Karen is currently not accepting new patients, and her booking availability is reserved exclusively for her existing patients..

Karen Belliveau has been working in various human services fields for 27 years. She is a registered master social worker, with the Nova Scotia College of Social Work. She is a warm and friendly individual, who welcomes the use of humor in therapy as a form of healing. As a competitive bodybuilder, she understands how the physical and mental function as one, which enables her to incorporate workable lifestyle routines and habits into a holistic treatment approach. As a clinician, she meets your unique needs with an eclectic therapeutic style. ‍ Karen is a strong advocate in, obtaining and, preserving the integrity of care entrusted to her by the people. She uses strength based and solution focused techniques and is trained in EMDR (trauma), CBT (anxiety & depression), CBT -TI (trauma informed), CBT-ED (eating disorders) and DBT (emotional regulation & distress tolerance). She has over 12 years experience working with concurrent disorders and specializes in the fields of Trauma, Highly Sensitive People (HSP) and Addictions (Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Harm Reduction Principals).

Karen takes a trauma approach and has worked closely with Indigenous and French Acadian populations in schools, clinics, university and private practice settings. She has provided services to children, adolescents, and adults presenting with various concerns as individuals, couples, families, and groups. Other interests are working with, BPD, Couple/Family Therapy, Victims of violence, Adult survivors of childhood abuse, Narcissistic relationship survivors, Grief (including suicide loss), Co-parenting, Burnout and Life/Adjustment issues. ‍ Karen brings to her sessions, a respectful sense of curiosity about the people she serves. She strives to create a safe space for all and believes that therapy helps to locate, claim and, successfully implement skills we naturally develop. ‍ Karen holds a Master degree in Social Work (with distinction) from Renison-University of Waterloo, a Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) from University of Manitoba and a Human Services diploma from NSCC (Honours). She is offering phone, virtual and in-person sessions.

Karen is currently not accepting new patients, and her booking availability is reserved exclusive... Read More

Emily Bushell MA CCC RCT is now accepting consultees (EMDR) supervisees (RCT-Cs). Emily’s client caseload is full.

Emily is an EMDRIA Certified Therapist and an EMDRIA Approved Consultant. Emily believes that all people have inner wisdom and an innate capacity to heal. Sometimes, through life challenges, difficult transitions and trauma, we can lose connection with ourselves. In our work together, I hope to help you access your inner wisdom, clear the unresolved traumatic experiences, and help you integrate wellness and balance into your life.

Emily Bushell MA CCC RCT is now accepting consultees (EMDR) supervisees (RCT-Cs). Emily’s client ... Read More

As a person-centered therapist, Mary’s intention is to bring mindfulness, empathy and compassion to client sessions, often tuning into their emotional experiences and beliefs. She offers guidance, support, and curiosity as she works with clients to explore, unpack, and recreate their self-perceptions in a strengths-forward direction and in a way that opens up more possibilities. She has faith in people’s incredible capacity to heal, grow and, in time, to flourish and considers it an honour to participate in that process through her counseling work.

The counseling modalities that she gravitates toward are:

• Person-centered therapy

• Emotion-focused therapy

• Narrative therapy

As a lifelong feminist educator and scholar, Mary listens for language that limits or constrains, and looks for empowering narratives that resist conditioned norms for all genders, including men. She has worked in queer-affirming spaces for more than three decades and is a committed ally. She draws knowledge and awareness of illness and disability from having navigated her own years-long healing journey from chronic fatigue syndrome.

She completed her Honours degree in Psychology at Mount Saint Vincent University, where she returned in the early 90s as a full-time faculty member in Psychology and in Women and Gender Studies. In the intervening years, she completed a Master’s and PhD in Human Development and Family Studies at Penn State University, which gives her a sensitivity to the workings of historical, community, and familial factors in shaping people’s lives. She is now very grateful to be completing her MA in Counseling Psychology at Yorkville University and embarking on a new adventure.

