Dr. Joel Tourigny

I have been working as a therapist for 30 years, over 20 of those as a practicing psychologist. For over 10 years now, I have been devoting most of my clinical time to Sick Kids Hospital serving youth and families whose lives have been touched by chronic illness. As a part of my role at SickKids I coordinate the Pediatric Psychology Fellowship and I am active in training our residents and fellows each year.

 

I began my career working with children, youth, and families in a variety of treatment settings including school programs for children with behavioral and emotional problems, day programs for youth who had recently been living on the street, outward bound programs for youth in corrections, and inpatient mental health programs for youth diagnosed with mental health conditions. Through this work with youth and families in group settings I decided that I wanted the opportunity to continue to work with people in a more individual setting.

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I did my education and training in clinical psychology at the University of Saskatchewan with a focus on psychotherapeutic approaches with youth and adults. I completed my residency at the Alberta Children's Hospital in Calgary, AB. My practice and training has taken me to a variety of places and settings over the years. I have worked in public and private settings across 4 provinces. My work has included public mental health, hospital settings, and private practices. I have maintained an interest in working with youth, families, and adults throughout my years of practice. Currently, I am working at the Hospital for Sick Children where I meet with children, youth, and families whose lives have been touched by chronic illness in various ways. 

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My approach to therapy is individualized. I draw on a variety of evidence-based treatments including CBT, ACT, IPT, MI, and family therapy, and I work hard to ensure that my clients' needs and goals are the primary drivers of our time together. My goal is to help my clients reduce suffering, enhance their feelings of freedom and enjoyment in their daily lives, and access as much joy and peace as possible. If this sounds like something you want more of in your life, I'd love to hear from you.