About Me
Hi, my name is Ljuba (pronounced Luba) and I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (RP). Children and families are struggling more than ever and I'm here to help guide you in the direction you'd rather be going in. I have spent my career helping children and teens battle against stress, overwhelm and anxiety in order to feel more grounded, engaged and calm.
I am happy to say I have been practicing for 20 years' and feel very lucky to have found such a fulfilling career; I love my job! How could I not when I get to help children and teens feel calmer and safer and more confident in their daily lives, or when I support youth to walk a more positive path and help navigate parents towards a more peaceful home.
I'm passionate about helping you and your children/teen to reach your goals and potential. Every individual is unique, and I customize my treatment approach to fit your child and family.
I hold certificates in several therapeutic modalities, such as, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Emotional Freedom Techniques - Tapping (EFT Tapping), Solution Focused Therapy and Clinical Trauma Therapy. I may use one or several of the above evidenced-based approaches in therapy, depending on your need and preference. I also offer the Safe and Sound Protocol that is a powerful music therapy that helps regulate the nervous system.
My practice includes a holistic approach that focuses on all aspects of one's life that includes physical, mental and spiritual well-being. I'm dedicated to helping you build coping skills and find more peace in your life. I believe that using a holistic, client-centred approach enables you to create balance in your life and address areas where problems may persist. I am compassionate and hard working, and I strive to understand you and make you feel comfortable and supported.
I can relate to individuals who are experiencing anxiety, have suffered loss, or are dealing with stress. I have personal experience with all of these, and I have managed these challenges in my life using various techniques. It can be comforting for children and teens to know that they aren’t the only ones who are struggling, and it gives them hope that they can feel better. I feel it’s important to practice what I preach and to be a positive role model; I practice self-care, I engage in positive mental and physical health activities, and I work to find balance in my life.
I have a fabulous K9 co-therapist who joins some of my sessions. Her name is Sammy and she’s a 3-year-old Leonberger. She is a gentle giant, and her specialty is to make you smile when you get to the session, then she provides a calm presence in the room. Having a dog in therapy sessions has been known to promote relaxation and studies show that having a dog present can lower blood pressure. This can help children and teens feel more comfortable attending therapy.
If you are interested in knowing more about me or Sammy, or would like to meet me to determine if I might be the right fit for your child, teen or family, then feel free to contact me now.