Hi, I’m Erin MacPherson, MSW, RSW

I am a Buddhist somatic psychotherapist focusing on individual therapy for adults around, chronic illness, anxiety, depression and trauma.

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A smiling woman with dark hair and bangs, wearing a black top and a gray blazer, standing outdoors near a decorated Christmas tree.

I am a clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience in mental health.

I hold a Master's of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. I am a member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and the Ontario Association of Social Workers.

During my career as a psychotherapist in community mental health in Toronto, my focus was on treating various mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, anger management, trauma, family dynamics, chronic illness and youth mental health. In addition, in Feb. 2024 I had a heart event that landed me in the hospital. This experience was scary and humbling and it changed my outlook and gave me insight into how others with health issues and cardiovascular disease might feel.

I strongly believe that building a solid therapeutic relationship is the most important part of the therapy process.

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I integrate meditation and Spiritual practice into my life and therapeutic approach. 

I have been practicing meditation for 25 years, and for the last 17 years, I have been studying under a Tibetan Buddhist teacher. According to the Buddhist perspective, every person is inherently good. Our life experiences and the meaning made from those experience can cover up the spark of our goodness. The Buddhist view allows us to observe our challenges without being hard on ourselves and so we can approach all aspects of our lives with curiosity and care.

I deeply value relationships and connection. I see a lot of disconnection in the world and people moving through life on autopilot. When we take the time to connect with ourselves, we can see our inherent goodness and recognize the goodness in others.

I believe in placing the client's needs, experiences, and strengths at the center of their care.

I work with my clients collaboratively using a client-centred, trauma-informed, somatic and strengths-focused model. I have extensive experience working with diverse clients, and I welcome individuals from all backgrounds, including but not limited to diversity of race, gender expression, sexual orientation, culture, ability, and religion.

My goal is for us to work together and create a plan to move forward. I want you to feel supported and understood throughout this process. There is no judgment here, and we don't need to strive for perfection. We can have difficult conversations and feelings while showing up with compassion and care. As a therapist, I am honoured to be invited on the journey with my clients as they create the life they want!  

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My Approach IS Integrative and Versatile

I have extensive training in a variety of therapy modalities, including Eye Motion Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR, Level 1), FALSH, Progressive Counting, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Theory, Emotion Freedom Technique (EFT), Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Level 1), and Buddhist Psychology.

I use a variety of therapy modalities to help individuals experience increased confidence, have better relationships, and improve well-being, allowing our inner brilliance and light to shine.

  • EMDR

    Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is an evidence-based therapy that supports health and healing through bilateral stimulation (BLS). This therapy not only works for trauma but also for anxiety, depression, sleep problems, pain, grief, chronic illness and more.

  • Somatic Psychotherapy

    In addition to EMDR, incorporate several body-based therapies, such FLASH and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. These approaches help us tap into the wisdom stored in the body, find new ways to manage the present moment and reconnect with ourselves.

  • Buddhist Psychology/Mindfulness

    Buddhism offers valuable insights that can support us in working with our lives with increased compassion and presence. As a practicing Buddhist, I can guide clients through elements of this spiritual approach (or their own Spiritual view and practice) to deepen their experience of themselves and the world in whatever capacity they wish.

  • Emotion-Focused Family Therapy

    Emotion-Focused Family Therapy involves identifying negative communication patterns, recognizing emotional avoidance, understanding and validating emotions, creating safety, and developing new ways to connect and communicate within the family.

  • Internal Family Systems

    IFS allows for a deeper exploration of ourself and all of our “parts”. Allowing for increased understanding and compassion towards ourselves to support our healing.