About Kate

I believe in people.  I know that we are all unique and equally gifted with the potential to heal and thrive.  I have learned this through the amazing people who've shared their stories of challenge and triumph with me.  

Early in my career, I worked with people recovering from traumatic brain injury.  There, I learned about the plasticity of the brain and the resilience of the body, spirit, and mind.  We hear a lot about trauma and it's long-lasting negative effects, but positive plasticity can be harnessed to achieve what is known as Post Traumatic Resilience.

As an educator, I supported children and youth at risk.  With these young people, I learned about the mediating effects of unconditional positive regard.   

As a parent of two children with Autism, I learned about the importance of the nervous system, emotional safety, and non-verbal communication.  

As a counsellor, specializing in work with survivors of childhood sexual abuse and adult sexual assault, I solidified my belief in the individual's innate power to heal and thrive despite the worst adversity.  

Realizing the potential of therapeutic interventions like Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems, alongside the practices of self-compassion, meditation, and yoga, I am committed to sharing the wisdom, techniques, and healing practices of these Mind/Body modalities with my clients.  

I will help you to find your own path to wellness, from Root to Leaf.

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a somatic and cognitive intervention based on the premise that all of us have the potential to self-heal by activating our innate, adaptive integration processing capacity.  EMDR has been recognized by the WHO as one of the most effective modalities for the treatment of PTSD, trauma, addictions, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, and more.  It is effective with people of all ages and those experiencing a wide range and severity of symptoms. Learn more here: https://www.emdria.org/about-emdr-therapy/

What is Somatic Experiencing?

Somatic Experiencing was developed for the treatment of trauma by Dr. Peter Levine.  It's potential for trauma resolution and improved inner relationship is immense.  Learn more here: https://traumahealing.org/about-us/

What is Internal Family Systems?

Internal Family Systems is another pioneering approach to trauma resolution.  It was created by Dr. Dick Schwartz and is premised on the theory that all humans are multiple - we all have "parts" that are working to protect and support us.  We are also all born with an indestructible Self that is curious, calm, compassionate, connected, creative, confident, clear, and courageous.  By accessing our Self, we can heal our wounded parts.  Learn more here: https://ifs-institute.com/

What are Contemplative and Compassion-Based Therapies?

Contemplative therapies, including Compassion and Self-Compassion therapies, have been shown to harness the tremendous healing power of  mindfulness, compassion, and embodied practices to heal "top-down and bottom-up".  Research has shown that these practices, that are thousands of years old, actually do have a direct influence on our physical health, our mental health, and our ability to heal.  These rich traditions offer us transformative practices for the mind, the heart, and the body.  Learn more about Self-Compassion here: Kristen Neff - https://self-compassion.org/; learn more about Embodied practices here: Christine Caldwell - https://www.themovingcycle.com/about.php; Learn more about Contemplative Sciences here: https://nalandainstitute.org/contemplative-psychotherapy-program/

What are MindBody Therapies?

MindBody Therapy takes into account the related nature of Mind and Body.  MindBody therapy addresses the NOW, and privileges current body experience as an entry point.  MindBody therapies make use of all aspects of experience (sensation, imagery, thoughts, feelings, and movements) to help clients to move out of stuck places while honouring their body's process.  One example of this process is Inner Relationship Focusing.  Learn more about IRF here: https://focusingresources.com/

Kate McEvenue MA, MEd, CCC

Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC)

Certified Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapist

Certified MindBody Practitioner

Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist

Training in Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems Informed

Competency with DID and dissociative disorders 

Specialization in sexual trauma and intimate partner violence

LGBTQIA2S+ and body positive space

RESPECT is for Every Body