Bruce Clarke

I work from a relational perspective. This means I engage with you throughout the session as opposed to just listening and taking notes. I always start off by first seeking to understand what brings you to therapy, and what you see as your goals. We will then review your personal history so that I get a better sense of who you are.

My approach does not employ any particular “formula”. In my experience the therapy process unfolds naturally as we explore aspects of where you are feeling stuck in life. It is like working on a painting together. Sometimes the work goes in a direction that was unexpected, but very useful. Therapy should be a creative process.

That said, working with me often leads to exploring and processing past trauma, building awareness, and identifying and engaging with parts of yourself that appear to be in conflict or disowned. I invite trying safe experiments outside the session for discussion later, and sometimes use role play, mindfulness, or the playful use of metaphors. You can anticipate that I will check in periodically to ensure that the work is useful and engaging, and to identify any matters we’re failing to address.

My primary concern is client safety.  This means that I want to ensure that you feel safe in the session, especially when doing work with trauma, and are comfortable with the process.  It also means that for some clients I will check in with them periodically as appropriate to ensure they are safe from any self-harm.

I am a Registered Social Worker, and I completed the five-year training program in Gestalt Psychotherapy at the Gestalt Institute of Toronto. I have also completed an undergraduate degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in educational psychology.

Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I worked for 26 years in the public health sector as a counselor, case manager, and program manager, primarily in the areas of sexual health and harm reduction.

I think I have always known that I would become a psychotherapist.  I have been in therapy in the past for some of my own challenges, and most recently as part of the requirements to train as a psychotherapist.  I have found my own psychotherapy experience to be life changing.  I am always curious and fascinated by how we experience our inner lives and the impact that has on our outer world.  I feel so privileged to do this work.