Ariel Dawn, B.A., Counsellor

Recovery is challenging, but living with OCD is harder.

As a counselling intern at Turning Point Psychological Services, I embrace an eclectic approach to treatment, recognizing that no two individuals are alike. I am currently a registered student member of accredited organizations such as the IOCDF, CADDRA, CPA, and the CRPO.

My background in crisis intervention and peer support has further ignited my passion for supporting neurodiverse individuals facing complex and overlapping mental health challenges such as OCD, anxiety, BRFBs, and PTSD. Drawing from evidence-based treatments such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Inference-Based Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (I-CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy (REBT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), I integrate these modalities within Existential and Biopsychosocial frameworks. Additionally, when appropriate, I incorporate somatic approaches to address the physiological symptoms of trauma, ensuring a holistic treatment experience.

I am dedicated to building therapeutic relationships founded on patience, active listening, compassion, and validation. Operating from a person-centred approach, I prioritize neuro-divergent affirming treatment plans for those with co-occurring disorders. Leading therapeutic group sessions is particularly meaningful to me, as it allows me to democratize mental health resources and ensure equal opportunities for care.

In my practice, I strive to create a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where clients can openly share their experiences, thoughts, and behaviours. I welcome diversity and approach therapy with a culturally inclusive and creative mindset. While treatment and exposure work can be daunting, I am committed to finding moments of levity and connection as we work together to uncover the resilience within you.

Anxiety and ritualized obsessions can be among the greatest thieves of joy. Though our neurodiverse brains and life experiences may present challenges, there is always a path forward. Healing is not linear, and despite how difficult life may seem, every storm eventually passes to reveal the sun, the moon, and the stars. I aim to guide you toward the tools and coping strategies to help you maintain a fulfilling and meaningful life.

As someone with lived experience managing OCD and anxiety, I understand how overwhelming and draining intrusive thoughts and intense emotions can be. These thoughts can hook us, creating rules that bring a false sense of security, leading to a cycle of reassurance-seeking. Rituals and avoidances can drain our energy and pull our focus away from what truly matters—our loved ones, our work, our joy. Add the daily struggles of neurodivergence, such as executive dysfunction and feeling overwhelmed by routine tasks, and it’s easy to feel stuck in a deep-seated hopelessness.

My main objective is to work alongside those struggling with OCD, anxiety-related disorders, and dual diagnoses, particularly those who identify as neurodivergent. I approach each person's journey with curiosity, eager to understand what has been helpful or unhelpful in the past. I believe in meeting clients where they are and supporting them wholeheartedly on their path to wellness. Connecting with clients on a deep, empathetic level is essential to our work, both in and out of session. Together, we can initiate meaningful change, creating progressive, intentional shifts that lead to a life aligned with your values. Let’s work together to reclaim balance and stability in your life. Reach out to Turning Point Psychological Services today.