Dr. Erin Dempsey

The many twists and turns of life can be challenging to process and navigate. You may have experienced new or longstanding adversity that can make relationships challenging, cause overwhelming anxiety, or lead you to become withdrawn and depressed. I will collaborate with you to develop a warm, compassionate therapeutic relationship to help you explore how your body and mind respond to the complex emotions that emerge with such life adversity. For most of us, these patterns are automatic, but as you get to know yourself you can uncover new choices and options for meaningful, lasting change. I would describe my approach to therapy as person-centred and humanistic. It is based on the belief that all people have a fundamental and inherent capacity for healing and growth. With openness, curiosity, and authenticity, I will work with you to help you harness your healing capacity to actualize your goals and potential.

I received my PhD from Dalhousie University following residency training at the Nova Scotia Health Authority. There, I specialized in treatment of individuals with complex trauma history, and with those whose challenges manifest with both psychological and physical symptoms. I have successfully worked with adolescents, adults and older adults experiencing a range of difficulties including depression, anxiety, panic, and relationship difficulties. I have received advanced training and supervision in Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy, which is my primary treatment modality. This is a person-centred approach that helps people understand and gain greater control over the impact of conflicted thoughts and feelings. I have also received training in Internal Family Systems Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy. I draw on these skills and knowledge bases to develop and provide effective treatment tailored to individual need.