What is SelfDefined Therapy? As someone who believes in the importance of ongoing self-growth and that the journey of establishing
one’s identity is lifelong, I developed SelfDefined Therapy.
By definition, the term SELF encompasses a person’s essential being that distinguishes them from others, and consists of understanding one’s own identity, purpose, abilities, attitudes, nature, and/or unique qualities. Being SelfDefined involves the evaluation by oneself of one’s worth as an individual in distinction from one’s interpersonal or social roles.
The goal of SelfDefined Therapy is to have you and a Therapist (myself), collaborate to determine what you need, and want out of a therapeutic experience. I use my personal touch, expertise, and vision for how therapy can help others in a meaningful, practical way. Together, we will explore which approach will work best for you, determine how you want to gain a stronger connection with yourself, develop self-awareness to guide you into the direction you would like to go, discover the best version of yourself, and promote the feeling of being grounded, to a stronger sense of self. Let’s join forces to gain a clearer definition of the changes you desire, potential areas of focus, and how you want to represent being SelfDefined.
Meet Sarah
Hello, my name is Sarah Downing. I graduated with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, and I have been practising as a Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto ever since. Helping others has always made me feel an immense amount of joy. I am passionate about Psychotherapy, because I believe it provides an avenue for self-growth, and an opportunity to enhance your quality of life. It is my goal to help others achieve what they need, or want in order to reach their fullest potential. My approach is client-centred, trauma-informed, non-judgmental, collaborative, strengths-based, goal-oriented, and catered to individual needs. It is essential for me to actively engage in anti-oppressive practice, and be conscious of people’s unique lived experiences. I am anchored to utilizing Cognitive-Behavioural based interventions, drawing from various modalities such as Cognitive and Dialectical Behaviour Therapies, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Mindfulness. I want to establish meaningful rapport, promote a sense of connection, and create a safe space for sharing.
In addition to being dedicated to Psychotherapy, I am currently a Behaviour Therapist with over 13 years of experience working with adults living with the effects of brain injury. Outside of my career, I enjoy physical activity, all sports, travelling, and spending time with friends and family.
I offer Psychotherapy Services, for individuals and couples. Sessions are typically 50-60 minutes in length and are presently being offered in a virtual format.
I offer FREE 20-minute phone consultations to determine if we would be a good fit to work together. Please contact me for more information by clicking the button below. Let’s connect, and start this journey together!
Words to live by
“Keep your face towards the sun and you will never see the shadows.”
— Helen Keller
“When you make a mistake, respond to yourself in a loving way, rather than a self shaming way.”
— Ellie Holcomb
“It’s okay to see a therapist. It’s okay to see a therapist…”
— A Mantra
“Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.”
— Helen Keller
“I look forward to working with you, and seeing how you SelfDefine YOURSELF on this beautiful journey”.
— Sarah Downing