About

I'm Dr. Payton Bernett (they/them), a licensed psychologist with a virtual practice based in Quebec. I hold a PhD in Counselling Psychology from McGill University, where my research focused on community strengths in queer healing.

I work with adolescents and adults navigating complex trauma, dissociation, identity exploration, and the challenges that can arise when life feels disconnected from who we are, how we relate to ourselves, or the life we hope to build. I practice from a systemic and anti-oppressive stance. Additionally, many of the people I work with identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ and/or neurodivergent.

My approach is relational, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that healing is not about fixing what is broken, but about developing a more compassionate and trusting relationship with ourselves. Many of us learn to survive by disconnecting from ourselves, our emotions, our bodies, or other people. Psychotherapy can offer an opportunity to gently reconnect and cultivate a greater sense of authenticity, belonging, and connection.

My work is informed by specialized training in complex trauma and dissociation, including the Advanced Certificate in Complex Trauma and Dissociation from the ISSTD. I also serve as Co-Chair of the Montreal Study Group on Trauma and Dissociation. I draw from relational, emotion-focused, existential, somatic, hypnosis, and parts work (e.g., Internal Family Systems, Ego State Therapy) approaches in working with clients.

I also bring lived experience as a queer and transgender person, a trauma survivor, a neurodivergent individual, and someone who has navigated the youth protection system. These experiences have shaped my understanding of healing, resilience, identity, and the importance of connection and community.