Career Counselling and Coaching in Oakville, Ontario.

Career Counselling is a unique field as it is constantly changing. Traditionally, career counselling followed a straight linear path - You finished high school, got training, got a job and stayed there until retirement. Now, however, career planning is anything but simple and linear. Trends like globalization and increased contract work, mean that planning your career is not a simple, straight forward process. I have been helping teens and adults find their career passion, while still helping them meet their current and future needs.

The Refuge offers career and life coaching services in combination with psychotherapy, for clients who are seeking both. Identifying your strengths, interests and transferable skills are and possible career paths to explore is part of the process, encouraging you to "dream big" while still being mindful of the logistics of your finances and personal/family obligations. Together we can also explore labour market information, write resumes and cover letters, and prepare for interviews, as well as work on the underlying emotional and mental barriers that may be creating anxiety, affecting your confidence or preventing you from taking the next steps in your life and career.

According to one study, about 75% of the population feels stuck in a job that they find unsatisfying. It does not have to be that way! It is possible to pursue a vocation that maps on to your values, passion, natural abilities and environment. Whether you are new to Canada, just entering the work force, in transition, or functioning with a disability - a career counsellor can help you explore your options, discover your passion, and develop your skills to make good decisions about your future.

Starting a new career or shifting careers can be a very overwhelming process. My approach to career counselling involves helping clients to first identify their strengths and values. From here, clients are invited to envision the career path that they desire. This is achieved through mindfulness exercises, imagery techniques, career assessments and values questionnaires. Solution-focused and strength-based techniques are heavily utilized to help clients recognize their inner potential and develop clear and achievable goals.

Dr. Strauss offers career counseling through New Leaf Psychology Centre. In order to facilitate decision making, sessions will first assess your current skills, assets and interests. Your level of fulfillment at your current place of work, and obstacles to fulfillment will also be discussed. Potential career changes will be reviewed, with the goal of helping you come to a decision that you are comfortable with.