About
I’m Angie Allan. I’ll Help You Embrace a Full Life.
I am a Psychologist and hold dual registrations with the following Colleges:
* The College of Psychologists and Behavioural Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO)
* The College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP)
I am a Psychologist with a Master of Education degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta. I hold two Bachelor of Arts degrees from the University of Western Ontario: one in Psychology (Honours) and the other in Business Administration. Additionally, I hold a Certificate in Career and Life Coaching from the University of Toronto/Adler. As a therapist, I have gained diverse experience working in various settings, including private practice, low-cost clinics, and non-profit organizations such as CMHA and a University Counselling Clinic.
I’ve served as a consulting clinician at a rural residential treatment facility for youth and supported clients in treatment for eating disorders. Additionally, I’ve worked with individuals transitioning back to community living after inpatient psychiatric care. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with clients who identify as First Nations, LGBTQ+, or as having a mental health diagnosis, as well as those impacted by trauma. In my private practice, I provide individual therapy for adults, and I also offer specialized services to organizations and their employees.
My Approach
When we work together, I usually start at the end: what or how would you like things to be different as a result of our work? This can be a tricky question for some clients, and sometimes becomes one of the goals of therapy itself. Together, we’ll draw out your strengths, identify your values, and plan the path that is right for you. We know from research (Safran et al., 2009) that the best predictor of a positive outcome in therapy is the relationship that you develop with your therapist. So I focus on fostering a strong relationship right from the start. You will notice that I am calm, friendly and encouraging. I’ll also offer you a challenge when you look like you need it.
As a feminist and Gestalt-oriented therapist, I consider your whole being in the context of your environment. I listen for what you think, how you feel, and how you interact in your world. I will use techniques drawing from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFBT), Somatic Experiencing and Emotion Focused Therapy and Schema Therapy among others in our work together.
An Experienced Business Leader
Before transitioning to psychology, I enjoyed a progressive 15-year career in the operations of various professional services organizations. Much of my work was in resource management where I helped hire, deploy, manage and support teams of people who worked on projects around the world. I also led turnaround projects to help struggling workgroups get back on track. As an Operations leader, I developed a nuanced understanding of how to maximize corporate profits while also maintaining a healthy work environment.
In the days before EAPs, I was often first contact for staff members who were having difficulties. I supported staff as they struggled to manage their workloads, and who were having difficulties with colleagues on issues such as bullying and harassment. I also worked with people who found it difficult to balance home and work responsibilities, and who were engaging in activities that interfered with their ability to do their jobs (like substance use). Partnering with management, I advised leaders and their staff as they underwent company-wide mass layoffs, acquisitions, mergers, and traumatic workplace events. My projects included activities to drive employee effectiveness, navigate workplace conflict, and create a culture of emotional intelligence. All while keeping a careful eye on the bottom line.