Therapeutic Services
Preconception
Whether you are trying to conceive, have experienced a pregnancy loss or are navigating infertility, you may find that you are left trying to make difficult decisions and questioning what the future may hold for you. I am here to support you in this journey and to help you explore whatever emotions you might be experiencing on your journey to parenthood.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is not only a time of change physically, but mentally as well. It is important that you receive emotional support, understanding and an opportunity to build tools to help you feel more confident, less anxious and start to enjoy your pregnancy. Let’s work together to create your prenatal and postpartum care plans and help you transition smoothly into parenthood.
Postpartum
You might be thinking – “this isn’t what I expected!” or “how could I have been so unprepared for this?!”. Whether you are struggling with a diagnosed perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD), or with the transition to parenthood and changes to your identity and relationships, I can offer support to help you transform and improve your postpartum experience.
Motherhood and Beyond
The mental load of parenthood and the multiple pressures placed on moms can be difficult (impossible!) to balance. Many find themselves in the role of the default parent. Add on top of that, the challenge of maintaining a relationship with your partner, your career and friendships – finding time to care for yourself can feel like another item on the “to do” list.
As a mother of two young children myself and a certified perinatal mental health professional, I am deeply passionate about maternal mental health. I am honoured to walk along side mothers as they navigate their new identity and all that comes with it. I also work with non-birthing parents as they too adjust to the changes in their lives. We will work to harness your inner strengths and resilience to overcome whatever challenges you may face.
The foundation of my therapeutic approach is client-centered – meaning that my practice is built on the belief that you are the expert in your own life and experiences. I believe in the importance of a therapeutic connection where you feel safe, seen, and heard. I utilize a variety of evidence-based approaches in my work, including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy. Because every individual is unique, we will work together to decide which approach(es) will best fit your needs.
In addition to my work with the perinatal population, I provide services to individuals seeking support for anxiety, depression, disordered eating and body image concerns, low self-esteem, major life transitions and relationship concerns.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is an evidence-based therapy that is proven to be one of the most effective approaches for managing anxiety and depression. CBT can help you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave as well as build coping strategies for bettering your overall mental wellness.
Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT)
Rooted in the science of emotions and attachment, Emotion Focused Therapy helps clients in counselling identify and transform the negative processing and interaction patterns that create distress in their lives and relationships.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a form of psychotherapy that helps people heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences, such as a traumatic event. EMDR therapy is designed to resolve unprocessed traumatic memories in the brain.
Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC)
Mindful Self-Compassion combines skills of mindfulness and self-compassion, providing powerful tools for emotional resilience. It involves recognizing when we are in pain, turning toward this struggle or difficulty with gentle compassion and reminding ourselves that we are human.
Still Unsure? Reach out to Lindsay Rafuse to book your free 15 minute consultation.
