Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Upper Tantallon, NS

My primary areas of clinical expertise lie in adult mental health, addiction, and couples therapy. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioural, motivational, and mindfulness therapies to create tailored evidence-based treatments (i.e., treatment approaches proven to be effective through research) for a variety of conditions. In addition, I have Level 2 training in the Gottman Method for couples therapy, which is one of the most evidence-based approaches to strengthen relationships. I also provide adult psychodiagnostic, legal, and behavioural assessments.

I have a special interest in supporting clients in their journey towards parenthood, and building a strong early attachment relationship with their child(ren). Becoming a parent can challenge you in ways you had never imagined, both physically and emotionally. It is never too early to reach out for support. This is particularly true for individuals who have experienced fertility challenges, pregnancy loss, traumatic birth experiences, or are struggling with their own expectations of what it means to be a parent.

My practice is rooted in the relationships that clients and I build together, creating spaces of trust and security; that’s where healing can start. I am passionate about providing trauma-informed mental health support that is accessible, rooted in compassion and aware of systemic barriers. I genuinely love working with people while witnessing them confront their challenges and grow as individuals; providing counselling gives me with an incredible sense of meaning and vitality.

Do you feel stuck? Or maybe a bit lost? Whether it is a long term problem or a sudden change in life circumstances, I'm here to help you navigate. By working collaboratively and compassionately with my clients, I help them process experiences that contribute to current physical and mental health problems.

I am currently a Master’s level MA in Counselling Psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice onsite under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum Supervisor. I recognize that feeling stuck is a universal human experience, one that can overwhelm individuals amidst life’s daily challenges. Often, what holds us back isn’t just the visible issue at hand, but the intricate web of emotions and past experiences woven beneath it. In my practice, I cultivate a supportive and non-judgmental space where individuals can freely explore their thoughts, feelings, experiences, and therapeutic goals.

I work from the perspective that everyone has basic healthiness, a natural yearning for brilliant sanity and the wisdom of wholeness as part of their being. Conditioning and confusion can obscure these endowments but they are never absent. My job is to help draw out this wisdom for healing that is already there, by encouraging awareness. I begin with client-centered listening that honours where you are now, and the change you want. I then move into more experiential work to facilitate transformation. The contract for change and the pace of change is always in the client's hands

I consider myself to be an eclectic practitioner. I employ many different therapeutic approaches including: Narrative, CBT, Solution Focused, Trauma Informed therapies, Mindfulness practices, ACT and Behavioural Modification strategies. I tend to work primarily from a Narrative Therapy approach, which is an approach to counselling that seeks to be respectful and non-blaming. It centres the client as the expert in their own lives and views problems as separate from the client themselves. Narrative Therapists assume clients have many skills, competencies, beliefs, values, commitments and abilities that will assist them in reducing the influence of problems in their own lives.

I work with the following diagnosis; GAD, PTSD, Panic attacks, Grief, Trauma, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, Sexual Abuse, Couples therapy, Do you feel frozen, anxious, only working at half capacity? Or....are you usually frustrated, angry, sad, confused? Or...are you mad at many people and situations, including your personal relationships? I use cognitive, emotive and somatic (body) approaches. My extensive experience has shown me that counseling with the SOMATIC aspect included usually gets the DEEPEST AND QUICKEST RESULTS. I am an SEP., Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, from Peter Levine's trauma work.

Following my education in Montreal, I returned home to Nova Scotia, where I have been practicing in both public and private sectors of care as a registered psychologist for the last 12 years. In my practice, I strive to create a warm and collaborative space in which my clients can feel open to discuss their thoughts, feelings, and goals, safely and without judgment. I offer treatment to adults for many different psychological and psychosocial challenges, including but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression (Mood Disorders), Chronic Pain, Trauma/PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder), Addictions, Burnout, Stress and Bullying.

I provide adults with support to make sense of their experiences through counselling therapy. I have 24+ years of experience working in the field of mental health. I began my training as a research psychologist focused on supporting the well-being of children and youth living in challenging contexts internationally. This work gave me strong insights into the importance of relationships and context for our own well-being; the impact of marginalization and oppression on how people are able to manage their own well-being; and the importance of understanding people as they live within their own culture and across diverse cultures.

