Paulo
Dos Santos
M.Ed., Registered Psychotherapist
Clinical Director
Hi there! My name is Paulo, and I want to thank you for taking the time to read my bio. I understand how the counselling journey can look very different to each unique individual, and I try to respect that and embrace it while helping you work towards your goals and self-actualization. Here is a little bit about me in hopes of better understanding how I may be able to help you.
Biography & Expertise
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). I have a Master of Education in Counselling Psychology degree from the University of Ottawa, in addition to a Professional Addiction Studies Diploma through McMaster University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Honours Psychology from the University of Waterloo. I have always been passionate about developing my understanding of the field of mental health, and continuously strive to increase my knowledge through workshops, trainings, and professional development for the betterment of those I work with.
The therapeutic modalities I primarily use are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), with an underlying foundation of Person/Client Centered Therapy (CCT) . However, I believe that each person is unique and may benefit from different approaches, and so I also incorporate elements of Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and Mindfulness. I also aim to incorporate awareness of somatic experiences related to one’s mental health through mind-body connection discussions.
My passion involves helping people recognize they are not alone when needing support, and that it is okay to not be okay. As a therapist, I aim to validate individual’s concerns and explore them through every angle, hoping to create connections and allow for understanding. I work at this by exploring both past and present circumstances, and using a trauma-informed lens in our time together. I also aim to help individuals realize their own resilience and potential with the ultimate goal of showing oneself that their goals can be achieved.
I truly understand and respect the courage it takes to step into therapy, which is why I aim to continuously provide a safe, judgement-free space for self-expression, and to work collaboratively to meet your goals. I know finding the right therapist is an equally difficult process, so please feel free to contact me regarding any questions or concerns you may have, and I will try my best to help with the first steps, and make sure it is the right fit. I am honoured to play a role in helping you with this important journey.
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Areas of Focus
I have years of experience from both professional and volunteer settings working with individuals providing one-on-one therapy. I have specifically worked more intensely with student populations in guiding them through the difficulties of combined academic and personal struggles, and the challenging transitions accompanied by academic life. My experience also includes crises situations, short-term therapy, and long-term therapy, as each individual’s counselling journey takes whatever amount of time is right for them.
Areas of Concern dealt with: General & Social Anxiety, Depression, Adolescents/Teens and Young Adults, Academic Related Concerns, Family/Relationships Conflict, Grief, LGBTQ+, Life Transitions, OCD, Self-esteem, Stress, Self-harm, Suicide, Sexual Assault, Trauma.
I aim to be culturally sensitive and aware of the impact cultural differences and lived experiences can have on an individual – in my work, I will always be respectful of these life aspects, and acknowledge the immeasurable difficulties minority populations have faced.
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Specializations & Approaches
Specializations
- General & Social Anxiety
- Depression
- Adolescents/Teens and Young Adults
- Academic Related Concerns
- Family Conflict
- Relationships (intimate and/or peer)
- Grief
- LGBTQ+
- Life Transitions
- OCD
- Parenting
- Self-esteem
- Stress
- Self-harm
- Suicide
- Sexual Assault
- Trauma
Approaches
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Attachment-based Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Compassion Focused
- Culturally Sensitive
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Eclectic
- Interpersonal
- Mindfulness-Based
- Narrative Therapy
- Person Centered
- Strength-Based
- Trauma Focused