Amy Sedgwick (she/her)

Amy Sedgwick is a dedicated occupational therapist, educator, and advocate whose work spans diverse realms of holistic health, reproductive rights, and psychedelic therapy. With a commitment to compassionate care and innovative approaches, Amy has made significant contributions to the fields of occupational therapy and women's health.

Amy's journey in the realm of holistic health began with her undergraduate studies at the University of Guelph, where she spent two years working towards a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology while volunteering in the Horticultural Therapy department at Homewood Psychiatric Hospital. This foundational education sparked her interest in the intersection of mind, body, and spirit, setting the stage for her future endeavours. Driven by a passion for empowering individuals to live their best lives, Amy pursued a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy at the University of Toronto. Here, she honed her skills in therapeutic interventions and patient advocacy, laying the groundwork for her impactful career in healthcare.

Amy's career trajectory reflects her multifaceted interests and commitment to holistic wellbeing. She has held various roles across different settings, each contributing to her expansive expertise and compassionate approach to patient care.

During her tenure at St. Martha's Regional Hospital in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Amy provided essential support to individuals with mental health challenges, fostering healing and resilience within her community. Her work at Veterans Affairs Canada further solidified her reputation as a skilled therapist, where she dedicated herself to improving the lives of military veterans through personalized interventions and compassionate care.

In addition to her clinical work, Amy has been deeply involved in education and advocacy. As an adjunct lecturer at the University of Toronto Department of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science, she has shared her knowledge and expertise with the next generation of healthcare professionals. Her role as a faculty member at Justisse College International allowed her to shape the curriculum and mentor students in the emerging field of reproductive health and sexuality.

Amy's commitment to advancing the field of occupational therapy led her to pursue specialized training in psychedelic-assisted therapy, becoming Canada's inaugural OT student in this groundbreaking program at Vancouver Island University. This experience has equipped her with unique insights into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, enriching her practice and expanding her toolkit for supporting clients on their healing journeys.  Amy has further developed both her practical and academic knowledge in psychedelics through studies with the Diaspora Psychedelic Society in Jamaica, and collaborations and fieldwork practice at Holos Integrative Health in Halifax and NuVista Mental Health in Fredericton.

Throughout her career, Amy has been a trailblazer in advocating for women's reproductive rights and sexual health. As the co-founder of Ecosex.ca and Red Tent Sisters, she created safe and inclusive spaces for individuals to explore their sexuality and access holistic reproductive health services. Through these ventures, Amy empowered countless individuals to make informed choices about their bodies and reclaim agency over their health and wellbeing.

In addition to her clinical and entrepreneurial pursuits, Amy is an active member of various professional associations and advocacy groups, including the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists and the Psychedelic Association of Canada. Her commitment to anti-oppression work and racial justice is evident in her participation in training programs and workshops aimed at creating more equitable and inclusive healthcare systems.

Amy's approach to therapy is eclectic and draws from techniques of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Written Exposure Therapy, nature-based therapies, somatic approaches, and principles of person-centred care. Amy also has a deep interest in the intersection of astrology with psychedelic therapy, a topic which, while controversial, has been supported by some of the leading psychedelic pioneers.  Amy's primary therapeutic tool with her clients is a sociological approach to working with emotions called Dynamic Emotional Integration. This technique aims to enhance empathy while improving emotional granularity (the capacity to identify and name emotions), and solidify clients' skills in emotional regulation.

Outside of her professional endeavours, Amy is a passionate advocate for self-care and personal growth. Her interests span a wide range of activities, from dancing and photography to creative writing and traditional basket weaving. Through these pursuits, Amy finds balance and inspiration, nurturing her own wellbeing while continuing to uplift and support others on their healing journeys.

Amy's career embodies the essence of holistic health and compassionate care. As a registered occupational therapist, educator, and advocate, she has dedicated her life to empowering individuals to live fully and authentically. Through her innovative ventures, groundbreaking research, and unwavering commitment to social justice, Amy continues to shape the future of healthcare, one patient at a time.