Psychotherapy with Dr. Jacqueline McAdam
This short video introduces my work as a psychotherapist. It briefly explains my therapeutic approach in the context of Human Development, Mental Health and Resilience.
Thank You for Dropping In!
Dr. Jacqueline McAdam of Resilient Generations
I have over 30 years of experience working with children, youth and families in Canada and across Africa. My practice, along with my academic research, seeks to help many more individuals build greater resilience.
In Canada:
My areas of focus are:
Mental health challenges (child and youth mental health, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, pre- and post-partum depression)
Relationship difficulties: life transitions, loneliness, aging, illness, unemployment, separation and divorce.
Africa Local and Global:
My areas of focus are:
Immigrant and Refugee Issues: settlement, forced migration, trauma of war, a specific focus on children, youth and families in especially difficult circumstances.
These experiences have deeply shaped my understanding of human resilience, psychological strength, and the capacity for growth within the most challenging circumstances.
In my book, More Than Luck Cultivating a Resilient Mindset-Navigating Life and Adversity, I introduce a framework that can help individuals, therapists, and those working in the mental health field understand how to help themselves and others cultivate a resilient mindset.
In my Psychotherapy Practice:
Using my framework, I work with you not only to survive but to transform and thrive despite the odds.
The Following Perspectives Inform My Practice
Humanist Psychology: I have been drawn to the work of Carl Rogers, the founder of Humanistic Psychology, because it is person-centred. Humanistic psychology provides unconditional acceptance and regard for the process of growth and change. This means your authentic being is valued, respected, and celebrated.
Positive Psychology and Logotherapy: Spearheaded by Martin Seligman in 1998, positive psychology built on earlier principles of humanistic psychology articulated by Rogers and Maslow. It complements Logotherapy, also known as the theory of optimism, developed by Viktor Frankl. Using these approaches, I work with you to help you reflect on what is working, expand the potential opportunities in your life, and increase your ability to thrive.
Ecological Systems Theory and Resilience: Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory helps us understand the various aspects of our lives and the inherent risks and opportunities reflected in resilience theories. There are five spheres of influence, illustrated in the Ecological Model Diagram, that create systems of interaction and a unique equation in which the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. Examining each helps us identify potential risks at different stages of development, and equally explore how a greater number of protective factors can increase your sense of resilience.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT):
Developed by Dr. Stephen Hayes, ACT helps us lean into life’s discomfort, accept our thoughts and feelings, live in the present moment, and act in alignment with our values. Based on humanistic psychology, as expanded above, it also incorporates aspects of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), rooted in behaviourism.
Certified as an ACT Practitioner
As a certified ACT practitioner, I will work with you to explore areas of psychological inflexibility and create psychological flexibility.
Satir’s Family System Theory: Virginia Satir’s approach to family therapy is rooted in the power of our interpersonal skills and communication. Drawing on her work, we will work together to validate the roles we played in our families and reflect on how these are showing up in our present relationships, their strengths and weaknesses.
Most people seek psychotherapy because of a problem that needs to be fixed. However, this approach lacks some of the principles embedded within positive psychology and theories of resilience. In my practice, problems, adversities, and life challenges are viewed as opportunities for growth. As a result, the therapeutic process helps us uncover the obstacles to growth.
Book your 15-minute consultation by clicking on the button below
I will work with you to navigate life with grace and ease, to support transitions, facilitate growth and enhance resilience.
A core aspect of the therapeutic process is the professional relationship you develop with a counsellor. To define our “goodness of fit,” I offer a 15-minute online consultation before you commit to the counselling process.
