Nicolas Allen
Registered Provisional Psychologist (Registration #734p)
Nicolas’ areas of special interest and expertise include Sport and Exercise Psychology, Chronic Pain, Depression and Eating Disorders. Nicolas has an extensive background in sport psychology and counselling. He has over fifteen years of athletic coaching and mentoring experience and was a five-time member of the Canadian National Fencing Team. Nicolas earned his Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from City University of Seattle after earning his Bachelor’s of Physical Education degree from the University of Alberta where his Major was Sport Psychology.
You have problems . . . we have solutions; so whether you just need someone to talk to or have a specific mental health concern, River Valley Counselling Services can help.
My Theoretical Approach
In both his sport psychology and general practices, Nicolas utilizes a form of therapy called Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) which was developed by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg. SFT concentrates on solutions and preferred futures in preference to problems. In using this theoretical approach, Nicolas amplifies clients’ strengths and abilities that are already being used to combat the clients problem. Nicolas believes that some problem-focused therapy may lead to feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness in the client.
SFT is fantastic for athletes as well because it allows the athlete to focus specifically on improving their abilities much like physical or technical training. Once an athlete has a grasp of the foundational mental skills for sport, overcoming performance improvements becomes a matter of practice, addressing additional concerns as they arise.
Location
#1610 College Plaza 8215 112 St.
Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2C8
Tel: (780) 430-9224
Fax: (780) 432-9526
Email: rivervalleypsych@me.com