As a person-centered therapist, Mary’s intention is to bring mindfulness, empathy and compassion ... Read More

Jessie views each client as an expert on their own experiences and works collaboratively with the client to develop and implement individualized treatment plans. She utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and client-centered approaches within her counselling sessions to assist clients in making meaningful changes within their own lives. Jessie also has additional training in EMDR group traumatic episode protocol (G-TEP), and EMDR with persons with a disability.

Prior to pursuing her degree in Counselling, Jessie worked in residential care facilities caring for adults with various physical and mental health challenges. Jessie also has experience working with at risk youth in residential group homes. These professional roles have shaped Jessie’s integrative approach to clients, which emphasizes the importance of, and interaction between, the physical, mental, social, and emotional aspects of one’s health and well-being.

Jessie is interested in working with diverse populations, and has experience working with trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, interpersonal relationship challenges, as well as individuals of the LGBTQ+ community.

Jessie completed her Master of Arts Counselling Psychology degree from Yorkville University and is a Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. Jessie also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Community Studies from Cape Breton University (CBU), and a Social Services diploma from Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC).

Jessie views each client as an expert on their own experiences and works collaboratively with the... Read More

Sometimes life can throw you curveballs or be difficult to manage, but we don’t have to navigate this process alone. Maintaining a mentally and emotionally balanced life is important in creating overall wellbeing and functioning. While striving for that balance, it is also important to know and understand your limitations and strengths. This process of creating balance can sometimes be difficult, but having an effective mental health professional accompany you along the journey of exploring and unpacking given thoughts, feelings, emotions, and behaviours along the way can make the journey that much easier and less overwhelming.  ‍

I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (Candidate) who believes that each individual deserves to feel heard and supported. I also believe that there is no bigger show of strength than embracing help when it is needed. I have experience working with individuals and their situations related to trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, substance use, and self esteem. I believe in creating an environment of support and compassion, which fosters a space for clients to better understand their needs.  ‍

My education and experience include a science-focused degree, followed by a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I am an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) trained therapist and have been practising for over three years. I also have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, for couples. I work from a combined approach, incorporating techniques from CBT, Narrative Therapy, ACT, EMDR, and more, ensuring that therapy is person-centred and flexible to meet each client’s unique needs. This integrative approach is effective in addressing the overall well-being of clients and aims to incorporate well-being in all areas of one’s life.

Sometimes life can throw you curveballs or be difficult to manage, but we don’t have to navigate... Read More

Jane is currently accepting new clients.

Jane Gavin-Hebert is a registered Social Worker with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers and a certified 200hr yoga teacher with specialization in trauma-informed approaches, yin yoga and yoga nidra. As a social worker, anti-oppression and feminist methods are central to her therapeutic practice.

Jane has experience counselling youth and adults of all gender backgrounds through street outreach, needle exchange programs, and as a trauma therapist in a variety of settings including schools, prisons, and community-based organizations. Specializing in working with survivors of gender-based and sexualized violence, Jane previously worked at the local sexual assault centre for 11 years.

Jane offers Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing as a trauma processing modality, and draws on self-compassion and narrative therapy techniques. Jane brings an affectionate curiosity and relational healing approach to therapy, and hopes to cultivate meaningful connection and attunement with clients.

Jane Gavin-Hebert has a Master degree in Social Work, a Master of Arts in Gender and Women’s Studies, and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Women’s Studies.

Jane is currently accepting new clients. Jane Gavin-Hebert is a registered Social Worker with th... Read More

Jessica is happy to accept new clients at this time.

Jessica Gingras RCT CCC takes a collaborative and holistic approach to her work with clients, acknowledging that adverse or traumatic life events can impact individuals in many different ways throughout their lives.

Jessica is a Registered Counselling Therapist with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists and originates from Ontario. Before moving into clinical practice, Jessica served in the Canadian Forces as a clerk. Now, she is an active participant in military family culture and has a special interest in working with clients who share in this culture. Jessica is also passionate about working with clients who belong to marginalized groups. She acknowledges that every person has a unique experience of their own intersection of identities. Jessica brings a feminist framework and a social justice orientation to her work and is an advocate for BIPOC and LGBT+ rights. She integrates cultural competence, anti-racism, and inclusivity into her clinical practice.

