Alys is a Certified Canadian Counsellor and Registered Counselling Therapist
Candidate with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. Alys earned her M
Ed Counselling at Acadia University, and has a Wellness Diploma, MA and BFA. Alys
has taken specialized training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and
Reprocessing), and Play Therapy, and is available to work with clients 3 yrs and up.
In her work with adults and young adults, Alys takes a collaborative inclusive
approach rooted in feminist-constructivist and queer-affirming principles, fostering a
sense of worth and belonging. Alys believes therapy offers a safe and supportive space
to process past experiences, re-examine long-held beliefs, and explore behaviors that
once served us but may no longer be helpful. Recognizing how early life shapes our
present experiences, she integrates Attachment, Family Systems, and ISTDP (Intensive
Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy) approaches to help clients deepen their
connections—with others and with themselves. She also incorporates creative
techniques and approaches, understanding that some of our most formative
experiences predate language. By working with image and metaphor, clients can bring
unconscious aspects of themselves into awareness, allowing for deeper exploration and
healing.
In her work with children, Alys draws on Play Therapy techniques. Play Therapy is an
empirically supported approach that helps children express feelings, heal trauma,
develop emotional regulation and problem-solving skills, and enhance self-esteem. It is
an evidence-based therapeutic intervention for children ages 3-12 and older. Play is the
language of children, and is the way that kids work through and integrate their
experiences, by externalization of images and symbols in a sensory creative medium.
Sometimes a non-directive play therapy approach is used where the child chooses all
play materials and the therapist reflects the feelings and themes present in their play. At
other times, a more directive approach is taken where the therapist chooses games,
activities, and projects that she believes will be helpful. Often a combination of these
two models is used.
Alys identifies as cisgender female, queer, neurodivergent, a white settler, and a person
with disability.
Alys particularly enjoys working with women, children, the LGBTQ2SIA+ community,
and couples/relationships.
