Susan King MFA, RelPsych (Dip), Member CAPT

Are you feeling stuck? There are many different reasons to seek therapy. You might have a specific issue you want to explore or you might feel that something is “just not working for you” in your life and you don’t know how to change it. 

As your therapist, I can help you learn, grow and make some changes. First, to get a clearer understanding of what stands in your way, I believe it’s important to:

• feel heard and understood
• understand what triggers both your good and bad feelings
• find new perspectives on old troubles
• trust your instincts and feelings
• discover and believe in your unique voice

I will explore all of that with you. Together, we can address unresolved issues, blocked feelings, loss, anxiety and depression. Then you will feel better able to make the choices you want in your life with greater awareness and in a way that feels right for you. In the process you may see patterns of behavior that aren’t working for you that you would like to change.  My approach is warm, supportive, empathetic, and non-judgmental. Your personal needs, goals, longings and unfulfilled dreams are what determine the direction of your therapy. 

I know that therapy can be personally transformative from my own experience. Many years ago I realized that I wasn’t living my life fully. By working with a skilled and caring psychotherapist I was able to find a strong sense of self and a profound understanding of why I felt the way I did. I discovered new energy within myself and got in touch with what was important for me. As a result, I began to feel that I really wanted to help other people experience renewal in the same way.

 My approach to psychotherapy is relational, which is essentially talk therapy – in-depth conversations with a therapist that help you explore and understand your relationship to the significant people in your life (past and present), substances, your body, your self and your work.  I’m a graduate of The Toronto Institute for Relational Psychotherapy and, throughout my career, my commitment to on-going study has continued.

My practice includes:

 Through psychodrama and body awareness you can uncover and release repressed and stuck feelings. Have you ever had a “gut feeling” that something wasn’t right? That’s your body giving you an early warning sign… and it’s worth paying attention to. Understanding the mind-body connection (and learning to trust it) can guide you to a deeper understanding of your issues.

The bodywork I do with clients includes breathing, tracking body sensations and exploring their meaning. I don't use direct touch. I work with you to become more attuned to your body sensations. You can learn to listen and trust in your own inner experience.

The expressive arts work I do includes drawing, writing, guided imagery, and dream work. This work encourages you to look at personal concerns through different perspectives.  You can gain new insights by engaging more of your senses.

I use many approaches and skills in my practice to work creatively with each individual's unique concerns. What is comfortable and effective for one may not work for another.

In addition to my on-going training, I bring a broad range of life experiences to my therapeutic practice. I've worked as a freelance magazine photographer, taught art at a university, and run my own publishing and arts business. I have a Masters of Fine Arts from York University.

The issues I am most experienced in working with are:

• loss
• depression
• grief
• anxiety
• substance abuse
• sexual issues 
• lack of intimacy and trust in relationships

These issues may arise from many experiences including childhood trauma, sexual or partner abuse, neglect, and addiction.

I am a supportive guide helping you take charge of your life. My goal is to assist you in occupying the space that is rightfully yours - emotionally, spiritually and physically. Through our work together you can discover your inner strengths and live a meaningful, loving, and playful life.

If you feel that my approach fits well with your goals, contact me for a free consultation. I work near Bloor and Christie, close to the subway; and parking is available. Here is my map. I look forward to meeting with you.