Amanda L. Hankins, MSW, T.S (Social Worker, Psychotherapist)

What I believe...

I subscribe to the idea that suffering is a natural part of the human existence, we suffer and experience discomfort so we can cope and grow. This is how we learn to thrive;  we lean into vulnerability and discovering new and wild things we never knew about ourselves. However,when we exceed our threshold of suffering we can get stuck. This is when our discomfort begins to feel like pain and our suffering is no longer beneficial to our growth. I like to think of my role as the collaborator and support system for moments like these. I believe in curiosity and compassion with my clients. I want to help you access strengths and recover coping mechanism that you need to be a conscious and mindful sufferer. 

What I have Learned...

I received a masters degree In social work (MSW) in 2014 from the University of Central Florida. I have additional psychotherapy training in somatic psychotherapy, trauma-informed interventions, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. For the past six years I have spent time working in education, counselling, and program development at McGill Medical School, Harvard University, University of Central Florida, and Massachusetts Institute for Technology.

How I work...

My work is experiential, dynamic, and emotionally focused. My approach is holistic, focusing on social systems with an anti-oppressive framework. I am passionate about treating the whole person which includes their environment, support systems, and overall wellness. My goal is to create a unique space for each individual to explore their needs and be heard.

I specialize in working with sexual and interpersonal trauma, PTSD, complex trauma and medical trauma. I have experience working with adolescents 12-18, adults and couples and I have done extensive work with graduate students and professionals in the health care field. I am radically LGBTQ+, queer friendly, and sex positive. I am highly specialized in treating;

• Traumatic experiences including sexual and interpersonal violence

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Somatic and medically unexplained disorders

• Disordered eating

• Chronic illness and medical related traumas

• Sexual dysfunction

• Body image and self-esteem

• Perfectionism

• Question related to gender and sexual identity

• Coaching related to performance anxiety, communication, assertiveness and leadership

I am a certified yoga instructor and utilize yoga, mindfulness based stress reduction, progressive relaxation, and guided meditations to supplement psychotherapy interventions.

I am a licensed member of

• Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec: (OTSTCFQ)HANA18/02/220

• Ordre des psychologues du Québec: (OPQ) #61862-19

Click here to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation with me to learn more about therapy, my approach, and your needs!