Kaitlin McGarragle

MA, Doctoral Associate

Kaitlin is currently completing her doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Toronto Metropolitan University. She has provided assessment and intervention services at St. Michael’s Hospital and the Frederick W. Thompson Anxiety Disorders Centre at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. In addition to her work at Forward Thinking, Kaitlin is currently providing clinical services to individuals at Toronto General Hospital’s Eating Disorders Clinic and also works as a therapist on a clinical trial providing therapy to people who have undergone bariatric surgery. 

Kaitlin has worked with individuals with severe OCD, PTSD, binge eating disorder, anxiety (generalized and social anxiety), substance use disorder, and depression. Kaitlin also has several years of research experience working with individuals with chronic illnesses like cancer and multiple sclerosis.

In terms of her work with individuals with OCD, Kaitlin has conducted individual and group therapy with individuals who experience intrusive thoughts and compulsions related to unwanted sexual themes, violence, contamination, symmetry, and feelings of “just rightness.” When working with individuals with OCD, Kaitlin uses an evidence-based approach which includes ERP-based CBT as well as values-based work and mindfulness approaches. She is also able to work with individuals using Inference-Based CBT for OCD.

Kaitlin takes a collaborative approach to therapy and values authenticity and curiosity in the therapeutic setting. She aims to create a warm and supportive environment for clients that allows them to most effectively work towards their goals.

Kaitlin uses evidence-based interventions including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). She is particularly interested in how feelings like shame and existential concerns impact wellbeing. 

Kaitlin enjoys live music, watching stand-up comedy, listening to podcasts, reading, and learning about people.