‍

Jessica has experience working with individuals with a history of trauma, those living with mental illness, and those who struggle to maintain healthy relationships. She encourages her clients to explore their past and current selves through a compassionate lens and uses an integrative approach to help them foster an understanding of their thoughts, behaviours, and emotional experiences to make meaningful changes in their lives.

Jessica tailors her treatment plans to suit each individual client. Her clinical approach is informed by the mind-body connection, somatic interventions, trauma-informed practices and client-centered care. Jessica also offers Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy as a trauma processing modality.

Jessica holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (Honours) from York University, and a Bachelor of Arts in East Asian Studies (Honours) from York University.

Jessica is happy to accept new clients at this time. Jessica Gingras RCT CCC takes a collaborati... Read More

Jacqueline is a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) and a Registered-Counselling Therapist (RCT) with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT). She holds a Master of Education degree in Counselling from Acadia University and she has earned a PhD in Educational Studies (Psychological Aspects of Education) from the Nova Scotia Inter-University Doctoral Program at Acadia, Mount Saint Vincent, and St. Francis Xavier Universities. Jacqueline will be starting EMDR basic training in Spring 2025.

Jacqueline’s employment background spans twenty-five years as an educator and counsellor in public schools, post-secondary institutions, governmental agencies, and in private practice as a counsellor. She has a depth of experience supporting adolescent and adult clients experiencing a range of personal concerns, including:

• Acute and chronic stress and anxiety
• Nervous system dysregulation
• School related stress (school refusal/avoidance)
• Relationship difficulties and family stress
• Trauma, crisis, and debriefing traumatic events
• Grief and loss
• Depression and low mood
• Chronic illness and pain management
• Career development/career exploration
• Life/work transition
• Spirituality and existential concerns

Jacqueline’s counselling orientation is strongly person-centred. She believes a positive therapeutic alliance is fostered through a partnership between equals (client-therapist) in curious exploration of personal experiences, perspectives, and possibilities. Building trust and understanding in a non-judgemental, safe space underpins her therapeutic approach. As Jacqueline accompanies her clients, she supports them in the full articulation of their personal stories, helping them recognize and validate their innate strengths, beliefs, and values. In this way, the client is assisted in authentic self-discovery, while they are held in positive regard and anchored in self-awareness and in self-acceptance.

Jacqueline works co-creatively with her clients whereby mutual dialogue between client and therapist is essential to the effectiveness of therapy. Personal discovery and meaningful insights are co-constructed to illuminate a way through the many challenges encountered in life. In taking this approach, Jacqueline strives to help her clients create compassion for themselves as they come to a better understanding of their innermost feelings, concerns, fears, experiences, and goals. Strategies to achieve positive changes are suggested and implemented based on what holds resonance and value for the individual undertaking therapy.

Keeping in mind that therapy is an emerging and dynamic process, Jacqueline selects from a variety of psychotherapeutic tools and modalities to raise personal consciousness and to fluidly and appropriately respond to the needs of each person in her care. Some of the strategies she draws upon are:

• Narrative Therapy
• Rogerian Therapy
• Mindfulness Approaches
• Trauma Informed Approaches
• Solution Focused Therapy
• Feminist Counselling/Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Motivational Interviewing (MI)
• Choice/Reality Therapy
• Art Therapies and Creative Strategies
• Guided Meditation
• Career Development (Identity Work)

Jacqueline takes a special interest in working with people who are environmentally sensitive/highly sensitive people (HSP) who are managing fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple chemical sensitivities, nervous system dysregulation, and emotional/physical overwhelm.

Jacqueline works with clients who are in all phases of adulthood and adolescents (high school age).

Jacqueline is a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) and a Registered-Counselling Therapist (RCT) ... Read More

Matthew is happy to accept new clients at this time.

Matthew Hall has a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology, and is a Registered Counselling Therapist with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. Matthew has a trauma-informed approach to therapy using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Matthew comes from a background of working with clients with a diverse array of mental health issues as a mental health worker in an assisted living setting.

