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