Welcome to Nest Therapy!
My name is Allison Wood and I have been a clinical social worker for over 20 years but have worked exclusively in the area of perinatal mental health since 2011. I have also been fortunate to attend international conferences, trainings and am certified in birth and reproductive trauma psychotherapy through Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Training.
Working in the area of perinatal mental health is a unique specialization. I provide therapy for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, traumatic births, pregnancy and infant loss, fertility challenges, as well as general adjustment to becoming a new mother/parent. I am also trained in various therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)) Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Narrative Therapy, Reproductive Trauma and apply various skills and techniques drawn from other therapeutic models and theories e.g. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
As the mother of two teenage boys, this work has become such a personally rewarding experience for me. When I started in this field, I was a relatively new mom myself and experienced so many of the same challenges as my clients which has always helped me feel so connected to the wonderful people I work with. Please review the services I provide and feel free to reach out. I look forward to meeting with you!
Education:
Mount Allison University 1992-1996
Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Psychology
York University 1996-1998- Bachelor of Social Work
Wilfred Laurier University- Master of Social Work 2000-2001
Registered Social Worker in Private Practice- NSCSW 2001-Present
Registered Social Worker Virtual Practice- OCSWSSW- 2023-Present
Virtual psychotherapy through secure software such as Zoom offers some similar benefits to in-person therapy while not having to deal with weather, traffic or parking costs. It comes with the advantage of meeting from the privacy and comfort of your home through a secure virtual platform, ensuring your confidentiality is still a priority.
Meeting someone new, especially someone you are going to share private aspects of yourself with, can be a daunting experience. I try to create a warm and inviting space so that you are able to build a trusting relationship with me over time.
** As I use Zoom for virtual sessions, please review the invitation and instructions before our first appointment to ensure you are comfortable with the process. Feel free to email me if you are having difficulties.