Karen Freud

Karen Freud

BA, DTATI, RCAT, OATR, RP

Admin/Personal, Art for Wellness/Therapeutic Art Groups, Clinical Supervision (virtual), For Community Agencies, Psychotherapy | Art Therapy - FREE 15-Minute Consultation Call, Psychotherapy | Art Therapy - Intake Session (virtual), Psychotherapy | Art Therapy - Therapy Session (virtual), Psychotherapy | Art Therapy - Trial | First Session (virtual)

Credentials

I am a Toronto-based Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Art Therapist and Certified Anxiety Treatment Professional with a Master’s Level Diploma from the Toronto Art Therapy Institute. In practice for over 20 years, I have worked with individuals of all ages across a variety of settings, including private practice, community mental health, long-term care, and addiction recovery.

Mission Statement

My approach is rooted in the belief that every person deserves to be heard and respected. I am dedicated to helping individuals recognize their strengths and cultivate self-compassion. Through therapy, I strive to empower clients to make positive changes and foster mental well-being. At the heart of my work is the belief that everyone has the potential to heal and thrive.

Areas of Interest

While my specialty lies in helping individuals manage anxiety, I am also experienced and passionate about supporting clients through a wide range of challenges. These include addiction recovery aftercare, grief, identity issues, aging-related concerns, life transitions, relationship difficulties, self-care, boundary-setting, building self-confidence and self-esteem, stress management, and healing from trauma.

Therapeutic Approaches

As we work together in therapy, I use a variety of approaches to help you better understand yourself, address your challenges, and move towards the life you want. The tools and methods I use are tailored specifically to your needs, so I won’t use all of them at once or with every client. Some clients respond better to traditional talk therapy, while others may connect more with art therapy. I’m flexible and will adapt to your preferences to ensure that the approach feels right for you. Here’s a brief overview of the therapeutic approaches we may use in our work together:

Psychodynamic Therapy Sometimes, our past has a way of showing up in the present, often in ways we don’t fully understand. Psychodynamic therapy helps you uncover how early life experiences might still be influencing the way you feel, react, and behave today. By understanding these patterns, you can begin to make sense of your current emotional struggles and take control over them.

Attachment Theory Our early relationships, especially with caregivers, shape how we connect with others throughout our lives. Attachment theory helps you explore how those early bonds impact your relationships now—whether it’s with family, friends, or romantic partners. By understanding these patterns, you can build healthier, more fulfilling connections moving forward.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Sometimes, the way we think about situations can hold us back. CBT helps you spot negative thought patterns and unhelpful behaviours that may be keeping you stuck. Together, we’ll work on shifting those patterns, helping you respond to life’s challenges in healthier, more constructive ways.

Person-Centered Therapy Sometimes, we just need a safe, non-judgmental space to talk about what’s going on inside. Person-Centered Therapy creates an empathetic environment where you can open up, explore your feelings, and better understand your experiences. Here, you’ll find a space where you are accepted just as you are, helping you move toward healing and self-discovery.

Positive Psychology Life can be tough, but it’s important to also recognize the positives in our lives. Positive Psychology helps you focus on your strengths, discover meaning in everyday experiences, and improve your overall well-being. It’s all about boosting your happiness and finding joy, even in challenging times.

Strength-Based Therapy Everyone has strengths that can help them navigate life’s difficulties. Strength-Based Therapy helps you identify your personal strengths—whether they’re skills, qualities, or talents—and use them to overcome obstacles. By building on what you’re already good at, you’ll feel more confident, empowered, and ready to achieve your goals.

My Therapeutic Style

My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, and adaptable to your unique needs. I aim to create a comfortable and safe environment where you feel heard, accepted, and supported. While I may occasionally challenge you or gently encourage you to consider new perspectives or explore different ideas, I always do so with empathy, ensuring that the timing is right, and that you feel ready. Above all, I am patient, open-minded, and committed to adapting my approach to your personality, strengths, and comfort level, allowing you to grow at your own pace.

Our Journey Together

Every journey is unique, and understanding yours is my priority.

We will work together to ensure you receive care that is customized to meet your unique needs. 

Compassionate and dedicated, I will help you navigate life's challenges.

 

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Compassion at Heart

Need to vent, complain, share your story, express your thoughts, feelings, worries or frustrations to someone who will patiently listen?

Want to be able to say anything and everything that's on your mind without worrying that it might be embarrassing or that you might say the wrong thing?

Need a safe space where you can be your authentic self?

You are the expert of your life so I will listen to you with compassion and an open mind and help guide you through your healing process.

Customized Care

I understand that every individual is unique, and one size-fits-all approaches don't work.

We can use art to help express and work through your experiences, thoughts, and feelings - or we can just talk.

We can explore your past to see how events, experiences and your relationships with others might have influenced your current thoughts, responses and actions - or we can put our focus on the present to find solutions to current problems.

Either way, we will go at your pace and work together to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific goals and needs.

Helping You Find Solutions to Problems

Looking for someone who will help you find coping strategies and solutions to problems?  I'm here for you. 

I believe in focusing on your best qualities - your strengths, abilities, resourcefulness, and resiliency.

If you don't know what your best qualities are, we will work together to help you discover them so you can learn how to successfully navigate life's challenges.

Supporting Your Personal Growth

Psychotherapy is not just about addressing immediate concerns; it's also an opportunity for personal growth and self-improvement.

Discover your true potential, build confidence, enhance your self-esteem, and develop healthier relationships through therapy.

 

Let's Work Together to Make Your Life Better

Let's Connect Today!

Booking your first appointment is just a few clicks away on my online booking page. For more information or specific inquiries, feel free to contact me directly.

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