MEET Elizabeth

I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, families, and youth to address diverse mental health wellness needs. 

I discovered my passion for supporting individuals and families while working as a frontline Therapeutic Arts Instructor for adolescents in residential treatment. I was drawn to working directly with the families to improve their relationships. This led me to pursue my Masters of Social Work degree at York University, while also raising three preteen daughters of my own.

In addition to running my private practice today, until the fall 2020, I spent 20 years as a senior social worker and Child and Family Therapist for the Intensive Adolescent Programs and the Rural Farm Treatment Centre at the SickKids CCMH (formally the Hincks-Dellcrest Centre).

EDUCATION

Master of Social Work. York University, Toronto, ON

Education Placement: Hincks-Dellcrest Centre, Jarvis Site, Out-Patient Services.

Bachelor of Social Work. York University, Toronto, ON

Field Placement: Jessie’s Centre for Parenting and Pregnant Teens; Intensive Program.

BFA. Nova Scotia College of Art & Design, Halifax, NS

BA. Queen’s University, Kingston, ON    

Select training and Certifications

APPROACH TO THERAPY:

In my practice, by focusing on developing essential coping skills and fostering a strong support system, I work with clients to explore the root causes of emotional and behavioral challenges. I help my clients—whether youth, adults, or couples— understand and navigate difficult emotions and life situations that impact their daily functioning, explore how prior experiences influence emotions and behavior, and to reach future goals. Together, we identify the changes needed to alleviate those struggles and move toward a more balanced and empowered life.

I take a strength-based approach in my work, prioritizing a deep, collaborative relationship with each client. In a safe, non-judgmental space, I offer personalized therapy that is responsive to the unique circumstances of families and individuals seeking support. Drawing from a range of evidence-based therapeutic models, I tailor my approach to meet each client’s specific needs and goals, ensuring that therapy is both effective and relevant.

Together, we will create a treatment plan that is meaningful and actionable, empowering you or your family to thrive and move forward with confidence.

Family support:

 I recognize that childhood and adolescence are critical periods of growth and transformation. During these times, mental health and behavioral symptoms can manifest in unique ways, and treatment needs evolve as youth navigate these changes. I firmly believe that young people need a robust network of support as they balance the demands of school, relationships, and the complexities of life—especially as they transition into adulthood and face an uncertain future. When working with adolescents and/ or families, I place a strong emphasis on equipping parents with the skills and strategies they need to support their child’s mental health journey, while also nurturing their own well-being.

Individual and couples’ support:

In addition to working with children and families, I offer individual therapy to those navigating their own personal challenges, whether related to self-esteem, life transitions, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. I also work with couples to help them strengthen communication, resolve conflict, and rebuild trust, offering a safe space for both partners to explore their feelings and find common ground.

THERAPY, Facilitation & CONSULTATING

In my roles as a Social Worker and Therapist, Facilitator, and Consultant, I have worked in many clinical, frontline, community, and professional settings to support the mental health needs of children, youth, and families, including:

• Intensive Services, Residential Services, Day Treatment and Out-Patient Services for Youth (City & Rural Centres).

• Mental Health Agencies, Organizations, Partners, and Community Groups

• Hospitals and Clinics

• Human and Social Service Agencies, Organizations, and Partners

• T.D.S.B. (including Section 23, Transitional Programs) and other Ontario School Boards

• First Nations Communities

• Academic, Professional, and Research Associations, Networks, and Institutes  

Current Projects and Research InteresTS:

I also prioritize opportunities for interprofessional collaboration to expand knowledge and improve the practice of Child, Youth and Family mental health. Currently, I am particularly passionate about and focused on a long-term project to develop and implement targeted DBT-informed skills-based therapy and programming for parents and caregivers. I work closely with like-minded colleagues to conduct research and grow and adapt the innovative program to different settings. My colleagues and I also embrace opportunities to present our work at local and international conferences. You can learn more about my upcoming conference presentations and community-based events here.