Jason Townsley
Social Worker & Psychotherapist
“...be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.”
Feeling stuck in a cycle of low mood or overwhelmed by anxiety? As a man, are you struggling to find a space where you can openly discuss your thoughts & feelings? As a parent, are you searching for the right support for your teenager who is navigating difficult emotions and challenges?
I've spent almost two decades as a psychotherapist, guiding teenagers and adults through life's toughest challenges. In a world of switching industries and changing careers, I'm a rare breed—a long term one-career professional who has found immense fulfilment in this work. It's truly a calling that fits who I am. I've supported clients in diverse settings, including hospital psychiatric units, community counselling agencies, jails and detention centres, and private addiction centre overseas. My specialization is in treating low mood, stress, and anxiety, with a particular focus on men’s mental health and providing a therapeutic space for adolescents.
My practice is built on an authentic mix of compassion, humour, and curiosity. I believe that good therapy is not just prescriptive; it's about deeply witnessing the human experience in all its bittersweetness. It's about holding space for realness and rawness, allowing you to show up as you are, and embrace what you need. I apply a trauma lens to our work, recognizing the profound impact that past experiences can have on your present well-being. This includes drawing from the landmark Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) study to explore how early life events can shape our health and relationships. When we work together, I take a deductive reasoning approach to help you understand your issues by mapping out both the internal and external factors at play. We'll explore how your inner world—your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs—interacts with the external world—your relationships, environment, and life experiences. I also rely heavily on attachment theory to explore how your connections with others shape your mental and emotional health.
To support this work, I draw from a variety of evidence-based modalities, including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). I offer in-person sessions here out of The Arterie, a shared space in Burlington, Ontario, dedicated to psychotherapy. It's a beautifully renovated house that feels like a cozy, welcoming sanctuary, and is home to a wonderful collective of diverse therapists. For clients across the province, I also provide convenient and secure virtual sessions.
When you’re ready, send me a message: I’ll be here waiting for you.
