not the right fit for you, that is okay too! We can work together to find someone who is (Therapist are sort of like shoes, not every shoe is the right fit but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other options)

Who Am I? Hey! My name is Rachael, but feel free to call me Rach. Growing up in Alberta, I move... Read More

“The spirit of a [person] is constructed out of [their] choices” – Irvin Yalom

Hi! My name is Vlady and I am thrilled to be part of the Dóchas Psychological Services Team. My roadmap has involved eclectic experiences from public health, theatre, administration, science, and medical simulation that has led me to the profession of counselling psychology. Being of service to others, love for learning, and active listening have been recurring motifs throughout my life that I see as aligning with this field.

Change. A word that can bring up a variety of feelings, thoughts, and behaviors for a person. From navigating work and/or personal transitions to wanting to make better sense of a life event, I value connecting and meeting you wherever you are in your life journey. I believe we all possess strengths, resources, and a learning capacity to help us navigate life obstacles.

Sometimes what it takes is dialogue with an outside observer to help in personal understanding and growth. Unconditional positive regard, empathy, curiosity, and active collaboration are important ingredients that you can expect to see in our sessions together. Ultimately, you are the expert of your own life and my hope is that you can leave each session feeling empowered in recognizing the choices available for you.

“The spirit of a [person] is constructed out of [their] choices” – Irvin Yalom Hi! My name is Vl... Read More

Who Am I?

Hi there, I am so privileged to be a part of the Dochas Psychological Team. Sometimes life gets complicated, and we need someone to walk alongside us on our path to growth and healing. My name is Alessandra, and for me it is an honor to help guide you on your road to success.

Some things about me… I enjoy being outside, walking around the city and staying active. I also enjoy listening to music or warming up to a good movie with a nice cup of coffee. I have inherited the travel bug from my parents and enjoy experiencing the cultural diversities within each destination. One of my favorite destinations was Capri, Italy. The lemon trees amongst the beaches were beautiful. It makes me think of the saying “when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.” I believe having a sense of humor is essential in life and I am always ready to laugh together at a good or bad joke.

My experience through various life adversities has allowed me to appreciate the importance of meaningful relationships. Providing a non-judgmental space to allow others to be vulnerable with their emotions and experiences is important to me. I aim to embrace the experiences that led you to take the courageous step and start your therapeutic journey.

Working With Me

As a Counseling Psychology student, I aim to support you on your journey helping you reach your full potential. I will work under the supervision of Kim Long getting the mentorship I need to grow as a professional psychologist. I welcome feedback and will use it to develop as a counselor each day.

I value genuine connection and intend to bring an authentic, positive outlook to our work together. Following an open and honest posture in conversation I hope to discover your inner strengths to move forward through difficult emotions and life stressors. Through acceptance we will highlight the innate tools we carry and act in ways that is true to us.

Together uncovering your resiliency, we will define what is valuable to you. I look forward to meeting you and embarking on this journey together.

Who Am I? Hi there, I am so privileged to be a part of the Dochas Psychological Team. Sometimes ... Read More

Hello! My name is Cheyanne, and I am a practicum student with Dochas Psychological, working under the supervision of Kim Long. I look forward to meeting many amazing people and am honoured to be in this position.

I truly believe everyone deserves to have their story heard and that human connection is the foundation of growth. My journey in the mental health field began several years ago while supporting children and their families in various capacities. I am grateful for these connections and have found that everyone needs someone in their corner to help navigate challenges and celebrate successes.

In my personal life, you can find me spending time with my puppy, hanging out with family, and enjoying the outdoors. I love the mountains and take every opportunity I get to go hiking, kayaking, and camping.

Working With Me Creating a safe and trusting environment for us to collaborate is my number one priority. I want to get to know you, understand your needs and learn about your goals. It is through this therapeutic relationship that change occurs. I like to work from a person-centered and strength-based approach, incorporating values of respect, kindness, and empathy into every interaction. My goal is to implement strategies and tools that are meaningful to you during our time together.

I look forward to meeting you!

Hello! My name is Cheyanne, and I am a practicum student with Dochas Psychological, working under... Read More

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Who Am I?

I’m a seasoned psychologist….I’ve been at this a long time. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working extensively with adults and youth in many settings. I understand the courage it takes to seek out therapy and be vulnerable; I have so much respect for my clients and feel honoured to hear your stories and watch people grow and change. I’m passionate about things like helping people through grief, trauma and the many trials and tribulations of life.

I am mostly a quiet, introvert with a sprinkling of fun and sarcasm! When I’m not at work I love spending time with my husband and teenagers and our animals. I’m happiest outside, preferably on the water, in the mountains, or with my hands in the dirt in my yard.

Working With Me

A therapist/client relationship is a team; kind of a “you get what you give” situation. It’s so important that you feel comfortable and safe, so that will be always be the first priority. If you decide I’m not the right person for you to work with, I’m happy to help you find someone you connect with. As we get to know each other, we will work together to clarify your goals for therapy and make adjustments as we go along. Our work together may include cognitive behavioural therapy, EMDR and a solution focused approach. Family systems theory was a big part of my training and is still central to my work – I’m curious about family of origin, relationship patterns and the impacts of larger systems. I have many tools to draw from and work collaboratively with you to figure out what is needed.

Who Am I? I’m a seasoned psychologist….I’ve been at this a long time. Over the years, I’ve had ... Read More