ABOUT REFINE
Refine Psychological is a group of skilled clinicians passionate about supporting individuals, couples and families using a multitude of effective and research based therapeutic modalities. Every member of our team is committed to their own process of refinement; actively pursuing opportunities to train, learn, and finely tune their therapeutic skills. There are many reasons behind seeking out therapy and many ways therapy can offer a sense of direction, relief and satisfaction. We at Refine Psychological are confident in our ability to support our clients as they shift and move toward their chosen outcomes.
Lauren Wiles
I have been practising as a Registered Psychologist in Edmonton since 2015, and have worked in a variety of clinical settings including Concordia University, five years at the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (SACE) working with children, youth and adults in group and individual therapeutic formats, now landing in Private Practice. The vision behind creating Refine Psychological is rooted in my belief and commitment in refining my process as a person, parent and professional. I believe whole heartedly in the value of continuing education and have extensive training in the following modalities: EFT (individual), EFT(couples), Gottman Therapy, PEX (couples), DBT, CBT, Attachment Therapy and Somatic Experiencing.
I am a daughter to two brilliant and supportive parents, little sister to two competitive yet kind brothers, wife to a patient husband and mother to two heart filling daughters. Born and raised in Edmonton, I completed a Bachelor degree in Physical Education and then continued on to complete an additional undergraduate degree in Education at the University of Alberta. Before completing graduate school with a Masters in Counselling, I began what I now refer to as lifelong passion for working with youth and young adults who have spent time in care (Child and Family Services). I currently sit on the high risk youth initiative, provide psychological consultation for complex cases and have created and implemented a trauma focused group therapy program geared toward supporting this at risk population.
Before we start, I want you to know three things:
First, you are accepted here. Come as you are, and together, we will explore how the potential of shifting may serve you.
Second, personal work is not easy work. It requires an investment of your time and energy, but has the potential for serious returns. When we make the decision to explore our wounds, our choices, our perspectives and our needs, it can feel heavy. It is my job to help support that weight and to foster growth and understanding along the way.
And finally, you are capable. You are worthy and deserving of being heard, valued and understood. I am honoured to be a part of your journey
ANNIKA NORDHAGEN
I am a registered psychologist with a master’s degree in counselling and over 15 years of experience working in mental health. Previously, I worked as an occupational therapist and certified yoga instructor. My diversified training and background allows me to bring a holistic approach to the therapeutic process. My primary therapeutic modalities include Psychodynamic and Attachment based therapy, however, when required I will adapt the way I work with clients based on their individual needs.
Psychodynamic therapy, also known as insight-oriented therapy, focuses on understanding unconscious processes. I believe that early childhood experiences and attachments have a profound impact on our functioning as adults. I strive to help clients recognize patterns in their feelings, thoughts, and beliefs in order to increase self-awareness and change maladaptive behaviors.
I completed my Masters of Counselling through the City University of Seattle, and my Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy at the University of Alberta. I have additional training in Emotionally Focussed Therapy (EFT) with couples, individuals and families, and Dialect Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I have completed the Level 3 Practicum Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my couples therapy work. I have also completed training in Compassionate Inquiry under Gabor Maté, the PEX method of couples therapy, and Somatic Experiencing. I believe continuous psychological training and education is extremely important, and I consider my own learning as a life-long journey.
I have extensive experience working with personality disorders, mood dysfunction/dysregulation, trauma, grief and loss, life stage transitions, stress management, and relationship difficulties. As well as working with individuals, families and groups, I have a special interest in working with couples.
I believe that for therapy to be successful the client and therapist must work collaboratively. I strive to provide a balance of challenge and support, while strategically working with clients to actualize their desired changes. It is always possible to refine your life and make the most of your potential. This journey is rarely accomplished alone, and I would be honored to be a part of it.
Kelly-Dawn Aulenbach
The field of mental health has always been a professional interest of mine. While my roles have changed from my early days working as a psychiatric aide to my more current roles as a trauma recovery specialist and a soon-to-be provisional psychologist, I have always considered personal connection to be the core of mental health work. As a registered provisional psychologist with a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology, my aim is to ensure that you and I have a secure and collaborative relationship. This relationship will be the foundation which allows us to explore the thoughts, situations and emotions that challenge you thus promoting lifelong healing. As we journey together through life’s struggles and victories, I hope to create a safe therapeutic space, even as we explore topics that may make you feel vulnerable.
I have an interest in working with all populations, ages and concerns. I have a particular passion for trauma work and sexual assault recovery after volunteering at SACE (Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton) for five years and completing a practicum at Saffron Sexual Assault Centre. I also completed a practicum in the public school system where I gained a love of working with youth. I am certified in EMDR, including the EMDR Child Specialist Intensive Certificate. Despite being intimidating and scary at times, engaging in therapy can promote positive change in your life.
Of the many therapeutic techniques I employ, I tend to favour Narrative Therapy because of its empowering message that you can act as the author of your life story. As a narrative therapist, I will invite you to consider and give thought to your values, goals and strengths. I will devote time to reflect on how the context of your life is impacting you. Equipped with new insights about your identity and abilities, confronting current and future problems will feel more manageable. I’ll help you find meaning in the past
and direct your thoughts and actions toward a hopeful outlook of the future.
Pavan Lilly
Welcome! My name is Pavan (pronounced PAW-vin) and I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist. I have a Masters degree in Counselling and have been working in the mental health field for a few years. Prior to working in the mental health field, I worked various front-line positions supporting children, youth and adults.
I believe that we all have our own experiences and stories that shape who we are now, and who we want to be. As everyone is unique, I tend to pull from a variety of different therapeutic modalities to provide tailored support to each client.
I predominately use Narrative therapy, which is a talk therapy that focuses to understand the experiences and systems that have shaped your current story and how to shift towards narratives more in line with your preferred future. I often use aspects of Internal Family Systems, Expressive Arts, and Play therapy as needed. My aim is to provide a safe and comfortable foundation for folks to come as they are and work collaboratively towards their desired goals.
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I have an interest in working with children, youth and adults. I have experience working with sexual violence, trauma, suicidal ideation, family violence and identity struggles. I use a holistic, multicultural, non-judgemental approach with everyone that I work with.
You can expect me to welcome you with warmth, compassion, curiosity and humour (when appropriate). I strongly believe that you know your story best and I will act as a guiding support, journeying alongside you toward your desired path. You have the ability to create positive change and I can offer insights on ways to enhance the strengths you already possess and adjust things that may be holding you back. I would be honoured to support you if you feel like we’d be a good fit!