Christy Laarakker

Clinical Associate

There Is a Way Forward — And It Begins with Hope

Many people feel stuck — trapped in old patterns and unsure how to break free.
Stress, trauma, and negative thought cycles can make change feel out of reach.

But change is possible.

With the right support, you can begin to rewire how you think, feel, and respond to life’s challenges. You can build resilience, emotional balance, and a deeper sense of self-trust.

You don’t have to do this alone — and you don’t need to have everything figured out before you begin.

Personalized, Evidence-Based Therapy in Ottawa

In our work together, I offer a personalized, evidence-based approach to therapy grounded in neuroscience, compassion, and client-centered care.

Drawing from proven therapeutic modalities, I tailor each session to your unique needs and goals. These include:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Somatic Experiencing (SE)
Polyvagal-Informed Therapy
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

This integrative approach supports meaningful, lasting change — not just symptom relief.

Healing isn’t only about surviving — it’s about creating a life where you can truly thrive.

My Experience

I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) based in Ottawa, with a Master’s in Counselling Psychology and a PhD candidacy in Neuroscience. I bring over ten years of experience in psychiatry and neuroscience research.

My work bridges scientific understanding with compassionate, human-centered care.

I support clients in healing trauma, strengthening emotional regulation, and creating lasting change through the principles of neuroplasticity and the mind-body connection.

I also hold deep respect for identity and life transitions — including religion, spirituality, gender, sexuality, culture, and relationships — recognizing their profound impact on wellbeing.

Who I Work With

Individuals (18+) in Ottawa and Ontario

How I Can Support You

Therapy Modalities
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
Somatic Experiencing
Polyvagal-Informed Therapy
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
Integrative Neuroscience-Based Counselling
Focus Areas
Anxiety and depression
Trauma and PTSD
Emotional dysregulation
Grief and loss
Stress and burnout
Relationship and interpersonal challenges
Religious and spiritual identity

More Than Just My Work

Healing often means honouring all parts of who you are — even those shaped by struggle.

Your story, in all its complexity, deserves to be met with empathy, curiosity, and care.

Transformation doesn’t mean forgetting where you’ve been — it means growing from it, with compassion and strength.

Final Thought

You already carry the seeds of change within you.

Together, we’ll help you reconnect with your inner wisdom, your resilience, and your hope for what’s possible.