Personal Statement:
Everyone shares different life experiences that may have influenced or shaped their life in some way. These life experiences may have positively impacted us or negatively impacted us, and as a result we maybe struggling due to these experiences. Facing our struggles can sometimes be a challenge. I know that reaching out to a therapist can also be a challenge, and how much courage and strength it takes to do so. Therapy can sometimes feel strange or uncomfortable at first and it can sometimes be difficult to open-up, be present and vulnerable at times.
A priority for me is ensuring that my clients feel safe and comfortable during the process of therapy, all while working towards meeting client needs and goals. Building trust can take time and I prioritize creating a caring and nonjudgmental space for clients in order for clients to reach their goals. I like to work collaboratively with my clients to ensure they are working towards flourishing and being the best version of themselves.
Areas of Special Interest:
Ala’ works with clients from a broad range of backgrounds and life experiences. The approach’s she uses in therapy are strength-based, trauma-informed, anti-racist, and an anti-oppressive practice approach that are client-centred. Ala’ primarily draws from the following therapy models: CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Narrative Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Art Therapy, and Spirituality Integrated Psychotherapy. Her areas of focus include trauma & PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief & loss, mood related disorders, intercultural dynamics, refugee and newcomer mental health, identity & belonging, spirituality and more.
Ala’ can provide services in both English and Arabic.
When Ala’ is not in the office you can find her working on any art project and enjoys working with various art forms, whether that be painting, sketching, sewing or working with glass.
Education
- Wilfrid Laurier University – Graduate Diploma in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy
- Wilfrid Laurier University – Master of Arts in Theology: Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy
- Wilfrid Laurier University – Honours Bachelor of Arts
- Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) Certificate
Level I: Fundamentals of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
Level II: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Trauma
- Emotionally Focused Therapy, EFT Core Skills Training (In progress)
Language other than English:
- Arabic