Our Team

Cory Dankner
Counselling Intern

 

Hi! My name is Cory, and I am a Counselling Intern at the Healing Tree. I help individuals identify and overcome obstacles en route to developing a more meaningful and fulfilled life. More than ever, we are constantly exposed to opinions and information through both virtual and physical social networks that transform our self-perception. I am passionate about working with individuals to increase self-discovery and self-awareness around their authentic needs, desires, and sense of self. 

Through several years of experience working with teenagers in several settings as well as my own personal experience, I have recognized the difficulty and importance of navigating life transitions. I have also learned that, whether big or small, life is a continuous process of life transitions. I find my personal fulfillment in helping others navigate these transitions. 

While I believe in therapy’s potential to be truly impactful in an individual’s life, I also am familiar with the idea that being open and vulnerable to a stranger can feel awkward and scary. I don’t take lightly the role I play as a witness in your life. I strive to create a non-judgemental therapeutic environment where you can feel truly seen and heard. I also adopt a client-centred approach that empowers you as the expert in your own life and gives you the opportunity to set the roadmap for our collaborative work together. In this role, I walk empathically alongside you while holding you accountable for the goals you set. 

My approach integrates aspects of cognitive-behavioural and humanistic techniques. Together, we can explore the role your thoughts and self-talk play in perpetuating unhealthy patterns. As a humanistic therapist, I employ techniques aimed at helping you come into greater contact with yourself. Further, as someone fascinated by existentialism, co-creating, and exploring, personal meaning is at the heart of my approach. I also believe in the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and soul and this is reflected in my approach through the incorporation of mindfulness and somatic practices. 

From a very young age, I have always been passionate about storytelling. I love both reading and getting to know other people’s stories. To me, the root of therapy is exploring your story and empowering you as the author of your own story. While this process can seem exciting, it also requires tremendous courage and responsibility. If done right, it can be life-changing. 

I have an M.A. in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in New Brunswick (2023). I intend to become a member of the Ordre des conseillers at conseillères d’orientation du Québec (OCCOQ) as well as to obtain my psychotherapy permit with the Ordre des Psychologues du Quebec (OPQ).