Amanda Kobly

Education

Master of Education in Counselling Psychology, University of Lethbridge

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Political Science, University of Alberta

Graduate diploma in Supporting and Enhancing Child and Adolescent Mental Health, University of Calgary

Philosophy

I believe that therapy is an essential part to an individual’s well-being. As the conversation about mental health continues to shift and while there has been significant progress working to decrease stigma around therapy, I believe there continues to be structural and personal barriers to accessing supports. My goal as a therapist is to provide all my clients with a welcoming, empathetic, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to process their feelings, emotions, and potentially complex relationship with their mental health. 

While I use multiple modalities to help my clients achieve their goals and make positive changes, I always work from a trauma-informed lens. And after almost 3 years of a global pandemic (hey there isolation/stress/illness), I believe that this is more important than ever. I also am continuously doing the work to learn from and be a strong ally to the 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC and Indigenous communities throughout Treaty 6. I believe it is a privilege to do this work and am continually inspired by the resilience, strength, and trust my clients share with me.

Approach

My theoretical approach to therapy is a combination of cognitive behavioural therapy, person-centred, narrative exposure, and solution-focused strategies. I also draw from dialectical behavioural therapy skills, art therapy, attachment theory, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing. My passion is working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have a further interest in working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transitions, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), disordered eating patterns, sports performance concerns, and identity exploration. 

I believe that using humour can be cathartic and I love to integrate humour into my sessions. I aim to ensure there is shared power in sessions. You are the expert on you! I am here to help you explore areas that may be anxiety inducing, traumatic, overwhelming, and just in general sometimes uncomfortable. By taking a collaborative but goal-oriented approach, I believe we can work together to help you Dive Thru your biggest concerns.

A Bit About Me

Fun fact! I once thought I wanted to be a lawyer and then realized, “hmm better not.”  Another fun fact! I grew up as a competitive dancer and then shifted to teaching and choreography throughout my university days. 

I love any opportunity to get together with my closest friends and my nieces and nephews. I will admit, I watch WAY too much reality TV but make up for it by spending time with my dog and my partner. I love a good board game night, being in the sun, and of course doing what I consider the best job in the world—being a therapist.