Madeleine Engel

My Approach
My name is Maddie (she/her) and I am passionate about working with children, teens, young adults, and the young at heart! With my younger clients, I typically work from a play-based approach which means our work is done through play. We get to create and use our imaginations to help sort through those experiences that may have been challenging for us. This can look like painting or drawing, creating scenes in the sand tray, engaging in dramatic play with puppets, or plushies, or even ourselves.

With adults, I work from an integrative approach, which means we work together to use the tools that fit best for you. Therapy is work, but it is also collaborative. It only makes sense that we would engage in ways that you connect with and derive meaning from. 

Regardless of age, much of my work is done through the lens of attachment. I use the therapeutic relationship as a foundation for change, while also exploring how you’ve learned to connect with others. Sometimes this means unlearning patterns of responding that no longer serve you and healing any attachment wounds that may have occurred throughout your development. Together we will come up with strategies to first process, then overcome the challenges you may be facing and feel supported while doing so.

Credentials
• Registered Provisional Psychologist
• Certified in Somatic Attachment Therapy
• Master’s of Education in Counselling Psychology
• Bachelor’s of Child and Youth Care

Please visit our booking website for pricing information. Sliding scale pricing is available on a case-by-case basis for low-income clients or those experiencing financial difficulty.

Client Focus

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Interpersonal issues

• Attachment

• Self-esteem

• Self-identity

• Trauma

• Shame

• Confidence

• Self-worth

• Domestic violence

• Family dynamics

• Relationships

• Parenting

• Behavioural issues

• Play-based techniques

• Emotional regulation

Play-based Techniques
Play-based therapy uses a variety of toys, tools, and textures to connect with kids. Through play, children learn to communicate with others, express feelings, modify behavior, develop problem-solving skills, and learn a variety of ways of relating to others. Play is used to help kids express emotions they may not have the words for yet, build confidence, practice regulation, and much more.