Derek Thiessen

I believe that meaningful change happens when we develop a different relationship with our thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. Therapy is not about eliminating discomfort, but learning how to respond to it in ways that move us toward the life we want to live.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in a strong therapeutic relationship. I strive to create a space where clients feel safe enough to explore difficult emotions, deepen self-understanding, and take meaningful action aligned with their values.

I work with adolescents, adults, athletes, and high performers experiencing:

• Anxiety and stress
• Depression and burnout
• Self-esteem and self-criticism
• Trauma and difficult life experiences
• Identity and life transitions
• Relationship challenges
• Addiction and behavioural concerns
• Performance-related pressures

My work is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing primarily from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), while incorporating somatic, compassion-focused, and relational approaches. Together, we explore the patterns that may be keeping you stuck while building the flexibility, self-awareness, and resilience needed to move forward.