Stephanie Stevens

About Me as a Human...

When I am not in therapy-land, you can find me:

In the mountains hiking, road-tripping, or doing anything in and on the water. I also enjoy spending time with my dogs and loved ones. BBQs, board games, and trying new restaurants are some of my favourite ways to unwind.

Self Care:

I prioritize walking my dogs, meditation, and being in nature to recharge. A long bath, reading a good book, or watching a true crime documentary also helps me decompress.

For Fun:

I love exploring new restaurants, traveling, and being outdoors with my dogs and friends. I’m also a Star Wars fan, enjoy stand-up comedy, and never miss an opportunity to laugh.

For Growth:

I am dedicated to continuing education and constantly pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. Recently, I’ve been exploring Internal Family Systems therapy, deepening my knowledge in attachment theory, and studying for the EPPP to become a fully registered psychologist.

Something unique about me is:

I was a dental hygienist for 26 years before transitioning into psychology!

Before I was in the mental health field, I was doing / working in / volunteering at:

I worked in the dental field as a dental hygienist for over 26 years and dedicated time to volunteering at organizations that align with my values, such as community support programs and distress centres.

The most impactful thing about my experience here was:

Applying the Shift Therapy Program and working through a Pattern Theory lens, which has been incredibly effective in helping clients break free from limiting beliefs.

Three things I am currently obsessed with and why:

1. Internal Family Systems therapy – It offers a fascinating way to explore different "parts" of ourselves without judgment.
2. Deal or No Deal Island – It’s my guilty pleasure at the moment!
3. Trying new red wines – I’m always on the lookout for a great new bottle.

The most helpful book I have read is:

"Attached" by Amir Levine & Rachel Heller
My biggest takeaway from it was: Recognizing my own attachment style and understanding how it impacts relationships.

The most interesting article or book I have read is:

"No Bad Parts" by Dr. Richard Schwartz
Because: It explores Internal Family Systems Therapy and helps us understand and embrace the different “parts” of ourselves.

My favorite podcast (if you listen to podcasts) is:

Sarah B Coaching
And the best thing about it is: It’s incredibly inspirational, particularly regarding relationships.

Speciality and Specific Interest Areas

Client populations:

I have a special interest in working with couples, seniors, and individuals 15+ because I love supporting people through life transitions, relational challenges, and personal growth.

Clinical concern:

I have a special interest in working with sex and intimacy concerns in couples, caregiver burnout, PTSD, and trauma-related issues because these are deeply impactful areas where therapy can foster meaningful change.

Non-clinical concern:

I am passionate about working with couples seeking to build stronger relationships and individuals focused on personal growth, as self-awareness and strong communication are key to thriving relationships.

Expertise and Additional Areas of Study

I have the following additional courses / workshops / training:

• Integrated Sex and Intimacy Therapy (Couples & Individuals)
• Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) – PTSD & Trauma (Individual & Couples Work)
• PACT Level 1 – Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy
• Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)
• Attachment Theory & Relationship Dynamics
• Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

I have expertise and experience working with:

1. Couples – Helping strengthen communication, improve intimacy, and address relational challenges.
2. Individuals 15+ – Supporting mental health, emotional regulation, and trauma recovery.
3. Caregivers – Providing guidance on managing stress, burnout, and resilience.

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. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) – I use this because it’s effective for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
2. Integrated Sex and Intimacy Therapy – This helps clients and couples address relational and intimacy concerns in a safe and structured environment.
3. Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) – I like to use this because it helps clients process trauma quickly and effectively using memory reconsolidation techniques.

Additional approaches I incorporate include:

• PACT (Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy) – Helps couples understand relational dynamics and attachment styles.
• Attachment Theory – Useful for understanding how early experiences shape our adult relationships.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Excellent for addressing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

People like working with me because:

I’m compassionate, empathetic, and direct in my approach to therapy. Clients appreciate that I am transparent, goal-oriented, and create a safe, non-judgmental environment where they can explore their emotions and make meaningful progress.

A Bit More About Me...

Taking the first step into therapy can be daunting, but I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way. My goal is to help you see things through a clearer lens and work toward creating the life you want. Therapy should be a space where you feel safe, empowered, and supported, and together, we can create meaningful change.