Phillip Hau

I utilize Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to identify maladaptive and intrusive thoughts to form adaptive self-concepts. Furthermore, I thoughtfully incorporate Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to work with traumatic life events and Emotionally Freedom Technique to ground and process strong emotions.

I am trained in Play Therapy to work with children and Emotionally Focused Therapy to work with couples towards healthier relationships. I am also Pride certified to work with sexual and gender minority individuals. I have facilitated queer space workshops and allyship within the city with Edmonton Public Schools. I was a camp counsellor at Edmonton’s Camp FYrefly—Canada’s only national leadership retreat for LGBTQ+ folks.  I believe in social advocacy and I promote social justice in all my work.

I am certified in crisis work through the American Association of Suicidology. I have done crisis de-escalation, suicide intervention, and domestic violence assessment through the Distress Line with the Canadian Mental Health Association. I have also been recognized by Edmonton Mayor Don Iveson for my 10-year volunteer service at Royal Alexandra Hospital.

Thank you for sharing with me, your courage and resiliency.

A COUPLE OF QUESTIONS:

What has been the most satisfying part of being a psychologist?

As a psychologist I appreciate walking the mental health journey with my clients. I enjoy exploring the strengths, skills, and knowledge that emerges through our counselling conversations. Some conversations may be difficult to go through but the growth that comes from that is a rewarding experience to witness.  

What do you do to keep your outlook optimistic?

We often think about the “cup” as being “half full” or “half empty”. Instead, I like to ask “how do you fill up your cup”. Some activities that I do to fill up my “cup” is by engaging in intentional self-care through mindfulness, being in the present, and focusing on gratitude.