Amanda Buckingham
I grew up in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and spent 20 years working as a tap dancer and musical theatre performer. After moving to Toronto in 2012, I slowly began to realize that the artist’s life was not for me. As I reflected on my options for a career transition, I recognized that my passion for stories, vulnerability, and a deep understanding of emotions had led me to pursue a career in theatre and dance. When I realized that these same passions could be channeled into a fulfilling career in the mental health field—a field that had always appealed to me, given my own lived experience with mental health challenges—I put my tap shoes up on a shelf and shuffled off to university.
I began my journey toward becoming a Registered Social Worker at Ryerson University (Now Toronto Metropolitan), where I earned my Bachelor’s of Social Work. From there, I went to the University of Toronto, where I earned my Master’s of Social Work. I completed my training in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and worked on a comprehensive DBT team at Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences. Eventually, I started my own private practice, where I offered individual DBT services and DBT skills classes. When I discovered RO DBT, I was so excited by how this therapy could help those who struggle with maladaptive overcontrol.
Are you struggling with things like anxiety, depression, perfectionism, or loneliness? Or maybe you’re not even sure what you’re struggling with, but you’re not feeling great? Reach out, and let’s chat!
Melanie Goldman
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and hold a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology. I am also a mental health advocate, motivational speaker, writer, spiritual channeller, musician, and dedicated champion for those with borderline personality disorder (BPD) in Canada. For more than ten years, I have been a leader in the mental health sector through volunteering and appearing as a guest on numerous podcasts such as Back From The Borderline and The BPD Bravery Show. Additionally, I am a member of the cast of the YouTube TV series The BPD Bunch, and have received formal training as a peer facilitator for the BPD Society of British Columbia and Emotions Matter.
I have undergone training in dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and currently am training in other therapeutic techniques. I have received recognition from various journals and organizations for my community-oriented endeavours. During the month of May, which is designated as BPD awareness month, I actively engage in multiple speaking events to raise awareness, dispel myths, and shed light on the reality of BPD in order to foster understanding and hope.Working with and supporting hundreds of people over the years who are navigating the diagnosis of BPD has given me a deep appreciation for both the challenges and the significance of my work. Bipolar disorder and BPD impacted the lives of both my sister Jackie and my grandmother Rae and I hope to continue to help others find their own “Rae of Light in the Darkness.”
