NICOLA FORTIN - Registered Psychologist in CANMORE, AB

RETURNING TO CENTRE

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I believe we are all here doing the best we can. I will bring clarity to the areas of your life that are making you feel overwhelmed or stuck. By creating a compassionate and trusting relationship with all my clients, growth and lasting change can occur.

 
 
 

SERVICES

 
 
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  • I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, significant life transitions, relational difficulties, early childhood trauma, and PTSD. My therapeutic approach is uniquely tailored to each client’s specific needs and circumstances. I draw from a variety of evidence-based methods, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), attachment-based therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and somatic experiencing. Additionally, I incorporate a spiritual perspective through wisdom teachings, providing a holistic path to healing that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit simultaneously.

    60 or 90 MINUTES. In person in Canmore or virtual, or telephone. I can work with anyone residing in Alberta.

    Book now to begin your healing journey.

    BOOK HERE to begin your healing journey.

  • I work with couples by creating a safe, neutral environment where both partners feel heard and respected. My approach is grounded in evidence-based techniques tailored to each couple’s unique dynamic and challenges. I focus on improving communication, building empathy, and resolving conflicts through the lens of Attachment base principles, Internal Family Systems, and collaborative problem-solving.

    Initially, I conduct a thorough assessment to understand the history, strengths, and concerns within the relationship. Together, we identify goals and develop practical strategies to foster connection, trust, and emotional intimacy. I emphasize active listening and validation, helping couples break negative patterns and develop healthier ways of relating.

    Throughout therapy, I support couples in exploring underlying issues such as attachment styles, past wounds, and individual stressors that impact the relationship. I also encourage honest dialogue about needs, boundaries, and expectations.

    My aim is to equip couples with tools they can use beyond the therapy room to sustain growth and resilience in their partnership. Whether working through specific conflicts or deepening overall satisfaction, my approach is collaborative, respectful, and grounded in proven therapeutic principles.

    60 or 90 minutes

    BOOK HERE

  • This phase of life can be incredibly difficult and wrought with conflicting emotions. Every aspect of life as you know it has changed now that you are a new parent. I offer 13 years of dedicated experience working with this population; understanding that having a non-judgmental, caring space to share your experience is foundational to feeling supported and connected.

    Working with this major life transition requires a thoughtful and compassionate approach that honors the complexity of change while actively removing stigma. Life transitions—whether related to career, relationships, health, or identity—often bring uncertainty and emotional challenges. Recognizing these experiences as natural and valid parts of human growth is essential.

    60 or 90 minutes

    BOOK HERE

  • Item description

    Working with trauma and PTSD involves creating a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. I use a client-centered approach, tailoring therapy to each individual’s needs and experiences. Techniques may include cognitive-behavioral strategies to help identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts, grounding exercises to manage anxiety and flashbacks, and mindfulness practices to promote present-moment awareness. I am also trained and certified in EMDR and use this when needed.

    I also integrate trauma-informed care principles, ensuring that sessions proceed at a pace comfortable for the client while addressing symptoms and underlying issues. My goal is to empower clients, helping them build resilience and develop effective coping mechanisms for long-term healing and stability. Throughout therapy, I emphasize collaboration, transparency, and respect for the client’s autonomy.

  • Struggling with anxiety or depression can be an uphill battle. My approach views anxiety and depression as being on opposite ends of the same spectrum. Whether we feel hopeless, powerless or lacking agency, or we feel overly responsible or need to be in control, I can help you find tools to manage symptoms along with healing the root cause.

    Working with anxiety and depression involves a compassionate and individualized approach that addresses the complex emotional, cognitive, and behavioral aspects of these conditions. Therapy focuses on identifying the underlying triggers and beliefs that contribute to thought patterns contributing to symptoms, while developing practical coping strategies to improve daily functioning and overall well-being.

    A collaborative therapeutic relationship provides a safe space for exploring feelings and experiences without judgment. Progress is gradually achieved through consistent work on goals tailored to each person’s unique needs. Early intervention and ongoing support are key factors in effectively working through anxiety and depression to foster recovery and resilience.

  • Working with major life transition requires a thoughtful and compassionate approach that honors the complexity of change while actively removing stigma. Life transitions—whether related to career, relationships, health, or identity—often bring uncertainty and emotional challenges. Recognizing these experiences as natural and valid parts of human growth is essential.

    Therapeutic support focuses on normalizing feelings associated with change, helping individuals develop resilience, and fostering adaptive coping strategies. By creating a safe, nonjudgmental space, we can dismantle societal misconceptions that label transitions as weaknesses or failures. This approach encourages open dialogue, reducing shame and promoting self-acceptance.

    Ultimately, embracing life’s transitions without stigma empowers individuals to explore their evolving identities with confidence and clarity, leading to more fulfilling and authentic experiences.

    60 or 90 minutes

    BOOK HERE

 

 
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