Childhood Trauma

Childhood Trauma Therapy Ottawa

Childhood trauma refers to when a child experiences a traumatic event that results in negative and pervasive physical, psychological and cognitive effects. 


Response to traumatic event will depend on the event and individual characteristics such as age, past experiences, social support, etc.


Treatment can occur at any time following the trauma. Our psychologists can help children, adolescents, and adults heal from their childhood trauma.

Gilmour Psychologists with Expertise in Child Abuse

Contact Gilmour Psychological Services® in Ottawa to schedule a consultation with a psychologist who has an expertise in childhood abuse.

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By Kristi Rudolph May 4, 2026
Dr. Mari Shanahan Somerville, PhD, C.Psych, is in supervised practice at GPS under supervision by Dr. Deanna Drahovzal . Dr. Shanahan Somerville approaches therapy with the belief that the human mind is both powerful and adaptable. Each person experiences the world through a unique lens shaped by past experiences. While these experiences cannot be changed, the ways we understand and respond to them can evolve. Even when it may feel difficult, it is possible to develop new, more adaptive ways of relating to ourselves, others, and the world around us. Dr. Shanahan Somerville views therapy as an opportunity to cultivate self-direction and inner capacity, approaching oneself with compassion, curiosity, and resilience while exploring meaningful change. Dr. Shanahan Somerville holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Concordia University and has worked with individuals across the lifespan in a range of settings, including private practice, community mental health in both Indigenous and urban settings, a school board, and the Allan Memorial Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) . This breadth of experience has reinforced her belief that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. She practices from an integrative framework, grounded primarily in psychodynamic and cognitive behavioural therapies, and incorporates elements of third-wave cognitive behavioural approaches and mindful self-compassion. Central to Dr. Shanahan Somerville’s work is a deep respect for each client’s individual pace. She recognizes that trust develops over time and is committed to creating a space where clients feel safe to explore their inner world in a way that feels manageable and secure. She strives to meet clients where they are, offering a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where their voice and perspective remain at the center of the work. Beginning therapy is a meaningful and often courageous step. Dr. Shanahan Somerville would be honoured to support you in this process as you work toward greater understanding, growth, and well-being.
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September 17, 2022
Dr. Davies provides psychological services to individual adults, couples, children, and their families. She has had her own private practice since 1989, and for seven years prior to that worked as a supervised associate in private practice.
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September 9, 2022
Dr. Drahovzal provides psychotherapy and assessment services to children, adults, couples, and families at Gilmour Psychological Services® in Ottawa.
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September 5, 2022
Dr. Zahradnik provides psychodiagnostic assessment and psychotherapeutic services to both adolescents and adults.
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September 1, 2022
Dr. Henry’s prevailing theoretical orientation integrates cognitive-behavioural and schema-focused theories. Valuing each person’s individuality, she tailors her approach to her clients’ needs. Additionally, she works collaboratively with each person to assist them to develop awareness and strategies to make positive changes in their lives.
A woman with blonde hair is smiling and wearing a black shirt.
August 30, 2022
Dr. Miller’s theoretical orientation integrates interpersonal, cognitive behavioural, schema-focused and mindfulness-based approaches in helping clients develop an increased awareness of the factors that cause and maintain their difficulties. She guides them towards achieving their goals and making positive changes in their lives.
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August 28, 2022
Dr. Angelina Chupetlovska provides treatment to children, adolescents, adults and families. She also conducts child custody and access assessments. In her psychotherapy orientation Dr. Chupetlovska brings together aspects from the psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural, rational-emotive, and humanistic approaches.
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August 8, 2021
Dr. Fernie has worked extensively with childhood trauma and personality difficulties. Dr. Fernie has also worked with people who needed treatment overcoming single incident traumas, interpersonal difficulties, mood disorders (including anxiety and depression), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), self-esteem, stress and other major mental health issues. She is experienced in assessing and developing individualised treatment plans collaboratively with clients. Her therapy choices are client dependent and she uses an integrated approach.
Headshot of Dr. Arthur Braaten
July 31, 2021
Dr. Arthur Braaten provides psychodiagnostic assessment and individual therapy to adults for a range of psychological concerns. He believes that psychotherapy is a collaborative process that is tailored to each individual and their unique background. His approach to therapy is integrative and is informed by several evidenced-based approaches.
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July 29, 2021
Dr. Mutsaers provides individual and couple psychotherapy for adult clients. Her work primarily focuses on helping adults and couples cope with acute and chronic health issues (e.g., cancer, infertility, chronic pain, and sexual dysfunction).
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