Nicole Marek, Therapist in Montreal, H2J1L7

Nicole Marek, MA, OPQ

Profession(s):
Psychology, Psychotherapy, Counseling
License Status:
I'm a licensed professional.
Primary License:
Ordre des Psychologues du Quebec - 10763-06

My Approach to Helping

I am a Montreal therapist and psychologist who takes care to adapt my counselling to your personal style. I use an integrative approach in counseling, borrowing ideas and interventions from different therapeutic models. I believe everyone is different and that there is no "right" way to think, act, or feel. The only "right" way is your own, as long as it's working for you! I prefer to collaborate with my clients in therapy, and build on their existing strengths and knowledge to assist in change, understanding, and transformation. I strongly believe that trust is essential for effective therapy so I take special care to build the therapeutic relationship to ensure that my clients feel safe opening up to me. I am a firm believer in teaching others methods for coping and healing that they can carry on in their future lives.
I also understand that in some circumstances one may need extra help in order to get out of a rut. This is why I would refer to psychiatrists, medical doctors, or other specialists if I believe your difficulty is outside of my abilities.

More Info About My Practice

I have significant experience providing therapy to individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, gender, sexuality, low self-esteem, and trauma history. I specialize in therapy with gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and transsexual individuals. I also offer therapy, consultations, and referral letters for individuals choosing gender confirmation. I am very informed about alternative lifestyles. I have many years' experience counseling adolescents and preteens for various issues such as drug abuse, anger, self-injury, stress and anxiety, truancy, bullying, self-esteem, abusive relationships, and sexuality. Teens are usually very comfortable speaking with me about their personal issues.

What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist

I absolutely love being there to witness someone's transformation. It is incredibly powerful to assist someone in overcoming obstacles that had been so debilitating that they significantly reduced one's quality of life. To hear someone say: "I can now board a plane without stress" or "I no longer spiral into depression when I attend family gatherings" is evidence of tremendous change, which might not have been initiated without therapy. From personal experience, and my experience as a therapist I can vouch for the resilience and resourcefulness of the human mind. I truly believe that each of us has the potential for authentic happiness, excellence, and love. Unfortunately, many of us have not been taught how to harness these strengths, or life circumstances have blocked access to them. The wonderful news is that within psychotherapy we can build and practice these abilities. It may be hard work, but most will say it is worth it. Hearing how someone has become a "new" person is extremely fulfilling as a therapist. We do not have to be stuck in unhappiness and torment. There is a way out and I am so pleased to help others find that path to a better life.

Important Factors for Choosing a Therapist

Therapy in a very intimate experience. Because of this, it is vital that the person with whom you share this experience is a good match for you. The things you want to look out for are professionalism (Will this person ensure confidentiality, and ethical boundaries? Are they a member of a professional order? Do they have adequate training?), personality (Are our personalities compatible? Do I feel safe even though I am vulnerable? Do they react appropriately to me?), cost (Can I afford their rates? Will they provide an insurance receipt?), and specialized training (If I am seeking therapy for a specific issue, do they have experience with this issue? Is the treatment founded in a solid theory or treatment model?). Most therapists are very good at what they do. However, I always recommend people shop around since therapy is an investment. Since it is relational work chances are some people will just feel like a better fit. You will most likely know when you have found a good match. If something feels odd, please do mention it to your therapist and it can be discussed, or a referral can be made to another psychotherapist.