BONNIE ALTRO
REGISTERED PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Former New York Attorney and Ontario Barrister & Solicitor
Are you looking to feel more comfortable in your life? Do you notice that you are compelled to continue showing up in a certain way: perfectionistic, people pleasing, avoiding vulnerability, defensive, critical, worrying, withdrawn, down, anxious or burnt-out?
If so, I know that you have tried to shift and can't find your way through. You want peace inside and ease everywhere.
And you deserve that.
Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.
-Sigmund Freud
I’m so glad you found your way here. I know how hard it is to reach out for support. I know that you’ve been struggling for a while and thinking about therapy but not sure if it’s right for you. Your ways of coping are faltering. Managing your feelings; minimizing what hurts; and rationalizing everything is no longer working. It’s like the circumstances of your life have overwhelmed your internal management system. I get it.
I have an unwavering belief that you are strong and resilient and that there is nothing wrong with you. We are going to explore which beliefs are functioning under the surface to block you from your goal of an easeful life. Our curiosity will lead us to what needs exploration and transformation will follow.
My background gives me a unique perspective on your struggle. I spent 14 years as a lawyer on both Wall Street and Bay Street. I was successful by all outside measures but I was miserable. I left my career and all that I had worked so hard for because I knew that I deserved to enjoy a meaningful life. I can help you find your path to more peace, joy and fulfillment.
I have a special interest in working with people who are stuck, anxious, self-doubting, perfectionistic, highly-driven, overwhelmed or burnt-out. Together, we will notice patterns and make important connections. We will look at the brilliant ways you have protected yourself from hurt and see if we can access flexibility inside to make different choices now. This is the work that excites me. I look forward to being your partner.
ABOUT ME
THERAPEUTIC MODALITIES
I use a warm and non-judgmental counselling approach that is based in an Emotion-Focused therapeutic orientation (EFT). I have also trained in Accelerated Experiential Psychodynamic Therapy (AEDP), Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
It is, however, my training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) which most informs my practice and guides my work.
EDUCATION
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University of Toronto, Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology
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McGill University, Bachelor of Common Law (Dean's List)
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McGill University, Bachelor of Civil Law (Dean's List)
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McGill University, Bachelor of Arts (First Class Honours)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
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College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
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Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists
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Member of the Law Society of Ontario
CAREER HISTORY
I am a former lawyer. I started my career in securities litigation in New York City at a large multi-national law firm. Later, I changed focus and praticed tax and estate planning at a boutique firm in Toronto where I was a partner.
My background provides me with special insight and interest in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, over-thinking, perfectionism, and burnout.
AREAS OF PRACTICE
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Anxiety/Depression
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Confidence/self-doubt
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Burnout/stress
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Work dissatisfaction
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Relational challenges
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Parenting issues
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Postpartum transitions
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Adjusting To Life Transitions
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Anger Management
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Chronic Pain Or Illness
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Communication & Boundary Setting
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Grief & Loss
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High-Performance Pressures
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Infertility
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Narcissistic Abuse
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Overwhelm
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Perfectionism
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Physical, Emotional, Or Sexual Abuse
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Postpartum Anxiety
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Postpartum Depression
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Relationship Issues
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Social Anxiety
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Stress Management
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Trauma - PTSD
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Workplace Issues & Career Challenges
I work with adult individuals with the following concerns:
CONTACT ME
FEES
Hourly rate is $250.
SERVICES
Individual psychotherapy sessions:
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Virtual
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In-person
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Walk & Talk in High Park
Clinical Supervision for CRPO
LOCATION
Based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Limited in-person sessions are available in my office located in the High Park area.