Dr. Virginia Simonds
Psychologist

Dr. Simonds provides adult psychotherapy with individual adults. She treats a wide range of problems with special interest in treatment of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, self and identity issues, and general emotional pain. She has a special clinical and research interest in women’s depression and anxiety and the interaction between the two.

Dr. Simonds uses an integrated approach to therapy with a focus on tailoring the approach to provide the best care possible for each individual. Thus, the balance of emphasis on emotions, current ways of being and thinking, family of origin issues and their impact on present relationships, and psychoeducation is determined collaboratively according to the needs and goals of the client.

Dr. Simonds graduated from the University of Ottawa with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. During her time in the graduate program she had extensive experience assessing, diagnosing, and treating problems with a wide range of complexity and severity at the Centre for Psychological Services, the Royal Ottawa Hospital in the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Centre and the Geriatric Outpatient Clinic, and Riverview Hospital and Langley Mental Health Centre in British Columbia. Dr. Simonds was the recipient of the Scott Rafter Award for excellence in clinical work and research, many scholarships including two Natural Science and Engineering Research Council Scholarships, and has published several articles. In addition, her Ph.D. thesis won an award for Academic Excellence given by the Canadian Psychological Association.

In keeping with the science-practitioner model, Dr. Simonds consults current peer-reviewed articles, chapters, and books in order to stay abreast of the latest findings in psychology. This facilitates her commitment to provide the best care with sensitivity and compassion for her clients. She maintains a membership with the Canadian Psychological Association.