If you are dealing with a recent trauma or trauma in the past that you believe may be holding you back and are easily triggered by things you feel should not be so hard to deal with, if you are sad or constantly anxious and worried, or if you are feeling that life is pulling you down and you are not sure how to get back on track, maybe trauma, old beliefs and habitual patterns are keeping you from finding enjoyment in your life. These things are challenging to deal with on your own sometimes but by building awareness and working through them with support and building inner resources you can live life with more peace and enjoyment.

With over twenty years’ experience in both the public and private sectors, I enjoy helping children, teens and young adults achieve wellness and authentic living. I provide assessment services for various learning, behavioural and attentional challenges as well as screening and support for suspected mental health issues. Counselling therapy is quite central to my practice, as is continuing consultation and advocacy post-assessment.

Living as we do in a complicated world, most of us at one time or another are beset by problems that are difficult to solve alone. They may involve situations that negatively affect the quality of life such as marriage problems, a difficult, adolescence, a personal crisis or discord in your family. We, at Roth Associates in Psychology, are committed to providing sensitive, professional counselling to help resolve personal crises.

My focus is on helping clients face difficult life challenges and the emotions, worries and fears that come with them. Stress, anxiety, and depression are more familiar to us than we would like. Our goal in therapy is to improve your coping skills and overall well-being. With that, I am a firm believer in the need for an individualized journey in therapy as opposed to a one-size fits all cookbook approach. This is about you and your life. It's deeper than some technique or strategy. And so therapy has to be founded on our relationship we build and the dynamics of it. Finding a therapist right for you is important also.

Finding the right counsellor can be hard! I can resonate with the experience of seeking out counselling. It can be intimidating and anxiety-inducing. If you’re feeling this way, I want you to know you’re welcome here. Therapy is for all, regardless of what you are experiencing in your life. I am a married mother of two and grew up with four siblings. Relationship dynamics, whatever they might be, can be hard to manage. Your thoughts do not dictate who you are! Let’s work together to explore the feelings that are driving us, use them to our advantage, and create the newness you deserve.

I have the privilege of helping clients with a wide range of issues including emotional issues and relationship challenges. These could include anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, shame, self-esteem and relationship conflicts. My goal is to support and strengthen your relationship with yourself and your other relationships. I have experience working in the school setting and treating adult and adolescent mental health & addiction. I will support you with what you’re struggling with, what direction you want your life to take, and what steps to take to get there. I will help you gain a sense of control over yourself and your life.

Life can present us with significant challenges, particularly when we become entrenched in negative patterns. However, I want to emphasize that we can address these challenges collaboratively, and I am committed to providing support throughout this process. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, feeling low, undergoing a life transition, navigating relationships, exploring your identity, building self-esteem, or seeking motivation, I am here to assist you. Together, we can not only address the symptoms you may be facing but also clarify your goals and aspirations. This approach will enable you to engage more positively in your life.

Life can be challenging and sometimes it feels like we are riding the rollercoaster of ups and downs. You are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and full of anxiety. It is during these times that you need empathy, compassion, understanding and a safe place to unpack. In my practice, I offer a client-centered and supportive environment where you can feel safe to share your story and experiences. I help clients explore and process problems and challenges that impact every day life.

Thank you for reaching out - I know that seeking help not always easy and it takes a lot of energy and courage to do so. As an occupational therapist and psychotherapist, I strive to understand how my clients’ “occupations” (i.e. meaningful activities and life roles), are impacted in order to support their emotional health and recovery. My clients learn to identify what their personal strengths are, how their environment influences them and what gives them a sense of purpose in life. We practice coping skills and tools to overcome functional difficulties and increase independence.

Dr Mike's extensive clinical experience has allowed him the honour of supporting/guiding his clients with empathy & compassion for over 40 yrs. His commitment, insight & warmth extends outside his practice as his authenticity and caring nature help his clients to feel connected and understood. Dr Mike is committed to building a trusted therapeutic relationship that enhances personal growth while identifying underlying issues causing distress or discomfort in your life. Connect with Dr Mike today to begin your journey to wholeness and authenticity. "Life Happens...And Dr Mike Can Help!"