Heather Howe, MSW, RSW

My name is Heather Howe (she/her). I'm a Registered Social Worker, therapist, clinical supervisor, and trainer who specializes in working with survivors of sexual assault/abuse, intimate partner violence, family violence, and all forms of gender-based violence. 

I provide trauma therapy using a blend of EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapies. A big part of my work is de-pathologizing survivors and the strategies they have used to survive and adapt to patterns of abuse and oppression in their lives. When we understand trauma symptoms as parts of ourselves that are stuck in the past, trying to adapt and survive, we can work with those parts, instead of against them, to process trauma and promote healing. 

I also understand that when it comes to child abuse, domestic violence, and various forms of oppression, the trauma is rarely just in the past. Many survivors have to navigate relationships with their abusers, most have to navigate difficult family dynamics even if their abuser is no longer in their lives. And, living in a world where violence against women and gender-diverse people is common means that many survivors never feel completely safe. This understanding is crucial when providing trauma therapy to survivors of abuse. 

After working with survivors for over 15 years, I believe in the power of post-traumatic growth and healing. If you are ready to address the traumatic impacts of abuse and violence and you think my approach might be a good fit, please reach out.