IFS Training: Richard Schwartz’s Internal Family Systems Institute provides training in IFS to practitioners through intensive programs called Level One, Level Two and Level Three. At any point a year or after taking a Level One training a practitioner can apply to become a Certified IFS Therapist with IFS-I by completing further learning, supervision and by having had their work reviewed and accepted by an approved IFS-I certifier. Derek Scott also provides training in IFS and anyone that has completed his Skills and Competencies Course is considered IFS Informed.
IFIO Training: Intimacy from The Inside Out (IFIO) is a form of couples therapy with its roots in IFS. Toni Herbine-Blank and the IFS-I provide a special Level Two (IFIO) that teaches this couples protocol. In addition Toni provides Advanced IFIO trainings.
I'm so glad you're here. I know many folx come to therapy for many reasons — to move through transitions, to find grounding in times of uncertainty, or to make sense of pain that feels too complex to hold alone. At the heart of my work is a deep respect for your inner system — recognizing that even the most protective parts have developed with incredible care and good intention, often in response to pain. As such, I will walk alongside you as you learn to listen to these parts and rediscover the wisdom that has always been within. Together, we will tend to what has been hurt, silenced, or burdened, and nurture a deeper sense of self-trust, compassion, and ease.
My name is Susan, and I am a Registered Social Worker with the OCSWSSW. I am a L2-trained IFS therapist (with advanced workshops and mentoring of others), currently working towards my certification with the IFS Institute. My work supports many concerns, including trauma, grief, guilt, shame, and loss, with a focus on how culture, relationships, and self-identity shapes our mental health. If you find yourself feeling stuck, unsure of your worth, or uncertain about how to move forward, our work together may offer the space and support you need. I also integrate Somatic Attachment and EMDR, tailoring each session to your unique needs. My commitment is to be present with curiosity and care, supporting you in discovering new ways of being, finding meaning in your experiences, and building a life that feels authentic and aligned.
Alongside my clinical practice, I enjoy connecting with fellow clinicians and organizations through supervision and teaching. I offer clinical supervision for new therapists who resonate with my approach, as well as consultations and workshops on attachment, trauma, and therapeutic models for local organizations.
Beyond my professional life, I’m an avid reader, a believer in kindness, an earnest daughter of immigrant parents, a lover of movies, a writer-in-progress, and a proud dog mom to an Australian Shepherd named Obi-Wan Kenobi (Obi for short).
If my approach resonates with you and you feel that I might be a good fit, I’d be honoured to hear from you and support you on your journey.