Matthew is interested in a working with diverse populations, and has experience working with such issues as abuse/neglect, substance abuse, and depression, as well as experience working with LGBTQ+, First Nations, and BIPOC communities. Time spent as a mental health worker has also provided Matthew experience with a variety of mental health disorders and issues related to acquired brain injury.

Matthew enters sessions with open-minded understanding, and humanistic approach that aims to foster a sense of ease and acceptance with clients.

Matthew is happy to accept new clients at this time. Matthew Hall has a Masters of Arts in Couns... Read More

Alys is currently accepting new clients.

Alys is a Certified Canadian Counsellor and Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. Alys earned her MEd Counselling at Acadia University, and also has a Wellness Diploma, MA and BFA.

Alys is an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) –trained therapist. She believes therapy offers a safe and supportive space to process past experiences, re-examine beliefs, and explore behaviors that once served us, but may no longer be helpful. Recognizing how early life shapes our present experiences, she integrates attachment and family systems theories to help clients deepen their connections - with others, and with themselves.

Alys takes a collaborative, inclusive approach rooted in existentialist, humanist, feminist-constructivist and queer-affirming principles, fostering a sense of worth and belonging. She also incorporates creative and play-therapy techniques, understanding that some of our most formative experiences predate language. By working with image and metaphor, clients can bring unconscious aspects of themselves into awareness, allowing for deeper exploration and healing.

Alys identifies as cisgender female, queer, neurodivergent, a white settler, and a person with disability.

Alys works with clients of all ages, and particularly enjoys working with children and the LGBTQ2S+ community. Alys is always excited about new learning opportunities, and is currently pursuing further training in EMDR, Play Therapy, and WPATH Certification.

Alys is currently accepting new clients. Alys is a Certified Canadian Counsellor and Registered ... Read More

Sumi is currently accepting new in-person and virtual clients.

Sumi is a Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. She is dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges through a compassionate, understanding, and person-centered approach. Sumi holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Human Nutrition and a master’s in Counselling Psychology.

Sumi’s area of focus includes working with clients that need help regulating their emotions, guidance on life and career transitions, general mental health concerns, trauma, and those experiencing anxiety or depression. Given her dietetics and nutrition background, Sumi also works with individuals and families impacted by eating disorders.

She provides individual therapy to teenagers and adults, as well as couples counselling.

Sumi uses various evidence-based modalities such as Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Narrative Therapy, along with other mindfulness approaches. She practices from a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and socially just lens, ensuring that therapy feels inclusive, respectful, and tailored to her client’s experiences and worldviews. Sumi believes that diversity and client’s unique perspective contribute to the therapeutic experience, and she strives to create an affirming space where all clients feel seen and heard.

Sumi is currently accepting new in-person and virtual clients. Sumi is a Registered Counselling ... Read More

Lindsey MacDonald, originally from Cape Breton Island, has called Halifax home for the last two decades. During her 20+ year career in education, Lindsey has held roles such as Learning Centre Teacher, Student Support Teacher, Transition Teacher, Department Head for Student Services, and is also currently working as a School Counsellor with the Halifax Regional Centre for Education. With an impressive educational background that spans across diverse fields of mental health and education, Lindsey holds three Masters of Education degrees in: Counselling from Acadia University; Leadership and Administration with a focus on Mental Health from St. Francis Xavier University; and Curriculum Studies with a focus on Supporting Learners with Diverse Needs and Exceptionalities from Mount Saint Vincent University. She also holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of New Brunswick as well as a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Biology and Psychology, from Saint Mary’s University.

As a Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate (RCT-C) and a Canadian Certified Counsellor (C.C.C.), Lindsey’s approach is all about connection, understanding, empathy, and supporting growth. She has a special knack for helping people discover their strengths, skills, and talents. Lindsey believes in the power of hope, resilience, and the unique potential in everyone, striving to make her therapy sessions a place where clients of all ages feel relaxed, supported, and empowered to tackle life’s challenges.

Lindsey has a vast amount of knowledge and experience in navigating and accessing supports within the education system. She is a strong advocate for marginalized and/or vulnerable populations and has a solid understanding of the various barriers that often exist within the complex systems in our society. Lindsey also has both a personal and professional passion for working with clients who are impacted by social justice issues, particularly those who have experienced acts of sexual harm/violence and domestic abuse. She is deeply committed to providing a safe, supportive, and non judgmental space to help individuals find peace and purpose through their healing journey.

