Meet Paula Sampson
-- Intern Therapist
BA Psychology
MA Counselling Psychology (in progress)
Reiki Level 1 and 2
Registered Psychotherapist
(Qualifying)
Throughout our lives we receive mixed messages about who we are supposed to be and how we are supposed to live. It took me a long time to shake off external expectations and embrace who I am and what I value in life. As a highly sensitive person (HSP), my road to self-acceptance and self-love was a challenging one. I’m an intuitive, sensitive human who engages with thoughts and feelings deeply in a world that doesn’t value these abilities. I received a lot of messaging growing up that who I am was wrong and I spent years trying to fit a mold that wasn’t made for me. My journey to self-awareness and self-love was not an easy one, and I understand how difficult it can be to feel lost or uncertain of where you belong in this world. I am happy to join you on your own exploratory journey and provide the support and care you need as you heal and make your way back to yourself.
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I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from York University and am currently completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. I am also interested in complementary and alternative healing modalities and am a Level 2 Reiki practitioner.
My Approach to Therapy
My therapeutic approach is integrative and holistic. Human beings are not one-dimensional; we are multi-faceted, fascinating, and complex. We all carry our own unique stories, and I will tailor our sessions to meet your specific goals and needs. Creating a safe and comfortable environment is also critical for the work we will do together. I will put a great deal of effort into establishing trust in our therapeutic relationship. Our session space is a judgment free zone, and I am open to speaking about whatever you need to.
Clients I Work With
I work with adolescents and adults who are experiencing a wide range of challenges and issues. Some examples of these matters include the following:
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Acute Trauma & Complex Trauma Histories
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Women’s Issues
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Emotional Regulation
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Stress Management
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Grief and Loss
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Sexuality, Sexual Identity, LGBTQ+
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Self-harm & Suicidal Ideation
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Relationship Struggles
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Self-esteem Issues & Self-doubt
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Life Transitions & Existential Crises
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Boundary Setting
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Directional Support
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OCD & ADHD
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Attachment Issues
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Adverse Childhood Experiences
Modalities I Use
My therapeutic approach is adaptable as I integrate different modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. My foundational approach is Psychodynamic which aims to cultivate self-awareness by understanding how our past experiences are influencing our present. This may be accomplished by examining unconscious processes, unresolved conflicts, and trauma. I also utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and various forms of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), such as Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). Humanistic, Experiential, and Emotion-focused techniques are also used.
Contact Me
Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions, or if you would like to book a free 20 minute consultation to meet and see if my approach to healing matches your therapeutic needs at this time.
Call or Text
905-999-4894