Allan Skerrett, RP
Registered Psychotherapist, Individual and Couples
Registered Member, College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
B.A., M.Ed., University of Toronto
Member, Canadian Association of Psychodynamic Therapy
I started in private practice in 1980. Over the years, I have had considerable experience working with both individuals and couples. If you are reading this, there is a good chance that you will be like many of the clients who I have seen. Most of them presented with emotional difficulties or conflicts related to depression, anxiety, family, relational, career and life purpose issues. While therapy, of necessity, will focus on these difficulties, I find myself impressed by each person’s uniqueness, strengths and competencies. I think it is important to build upon these assets while tackling the more troubling aspects of life.
If I could try to describe myself as a therapist, I would say that I am “interactive”. I believe I bring patience, good listening skills, empathy and compassion to the therapy relationship. I provide feedback and suggestions about how to view the situation that is causing emotional difficulties for clients. At the heart of this exploration is the importance of understanding how our early life experiences are impacting our current situations. My years working as a therapist help me to identify underlying themes that tend to be common to us all. I often recommend reading materials that might be helpful in self-discovery. I like to brainstorm alternative ways to view a problem and to suggest possible strategies to handle difficult situations. I don’t believe in telling people what to do, but I do believe in trying to help people get as much clarity as they can about the circumstances in which they find themselves. With more self-awareness and a deeper self- understanding, I think it easier to develop choices for making changes.
The work of being a therapist is something I am drawn to and enjoy on a deep level. It involves meaningful conversations about the fundamental issues we all face. Being a client means making yourself vulnerable which can be unsettling. Like all my colleagues, I have spent time in the client’s chair and appreciate this sense of vulnerability. I try my best to keep this in mind and make the therapy experience a safe and helpful one.
If you wish to be in touch please email me using the form below or call me at 416.925.5854.
