Our
Story
THE CREATION OF BOLD LOTUS TRAUMA THERAPY
I am privileged to continue to work in both the public and private sector. During the day, I lead teams of frontline superheroes to support youth across South-Western Ontario with complex mental health needs, developmental trauma, and family relationships challenges. In this role, I utilize my platform to advocate for gender equity, challenge social injustices, and support families in navigating complex systems. My professional passions align with intersectional feminism, as well as, stem from my understanding of attachment, developmental stages, and neuroscience. In Fall 2022, I elevated these passions to open Bold Lotus Trauma Therapy. Since then, I am thrilled to have built up a team of fierce women who share in my vision to stomp patriarchy! My identity as a step-mom and aunt inspire me to lean into bravery, authenticity, and kindness to continue to lead | tell the truth | ask hard questions | be assertive | and take up space!
ABOUT THE OWNER | KATIE
I bring 10+ years experience to this wonderful, wild, and challenging field of social work. My passion for working with youth, young adults, and their families is rooted in my career in children's mental health, specifically live-in mental health treatment sites. It's here I truly learned relationships are at the core of everything and strengthened my ability to connect, attune, and care for youth who left footprints on my heart. After six years working frontline, I attended graduate school where I earned a Master of Social Work Degree and Trauma Certificate. Following these academic adventures, I returned to children's mental health, as well as, began a new chapter in private practice. I continue to be a life-long learner, and recently completed a certificate in Clinical Supervision.
COMPASSIONATE, TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE
A trauma-informed approach is about creating an environment and adopting practices that recognize the widespread impact of trauma and its potential effects on a person’s mental and physical wellbeing. It’s about being aware of the possibility that a person may have experienced trauma, and understanding how that can shape their behaviour, reactions, and overall health.
The trauma-informed approach does not necessarily require direct treatment of trauma but rather a mindset shift to create spaces and interactions that promote healing and understanding.
A trauma-responsive approach takes the trauma-informed mindset a step further by integrating practical interventions and strategies that directly address the trauma someone has experienced. It focuses not just on being aware of trauma but on actively responding to it in a way that promotes healing and recovery.
Together, both approaches ensure that individuals who have experienced trauma are met with compassion, understanding, and effective care.
Empowerment Through Feminist Therapy
A feminist approach in therapy is about understanding how things like gender roles, stereotypes, and unfair systems in society can affect someone’s mental health and experiences. It’s about helping people feel empowered and confident while recognizing that their struggles aren’t just personal—they’re often influenced by bigger issues in the world.​
Working as equals
The therapist and client work together as a team, rather than the therapist acting like they know everything. The client’s experiences and feelings are seen as important and valid.
Respecting All Identities
This approach recognizes that everyone’s experiences are shaped by things like gender, race, culture, and sexuality. The therapist makes sure to honor and include all parts of a person’s identity.
Looking at the Bigger Picture
The therapist helps the client understand how things like sexism, unfair expectations, or other kinds of discrimination might be adding to their challenges. It’s not just about “fixing” the person—it’s about understanding how society plays a role.
Challenging Unfair Rules
A feminist approach encourages clients to question societal expectations, like pressure to look or act a certain way, and to redefine what works best for them.
Building Confidence
The focus is on helping the client feel strong, capable, and in control of their own life. This might mean learning to set boundaries, make decisions, or challenge unfair situations.
Fairness, Equality, and Supporting the Whole Person
A feminist approach helps people understand how the world around them impacts their lives and gives them tools to feel empowered and make positive changes.
THE STRENGTH OF FRESH PERSPECTIVES
Some of the therapists at Bold Lotus Trauma Therapy in London, Ontario are younger and recent graduates, which some people might see as a challenge because they associate age with experience. However, their youth and recent training bring a fresh perspective, backed by the most up-to-date therapeutic strategies. Having young therapists on a team brings unique benefits that can enhance the therapy experience for clients. Here’s why:
UP-TO-DATE TRAINING
Young therapists often come into the field with the latest knowledge and techniques. Their recent education equips them with cutting-edge approaches and research-based strategies that are fresh and relevant.
FRESH PERSPECTIVES
Young therapists bring new ideas and approaches to therapy. They may see situations in a different light, which can lead to creative solutions and strategies that resonate with clients.
ADAPTABILITY
Growing up in a fast-changing world, young therapists are often very comfortable with technology and open to exploring new methods, like teletherapy, apps, or digital tools, to support clients.
RELATABILITY FOR YOUNGER CLIENTS
Younger therapists may naturally connect with younger clients who feel more comfortable talking with someone closer to their age. This can help build trust and make therapy feel less intimidating.
Your Path to Healing Starts Here
Book your free 15-minute consultation today with a therapist of your choice! All therapists at Bold Lotus Trauma Therapy in London, Ontario offer phone or virtual consultations to learn about your therapy needs, explain their approach, and answer any questions you have to determine if you are a good fit! At Bold Lotus, we believe this extra step is incredibly important to provide the support you deserve - the right care at the right time!