Dr. Bonnie Lee

Dr. Bonnie Lee’s clinical research in treating the couple unit when one or both partners exhibit an addictive disorder is an exciting innovation in the field of addiction. Professor in Health Sciences, she is the developer of Congruence Couple Therapy (CCT) and the principal investigator of a research program on the model’s theoretical framework, counsellors’ training efficacy, and treatment effectiveness. Her recently completed randomized trial conducted in the provincial health system demonstrated significantly improved outcomes for both clients and their partners in addiction and mental health symptoms, emotion regulation, couple adjustment and reduced life stress with CCT, outperforming individual-based therapy.

The Congruence systemic model weaves together four dimensions of attention and awareness: the intrapsychic, interpersonal, intergenerational and universal-spiritual. This ‘four-in-one”  integrative approach fosters not only joint improvements among couple partners but also opens up a better future for their children.

Her significant contribution in formulating a compelling theoretical integration and new applications in carrying forward the work of Virginia Satir, a pioneer in family therapy, was recognized by the President of the Satir Global Network.

In recognition of the impact of her work nationally and internationally, she was awarded the Board of Governors Research Chair (Tier 2) in 2016-2019. Congruence Couple Therapy adopted by Addiction Services Edmonton was named a Distinguished Initiative by the Quality Health Council of Alberta in 2023. A highly rated trainer and keynote speaker, she shares her knowledge and clinical expertise with professional associations and universities around the world. Her academic career includes appointments in Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Penang, Sapporo, and Athens.