Evan Essapa

Evan has experience in working with diverse populations, particularly individuals from visible and non-visible minority communities. Evan is comfortable working with individuals from the LGBTQ++ community. A primary goal for Evan is to ensure that clients receive personalized, evidence-based care.

Evan is trained in using Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) - the gold standard treatment for Depression and Anxiety, Experiential Therapy, and Existential Therapy (finding meaning in life).

Evan knows firsthand the difficulties of navigating identity and cultural pressures. He uses these personal experiences to help people who might be feeling isolated or unsure of their place in the world. Evan moved to Canada in search of better opportunities. He is aware of both the potentials Canada offers, and the many challenges that immigrants and first generation Canadians may face. Issues around identity, belonging, accepted and fitting in are all areas Evan has strengths in helping his clients to manage.

SUBSTANCE USE/ADDICTION/ADDICTION BEHAVIOURS

Evan has training and experience working as an addictions therapist. He is skilled at working with people struggling with drug, alcohol, internet, gambling, spending, and other forms of addictions and addictive behaviour (shifting from one type of addiction to another). Evan understands that people use substances, or engage in addictions, for many reasons. A person’s story is unique to them. There is no ‘one-size fits all’ understanding of ‘addictions’ or singular approach to resolving the addiction. Evan knows that substance use often begins as a way to cope with emotional/life distress, trauma (past and present), and other issues. For some, what started as a stress management strategy, or way to have fun, or way to fit in, becomes a problem in and of itself. As the substance abuse grows it can lead to relationship breakdown, parenting difficulties, workplace difficulties/job loss, and degrade self-worth.

DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY

Struggling with depression or anxiety can feel overwhelming. It’s not usual to feel like you have done something wrong for having these emotions. It’s not unusual for other people to blame you for having these emotions. You might hear people say, “if you would just try harder” or “just relax” or “other people have it worse so what is your problem”. In reality, these feelings arise from prolonged stress, unresolved trauma, or imbalances in the brain. Life’s challenges, like relationship issues, career pressures, or past events beyond your control, can weigh heavily and lead to these emotions. Evan’s clinical skills can help to break free from this cycle. Using evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy, mindfulness, Evan has helped people reconnect with life, manage worry, and rediscover a sense of purpose. Evan can help you move beyond being defined by these feelings. There is a way to feel better, to regain control.

TRAUMA

If you're feeling overwhelmed by past trauma, know that the distressing symptoms you're experiencing, such as flashbacks, sleep disturbances, nightmares or emotional volatility or numbness, are treatable. It is possible, with the right therapeutic approach, to reduce or eliminate many of these experiences. Trauma often leaves deep emotional scars that can feel impossible to heal on your own. Trauma symptoms are somewhat like an electrical short in your brain that leave you feeling like the trauma is happening over and over. Evan understands how overwhelming this can be, and his trauma-focused approach aims to help you gradually reduce these painful symptoms. Evan is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), one of the most research proven effective therapies for reducing trauma symptoms. With his empathetic and structured guidance, you can regain a sense of safety and control in your life. You don't have to keep living in the shadow of your past.

SPORT PSYCHOLOGY

If you're an athlete under pressure, it’s important to know that the stress and anxiety you're feeling are often responses to the immense expectations placed on you. Balancing academic/work, athletic, and personal life can create an overwhelming sense of pressure that makes it difficult to stay grounded. Evan has assisted child, teen and adult athletes to the highest level in their sports, including winning National Championships and Canadian National Team membership. As a former University of Alberta Track and Field and Soccer athlete, a member of Team Alberta, and member a professional soccer academy in France, Evan has been honored with multiple awards for his athletic, academic, and community involvement. Evan has been in your shoes, and he knows the unique challenges athletes face. Whether you’re struggling with performance anxiety or feeling like you're losing your balance in life, Evan’s here to help you manage that stress and build the resilience you need to succeed—both on and off the field.

TEENS

Evan’s ability to connect with teens is remarkable. He is able to engage even reluctant, “I am not talking to a therapist” teens into the counselling process. Evan brings a personable and unique style into therapy. He can speak ‘teen lingo’ in a way that helps teens to relax and talk candidly to him about what is happening in their lives. Evan is able to use the connection he makes to help teens deal with the many challenges they face. Whether its parent-child conflict, issues with peers, self-esteem/self worth, school challenges, or substance use/abuse Evan is able to move beyond the presenting issue and into the underlying concern. Teen’s feel heard by Evan, and as a result Evan can help the teen better manage the distress and behaviours that are bringing them into counselling.

CULTURAL AND RACIAL IDENTITY

For those navigating identity or racial challenges, it’s common to feel isolated, loneliness, or rejected. Social judgement and/or pressure from your own community pressures can result in disconnected from friends, family, work colleagues’. This can lead to, confusion, sadness and anger. Issues of race and identity can create deep emotional strain. All of these experiences are a natural response to these challenges. As a Black male provisional psychologist, Evan understands firsthand how difficult this can be. He provides culturally responsive care, helping you overcome these emotions, replacing them with hope, connection, and worthiness. Evan will help you to rediscover your strong sense of self.

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Graduating Summa Cum Ladue from the University of Alberta Master of Educational Psychology, Evan’s approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy, and Sport Psychology. He offers counseling services in both French and English, making his services accessible to a broader range of clients.

Evan began working as a mental health therapist is 2017. His original work was with orphans and underprivileged families. He expanded his clinical experiences over time in providing counselling supports to minority teens and adults. Evan has also provided psychological therapy to athletes competing at both at community levels and at university, provincial and professional athletes.

Evan provides evening and weekend appointments to best meet his clients scheduling requests.