Karissa Martens
MA, CCC, R-DMT, GL-CMA
Hello! My name is Karissa, feel free to call me Kari:)
I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) through the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). I am a graduate of the Counselling and Dance/Movement Therapy Master’s program from Columbia College Chicago where I obtained my Registered Dance/Movement Therapy degree (R-DMT) as well as my Graduate Laban Certification in Movement Analysis (GL-CMA).
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I work from a Person Centered and Strengths based approach, and my counselling style has been influenced by a variety of theoretical approaches including: Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dance/Movement Therapy, and others. I am also a Certified EMDR therapist, and am loving the benefits of this therapeutic modality!
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I have worked with individuals from different cultures, spiritual backgrounds, age groups (Children, Adolescents, Adults), life situations, and presenting issues (Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, ODD).
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I currently work with individuals and groups 16+.
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Therapy Services
FAQ
How do I know if counselling is right for me?
Everyone deserves a safe space to feel supported. If you are asking this question, chances are counselling is a fit for you. I am here to help you cultivate a deeper connection with yourself in a safe and supportive environment. If you are unsure if counselling is for you, feel free to book a 15 minute consultation with me.
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes! I offer in person, virtual, and phone counselling sessions.
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What is Dance/Movement Therapy, and how does it work?
Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) is the psychotherapeutic use of movement to promote emotional, social, cognitive, and physical integration of the individual, for the purpose of improving health and well-being.
Dance movement therapists apply dance and movement in a therapeutic context. The goal of DMT is not to teach a dance technique. Rather, dance movement therapists apply the elements of dance and movement to facilitate a process that meets the needs and treatment programs of the clients with whom they are working. Dance and movement are applied as a supportive intervention and can also serve as a diagnostic tool.
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How many sessions do you recommend a month?
Although frequency of counselling sessions depends on each person, I do recommend booking the first few sessions 2-3 weeks apart.
Can I use my insurance card to help pay for a session?
In many cases, yes!
Please contact your benefits provider to find out if my services are covered. I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).
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How long is a typical session?
A typical individual session is 50 minutes in length.
A typical group session is 60 minutes in length.