Olivia Shaw

You may be struggling to find your place with those who may not fully embrace your identity, the inner turmoil of feeling disconnected from your family, or the journey of healing from abuse. You may be feeling confused, anxious, angry, ashamed or frustrated, or perhaps apathetic and disillusioned, or experiencing thoughts, feelings and behaviours driven by an internal ‘undercurrent’ of inadequacy. Often early or current messages that our thoughts, feelings, or actions are somehow 'not right,' can cause a lasting and oftentimes devastating impact on our adult lives, so I am particularly passionate about helping people who feel like an 'other', those who experience a profound sense of difference from their family, friends or community. I have experience and understanding of the LGBT+ community, neurodiverse individuals and survivors of parental abuse and neglect, as well as 3 years experience working with survivors of sexual abuse.

How do I help?

First and foremost, you are welcomed to be unapologetically yourself, your feelings are valid and understood with respect for the life experiences that have shaped you. I am trauma-informed, truly inclusive, and culturally sensitive, respecting your personal values and beliefs, and full identity.

I draw on multiple models of therapy in our work, following what you need and your preferences. Together we can work to increase self-awareness, learn new strategies to manage difficult feelings, untie relationship knots, consider communication challenges and strengthen boundaries. We can gain perspectives on behaviours, emotions and relationships, using our sessions as platform to express and identify patterns of thinking and feeling. Although I work in the here-and-now with you, I am also trained to help you consider how your earlier years may be influencing how you feel, think, act and respond today.

Why do I help?

Our human need to connect and be seen drives my work. As a person and a therapist, I believe everyone deserves a fulfilling, authentic life and that we are never too young or old to build a better relationship with ourselves. Needing help to talk through or break down obstacles to finding peace and wellbeing is completely normal, and I believe reaching out for that help is courageous.

How do I work?

I am trauma-informed, truly inclusive, and culturally sensitive, always respecting your personal values and beliefs. I see our work as a partnership, and my clients comment on how helpful it is when together we ‘connect the dots’ about what might be going on and how to move forward in a way that genuinely feels right. You are the expert on you; I am here to hear and understand you as deeply as you feel comfortable, but I will also offer insights and curiosity about what might be going on for you in a considered, compassionate way.

Clients say I am easy to talk to and have an open, approachable energy. I bring myself to our relationship too – I have a sense of humour and am a real, normal person just like you. 

I don’t know if therapy is right for me

Perhaps you're worried you won't know where to start or find the ‘right’ words to express your feelings, or you may be worried it'll all come flooding out and feel like a jumble. Rest assured that all those thoughts, feelings and memories that seem unspeakable, messy or too confusing can be heard here, and if that feels difficult, we can work creatively together to find a way through. Together we will find a way towards rediscovering who you are under all the weight of your experiences, trauma, life's expectations and other peoples' opinions.

If you are feeling concerned that your difficulties are ‘too big’, know that I work ethically and within my experience and competence level at all times. In our first session I will ask for some history and information from you that will allow both of us to consider and openly discuss if we are the right fit. If I am not suitably trained or experienced, I will help with seeking a better suited practitioner.

I’m still not sure ..

I understand that taking the leap is daunting especially if you've felt different or misunderstood throughout your life. I have navigated this personally, and appreciate the courage it takes to seek help. Whether you're ready to take the next step or are still contemplating, know that your pace and process are respected. If and when you feel ready, feel free to contact me for an initial meeting.

You may be struggling to find your place with those who may not fully embrace your identity, the inner turmoil of feeling disconnected from your family, or the journey of healing from abuse. You may be feeling confused, anxious, angry, ashamed or frustrated, or perhaps apathetic and disillusioned, or experiencing thoughts, feelings and behaviours driven by an internal ‘undercurrent’ of inadequacy. Often early or current messages that our thoughts, feelings, or actions are somehow 'not right,' can cause a lasting and oftentimes devastating impact on our adult lives, so I am particularly passionate about helping people who feel like an 'other', those who experience a profound sense of difference from their family, friends or community. I have experience and understanding of the LGBT+ community, neurodiverse individuals and survivors of parental abuse and neglect, as well as 2 years experience working with survivors of sexual abuse.

