About Me
Hi and Welcome. My name is Judy Grout. I am a psychotherapist, with a Masters in clinical Social Work and I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, OCSSW
When I was growing up I had a loved one who suffered with learning disabilities and mood swings. Back then the professionals were not as savvy about how to help children, teens or even adults with these issues. I witnessed up close how hard a struggle it was until finally my loved one got the needed support to begin to feel more secure, and in turn more willing to take on their unique challenges. This had a powerful impact on me and steered me into the field of therapy.
My approach to therapy is an empathic, compassionate one that offers my clients the opportunity to build an awareness of themselves and supports them in the shifts and changes that they are hoping and wanting to make. I believe my role as a therapist is to act as a guide for my clients allowing them to inquire about themselves in a safe environment that is non-judgmental. As a therapist I can offer a broader perspective on issues and concerns. This supports my clients to look at themselves and their relationships through a new broader lens, one in which they can break through barriers and resistances.
I believe that the more awareness and understanding that we have of ourselves and our relationships, the more opportunity we have for a fulfilled and contented life. It seems to me that sometimes many of us think, “if only I could be truly happy all of the time, then all would be well.” I believe that full time happiness is not an attainable goal; however, an overall sense of contentment and fulfillment is achievable. We can’t truly know happiness unless we compare it to other emotions or states of mind. Only when we do this, can we truly experience happiness and joy to their fullest. All our emotions are a part of life and in and of themselves they are all acceptable. The challenge comes when we look to find ways to accept and then manage our feelings, thoughts and behaviours. Doing this work is a journey and it helps to have a guide and mentor at certain times to support us on our path.
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