Meet Brandi May MA, RP
Welcome!
I’m Brandi May, a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).
I am a compassionate and dedicated eco-psychotherapist with a distinctive approach to psychotherapy that is integrative, holistic, and culturally-informed.
Since beginning my practice in 2022, I have worked with individuals to navigate a variety of life challenges including anxiety, relationship issues, insecure attachment, codependency, self-esteem and life transitions. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed and is tailored to each individual’s particular story and needs. Some modalities I use are Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices.
The use of these evidence-based modalities are effective both in-office and in an ecotherapy context. As an eco-psychotherapist, I offer individual psychotherapy sessions that take place outdoors in the form of ‘walk and talk’ therapy. I do, however, also offer in-office sessions and virtual sessions as well.
If you’re looking for a non judgemental and compassionate space where you may work towards fostering a life that is meaningful, connected, and in alignment with who you are, I welcome your call! The first step is often the hardest, so let's take it together!
Ecotherapy FAQ
What is Ecotherapy?
Ecotherapy is a branch of psychotherapy that uses nature as a primary way of promoting psychological health.
What Does an Ecotherapy Session Look Like?
Ecotherapy will often look like walking along a trail and doing therapy! It may also include mindfulness and art-based therapy, depending on your particular needs.
Is Ecotherapy Covered Under My Insurance?
If your insurance plan covers treatment by a Registered Psychotherapist, then yes!
Who Is Ecotherapy Helpful For?
Many studies have demonstrated the direct impact of ecotherapy on various populations including ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse and more. If you are interested in a holistic, embodied appraoch to therapy, then it may be right for you!
What If The Weather Is Bad?
If the weather is unfavorable to meet outside, we can change your session to an in-person session at my office in St. Catharines, or do a virtual session.
...I don't like exercise!
That's fine! Ecotherapy is actually about slowing down and being intentional in nature. This is not about exercise.
Land
Acknowledgement
It is of ciritical importance that formal acknowledgement is made that the land on which we gather is the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe, and Neutral peoples. This region is part of the larger Niagara Peninsula, which has been a site of significance for Indigenous communities for thousands of years.
Although Indigenous peoples have a long history on this land, it would be a mistake to assume that Indigenous peoples stories, and ways of life are a thing of the past. Similarly, it would be an error to assume that colonization only exists in history textbooks. Colonization is an active process and therefore, requires active dismantling and critique. This also means that reconciliation should also be an active and ongoing aim. At Brandi May Counselling and Ecotherapy, promotion of reconiciliation comes in the form of
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Active and ongoing critique of traditional colonial attitudes to wellness and psychotherapy
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Acknowledging the legitimacy and value of Indigenous perspectives on wellness such as the medicine wheel
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Committing to actions that promote reconciliation based on the premise of the Two Row Wampum through a dedication to allyship.
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Being responsible stewards of the land and taking only what it needed, and leaving the rest.
If you, or someone you love would appreciate connecting with Indigenous community in Niagara, please feel free to reach out to the Niagara Regional Native Center for guidance https://nrnc.ca/
Services
Please contact me to book a free 15 minute phone or virtual consultation
Contact Info
Phone
Address
(548) 483-6287
33 Church Street, St. Catharines, ON L2R 3B7