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There are many things I love about being a psychologist, but rising near the top is reframing clients’ beliefs and assumptions about the way things “should” be. And this is certainly true in the world of sex therapy. In working with individuals and couples for the last 15 years, just about everyone has a mental script about the way things should unfold during an intimate encounter, or how bodies should look, or how our gender should dictate how we behave. My consistent experience has been that while there are times these beliefs can be helpful, more often than not, they can make us feel stuck, and hold us back from the lives we want to lead. So by the time someone comes to see me, they feel little hope about their ability to change. And I promise – when you have the right support, and with the right amount of patience, persistence, and compassion, you can do amazing things.
A little bit about my background: After I completed my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at McGill University, I completed two postdoctoral fellowships in sexual health in the U.S., and worked as a licensed psychologist with the Psychiatry Department at Columbia University in New York City. I then returned to Toronto to take up a position as lead Psychologist at the Adult Gender Clinic at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), before moving into full-time private practice. You’ll see a summary of my qualifications below.
Given my rigorous training and extensive work experience as a clinician and academic, rest assured you will receive treatment interventions that are up-to-date and based on the latest research findings. At the same time, my focus is on you as a person, and that means a recognition of, and deep respect for, your humanity. Sessions with me in therapy are typically informal and conversational, which helps to make issues, that can at times feel awkward and shameful, easier to discuss. My clients tend to describe me as warm, supportive, and deeply caring, with gentle doses of challenging – so that you can move towards the place where you want to be.
A summary of my qualifications is as follows:
M.A. in Humanities, York University, Toronto
M.Sc. in Clinical Psychology, University of Calgary
Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, McGill University, Montreal
Postdoctoral Fellowship at The Institute in Gender and Sexual Health, University of Minnesota
Postdoctoral Fellowship with The Program for the Study of LGBT Health, Columbia University, New York City
Together, we’ll use cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and we’ll also consider attachment theory during our sessions. These approaches will help you to better understand and navigate your thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and patterns in intimate relationships.
When working with couples, I also often use emotion-focused therapy, and draw on diverse perspectives, different psychological disciplines, as well as my own clinical and research expertise.
Seeking therapy can often feel like a very vulnerable undertaking – especially when discussing topics that can feel ‘taboo’.
I want to reassure you of the safety of the space we will be holding, and what you can expect during session.
Together, we will create a truly safe, warm environment where you feel seen, supported, and encouraged to dive more deeply into your lived experiences.
I take a proactive approach during our sessions, and strive to set you at ease when discussing those vulnerable topics.
We will forge a positive bond where you can share your thoughts and feelings with, and in, confidence.
I am currently a senior doctoral student in Clinical Psychology at Simon Fraser University, where I completed my M.A. in Clinical Psychology. Prior to my Clinical Psychology training, I obtained my Master of Social Work Degree and a B.Sc. Honours in Psychology from the University of Toronto.
I am passionate about helping individuals manage problematic sexual behaviours, also known as compulsive sexual behavior or hypersexuality, and providing them with the tools they need to reach their sexual health and relational goals. My extensive training in the treatment of problematic sexual behaviours is complemented by significant experience in evidence-based treatments for a range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety and related concerns, trauma, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and sleep difficulties. I have previously trained at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), which included providing assessment, as well as individual and group therapy, for clients in the Sexual Behaviours Clinic. My training extends to other units at CAMH, including the Work, Stress, and Health Program, where I provided assessment and group treatment for individuals who experienced traumatic events in the course of their work, as well as the Integrated Day Treatment Service, where I provided group treatment to individuals experiencing mood and anxiety disorders. I am currently continuing my training at a university psychology clinic, where I provide individual therapy to adults in the community with mood, anxiety, and interpersonal relationship difficulties, as well as at a Vancouver-based private practice, where I primarily treat anxiety. Throughout these experiences, I have learned to develop effective treatment plans for a wide range of complex issues, tailoring them to the client’s individual and unique circumstances. I have worked with clients from a broad range of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds and through this work, I have learned the power of treatment when it is personalized, inclusive, and specifically tailored to the specific challenges you face in your life.
My treatment approach is primarily rooted in a cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) framework, where we will work together to identify and change your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that are coming in the way of your goals. We will also draw on principles from attachment theory to help you feel empowered and express yourself authentically in your close relationships. Additionally, I incorporate Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness and acceptance-based approaches to help you manage complex emotions and urges.
I am committed to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental, and welcoming space where clients of all genders and sexualities feel affirmed and supported in a sex-positive environment as we work towards you fulfilling your vision of sexual health.
Navigating mental health can be overwhelming. I hope to make that process easier by creating a warm, and compassionate therapeutic space. My goal is to help clients better understand themselves and support their personal growth both within, and outside of therapy. I find myself drawn to evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), Emotion-focused therapy (EFT) and Psychodynamic Attachment-based therapies but take an overall eclectic approach to provide the most individualized care.
I am currently a Master of Psychology Student at Adler Graduate Professional School and am completing a practicum under the supervision of Dr. Philip Jai Johnson. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, supporting clients in working towards their therapeutic goals at a pace they feel comfortable with. I work with adults dealing with a broad range of difficulties including mood regulation, trauma, and sex concerns. My work with couples typically focuses on providing partners with tools to improve communication, heal past wounds and reconnect physically. My aim is to support clients in building skills that help them feel empowered to take on life’s challenges.
Sydney Deen is here to welcome you to Dr. Philip’s psychological services. She graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and is currently completing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health at Adler University.
With a background within the mental health field, Sydney is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for clients. In her free time, she enjoys doing puzzles, exploring nature, and spending time with friends and family, which helps her maintain a balanced perspective.
If you have any questions regarding scheduling appointments, billing, or any general inquiries about our practice, you can reach Sydney directly at admin@drphilip.ca