Meet the Counsellor

Erin Mingay (She/Her) | MA

My name is Erin Mingay, I’m a Registered Provisional Psychologist, owner of Kiyâm Counselling and owner of Cedar Therapy Collective. I aim to create a space where you feel comfortable to explore your emotions, hopes, experiences and struggles. Together, we will be courageous, compassionate and creative as we navigate the complexities of being human.

I’ve spent a number of years working in the non-profit and mental health sector, predominantly working with youth. My frontline experiences have shaped my passion for holding space for stories and walking alongside people in their healing journeys. I identify as someone with mixed ancestry (English, Ojibwe, and Métis).

I enjoy spending time in nature. I will often find ways to celebrate our connection to the land. I love art and integrate art and creative activities into counselling sessions. Let's celebrate your strengths, slow down, and reconnect.

My Approach

You and your story matter to me. I use a holistic and client-centered approach to therapy. This means that we will figure out what will work best for you together. In our time together I will show up with presence, curiosity, and humility. I offer a warm and open space for you to show up as you are. Your big emotions and laughter are welcome here. My practice is rooted in compassion and creativity. I will use a range of evidence based trauma-informed techniques, somatic, and creative practices to create a therapy model that works best for you.

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Credentials

  • A Registered Provisional Psychologist is a professional designation granted by the College of Alberta Psychologist. In order to become a Provisional Psychologist, a clinician must meet specific educational and professional criteria and has demonstrated competence in the field of counselling. To become a Provisional Psychologist, individuals must complete a master's degree in counselling or a related field from a recognized university. They must also complete a minimum number of supervised clinical hours and adhere to the College of Alberta Psychologists’ Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.​ While I complete my hours to become fully registered I work with a wonderful supervisor.

  • I completed my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2018 from Mount Royal University, and my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in 2022.

  • Basic Accelerated Resolution Therapy (2023): Accelerated Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) helps you to replace the negative images in the mind that cause the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress with positive images. ART is done quickly, most often within one session! Once the negative images have been replaced by positive ones, the triggers will be gone. ART combines the power of eye movements to allow voluntary changes in your mind with well-established therapies like Gestalt, Psychodynamic Therapy and Guided Imagery.

    Integrative Polyvagal Theory for Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Attachment & more (2023): Polyvagal Therapy helps us to understand our bodies physiological and psychological responses. Trauma has a significant impact on our nervous systems and how we perceive a sense of safety. Polyvagal Theory helps us to understand how the vagus nerve relates to our human ability to connect and communicate with each other. Through Polyvagal Therapy, we can understand and change patterns that were developed to keep you safe, but are no longer serving you. Move away from survival mode and into connection.

Specializations

I utilize a holistic and eclectic approach to therapy. This means that I pull from a wide range of modalities and therapeutic approaches to create a therapy model that fits for you.

  • Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (MCBT) is a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), meditation, and the cultivation of a present-oriented, non-judgmental attitude to create lasting change.

    In our sessions, we will identify thoughts and behaviours, and practice mindful meditations.

  • Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a unique approach to psychotherapy. I will guide you to replace the negative images in the mind that cause the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress with positive images of your choosing. ART can have long lasting results in as little as one session.

  • Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is an action-oriented approach that stems from traditional behavior therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I will help you to stop avoiding, denying, and struggling with inner emotions and, instead, accept that these deeper feelings are appropriate responses to certain situations.

  • I believe in the healing power of stories. Together we can identify what is important to you and help you to create a life that aligns with your values. We will explore problems in a way that feels safe and respectful. You are so much more than the challenges you are facing. Narrative therapy uses a client centered and judgment free approach to help you explore yourself, your life, and your future

  • Come home to your body. Somatic therapy is a form of body-centered therapy that looks at the connection of mind and body. We will use mind-body exercises and other physical techniques to help release the trauma, stress and tension that we hold in our bodies.