How do I help?

First and foremost, you are welcomed to be unapologetically yourself, your feelings are valid and understood with respect for the life experiences that have shaped you. I am trauma-informed, truly inclusive, and culturally sensitive, respecting your personal values and beliefs, and full identity.

I draw on multiple models of therapy in our work, following what you need and your preferences. Together we can work to increase self-awareness, learn new strategies to manage difficult feelings, untie relationship knots, consider communication challenges and strengthen boundaries. We can gain perspectives on behaviours, emotions and relationships, using our sessions as platform to express and identify patterns of thinking and feeling. Although I work in the here-and-now with you, I am also trained to help you consider how your earlier years may be influencing how you feel, think, act and respond today.

Why do I help?

Our human need to connect and be seen drives my work. As a person and a therapist, I believe everyone deserves a fulfilling, authentic life and that we are never too young or old to build a better relationship with ourselves. Needing help to talk through or break down obstacles to finding peace and wellbeing is completely normal, and I believe reaching out for that help is courageous.

How do I work?

I am trauma-informed, truly inclusive, and culturally sensitive, always respecting your personal values and beliefs. I see our work as a partnership, and my clients comment on how helpful it is when together we ‘connect the dots’ about what might be going on and how to move forward in a way that genuinely feels right. You are the expert on you; I am here to hear and understand you as deeply as you feel comfortable, but I will also offer insights and curiosity about what might be going on for you in a considered, compassionate way.

Clients say I am easy to talk to and have an open, approachable energy. I bring myself to our relationship too – I have a sense of humour and am a real, normal person just like you. 

I don’t know if therapy is right for me

Perhaps you're worried you won't know where to start or find the ‘right’ words to express your feelings, or you may be worried it'll all come flooding out and feel like a jumble. Rest assured that all those thoughts, feelings and memories that seem unspeakable, messy or too confusing can be heard here, and if that feels difficult, we can work creatively together to find a way through. Together we will find a way towards rediscovering who you are under all the weight of your experiences, trauma, life's expectations and other peoples' opinions.

If you are feeling concerned that your difficulties are ‘too big’, know that I work ethically and within my experience and competence level at all times. In our first session I will ask for some history and information from you that will allow both of us to consider and openly discuss if we are the right fit. If I am not suitably trained or experienced, I will help with seeking a better suited practitioner.

I’m still not sure ..

I understand that taking the leap is daunting especially if you've felt different or misunderstood throughout your life. I have navigated this personally, and appreciate the courage it takes to seek help. Whether you're ready to take the next step or are still contemplating, know that your pace and process are respected. If and when you feel ready, feel free to contact me for an initial meeting.

You may be struggling to find your place with those who may not fully embrace your identity, the inner turmoil of feeling disconnected from your family, or the journey of healing from abuse. You may be feeling confused, anxious, angry, ashamed or frustrated, or perhaps apathetic and disillusioned, or experiencing thoughts, feelings and behaviours driven by an internal ‘undercurrent’ of inadequacy. Often early or current messages that our thoughts, feelings, or actions are somehow 'not right,' can cause a lasting and oftentimes devastating impact on our adult lives, so I am particularly passionate about helping people who feel like an 'other', those who experience a profound sense of difference from their family, friends or community. I have experience and understanding of the LGBT+ community, neurodiverse individuals and survivors of parental abuse and neglect, as well as 2 years experience working with survivors of sexual abuse. 

How do I help?

First and foremost, you are welcomed to be unapologetically yourself, your feelings are valid and understood with respect for the life experiences that have shaped you. I am trauma-informed, truly inclusive, and culturally sensitive, respecting your personal values and beliefs, and full identity.

I draw on multiple models of therapy in our work, following what you need and your preferences. Together we can work to increase self-awareness, learn new strategies to manage difficult feelings, untie relationship knots, consider communication challenges and strengthen boundaries. We can gain perspectives on behaviours, emotions and relationships, using our sessions as platform to express and identify patterns of thinking and feeling. Although I work in the here-and-now with you, I am also trained to help you consider how your earlier years may be influencing how you feel, think, act and respond today.

