Desiree Gagnon, M.Ed, Registered Provisional Psychologist

Populations: Adults

Areas of Focus: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Stress and Burnout, First Responders, Grief and Loss, Attachment Injuries , Emotional Regulation and Identity Issues and Suicidal Ideation.

Therapeutic Models: Emotion Focused Therapy , Attachment-Based Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Compassion Focused Therapy, and Canine and Equine Assisted Therapy (temporarily on hold)

Location: St. Albert and Virtual

Availability: Wednesday morning and afternoons and Thursday evenings in St. Albert

Languages Offered: English and French

A Note From Desiree

Therapy often causes feelings of nervousness because we are taking a risk in being vulnerable, having the courage to seek support and sharing our deepest thoughts and feelings. Emotional healing begins when we can acknowledge and work through what we are feeling. The only way out is moving through our emotional experiences, and I’m here to guide you.

I work from a person-centered and holistic approach to address my client’s emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. I draw from emotionally focused therapy while integrating components from acceptance and commitment-based therapy, compassion-focused therapy, internal family systems, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).

I value client empowerment and invite you into the treatment planning process to best meet your needs and goals. This is your journey!

With a genuine and empathetic spirit, I am passionate about ensuring a safe and secure space where anyone can feel comfortable expressing any emotion, thought, or struggle. I welcome all stories, backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, and those who value vulnerability and self-discovery.

Experience:

I completed my Bachelor of Arts (honours) in Psychology at the University of Manitoba and earned my Master’s in Education (Counselling Psychology) at the University of Alberta. Before graduate school, I gained experience in the field of mental health through numerous volunteer opportunities, including as a crisis counsellor on the distress lines at Klinic Community Health in Winnipeg, Manitoba, student mental health peer supporter, and serving as a sexual health and relationship peer educator at the University of Manitoba. Through my education and experiences, I deeply appreciate the ebb and flow of mental health concerns and being present with you. “Empathy fuels connection”- Brené Brown

About me: I grew up on an acreage in southern Manitoba. Animals hold a special place in my heart and have always been a big part of my life. Growing up, over the years, I had fish, hamsters, a guinea pig, a bunny, four birds, cats, and many dogs. I wholeheartedly believe in the healing power of animals, and this is why I pursued training in Animal and Equine-Assisted Psycotherapy!

Why AAT & EAP? There’s no denying the benefits of psychotherapy; however, traditional psychotherapy can be difficult for some clients. The unique practice of Animal and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy involves intentionally including an animal to help you meet your individual needs and therapeutic goals. For example, if you’re feeling anxious, talking and petting with the therapy animal may help reduce anxiety and create a sense of connectedness. In addition, therapy animals can help build a solid therapeutic relationship, make sessions more engaging, and may be tailored to suit culturally diverse clients!

I am so excited to connect you with my animals, and together we will work toward your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness.

Favourite Quote:

“The human soul doesn't want to be advised, fixed, or saved. It simply wants to be witnessed exactly as it is.” - Parker Palmer.

 More than just my work:

In my spare time, I love to connect with close friends and family, visit animal sanctuaries, attend hot yoga classes, read, try new recipes, and travel (my favourite place so far is Costa Rica!)