PsychotherapyExploring the self

Sharon Ziv

Welcome and hello, I’m Sharon, and I work as a registered psychotherapist and yoga teacher in Lisle, Ontario.  I’ve been practicing professionally for over 15 years in Canada and internationally.  My career as a Psychotherapist began with my education in Toronto and Chicago where I obtained my Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology. I started off specializing in addictions, eating disorders, mood disorders and trauma and worked with in-patient and out-patient hospital centers.  I also always maintained a private practice for individual therapy and expanded to couples counseling.

Ten years ago, after many years of working within a western framework I set out on a journey to Asia to expand my knowledge and healing capacities. I spent many years living in Thailand and travelling in and out of India immersing myself in completely new philosophies and treatments.  My studies have led me to become a certified Yoga instructor (E-RYT200) as well as meditation teacher and I began incorporating yoga philosopy and teachings with psychotherapy for my clients.  I combine all these modalities in the style of therapy, yoga retreats and self-healing workshops that I run in Canada and India every year.  The influence of Eastern philosophies has allowed my work to become more holistic. I have learned that true change often requires tending to not only the mind but body and spirit as well.  

Being a therapist and having the opportunity to take the journey of recovery with clients is one of my greatest blessing in life.  I hope we have a chance to meet if ever you are ready to dive deep and find your true self again.

 

  • Why Come to Therapy?

    During our life-span we may encounter several hurdles and obstacles that at times may feel too difficult to resolve on our own. Life stressors can often create unpleasant effects that can leave us confused, unhealthy, depressed and anxious. During phases of life we may experience difficulty with our communication skills that often lead to problems in our relationships with our partners, employers, family and friends. Whether these issues are long-standing or situational, therapy offers a type of self-exploration into these life dilemmas. It allows the individual to regain control over their choices and provides opportunity to grow and change in a mindful and comfortable way. Why spend your whole life repeating unwanted old patterns of behaviour, when you can embark on the journey of self-exploration and begin changing your life today?

  • Breaking the Stigmas

    Unlike old stereotypes that implied therapy was for the unwell, today many healthy and high functioning people seek the service of a therapist as a means of promoting more health. Treatment can be short term, long-term or maintenance based meaning appointments only when necessary. Knowing our own story only gives us freedom to separate from it and evolve into our truer selves. Understanding how past events and learning shape a person, essentially offers the opportunity for one to decide what they would like to keep and what they would like to let go of. Like an oil change for the spirit, therapy is a wonderful way to get in touch with the true self, reflect on good and changeable behaviours and provide a smoother ride moving forward.

  • How do I know if psychotherapy is right for me?

    The only way to find out is to give it a try and probably stick with it for a little while. Clients despite feeling nervous before their first appointment usually leave feeling more calm and hopeful afterwards. Therapy should make you feel more hopeful as that becomes the springboard for change. It’s important to follow your instincts when working with a therapist and feel a strong level of trust. If the connection feels right then give a period of time to really notice the effects of therapy on your life and thinking. If you simply cannot be comfortable then maybe continue looking for a more suited therapist or a different type of treatment modality.

  • Is what we discuss confidential?

    Absolutely yes! Psychotherapists are trained professionals who understand that confidentiality is the most essential factor to the success of treatment. There are professional ramifications for breaking confidentiality and it is not taken lightly. You can be assured that confidentiality will be discussed before the beginning of your first session. The confidentiality agreement withholds the therapist from speaking of anything to do with a client, however clients are welcomed and often encouraged to speak about their therapy sessions with whomever they choose.

  • What will we talk about?

    That’s completely up to you. If there is something that you want to discuss you are encouraged to bring it up. At other times you and your therapist may make a plan about what to explore and work on. Different types of clients require different types of guidance. The most important part is that you can connect and speak freely with your therapist.

  • How long is a session?

    A session can last anywhere from 60-90 minutes depending on availability.

  • How long will I need to be in therapy?

    Length of treatment depends on several factors, which are unique to the individual client. This can be discussed at first consultation.

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To contact Sharon please send request to sharon@yogacabin.ca