About Me and My Approach

About Christie

Parenting and growing up can be challenging, especially when anxiety, big emotions, or family conflict begin to take over daily life. I am a registered social worker and psychotherapist providing therapy for children, teens, and young adults in Ottawa, Ontario, as well as support for their caregivers. I help young people and families build emotional skills, resilience, and stronger relationships through a warm, practical, and collaborative approach.

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Many of the families I work with are seeking support for child and teen anxiety and OCD, emotion regulation challenges, trauma, school stress, or parent–child conflict. I also work with concerns such as low mood and depression, self-esteem, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, giftedness, and experiences of self-harm or suicidality.

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As a queer therapist and parent, I value creating a space where young people and families feel safe, respected, and understood. I am committed to providing inclusive and affirming care for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and their families.

My Therapeutic Approach

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My approach is warm, practical, and collaborative, and I work closely with both children and their caregivers to build skills that support emotional well-being and healthy relationships.

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In my work, I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches, including:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)

• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

• Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT)

• Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE)

• Brainspotting

• Nature-Based Therapy

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When working with children and teens, I often incorporate art, playfulness, movement, and nature into therapy. When appropriate, sessions may take place outdoors at a nearby beach or in the forest, where the natural environment can support nervous system regulation and promote mental health and well-being.

I also work closely with caregivers, recognizing that meaningful change happens when the skills learned in therapy can be supported and practiced at home.

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Professional Background

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My professional background includes clinical work in hospital and community mental health settings. I have worked at local hospitals, including the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), where I was part of the Outpatient Mental Health Team.

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I am an associate at The Child, Adolescent, and Family Centre of Ottawa (CAFCO), where I facilitate therapeutic groups for children, teens, and parents. For more information about my groups and other group offerings at CAFCO, click here. 

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In addition to my clinical work, I enjoy teaching and mentoring future social workers. I have been a contract instructor with the School of Social Work at Carleton University for over ten years.

Education and Credentials

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• Master of Social Work, Carleton University, 2011

• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Psychology, Queen’s University, 2008​

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I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and am a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers.

Wondering if this might be a good fit?

Reaching out for support can feel like a big step. If you’re considering therapy for your child or teen, or parent coaching for yourself, you’re welcome to get in touch to learn more about the process or ask any questions you may have.