Hello!

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I am so excited to introduce myself to you! My name is Lauren J. Benedictus.

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I have always been extremely passionate about the mental health community and making a difference in the field of psychology and therapy.

 

I love art, creativity, expression, nature and music.  
 

Alongside being a therapist and mental health worker, I'm also an artist.  As an artist, I see beauty in everything.  Being an artist throughout my life has allowed me to become more appreciative of the the world around me.  

 

Additionally, I am also a proud member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.  After coming out in my late teens, I became not only comfortable, but proud of who I am.  I pride myself on creating a supportive and affirming environment for all folks who come from all different walks of life; whether that be questioning identity, exploring sexuality, or discussing what queerness means to them. 

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My work integrates various forms of holistic-based therapies, including art therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and somatic-based therapy alongside traditional therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).  My work is driven by Narrative Therapy and Feminist Theory, which guides my work in radical, anti-oppressive practice.  ​

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I strive to create a space for my clients that allows them to explore their own passions, and work towards their goals.  My goal is to create a space where my clients and I can work together to create specific goals, work through life experiences, explore their own identity, and learn to understand and love themselves better and more intentionally.

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I love working with youth and teens who are exploring their identity and need a safe space to feel supported.  I love working with folks who identify as "late in life queers".  I love working with folks who are looking for a safe space to navigate their relationship with their body, mind, and spirit.  If this sounds like you, please don't hesitate to contact me to book a free 15 minute consultation to discuss your goals, and to see if we could be a good fit to work together.

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My Qualifications

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After completing a Bachelors of Arts majoring in Psychology and Social Work in 2020, I moved on and completed my Masters of Counselling Psychology (MACP) with Yorkville University.  I graduated with Honours in 2023 after completing the program, which included a practicum placement.  During and after practicum and graduation, I have worked at a psychotherapy clinic supporting folks of various different backgrounds and identities.  

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I am registered with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), am in good standing with College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), and am recognized on Psychology Today. 

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My Experience & Trainings

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Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

Art therapy

Narrative-based therapy

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT)

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

Somatic Therapy 

Holistic-Based Therapy