Ben Bentum

MA, Registered Psychologist

Areas of Focus

Approach

My approach to therapy is built on the understanding that change is possible and that healing takes place in authentic relationship.  Carl Jung is often given credit for a phrase, though it may have originated elsewhere, which reads, “it is the privilege of a lifetime to become who you truly are.” Sometimes, though, there are barriers on our journey to becoming.  These barriers can be external events such as the death of someone close to us, the loss of a relationship or job, or a traumatic event(s). The barriers may also include our reactions to negative events such as anxiety, depression or addictive processes. Sometimes the way we have learned to survive in the world is no longer working for us. In each of these areas I endeavor to walk alongside you in discovering who you are in relation to your barriers and the change you are pursuing.  My training has given me a variety of tools to help bring awareness, to process negative events, and to experiment with changes that match with who you are, and who you are becoming. 
Please feel free to contact me to discuss if I am, and this approach is, a good fit for you.
Take care,
Ben

  • Existential Counselling| finding the conditions for a fulfilled life

  • Grief and Bereavement | death, divorce, separation, loss of pets, suicide, child loss, other loss

  • Anxiety | social, generalized, trauma related

  • Identity | self-awareness and self-understanding

  • Meaning | loss of meaning, meaning-making, purpose

  • Depression| low mood, loss of interest, irritability

  • Relationship issues | communication, boundaries,  processing family dynamics, past and present

  • Emotion Regulation | understanding and regulating intense emotions and associated behaviours

  • Parenting | emotional and practical support

  • Trauma| abuse, neglect, accidents

Qualifications

  • Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists

  • Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Trinity Western University

  • Certified as an OEI therapist for processing trauma.