Alyssa James
Qualifying Psychotherapist / Social Worker
Hi there! My name is Alyssa, Social Worker and Qualifying Psychotherapist at the Healing Tree. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, burnout, and relationships. I work collaboratively with individuals to help increase self-awareness and self-compassion which I view as key tools for learning, and unlearning, about aspects that are currently taking away from one’s ability to live wholeheartedly.
Through both professional and personal experiences, I recognize the importance of having a safe space to be seen, heard, valued and to belong. I believe that by first connecting with oneself we can then truly connect with others in deep and meaningful ways.
I work hard to create an environment of support, optimism, and trust. This builds a therapeutic alliance to identify together, and tend to, the wounds that are causing pain. I am committed to providing support, acceptance, and empathy as well as gentle nudges along the way. I truly value the time that you share with me and count in an honour to be alongside you in your journey.
I am interested in the impact of interpersonal relationships, substances, and trauma on the brain and how these experiences present in our daily lives. This in part informs my approach of incorporating the deep power of connection as integral in all facets of life. This might be connection with self, friends, family, spirituality, or how the different domains of life interconnect with each other.
Outside of work time I enjoy crafting hobbies such as painting, pottery, macramé, and making candles. I find comfort from nature and try to spend as much time as possible amongst the trees, in the water, or in a park. I am originally from the Maritimes having grown up in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. I have spent time living in Ontario and British Columbia but am very happy to be putting down roots in Montreal.
I have a BSc in Psychology from Mount Allison University (2014), and a Master in Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of British Columbia (2017). I have experience working in both public, and community healthcare settings as well as experience at multiple addiction treatment centers.
I am a social worker registered with the Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ) and am working toward my psychotherapy permit with the Ordre des Psychologues du Quebéc (OPQ).