Transforming Emotions

Marlena Pedersen,

(she/her)

Clinical Psychologist

I am passionate about meeting you where you are at and joining you as you work towards growth, healing, and change, both individually and relationally. I feel deeply honoured to do this work collaboratively with you. I have an authentic and empathic nature. I focus on trust, curiosity, and acceptance, to ensure you feel safe, secure, and seen throughout our time together. I believe by cultivating self-compassion, healing and growth can occur with the combination of a positive, emotionally attuned relationship and an understanding of what is happening in the brain, body and mind. When we are able to allow our vulnerabilities to surface and create opportunities for sustainable change, healing and reconnection to yourself and others can take place.

I use a brain-based and relational approach to therapy. I realize that our brain patterns are shaped by our relationships, and they can cause us to experience tribulation and shame. I am here to help you individually, or you and your partner relationally, to develop secure and satisfying connections by strengthening emotional accessibility, responsiveness, and engagement. I believe that these skills can help relationships heal and help partners grow individually and together.

My areas of specialization include children, adolescents, couples and families with a range of concerns such as stress, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body dysmorphia, body image, grief/loss, chronic illnesses and trauma. I value working with both individuals struggling with trauma/eating disorders and their supporters such as parents, partners, and friends. As an LGBTQIA+ ally, I work with individuals and their families as they begin to show up in the world in an authentic and empowered way.

I use various modalities to support you, including Attachment Theory, Trauma-Informed Practice, EMDR, Emotion Focused Therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-based practices, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT). I tailor my approach to suit your unique needs and preferences.

When I’m not practicing psychology, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and travelling the world.