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    Why I Became a Psychologist

    My name is Lindsey Stephenson, and I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist. I believe in the power of counselling because I’ve experienced firsthand. I can’t recall how many times where my psychologist would offer a new insight, a different perspective, have compassion for what I went through, or was simply just there for me and listened – and it changed everything. Sometimes, areas where I was stuck for a long time would radically change with as little as one new insight or perspective. Other times, just having someone listen and understand what I went through would lead to relief and compassion for myself, as I realized I had valid reasons to think and feel the way I did. As I met with them, I was able to piece things together and everything started to make sense. I began to experience healing, wholeness, health, joy, purpose, and love myself. Life was now different, better.

    My only regret with counselling is that I didn’t go sooner!

    This is why I became a psychologist – so others may share in the benefits of counselling as I have, and live life in a way they never thought was possible.

    How I Work

    People describe me as someone who is warm, wise, and authentic – someone who is safe and accepts people for who they are and where they are at. I am committed to understanding your goals, dreams, and where you want to go in your life. I will work with you to identify anything that is getting in the way of those things, and how we can move towards where you want to be.

    We can look at the symptoms of what you are experiencing now, and then try to find the root causes of them. This could involve looking at incidents from your past, your childhood, traumatic events you may have endured, to exploring your thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and relationships. We will always work at your pace and with what you feel comfortable and safe with.

    Everyone is different, which is why I use what is called an integrative approach to find what best works for you. I view things from a biopsychosocial lens (body, mind, relationships), and I pull from attachment theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and incorporate themes of acceptance and mindfulness.

    I also practice from a trauma-informed stance, which is to say that if you are struggling with trauma then we can discuss and address this during our time together. We can use Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) in dealing with trauma, as it has been found to be very effective in dealing with trauma in a short amount of time.

    Professional Bio

    I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists, with the following psychology-related training and education:

    • Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology – Yorkville University
    • Accelerated Resolution Therapy – Basic Training
    • Emotionally Focused Therapy – Attachment Scient in Practice – Dr. Sue Johnson
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Beginners – Dr. Russ Harris
    • The Best of What We Know About Addictions Counselling Today
    • Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)

    I have been very fortunate to be able to experience a number of different things in my life. Prior to becoming a psychologist, I worked as a Chartered Professional Accountant for 15 years in various roles in accounting firms and government. Before that, I was an environmental consultant and worked with drilling rigs in the oil and gas industry. I also worked several labour and maintenance jobs, as well as running equipment and driving semis.

    Other education I have includes:

    • Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Accounting – University of Lethbridge
    • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science – University of Lethbridge
    • Power Engineering Fourth Class Theory Certificate – NAIT

    In my spare time, I enjoy running and completed my first marathon in 2022. Working out and healthy eating are important to me, as well as learning through reading and YouTube. I love live music, good coffee and wine, and laughing with friends over a meal. I am close with my siblings, and I have 7 nieces and nephews who keep me young 🙂 I also love travelling and have been to over 20 countries in South America, Europe, and Asia, and I hope to see more soon.

    My Values

    Empathy

    Feeling things from your perspective, understanding with no judgement.

    Acceptance

    Allowing things to be, making space for things, being at peace with things.

    Mindfulness

    Being present, becoming aware, allowing thoughts and feelings to be.

    Confidentiality

    A safe space to share, where privacy is protected.

    Creativity

    Everyone is unique, and therapy should be tailored to you and your needs.

    Collaborative

    Partnering with you as you make changes in your life.