Michael deBoer

I offer an integrative, non-judgmental, and empathetic therapeutic space for individuals of all backgrounds and genders, as well as couples. I hold a sincere belief that change is possible and that, in fact, we are naturally inclined toward change, and health, and thriving. And, I also recognize that we exist in an increasingly complex world, which is why I’m here to help.

My aim in individual counselling is to establish a relationship where you feel safe, understood, deeply listened to and entirely positively regarded.

I believe that there are different ways of knowing, and humans are remarkable creatures. We can know through our mind, our intuition, our body and our emotions, and all are valid. For some folks it helps to talk it out; for others, tuning into body sensations is helpful; for some, answers are found in emotional response; for some, just the act of sitting in quiet can be useful.

My aim is to help you create psychological flexibility as you navigate life’s challenges, through understanding of self, self-acceptance and self-compassion, recognizing past experiences, and noticing adaptive thought patterns and responses.

I draw from many different modalities and have a particular affinity for Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Adlerian Psychology. By combining empathy, curiosity, emotional attunement and motivational interviewing, we’ll work together to:

01 Understand your nervous system
- How it reacts to stress; recognize your triggers and understand your body’s automatic protective responses.

02 Cultivate safety
- A sense of safety within yourself, and in your relationships.

03 Move past survival mode
- Into a place of deeper connection, self compassion, and emotional well-being.

I am committed to (and delight in) inclusivity, serving clients of diverse culture, gender, age, and value structure in a non-judgemental, compassionate, and person-centred way, rooted in deep respect for each person’s unique experiences.

When you are ready, I am here to walk alongside you in your journey toward understanding, compassion, healing, and transformation.