About me
My name is Emily Vanden Hanenberg, MA., M.Ed., RP.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). I work with individuals aged 16+ who are experiencing relationship difficulties, anxieties, and general life challenges. I provide a collaborative space to create individualized care that help my clients live a more authentic life.
My philosophy
I have two core beliefs that are the foundation of my work: people's experiences inform their perception of the world, and that therapy is about change. I believe that everyone has a story to tell based on their experiences that makes them a unique and complex person. In therapy, I encourage you to tell your story and explore how it may be impacting your life currently. While I may offer up interpretations or new ways to look at your story, I know that you are the expert in your experience. Because of this, I work collaboratively with my clients to create a broader understanding of their internal world in order to create space for change. This change can be trying something new that was scary before, finding a new way to resolve conflict with your loved ones, trying to be more understanding and compassionate towards yourself, or even just noticing your own assumptions or reactions in a different way.
My Approach
My counselling approach is centred around developing a strong relationship with my clients to create a safe space to explore and grow. The therapeutic relationship is the biggest predictor of successful therapy, so I make sure to emphasize creating a secure bond with my clients. I identify myself as an integrative therapist, meaning that I pull from many different theoretical approaches to create an individualized approach to ensure that my client’s unique experiences and goals are being considered. However, I base much of my work in attachment theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and trauma informed interventions.
What to expect from therapy
Starting therapy, either for the first time or with someone new, can be intimidating. While your story is yours to tell, I am here to help you navigate that exploration. This is what you can expect from me as a therapist during our time together.
Consultation call
During our consultation call, we will chat about what brings you to therapy, and I will answer any questions you have about me or therapy in general.
The therapeutic relationship
By providing a responsive, empathetic, and consistent environment, I hope to create a sense of safety where my clients feel it is okay to explore their authentic experiences without judgement. This provides an ideal space for "the work".
First sessions
In our first couple of sessions, we talk about what life looks like for you at the moment and start a deeper dive in to your concerns.
"The work"
Through listening and understanding your story and experiences, we start to create new ways of coping, understanding, or relating to the world around us- like putting new tools in a tool box.
Setting goals
At the beginning, we also work together to create goals for change. If you aren't sure what goals you want to move towards, that is okay!
Closure
My ultimate goal is for my clients to feel comfortable with these new tools so that they no longer need me. This duration can vary from person to person. When we arrive at this point, we will spend time reflecting on all the work you have put in and ways to keep solidifying the changes you've made.
Education
2023
Master of Education Concentration in Counselling Psychology
University of Ottawa
2020
Master of Arts in Psychology
Carleton University
2018
Bachelor of Arts Honours Concentration in Developmental Psychology
Carleton University
Professional Memberships
College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
Registered Psychotherapist #13787
Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association
Professional Member #11246905