Exchiela Benusic, MA (She/Her)
|
Meet Exchiela
Hey, I'm Exchiela. In my practice, I support clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, stress, trauma, ADHD, OCD, and exhaustion. Life can be hard sometimes and my clients often tell me that they have so much going on in their lives that they're struggling to manage their emotions. Many of my clients identify themselves as being helpers, healers, caregivers, entrepreneurs, advocates, and empaths and are having a hard time finding balance in their lives. If you're tired of managing alone and want to find some peace or clarity in your life, or simply want to feel better emotionally, you've come to the right place. In our work together, you can expect to discover what is driving your current stress, identify your personal values and beliefs, and make positive changes in accordance with them. We'll set manageable goals that feel right for you, which often include increasing your self-compassion, developing a sustainable work-life balance, improving personal boundaries, and sustaining mind-body wellness. I use a compassionate, gentle approach to support you in reaching your goals and becoming the best version of yourself. I have additional training in trauma, mind/body/spirit health, compassion/empathy fatigue and motivational interviewing. My Story I have completed a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Masters of Counselling Psychology, encompassing over 16-years experience in the mental health field. This includes experience working in a hospital setting, community non-profit organizations, and offering specialized services to employee assistance programs. I was born and raised in Alberta but had the privilege travelling the world and living in other countries volunteering. I enjoy snowboarding, hiking, scuba diving, travelling, guided meditations, and attending personal growth retreats during my personal time. I also care for two bunnies named Daisy and Bert. My Approach My therapeutic approach includes viewing therapy as a journey that can foster your awareness, help you tackle your difficulties, and make choices towards living a personally fulfilling and empowered life. I have experience in working with different therapeutic models (solution-focused therapy, family-systemic, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavior therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, EMDR Therapy, attachment, talk therapy, emotional freedom techniques (EFT), acceptance and commitment therapy, psychotherapy/psychodynamic and integrative) and have developed an eclectic approach which is tailored to each individual's unique self and needs. In every therapeutic endeavor I undertake, the therapist-client relationship plays a balanced role of partnership. Research and my clinical work have shown, time and again, that the most important factor in effective therapy is the therapeutic relationship. Having said that, I believe in the primacy of an attentive, genuine, and empathetic therapist who provides a non-judgmental, safe and confidential environment in the service of your personal growth and well-being. |