Why do I help?

Our human need to connect and be seen drives my work. As a person and a therapist, I believe everyone deserves a fulfilling, authentic life and that we are never too young or old to build a better relationship with ourselves. Needing help to talk through or break down obstacles to finding peace and wellbeing is completely normal, and I believe reaching out for that help is courageous.

How do I work?

I am trauma-informed, truly inclusive, and culturally sensitive, always respecting your personal values and beliefs. I see our work as a partnership, and my clients comment on how helpful it is when together we ‘connect the dots’ about what might be going on and how to move forward in a way that genuinely feels right. You are the expert on you; I am here to hear and understand you as deeply as you feel comfortable, but I will also offer insights and curiosity about what might be going on for you in a considered, compassionate way. 

Clients say I am easy to talk to and have an open, approachable energy. I bring myself to our relationship too – I have a sense of humour and am a real, normal person just like you. 

I don’t know if therapy is right for me

Perhaps you're worried you won't know where to start or find the ‘right’ words to express your feelings, or you may be worried it'll all come flooding out and feel like a jumble. Rest assured that all those thoughts, feelings and memories that seem unspeakable, messy or too confusing can be heard here, and if that feels difficult, we can work creatively together to find a way through. Together we will find a way towards rediscovering who you are under all the weight of your experiences, trauma, life's expectations and other peoples' opinions.

If you are feeling concerned that your difficulties are ‘too big’, know that I work ethically and within my experience and competence level at all times. In our first session I will ask for some history and information from you that will allow both of us to consider and openly discuss if we are the right fit. If I am not suitably trained or experienced, I will help with seeking a better suited practitioner.

I’m still not sure ..

I understand that taking the leap is daunting especially if you've felt different or misunderstood throughout your life. I have navigated this personally, and appreciate the courage it takes to seek help. Whether you're ready to take the next step or are still contemplating, know that your pace and process are respected. If and when you feel ready, feel free to contact me for an initial meeting.

You may be struggling to find your place with those who may not fully embrace your identity, the inner turmoil of feeling disconnected from your family, or the journey of healing from abuse. You may be feeling confused, anxious, angry, ashamed or frustrated, or perhaps apathetic and disillusioned, or experiencing thoughts, feelings and behaviours driven by an internal ‘undercurrent’ of inadequacy. Often early or current messages that our thoughts, feelings, or actions are somehow 'not right,' can cause a lasting and oftentimes devastating impact on our adult lives, so I am particularly passionate about helping people who feel like an 'other', those who experience a profound sense of difference from their family, friends or community. I have experience and understanding of the LGBT+ community, neurodiverse individuals and survivors of parental abuse and neglect, as well as 3 years experience working with survivors of sexual abuse.

How do I help?

First and foremost, you are welcomed to be unapologetically yourself, your feelings are valid and understood with respect for the life experiences that have shaped you. I am trauma-informed, truly inclusive, and culturally sensitive, respecting your personal values and beliefs, and full identity.

I draw on multiple models of therapy in our work, following what you need and your preferences. Together we can work to increase self-awareness, learn new strategies to manage difficult feelings, untie relationship knots, consider communication challenges and strengthen boundaries. We can gain perspectives on behaviours, emotions and relationships, using our sessions as platform to express and identify patterns of thinking and feeling. Although I work in the here-and-now with you, I am also trained to help you consider how your earlier years may be influencing how you feel, think, act and respond today.

Why do I help?

Our human need to connect and be seen drives my work. As a person and a therapist, I believe everyone deserves a fulfilling, authentic life and that we are never too young or old to build a better relationship with ourselves. Needing help to talk through or break down obstacles to finding peace and wellbeing is completely normal, and I believe reaching out for that help is courageous.

How do I work?

I am trauma-informed, truly inclusive, and culturally sensitive, always respecting your personal values and beliefs. I see our work as a partnership, and my clients comment on how helpful it is when together we ‘connect the dots’ about what might be going on and how to move forward in a way that genuinely feels right. You are the expert on you; I am here to hear and understand you as deeply as you feel comfortable, but I will also offer insights and curiosity about what might be going on for you in a considered, compassionate way.

