Monika Arent

Hello, I’m Monika, a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist with a passion for supporting individuals through their unique mental health journeys. For over 10 years, I have worked in many settings with individuals who are going through a variety of life challenges. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege to work extensively with: individuals involved with the justice system, problematic substance use, individuals facing complex mental health challenges, intellectual developmental disabilities, and co-occurring disorders. I have worked in home, community, hospital, and court-mandated settings with individuals, families and groups.

I’m always striving to meet my clients where they are at. My approach is based on different therapeutic modalities depending on what concerns come up for you, the style that will work for you, and what goals we develop as we start our journey together. Building a foundation of trust, mutual respect, and understanding is always considered a top priority while working together. To support my clients, I am very adaptable in therapeutic modalities to fit your specific needs because not every style works for everyone. To support those with intellectual developmental disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder and neurodivergence, I use adapted therapies that incorporate visuals or speech augmented devices, if needed.

In my practice, I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities to support individuals, couples, and families in navigating life’s challenges. Grounded in core social work values, such as empowerment, relational understanding, and client self-determination, I integrate Motivational Interviewing to build trust and help clients tap into their own motivations for change. This collaborative, non-judgmental approach fosters accountability and promotes emotional growth.

Attachment theory informs my work by helping me understand how early relationships shape emotional regulation and relational patterns. I support clients in exploring and repairing attachment wounds, particularly in family and couples therapy, to build more secure connections with themselves and others.

Using tools from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), I help clients recognize the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, while also learning effective coping strategies for distress, emotional dysregulation, and anxiety. These methods support clients in building resilience and healthier responses to life’s stressors. I also incorporate mindfulness and narrative therapy to help clients stay grounded, process difficult experiences, and reclaim their personal stories.

My approach is flexible and strengths-based, always tailored to meet the unique needs and cultural contexts of the individuals I serve. Above all, I strive to create a safe, collaborative space rooted in emotional attunement, where clients feel seen, supported, and empowered in their healing and growth.