Emily Harris-McLeod, MSW

Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist

People seek out therapy for all sorts of reasons. Sometimes it feels like a crisis, and other times it’s almost the opposite: As though life is rolling along and yet something intangible seems to be missing.

In therapy we talk not only about problems and stresses, but also about what you want more of in life — your values, and what you care deeply about. Often the places we feel most hurt are intertwined with our internal sources of meaning, knowledge and creativity. This means that while therapy can be challenging, it can also be inspiring and affirming.

In my work I draw on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy. And I especially like doing “parts work” (for example, Internal Family Systems), which is focused inward on how different parts of a person work together, including aspects that may be hidden or misunderstood. Sometimes we find that parts of us which seem to cause nothing but trouble are actually serving important protective roles. This kind of insight can be transformative, bringing a deeper sense of self-knowledge and power.

I graduated 25 years ago with my Bachelors and Masters of Social Work from McGill and Carleton Universities. My experience since then has included therapy in community settings with LGBTQ people, refugees, families and caregivers, among others. I have worked in child and youth policy and in therapeutic outdoor recreation. I am the parent of two school-aged kids and also a musician and songwriter.

As a therapist, I have witnessed an amazing human capacity for growth and healing. Often all we need is the right conditions, usually starting with safety and trust, in order to grow.

Therapy is all about finding a good “fit”, and this initial consultation can help to determine if the fit feels right. If you wish, you can contact the clinic for a free consultation and more information. Or you can email me directly at: emily@danforthpsychology.ca