Clients say I am easy to talk to and have an open, approachable energy. I bring myself to our relationship too – I have a sense of humour and am a real, normal person just like you. 

I don’t know if therapy is right for me

Perhaps you're worried you won't know where to start or find the ‘right’ words to express your feelings, or you may be worried it'll all come flooding out and feel like a jumble. Rest assured that all those thoughts, feelings and memories that seem unspeakable, messy or too confusing can be heard here, and if that feels difficult, we can work creatively together to find a way through. Together we will find a way towards rediscovering who you are under all the weight of your experiences, trauma, life's expectations and other peoples' opinions.

If you are feeling concerned that your difficulties are ‘too big’, know that I work ethically and within my experience and competence level at all times. In our first session I will ask for some history and information from you that will allow both of us to consider and openly discuss if we are the right fit. If I am not suitably trained or experienced, I will help with seeking a better suited practitioner.

I’m still not sure ..

I understand that taking the leap is daunting especially if you've felt different or misunderstood throughout your life. I have navigated this personally, and appreciate the courage it takes to seek help. Whether you're ready to take the next step or are still contemplating, know that your pace and process are respected. If and when you feel ready, feel free to contact me for an initial meeting.

You may be struggling to find your place with those who may not fully embrace your identity, the inner turmoil of feeling disconnected from your family, or the journey of healing from abuse. You may be feeling confused, anxious, angry, ashamed or frustrated, or perhaps apathetic and disillusioned, or experiencing thoughts, feelings and behaviours driven by an internal ‘undercurrent’ of inadequacy. Often early or current messages that our thoughts, feelings, or actions are somehow 'not right,' can cause a lasting and oftentimes devastating impact on our adult lives, so I am particularly passionate about helping people who feel like an 'other', those who experience a profound sense of difference from their family, friends or community. I have experience and understanding of the LGBT+ community, neurodiverse individuals and survivors of parental abuse and neglect, as well as 2 years experience working with survivors of sexual abuse.

How do I help?

First and foremost, you are welcomed to be unapologetically yourself, your feelings are valid and understood with respect for the life experiences that have shaped you. I am trauma-informed, truly inclusive, and culturally sensitive, respecting your personal values and beliefs, and full identity.

I draw on multiple models of therapy in our work, following what you need and your preferences. Together we can work to increase self-awareness, learn new strategies to manage difficult feelings, untie relationship knots, consider communication challenges and strengthen boundaries. We can gain perspectives on behaviours, emotions and relationships, using our sessions as platform to express and identify patterns of thinking and feeling. Although I work in the here-and-now with you, I am also trained to help you consider how your earlier years may be influencing how you feel, think, act and respond today.

Why do I help?

Our human need to connect and be seen drives my work. As a person and a therapist, I believe everyone deserves a fulfilling, authentic life and that we are never too young or old to build a better relationship with ourselves. Needing help to talk through or break down obstacles to finding peace and wellbeing is completely normal, and I believe reaching out for that help is courageous.

How do I work?

I am trauma-informed, truly inclusive, and culturally sensitive, always respecting your personal values and beliefs. I see our work as a partnership, and my clients comment on how helpful it is when together we ‘connect the dots’ about what might be going on and how to move forward in a way that genuinely feels right. You are the expert on you; I am here to hear and understand you as deeply as you feel comfortable, but I will also offer insights and curiosity about what might be going on for you in a considered, compassionate way.

Clients say I am easy to talk to and have an open, approachable energy. I bring myself to our relationship too – I have a sense of humour and am a real, normal person just like you. 

I don’t know if therapy is right for me

Perhaps you're worried you won't know where to start or find the ‘right’ words to express your feelings, or you may be worried it'll all come flooding out and feel like a jumble. Rest assured that all those thoughts, feelings and memories that seem unspeakable, messy or too confusing can be heard here, and if that feels difficult, we can work creatively together to find a way through. Together we will find a way towards rediscovering who you are under all the weight of your experiences, trauma, life's expectations and other peoples' opinions.

