About Me
Charmaine Patterson, clinical social worker, registered with the Alberta College of Social Workers and the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
I was born and raised here in Calgary, a true Calgarian. Having said that I have lived in Southern Alberta, abroad; Northern Wales and now settled back in Calgary. I enjoy the outdoors, walking my dogs at the local dog park or along the riverside. Mother Nature is my sanctuary. I also enjoy gardening both flowers and vegetables, kayaking, swimming and going out to live music events.
Philosophy
With over 27 yrs of experience, I am passionate to work with adults who struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, chronic pain, stress, grief, depression, low self-esteem, regulating intense emotions/mood instability, sense of emptiness, interpersonal struggles, avoidance, work/life balance, setting boundaries and personality issues. I have marvelled at people’s abilities to be resilient while also struggling with a racing mind and/or experiencing intense emotions. I enjoy listening to people’s stories and finding the most effective therapeutic approach to assist them with reconnecting to their inner capacity and wisdom. While also helping them to find balance, reduce the effects of stress and improve their overall quality of life.
I help people to reconnect with their inherent inner wisdom & strength by actively listening non-judgmentally. By being able to laugh at our selves & our patterns we begin the process of healing.
This work is done in partnership by creating a nonjudgmental safe environment and a place of acceptance which allows you to look at your coping patterns and establish a path to healing. Through understanding, compassion and curiosity we can start to explore who you are & move to who you want to be.
With many years of experience in helping people I have learned to focus my efforts in helping people develop the best version of themselves. I create a cozy safe place for people to explore who they are & assist them to feel more in control of themselves & their lives.
I see people as unique diamonds (whole person model) and it being my job to support people to build more awareness into their inner workings. Awareness is the key ingredient to change, if there is no self-awareness no change can occur. It is about cultivating curiosity to have a better understanding of how your behaviors impact your thoughts, emotions and body sensations or vice versa.
MINDFULNESS helps you to turn inwards to observe yourself and gain awareness, it is an effective tool to assist people with connecting with their inner capacity and wisdom. It has personally helped me to have more gratitude, and it has empowered me to be accepting of my ‘monkey mind’ which subsequently appears to be less busy. I am more present and awake to the moments in my life. As Kevin Griffin points out “The first principle of finding happiness is to notice when it’s here.”
Availability
Monday – day/evening, Friday – day/evening and Saturday - day.
Evening appointments available upon request.
Education
Fall 2023 – Mar. 2024: Comprehensive Training in Group Leadership (120 hours of training) comprising 72 hours of direct instruction and 48 hours of related readings and reflective learning journals with Toronto Institute of Group Studies
Fall 2018 – Fall 2020: ACSW Clinical Social Work Designation – 1600 hours of clinical supervision
Fall 2014 – Feb. 2016: Completed the teacher training for the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Series through MBSR Ottawa which started with a nine-day intensive practicum.
Aug. 2011 – Summer 2013: Master of Social Work Clinical Graduate Degree, University of Calgary
Dec. 2001 – Summer 2004: Group Psychotherapy Certificate Program through the Group Therapy Training Program, Calgary
Fall 1996 – April 1998: Bachelor of Social Work Degree, University of Calgary (Lethbridge Division)
Completed several three to seven day silent retreats, building my own mindfulness practice. I believe one needs to practice what they preach!
