Kathleen Skinner - Founder & Clinical Director
Registered Psychotherapist & Accredited Music Therapist: MMT, RP, MTA
Waitlist for New Clients
Looking for support with anxiety, complex family dynamics, people pleasing, or complex trauma? You’re in the right place.
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Is anxiety getting in the way of living the life you want? Maybe you are trying to work through complex trauma and aren't sure where to start. I work with people looking to heal relationships with themselves, ultimately leading to better relationships with others.
Many of my clients self identify as people pleasers or perfectionists, who have a tough time slowing down and putting themselves first. We might have a hard time finding the balance between shutting down our emotions and having them take over. I have a special interest in helping people navigate complicated family dynamics and heal from childhood trauma.
My own lived experiences with mental health issues have shaped who I am as a therapist. Many of my own first hand experiences with therapy and how it can help have informed how I want to show up for the people I work with.
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• Treating Complex Trauma (In Progress)
• Internal Family Systems Masterclass (In Progress)
• DBT Skills (Spring 2022)
• Certificate in Stress Management (Winter 2022)
• ACT for Depression & Anxiety Disorders (Summer 2021)
• Using CBT with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (2021)
• Certificate in Mindfulness (2021)
• ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) for Beginners (2020)
• Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (2019)
• Guided Imagery in Music Level 1 Training (2017)
• Master of Music Therapy, Wilfrid Laurier University (2018)
• Bachelor of Arts and Science (Music and Psychology: Brain & Cognition) (2016)
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For as long as I can remember, music has been an integral part of my life. I became a music therapist and psychotherapist for many different reasons, one being that I truly believe that through creativity we are able to connect with our ability to create meaningful change. This belief has been reaffirmed time and time again both in my personal life and clinical work.
I have had the privilege of facilitating moments of connection, realization, and ultimately growth, using music as an agent of change.
I am fascinated by how our brain is wired to receive, connect with, and create music!
Outside of being a therapist, I am a proud mama, love playing the piano and singing, and spending time with family (including my very cute dog named Hal).
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My approach is laid back and collaborative. I want you to feel in control, while also knowing you don't have to deal with these difficult experiences alone. I integrate approaches like DBT, ACT, and somatic therapy, with a holistic focus.
As both a Registered Psychotherapist and Accredited Music Therapist, we can use words, music, or a combination of both in our sessions. I am happy to chat more about what this means and looks like in sessions.
Before making the move to private practice, I worked in acute mental health care. I believe this has helped me learn how to meet people in their biggest storms with compassion and care (and no panic!).
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Reach out to kathleen@kstherapyservices.ca or click the “book a free consultation” button.
What services do I offer?
Psychotherapy, Music Psychotherapy, Clinical Supervision
In-person in Guelph, online video throughout Ontario
Who do I work with?
Teens and adults, 13+
Students and professionals in music therapy and psychotherapy
Modalities and Approaches Used
CBT, DBT, ACT
Music Therapy
Somatic Therapy
What can I help with?
Issues related to anxiety and anxiety disorders
Difficulties related to past trauma, with a special interest in relational trauma
Complex family dynamics
Perfectionism and people-pleasing
Interpersonal communication and boundary issues
Depression and mood disorders
Self-esteem issues
Stress management
Safety concerns, including suicidal thoughts and self-harm
