SHARON ASHTON, M.A., RP
Sharon Ashton’s educational experience includes a B.A. (Bachelor of Arts) in Psychology from York University and M.A. (Master of Arts) in Integrated Studies from Athabasca University. She also has a B.A.A. (Bachelor of Applied Arts) from Ryerson University in Office Administration and Certificate in Psychology from Ryerson University. Sharon is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), and is a member in good standing of the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrists and Psychotherapists (OACCPP). Sharon has taken several courses with a focus in counselling, including two Certificate programs at OISE (University of Toronto) in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT Fundamentals and CBT for Complex Disorders). She is currently pursuing certification in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). Sharon regularly participates in professional development, including workshops/conferences in ADHD, Mindfulness, Collaborative Problem Solving, Personality Disorders, and Depression/Anxiety. She has worked for 15 years in the psychology department of the Peel District School Board, and has been involved with Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Peel as both a Big Sister and In-School Mentor for close to 20 years.
PERSONAL MESSAGE
One of the reasons I initially wanted to get into psychotherapy is because I’ve always been told that I’m a good listener, I want to help people, and I think everybody needs someone to talk to. People generally don’t want to burden their family and friends with their problems, and psychotherapy offers the opportunity to express feelings in a safe environment without the fear of being judged. I am an empathetic listener and understand that based on our life experiences, culture, environment, etc., we all have a unique perspective on the world. It is so rewarding for me to see positive changes in my clients and know that they’ve benefited from our sessions.
In my personal life, I practice mindfulness regularly and spend as much time as possible outdoors in nature. It is very healing. I love to hike, travel, and spend time with my family. Reading, learning, and education are also particular passions of mine. I belong to a book club and continually take courses. It is important to keep learning through life.
Working for years at the board of education in a psychology department has helped me to learn things from an educational perspective – about LD, ADHD, and mental health issues in students. I see a lot of stress and anxiety in children now when it comes to school issues, and I find this knowledge to be particularly valuable when I conduct psychometric testing. I like that every testing situation is unique and that we treat each student as an individual, even though we often administer standardized tests. I love working one-on-one with people, so assessment settings are perfect for me. Overall, I enjoy the work I do here at the clinic because of the diversity of clients that I learn from and can help improve the lives of.