“To be aware is to be responsible”

Self care is how you take your power back

About me

“therapy is about understanding the self that you are”

who am i?

I am Jyotsna Duranleau, my clients call me Jo. I am a psychotherapist (RPQ) in private practice working with adults in Ontario and Québec, Canada.

I was born and brought up in Mauritius (East Africa) and spent a number of years studying in India before moving to Canada. I have a Masters Degree in Industrial Psychology and a Diploma in Gestalt Psychology from the Gestalt Institute of Toronto.

Being from a country with a diverse ethnic and religious traditions, I was lucky to be able to appreciate and understand different cultures and walks of life. I have always been curious about people and I truly believe that every encounter I have had has helped form who I am and taught me something either about myself or someone else.

I am mom to a toddler + 2 dogs and enjoy spending my free time with my family and continuing to explore the world. I am also fluent in English, French and Mauritian Creole.

What I offer?

I provide my clients a safe space where they can feel heard, seen and supported in a non judgemental environment. I use Gestalt techniques to gently challenge them into exploring themselves and patterns they want to understand.

My approach is focused on being present - what is happening now, in this moment; to aim to enhance self awareness, personal responsibility and a sense of wholeness.

My areas of focus

  • Relationships and Family Dynamics

  • Anxiety

  • Trauma (Childhood Trauma, Sexual Assault)

  • Intimate Partner Violence

  • Motor Vehicle Accidents

  • Interracial Relationships

  • Navigating Pregnancy and Postpartum

  • Life Transitions

  • Cultural Adjustment

  • Stress

  • Body Image and Self Esteem

The tools I use

The tools used in Gestalt therapy can be playful and imaginative and also provide deep exploration. Some of the techniques I use in my practice include:

  • Dialogue: This involves engaging in a conversation to explore a particular issue or situation and sharing the impact we have on the other.

  • Creative Expression: By using various forms of artistic expression such as drawing, movement, sound or role playing to facilitate self-discovery and emotional processing. 

  • Empty Chair Technique: This technique involves sitting across from an empty chair and engaging in a dialogue with a person, feeling, or part of oneself represented by the chair. 

  • Awareness Exercises: These exercises focus on paying attention to thoughts, feelings, and sensations in the present moment. 

  • Experimentation: Experimentation involves trying out new behaviors or perspectives to see how they feel and what the impact is. 

Take time for you

Individual therapy

A tailored approach to meet your specific needs and goals while exploring your thoughts, feelings and behaviours.

$125

consultation

Book a free consultation and let’s talk about what your intentions and goals are for yourself.

couples therapy

A neutral and safe space to explore your relationship dynamics, improve your communication and strengthen your bond.

$145