Michael Sheppard

I am trained both in psychodynamic therapy and DBT. Psychodynamic therapy involves discovering and working with hidden patterns on our lives; it is quite unstructured. DBT is a skills-focused treatment, mostly targeting behaviour problems, and often structured. I find the space between these approaches is where most peoples' problems lie, and I prefer to work in this space (i.e., not all psychodynamic, not all DBT). My work with clients also leans heavily on attachment theory and interpersonal neurobiology (big words for human connection). We know the alliance between practitioner and client is the most important contributor in positive therapy outcome. I don't believe in being a "blank slate;" if you ask me a question about me, I'll probably answer it.

2025+ Michael Sheppard (freelance psychological work) in Berlin. Psychological consulting, coaching. 2018 to 2025 (Dr. Michael Sheppard Psychological Services, Inc) in Vancouver (Canada): Conduct individual psychotherapy, psychodiagnostic and medico legal assessments, supervise doctoral students' clinical work. 2023+: Consultant/supervisor at LikeMinded (now Nilohealth), Berlin: Faciliated intervision for psychological experts. 2017-2021- Assistant professor, Adler University Vancouver, Doctoral program in clinical psychology: Teach doctoral level clinical courses, supervise students' doctoral dissertations. Currently adjunct faculty, supervising one student. 2012-2018- Psychologist at DBT Centre of Vancouver, Vancouver (Canada): Provide individual psychotherapy and group skills training, supervise students, teach DBT to mental health professionals. 2010-2013- Psychologist at Correctional Service of Canada Abbottsford (Canada): Assess risk of violence, sexual violence, and suicide. Develop and apply treatment program for chronically suicidal/self-harming inmates.

2013- Post-doctoral fellowship in DBT at DBT Centre of Vancouver 2010- PhD-clinical psychology from University of Saskatchewan