Joan Samuels-Dennis

Dean, School of Psychotherapeutic Innovation

Dr. Joan Samuels-Dennis, Ph.D., is a visionary leader and pioneer in the field of psychotherapy, dedicated to advancing holistic and integrative approaches to mental health. With a foundation in nursing, Dr. Joan’s journey into psychotherapy was inspired by her experiences in the Families First program, where she recognized the profound impact of trauma on mental and physical health. This led her to pursue further education, earning a Master’s degree in Community Health Nursing from D’Youville University and a Ph.D. in Nursing and Mental Health Promotion from Western University.
 
Dr. Joan is the creator of the Becoming Method™, a groundbreaking psycho-therapeutic approach that integrates physical, psychological, and spiritual healing to address the complex effects of trauma. Remarkably effective, the Becoming Method™ is known for its ability to resolve traumatic responses within just 3 to 7 sessions, offering a rapid pathway to recovery and empowerment. As the Dean of the School of Psychotherapeutic Innovations at the Becoming Institute, the first Black-led institution of its kind, she champions a new gold standard in psychotherapy education. Her work extends beyond the clinical setting into the realms of social justice and advocacy, where she addresses historical traumas and promotes healing within Afro-descendant and Indigenous communities.
 
Her dedication to community health is reflected in her role as Chair of the National Healing Journey, a movement that tackles the lingering wounds of colonization, enslavement, genocide, and systemic forms of hatred. Dr. Joan's holistic view of health care, deeply rooted in an understanding of the interconnectedness of life’s physical and emotional aspects, has made her a respected figure in the global mental health community.
 
Dr. Joan is also a prolific author and speaker, sharing her insights and methods through books, articles, and presentations worldwide. Her seminal works, "490: Forgive and Live Fearlessly" and the accompanying workbook "Forgive: Master the Art of Letting Go," encapsulates her philosophy and offers guidance on overcoming the limitation imposed by traumatic responses to live a more fulfilling life. Her leadership at the Becoming Institute has set new standards in psychotherapy, training a new generation of nurses and healthcare practitioners as certified Trauma Recovery Specialists through an innovative 12-month Trauma Recovery Certificate.
 
Throughout her career, Dr. Joan has been recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious Global Health Leader Award, which attests to her profound impact on mental health and wellness. Based in Toronto, Canada, Dr. Joan continues to inspire and shape the future of psychotherapy and holistic model of healthcare delivery.