About Sholly Scarlett
My Story
I grew up in a community where being a black psychologist was unheard of. Therapy happened in the pastor’s office and the rest you did on bended knee through prayer and good faith.
In college, I had no idea what I wanted to do, so I chose psychology because I thought that I was a good talker and that was what therapy was about. I was apprehensive about telling my family about my choice because I thought they would think, “Therapy, what do you need that for? That’s the pastor’s job.”
To my surprise my family was supportive. I completed my degrees in psychology and started to work in the field. The biggest lesson I learned along the way was that “just talking” wasn’t helpful and that the most valuable thing about therapy is when the therapist allows the client to show their true authentic self.
During my free time, I like to read, write, travel, and volunteer for my community. I wholeheartedly believe that giving back is an essential part of making communities stronger. It took a village to raise me, and without my village, I would not be the woman I am today.
My Educational Background
I received honours with both of my degrees. I earned my Bachelor of Science in psychology with a minor in family studies from Southern Adventist University, and my graduate degree, Master of Science with specialization in marriage and family therapy from Loma Linda University (Canadian Campus).
I have worked in several settings including correctional facilities, mental health clinics, hospitals, public and private counselling firms, women’s shelters, and school environments.
I’ve also facilitated and co-facilitated workshops on a variety of topics such as anger management, parenting, social skills related to children, and communication. Now, I’m investing time in my private practice in the downtown area of Edmonton.
My Skills
My Passion
My Counselling Style
I would describe myself as humorous, blunt, and compassionate. My highest priority is to always provide a safe place for my client – a judgement-free zone. I also think that finding a therapist who is a good fit for you is an important step in the process.
I always feel so honoured that I get the opportunity to temporarily join a client on their life’s journey as they transform. It’s humbling and fulfilling to see the work my clients do to be present in their lives.
Qualification Highlights
Education
Loma Linda University M.Sc, with specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy
University of Alberta (St. Stephen’s College) Graduate coursework on Suffering
Southern Adventist University B.Sc, Psychology and minor in Family Studies
Certifications
Working with Couples from a Hakomi Perspective
Emotionally Focused Therapy - Externship Training
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Basic Training
Reconnecting the SELF: Reprocessing Early Trauma and Neglect in Implicit Memory with EMDR
Training
(select training only, to view all click here)
November 21, 2016-Risk Assessment of Violence presented by ExecutiveLinks. Edmonton, AB.
January 18-March 22, 2017-American Sign Language (ASL) Units 3 & 4. Edmonton, AB
July 3-5, 2017-Three Day Mindfulness Intensive in presented by Jack Hirose & Associates, speaker/trainer Michael Stone. Banff, AB
September 20-24, 2017-Five Day Intensive Training for Mental Health Professionals in Pragmatic/Experiential Method for Improving Relationships presented by Dr. Brent Atkinson. Edmonton, AB.
June 1-2, 2018 and September 7& 8, 2018 Emotionally Focused Therapy Core Skills Training Weekend 1 & 2, various presenters, Edmonton, AB
November 17, 2018 Working with Sex in Emotion Focus Therapy (EFT): Helping Couples with Sexual Issues in EFT, presented by AASECT Certified Sex Therapist Jason Jones, Registered Psychologist
July 5-8, 2019 Intermediate Level 1: Somatic Experiencing, facilitator Linda Steele, Edmonton, AB
Affiliations
College of Alberta Psychologists - Registered Psychologist April 2007 to Present
Psychologists' Association of Alberta - Registered Psychologist April 2007 to Present
Affiliate Membership for American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy 2005-Present
Past Member of International Critical Stress Foundation Member 2006-2009
Community Volunteer
Board Member of Hakomi Institute Edmonton Division, 2019-Present
Hakomi Assistant for Edmonton Hakomi, 2019-Present
Edmonton Institution for Women’s Wellness Committee, 2013-2015
Edmonton Institution for Women’s Employee, Equity, and Diversity Committee, 2013-2015
Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton-Crisis Line Worker 2003-2013
Keynote Speaker for the National Black Coalition of Canada-Edmonton Chapter-March 2008
CSS Group Facilitator for Anger Management Parents and Children 2006
CSS Student Facilitator for Life
Enhancement Skills (aimed at individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder) 2005-2006
CSS Intern Member of Violence Protocal Committee 2005-2006
St. Albert Parent’s Place-Co-facilitator for Boys’ Anger Management Group 2005
Alberta Hospital-Forensic Psychology Research Assistant 2002-2003
Let’s find out if we’re a good fit with a quick consult!
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