Meet Sonya Gandhi, BSW, BSc (Psychology)
Hi, I’m Sonya!
Welcome and thanks for stopping by to review my bio! As a registered Social Worker, I have experience in counselling those who have experienced trauma, specifically from emotionally abusive and toxic relationships. I focus on the conscious and unconscious thinking patterns that effect how we engage in relationships and feel about ourselves. The root of my work focuses on understanding our faulty assumptions, self-identity development, grieving losses and setting healthy boundaries. I also have more than twenty-five years of experience in social service settings, primarily within child welfare and Office of the Children’s Lawyers, with a focus on children’s safety/wellbeing and parenting.
Awareness that we are all unique and diverse is a valued strength and one I use to understand how they can be used in the toughest times to help us negotiate the tough times. With guidance, we recognize that we can indeed make changes that make life more fulfilling and joyful.
When it comes to counselling, I am driven by anti-oppressive and inclusive values. My approach focuses on establishing a connection that allows you to feel safe, seen, heard, and accepted. In a session with me, you can expect that if difficult things come up, I come from a place of understanding and will ask questions so that I can best help you get to where you want to be.
I work primarily from a trauma-informed, narrative perspective, which means I will invite you to share about your life and provide you with information that may help you dig deep to find your compassion for yourself. I also incorporate techniques and skills from other modalities as needed, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Family Systems Therapy, as well as Attachment theory.
I am a mother of two teenaged daughters! So, in my spare time, you’ll find me redecorating my home space, planning my next big trip and parenting my highly anxious dog Kahlua and my gentle giant Bailey!
I am here to help you on that journey.
