Lindsey Stephenson, Calgary Psychologist
Registered Psychologist #7368 | Calgary, Alberta
In-person therapy in downtown Calgary • Virtual sessions across Alberta
A Warm, Grounded Space for Real Emotional Work
I’m a Registered Psychologist who works with high-achieving adults navigating anxiety, harsh self-criticism, imposter feelings, perfectionism, burnout, trauma (including childhood wounds and narcissistic abuse), depression, and attachment & relational patterns (individual therapy).
Clients often describe me as calm, warm, clear, and easy to talk to. My goal is to create a therapeutic space where you feel genuinely seen, supported, and able to explore your inner world without judgment.
My work is anchored in Internal Family Systems (IFS) — my primary approach — along with attachment theory and trauma-informed practice. When trauma is present, I also use Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) for rapid, gentle relief. I’m especially passionate about helping ambitious professionals who appear successful on the outside but struggle with relentless inner criticism, “not enough” feelings, or exhaustion from constant pressure.
My Approach to Therapy
My approach is collaborative, practical, and always paced to your comfort level. Many clients arrive feeling overwhelmed, stuck in old patterns, or unsure where to even begin. We slow down together, make sense of what’s happening inside you, and gently shift the patterns that have been holding you back.
What you can expect in our work together:
- A compassionate, non-judgmental environment
- Clear explanations of what we’re working on
- Deep emotional understanding that naturally leads to real-life change
- Full respect for your boundaries and pace
- A focus on lasting healing from the root — not just surface coping
IFS is woven in gently and naturally. You don’t need to know anything about it beforehand — I explain everything in plain language and guide you every step of the way.
Areas I Work With Most
I support adults experiencing:
- Anxiety, worry, and chronic stress
- Trauma and unresolved emotional experiences (including childhood wounds and narcissistic abuse recovery)
- Depression, low mood, or emotional numbness
- Understanding and recovering from narcissists/narcissistic abuse
- Harsh self-criticism / inner critic work
- Imposter syndrome and perfectionism
- Burnout and professional pressure
- People-pleasing and difficulty setting boundaries
- Self-esteem, self-worth, and attachment & relational patterns (individual therapy)
- Identity concerns and major life transitions
These topics often overlap. If you’re unsure where your concerns fit, the free consultation is the perfect place to figure it out together.
Credentials & Professional Background
Education
- Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University
Registration
- Registered Psychologist #7368, College of Alberta Psychologists
Professional Designations
- Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) #19548 — before transitioning to psychology, I worked in corporate accounting, so I truly understand high-pressure professional life
Training & Modalities
Primary
- Internal Family Systems (IFS) – my main approach for almost all issues
- Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) – Basic Training, Rosenzweig Center (used for rapid trauma processing when helpful)
Additional training I draw from
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) – Attachment Science in Practice, Dr. Sue Johnson
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Dr. Russ Harris
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – graduate training
- Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
Approach foundations
- Trauma-informed and attachment-based practice
- Emotion-focused and mindfulness tools as needed
- Strengths-based, collaborative therapy
Professional Experience
I’ve worked with diverse adult clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, narcissistic abuse recovery, harsh self-criticism, imposter syndrome, perfectionism, burnout, and relational patterns. My practice focuses on lasting change through gentle understanding of internal patterns and building genuine self-compassion.
Why I Do This Work
I believe people are incredibly resilient — even when everything inside feels heavy or chaotic. Therapy should be a place where you finally make sense of your patterns, your pain, and your strengths, without judgment.
Before becoming a psychologist, I spent years as a CPA in high-pressure corporate settings. That experience showed me how easy it is for driven people to push themselves too hard and silence their own needs. Now, I love helping people in similar worlds find more ease, clarity, and kindness toward themselves.
Professional Ethics & Client Care
As a Registered Psychologist, I adhere to the ethical standards of the College of Alberta Psychologists. Confidentiality, informed consent, and your autonomy are non-negotiable.
Therapy is always tailored to your needs, paced to your comfort, and grounded in safety, respect, and professional integrity.
