Priya Virk

About Me as a Human…

When I am not in therapy-land, you can find me:
Staying active at the gym, trying to keep up with my favourite sports, or planning my next travel adventure. I love exploring new cultures, indulging in local cuisines, and adding a few more stamps to my passport. If I’m not on the move, I’m probably catching up with friends and family over good food and great laughs or sneaking in some much-needed downtime with a good book or movie. Balance is key, and I’m all about finding joy in the little things!

Self Care:
I make self-care a priority by finding moments to disconnect and recharge, whether it’s through exercise, listening to my favourite playlist, or relaxing with a feel-good movie. Most importantly, I permit myself to rest when needed, knowing that this helps me show up fully for others.

For Fun:
I enjoy letting my competitive side shine with bowling nights or board games and love discovering local food spots, visiting farmers’ markets, or catching a late-night comedy show. On quieter days, I unwind with puzzles, painting, or diving into true crime podcasts like Rotten Mango.

For Growth:
I’m passionate about lifelong learning, whether it’s through professional development workshops, studying for the EPPP, or sharpening my skills with new therapeutic techniques. I also embrace personal challenges, stepping out of my comfort zone by trying new activities, exploring different perspectives, and setting goals that push me forward.

Something unique about me is:

I balance being both lighthearted and deeply supportive. I can hold space for serious conversations while bringing warmth, humour, and positivity into the room. My genuine curiosity about people and their stories helps me connect on a deeper level and fosters authentic, meaningful relationships.

What are your academic credentials?

I have completed my Master of Counselling degree from the City University of Seattle and hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Mount Royal University. My academic background has given me a solid foundation in key areas, including human development, mental health concerns, and therapeutic interventions.

I am a member of the Psychological Association of Alberta (PAA) and the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP).

Before I was in the mental health field

I previously worked at the Centre for Newcomers, supporting diverse clients through anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. This experience strengthened my ability to adapt therapy to each person’s background and needs using evidence-based approaches while fostering a safe, supportive, and empowering space for healing and growth.

Three things you are currently obsessed with and why:

1. Cooking experiments: I love trying new recipes and flavours—it’s a creative and therapeutic outlet.
2. DIY projects: Crafting and building things brings out my hands-on, problem-solving side.
3. Learning new skills: Whether it’s therapeutic techniques or personal hobbies, I’m always excited to expand my knowledge.

The most helpful book I have read is

“Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor Frankl.

My biggest takeaway from it was that meaning can be found even in the most challenging circumstances, offering strength and resilience during difficult times.

The most interesting article or book I have read is

“The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel van der Kolk

because it highlights the connection between trauma and the body, reinforcing the importance of addressing both in therapy.

My favourite podcast is

Rotten Mango

A true-crime podcast that thoughtfully examines compelling cases while analyzing the psychological and social factors behind each story.

What's one quote that you like and why?

“Happiness is to be found along the way, not at the end of the road, for then the journey is over, and it is too late.” – Robert Updegraff.

This reminds me to embrace the present moment and appreciate the growth and joy that comes with the process, not just the destination.

Specialty and Specific Interest Areas:

Client populations:
I work with adults (18+) seeking individual therapy to address challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem. I also provide couples therapy, helping partners improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their relationships.

Clinical concern:
I have a special interest in working with trauma-related concerns, relationship dynamics, ADHD, emotional regulation, anxiety, and depression. These challenges can deeply affect daily life, relationships, and self-perception. My approach focuses on identifying underlying patterns, developing effective coping strategies, and fostering resilience, helping clients regain a sense of control and well-being.

Non-clinical concern:
I have a special interest in working with life transitions, personal growth, and self-esteem. Empowering clients to navigate change and build confidence is incredibly rewarding.

Expertise and Additional Areas of Study:

I have the following additional courses / workshops / training:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT)
• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
• Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
• Attachment Theory & Relationship Dynamics

I have expertise and experience working with:

1. Anxiety and Depression: Using evidence-based approaches to help clients reframe unhelpful patterns, build resilience, and restore balance.
2. Trauma recovery: Supporting clients in processing past experiences, reducing distress, and developing coping strategies for healing.
3. Relationship challenges: Helping individuals and couples improve communication, strengthen connections, and navigate intimacy concerns.

Some of the clinical orientations, methods, and theories I integrate with ShiftGrit’s therapy protocol:

Some of the clinical orientations, methods, and theories I draw from are:

1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): I use CBT to help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and create meaningful behavior changes. It’s highly effective for anxiety, depression, and self-esteem concerns.
2. Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT): SFT helps clients focus on achievable goals and practical solutions to their current challenges. I use this approach to empower clients by emphasizing their strengths and resources.
3. Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) - I incorporate DBT techniques to support emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. It’s particularly beneficial for clients struggling with intense emotions and relationship challenges.
4. Attachment Theory - Understanding early attachment experiences helps clients recognize how their relational patterns impact their current relationships. I use this approach to support clients in developing secure and fulfilling connections.

People like working with me because

Life can be messy, and I’m here to help you navigate it with clarity and confidence—without pressure or judgment. You deserve a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported, and my approach blends deep empathy with practical, solution-focused strategies. Therapy with me isn’t just about talking; it’s about real growth, meaningful change, and discovering your resilience. Whether you're processing the past or building tools for the future, I’ll meet you where you’re at and help you move forward in a way that feels right for you.