Avi Soudack, M.Psy., M.A.(Communications), Registered Psychotherapist

Therapy Areas: depression, anxiety, obsessionality/perfectionism, trauma, grief, ADHD, relationship issues and couples therapy, personality and identity issues, low self-esteem, guilt, shame, dealing with chronic illness, life-stage challenges and transitions, and work and career-related stresses

We all face challenges — some life throws at us; some develop in relationships; and still others we create ourselves. I work with adult individuals and couples who may be looking for help with painful emotions, changing their patterns of behaving and thinking, or gaining insight into where they have come from and where they can go.

I offer an empathetic and affirming approach to address issues of mood, identity, relationships, trauma, loss, and life course. My approach is to help you identify your purpose and direction and construct a healthy narrative for yourself that’s founded on acceptance, compassion, and understanding.

Here’s how I work: I start by taking a holistic view. What you are feeling? What forces are acting on you? What relationships and past experiences give meaning to your life? What are the patterns of behaviour and habits of mind that shape you today? I endeavour to build a strong, supportive relationship that will serve as the basis for our work together. I want to understand and appreciate your goals. And from that foundation, I work collaboratively with you, at a pace you are comfortable with. I believe that I can’t change you, but I can help you to learn to change yourself.

I use a range of therapeutic techniques and tools, mixing and matching for what would serve you best. Sometimes, focusing on patterns of thought is best. At other times, it is most productive to work with emotions or how our bodies respond to and hold feelings. In some situations, our focus may be on skills, such as grounding in the face of stress, communicating in difficult situations, and managing habits of mind or action. In other situations, we may turn to interpreting the past in order to chart a better path forward. I draw on various therapies, including:  Psychodynamic, Adlerian, Cognitive Behavioural (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural (DBT), Emotion Focused (EFT), Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, and Solution Focused.

I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have a Master’s Psychology degree from the Adler Graduate Professional School; a Master’s degree in Communications Research from the University of Pennsylvania; and a Bachelor’s degree in Culture and Communications from the University of Toronto. I have worked as a teacher, researcher, interface and information designer, consultant, manager, and executive.

I value authenticity, relish diversity, and believe everyone deserves respect, opportunity, and encouragement. My practice is trauma informed, LGBTQ+ positive, and strengths-based.