Dena Samimi-Ward

About Dena Samimi-Ward, Registered Psychologist, MACP
As a Registered Psychologist, I provide services to children, youth, adults, couples, and groups. I have worked with clients on a variety of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, grief & loss, parenting, attachment, and relationship issues.
I utilize a client-centered approach as we work together to find what works best for you, moving towards a place of healing, growth, and joy. By creating a safe space for you to explore and process your journey and build on your own strengths, we can develop new insights and skills along the way.
Training & Qualifications
I have been working with individuals and families in various settings for over 10 years. I have a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology and have been a Registered Psychologist since 2019.
I am an EMDR clinician, and have completed additional certifications in HeartMath and Grief Recovery Method.
I also use strategies from other modalities based on the needs of clients. These include Mindfulness, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Strength-based, Circle of Security, and Somatic Experiencing approaches.
Areas of Interest & Specialty
My professional interests centre around attachment-based practices and being trauma informed. Therefore, I have completed additional certifications and trainings in Infant Mental Health, Level 1 and Level 2 through the Trauma and Loss Centre, and Play Therapy Based Treatment of Trauma from RMPTI.
When working with couples, I use techniques from Ellyn Bader’s developmental approach, Gottman & Gottman, as well as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
Will work well together if you want:
- To work with a psychologist who uses Evidence-Based Practices and translates that into easy to understand psychoeducation to empower you to make decisions that align with your goals
- To work with a psychologist who will create a safe space to examine current ways of thinking, beliefs, and feelings and become aware of their impact on your daily life and relationships
- To shift ways of thinking, beliefs, and feelings to improve the relationship with yourself and others
- To try new strategies and are willing to practice these strategies as they slowly replace old patterns that may be no longer working for you
- Participate in regular sessions to ensure we are on the right path to meet your goals
We will not work well together if:
- You want a psychologist to tell you what to do and make decisions for you