If you are feeling concerned that your difficulties are ‘too big’, know that I work ethically and within my experience and competence level at all times. In our first session I will ask for some history and information from you that will allow both of us to consider and openly discuss if we are the right fit. If I am not suitably trained or experienced, I will help with seeking a better suited practitioner.

I’m still not sure ..

I understand that taking the leap is daunting especially if you've felt different or misunderstood throughout your life. I have navigated this personally, and appreciate the courage it takes to seek help. Whether you're ready to take the next step or are still contemplating, know that your pace and process are respected. If and when you feel ready, feel free to contact me for an initial meeting.

You may be struggling to find your place with those who may not fully embrace your identity, the inner turmoil of feeling disconnected from your family, or the journey of healing from abuse. You may be feeling confused, anxious, angry, ashamed or frustrated, or perhaps apathetic and disillusioned, or experiencing thoughts, feelings and behaviours driven by an internal ‘undercurrent’ of inadequacy. Often early or current messages that our thoughts, feelings, or actions are somehow 'not right,' can cause a lasting and oftentimes devastating impact on our adult lives, so I am particularly passionate about helping people who feel like an 'other', those who experience a profound sense of difference from their family, friends or community. I have experience and understanding of the LGBT+ community, neurodiverse individuals and survivors of parental abuse and neglect, as well as 2 years experience working with survivors of sexual abuse.

How do I help?

First and foremost, you are welcomed to be unapologetically yourself, your feelings are valid and understood with respect for the life experiences that have shaped you. I am trauma-informed, truly inclusive, and culturally sensitive, respecting your personal values and beliefs, and full identity.

I draw on multiple models of therapy in our work, following what you need and your preferences. Together we can work to increase self-awareness, learn new strategies to manage difficult feelings, untie relationship knots, consider communication challenges and strengthen boundaries. We can gain perspectives on behaviours, emotions and relationships, using our sessions as platform to express and identify patterns of thinking and feeling. Although I work in the here-and-now with you, I am also trained to help you consider how your earlier years may be influencing how you feel, think, act and respond today.

Why do I help?

Our human need to connect and be seen drives my work. As a person and a therapist, I believe everyone deserves a fulfilling, authentic life and that we are never too young or old to build a better relationship with ourselves. Needing help to talk through or break down obstacles to finding peace and wellbeing is completely normal, and I believe reaching out for that help is courageous.

How do I work?

I am trauma-informed, truly inclusive, and culturally sensitive, always respecting your personal values and beliefs. I see our work as a partnership, and my clients comment on how helpful it is when together we ‘connect the dots’ about what might be going on and how to move forward in a way that genuinely feels right. You are the expert on you; I am here to hear and understand you as deeply as you feel comfortable, but I will also offer insights and curiosity about what might be going on for you in a considered, compassionate way.

Clients say I am easy to talk to and have an open, approachable energy. I bring myself to our relationship too – I have a sense of humour and am a real, normal person just like you. 

I don’t know if therapy is right for me

Perhaps you're worried you won't know where to start or find the ‘right’ words to express your feelings, or you may be worried it'll all come flooding out and feel like a jumble. Rest assured that all those thoughts, feelings and memories that seem unspeakable, messy or too confusing can be heard here, and if that feels difficult, we can work creatively together to find a way through. Together we will find a way towards rediscovering who you are under all the weight of your experiences, trauma, life's expectations and other peoples' opinions.

If you are feeling concerned that your difficulties are ‘too big’, know that I work ethically and within my experience and competence level at all times. In our first session I will ask for some history and information from you that will allow both of us to consider and openly discuss if we are the right fit. If I am not suitably trained or experienced, I will help with seeking a better suited practitioner.

I’m still not sure ..

I understand that taking the leap is daunting especially if you've felt different or misunderstood throughout your life. I have navigated this personally, and appreciate the courage it takes to seek help. Whether you're ready to take the next step or are still contemplating, know that your pace and process are respected. If and when you feel ready, feel free to contact me for an initial meeting.