(she/her)
Registered Psychotherapist
RP, CTP Dipl
Psychodynamic psychotherapy takes a long-term, depth approach to understanding what influences our thinking, and how those influences can shape our sense of possibility. By depth, I mean that together we explore beyond the conscious parts of our experiences, inquiring into dreams and fantasy life, turning attention towards embodied responses and seeking to understand ourselves in context of our communities, relationships and familial bonds.
When we are with another, we are acted upon in ways that may struggle to reach the worded dimension. Without reflection, space or consideration, these states of being may pass from our awareness and find expression through more adaptive routes. I see myself as an aid to make these parts of human experience more explicit and communicable and to hold space for being with the complicated intersections of our shared humanity.
Psychotherapy works over-time and because of time. This is an important aspect of psychodynamic work as meeting regularly cultivates an internalized rhythm that allows us to stay close to inner life with intention and focus. Psychodynamic psychotherapy is client led, meaning we begin with where you find yourself on any given day and go from there. While the focus is on you, I offer questions, reflections and feedback to help guide the process.
I am committed to providing an anti-oppressive therapeutic framework and continue to seek conversation and learning to engage a deeper awareness of power structures, their influence in our society, and how we internalize and relate to these systems. I have a particular interest in Jungian psychology and dreamwork, as this has been a central point of exploring within my own therapeutic process. Additionally, I take a particular interest in studying and exploring chronic shame and its impact our sense of self assertion and personal integrity.
I am a graduate of the Centre for Training in Psychotherapy, an experiential psychodynamic psychotherapy training program in Toronto, ON. The unique training of the CTP program ensures that I have undergone intensive study that synthesizes practical knowledge with transformative depth work. I welcome you, with a deep respect for the bravery it takes to open oneself to another in such an intimate and revealing manner.
Alongside my psychotherapy practice, I am a musician and a graduate of the Ontario College of Art & Design (BFA). Cultivating creative community and practice informs nearly everything I do. I am guided by a desire to connect to inner life as a source of inspiration and expression and to share in this experience and exploration with others.
I offer free, 20-minute phone consultations to discuss any questions you may have about my practice and to get a feel for whether we may be a good fit for working together. I respond to all inquiries within 24-48 hours. I meet with clients weekly and biweekly, both in person and online. Mondays I work out of an office in Toronto’s west end (Bloor and Dundas West) and Tuesday’s in the downtown core (Bloor and Sherbourne).
Please email me if you are interested in connecting further: isla.m.craig@gmail.com
21 Randoph Ave., Toronto, ON, M6P 4G4