Joelle Schaffer

About

Joelle’s approach to assessment and therapy is humanistic, trauma-informed, and values authentic connection, presence in the moment, inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity. Her approach is primarily rooted in emotion-focused therapy (EFT) and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), and she incorporates elements from additional modalities including acceptance, compassion, and
mindfulness-based therapies, tailored to the individual needs and preferences of each client.

Joelle is currently completing her PhD at Toronto Metropolitan University. Her program of research focuses on the experiences of existential dread which may underlie day-to-day worrying, and explores potential associations between anxiety and self-transcendent experiences of awe. Throughout her doctoral training, Joelle has completed placements at St. Michael’s Hospital Family Health Team, Toronto Metropolitan University’s Centre for Counselling and Student Development, and is currently completing a placement at the Toronto Academic Pain Medicine Institute (TAPMI) within Women’s College Hospital. She also provides assessments for participants in Remedy Institute’s Randomized Trial of MDMA-Assisted Cognitive- Behavioural Conjoint Therapy (CBCT) versus CBCT in Dyads in Which One Member has Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

At Remedy, Joelle provides psychodiagnostic (mental health), ADHD, and psychoeducational (learning disability) assessments to young adults and adults who are seeking enhanced self-understanding, are wondering whether a diagnosis may help to describe their experiences, who may benefit from individualized supports or accommodations at school/work, and/or are looking for clarification of a treatment plan. Her approach to assessments and diagnoses is person-centered and neurodiversity affirming.

M.A. – Clinical Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University (2024)
Ph.D. (in progress) – Clinical Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University