Amanda Van Noppen
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
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I grew up in the Ottawa Valley on a small hobby farm where I developed a love for animals and the outdoors. I pursued a BA in Psychology with a specialization in animal therapy and then completed an MA in mental Health Counseling. I have worked in a variety of areas of mental health including substance use treatment centers, youth treatment centers, community mental health programs, and animal/nature-based programming. My history working in complex trauma, substance use, and mental health allows me to support individuals who may feel confused, lost in their past or overwhelmed with their current symptoms.
My intent is to work together with each of my clients to create a space that makes them feel that they are moving towards their desired goals. I focus on collaborating with each client so that they feel that they are the expert in their own lives. I believe by creating context to our lives through reflection of our past, each person is better equipped to understand and change their current experience. I work from a Narrative Therapy and Internal Family Systems modality that allows us to work together to look at the different pieces of life and our own thinking that may contribute to on-going symptoms. I provide psychoeducation around mental health and trauma related symptoms to further every client’s personal understanding of their own experience. I also have specialized training in nature and animal-based therapy as an alternative option to traditional talk therapy.
I work primarily with adults and teens, individuals or couples. I feel passionate about breaking stigma and shame related to past trauma or current mental health symptoms. I have experience working with complex trauma, grief, and mental health disorders such as bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression.
I strive to be down to earth and to have sessions feel direct and understandable. I openly ask questions to try to seek out how I can help each person in the best way possible. I hope each person feels unique and supported therefore, I’m always open to feedback on how we do therapy to best fit your needs.
I encourage you to reach out to me if you have questions or are interested in talking further.