Finding the right psychotherapist can feel daunting, which is why we have been diligent in selecting only the most experienced and qualified clinicians for our team. We are thrilled to announce the addition of Allyson Coogan to Centre Wellness, our newest psychotherapist, who brings both expertise and heart to her practice.
A Foundation Built on Safety
What sets Allyson apart is her fundamental philosophy that healing occurs in an environment where clients experience genuine safety, dignity, and personal agency. She understands that committing to therapy requires courage, and she honours that bravery by creating a therapeutic space where individuals can explore their experiences without judgment.
Allyson’s approach centers on recognizing the inherent strengths that each person brings to their healing journey. Rather than focusing solely on what needs to be “fixed,” she works collaboratively with clients to uncover the resilience and wisdom they already possess, helping them build upon these foundations as they navigate both current challenges and long-established patterns.
A Diverse Toolkit for Complex Needs
With an impressive array of therapeutic modalities at her disposal, Allyson can adapt her approach to meet each client’s unique needs. Her formal training spans from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy to specialized approaches like The Gottman Method for relationship work. She also incorporates Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and Somatic-Based approaches.
EMDR: Healing Trauma
One of Allyson’s key strengths is her certification in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is particularly effective for individuals struggling with PTSD, traumatic memories, and the lingering effects of disturbing life experiences.
What makes EMDR particularly beneficial is its ability to access and heal trauma stored in the body and unconscious mind, not just the conscious thoughts we can easily articulate. Many clients find that EMDR helps them move past traumatic experiences that have felt “stuck” despite years of traditional cognitive-based approaches to therapy. EMDR is an evidenced-based treatment and is recognized by major health organizations as an effective treatment for trauma and PTSD.
For those who have experienced domestic violence, military combat, workplace trauma, or other deeply distressing events, EMDR provides a gentler yet highly effective way to process difficult experiences and reclaim one’s sense of safety and empowerment.
Support for Those Who Serve
Allyson has developed particular experience in supporting individuals whose professions place unique demands on their mental health. Healthcare professionals, law enforcement officers, corrections workers, and military personnel and veterans often face distinctive stressors that require special understanding. Additionally, she provides culturally sensitive care for Indigenous persons, recognizing the importance of honouring diverse cultural perspectives in the healing process.
Addressing Life’s Most Challenging Moments
Whether someone is grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, or substance use concerns, Allyson brings both clinical expertise and genuine compassion to these encounters. Her work encompasses everything from helping clients develop better emotional regulation skills to processing the experience of domestic violence. She understands that mental health challenges don’t exist in isolation but are often interconnected with life stressors, relationship dynamics, and past experiences.
Accessible and Flexible Care
Recognizing that seeking therapy should be as convenient as possible, Allyson offers both in-person and virtual sessions, with current availability during daytime hours on Mondays and Wednesdays, plus evening appointments on Thursdays. This flexibility ensures that adults aged 18 and older can access her services in a way that fits their schedules and preferences.
Ready to take that important step toward better mental health? Learn more about Allyson’s approach and areas of practice right here on our website, or take the next step by scheduling a free consultation or booking your first session today. With her compassionate expertise and diverse therapeutic toolkit, Allyson is here to support you on your healing journey.
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