Lindsey welcomes clients seeking support and change in a variety of areas, and has a special interest in the following: working with individuals with neurodiversities (e.g. autism, ADHD, learning and cognitive disabilities, etc.); grief counselling; obsessive compulsive disorder; anxiety disorder; career exploration and work/life balance; navigating life transitions (e.g. divorce, career changes, illness, etc.); family systems and dynamics; school-related issues (e.g., school avoidance, peer relationships, etc.); sexual wellness (e.g. intimacy, sexuality, infidelity, etc.); and positive interpersonal skills (e.g. conflict resolution, boundary setting, self advocacy, etc).

Lindsey also volunteers with Hospice Halifax as a Group Bereavement Facilitator. This role underscores her dedication to providing compassionate support to those navigating grief and loss. She is also connected with Inclusion Nova Scotia, an organization dedicated to promoting inclusion and accessibility, and looks forward to collaborating and contributing to their mission of creating supportive and equitable spaces for Nova Scotians.

When not working, Lindsey loves travelling, going to restaurants, checking out local markets, watching live music and theatre, going to football games, trying new hobbies (most recently ballroom dancing), quiet walks in nature, and summers filled with road trips and beach days. Her heart is happiest when spending time with her friends and family, two very special Boston Terriers (Clem and Ringo), and her much loved nephew.

At Wholetherapy, Lindsey is currently accepting new patients, offering her expertise in counselling to both children, adolescents, and adults. She also enjoys working with couples and families. Her approach to therapy is integrative, drawing from her extensive background in education and mental health to provide tailored support that meets the unique needs of each individual and family.

At the current moment, Lindsey is booking clients at Wholetherapy’s new satellite office, located in Spryfield at Coral Shared-Care Health Center, on Monday and Wednesday evenings and at our main Wholetherapy Dartmouth location on Saturdays. Should you be interested in an appointment outside of that time, please email Lindsey herself at lindsey@wholetherapy.ca and she will try her best to accommodate your scheduling needs whenever possible.

Lindsey MacDonald, originally from Cape Breton Island, has called Halifax home for the last two d... Read More

Meaghan is a Certified Canadian Counsellor and Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate within the college of Nova Scotia Counselling Therapists. Meaghan holds a Master of Education in Counselling from Acadia University. Using a holistic lens, Meaghan aims to work in collaboration with the client supporting the social, physical, mental, and emotional aspects of health.

Meaghan believes the client inherently holds the qualities necessary for healing and frequently incorporates strength-based and self-compassion techniques into the therapeutic environment. Meaghan has been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which she utilizes with her clients to support a variety of concerns impacting their daily life, including identifying stuck patterns of behaviour that influence relationships with oneself and others. Meaghan uses a trauma-informed approach to care drawing on evidence-based modalities including mindfulness-based techniques, narrative therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment-based theory, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Meaghan spent many of her own developmental and childhood years living outside of Canada, where she was born. These lived experiences fostered a value and respect for the unique nature of every lived experience and views the client as the expert of their own life.

Meaghan offers individual and couples counselling. She works with adults and older adolescents (age 16 and older) and has experience working with grief, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. Meaghan is passionate about supporting people in building a healthier self-relationship. She has a keen interest in supporting individuals with burn-out prevention, or recovery from burn-out, as well as exploring or clarifying one’s values. Prior to pursuing clinical work, Meaghan worked for many years within a post-secondary setting supporting young adults with anxiety and life transitions.

Meaghan is a Certified Canadian Counsellor and Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate within ... Read More

Deanne is accepting new Hypnotherapy Clients only, at this time.

Deanne is a Registered Social Worker with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers. She has over 25 years of front-line counselling experience with issues ranging from but not limited to: PTSD – Healing trauma, life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family stress, coping with life stressors & illnesses counselling, improving your quality of life and living life to the fullest.

Utilizing a strength-based approach with a Humanistic foundation, believing in the inner potential of all and working to access that which is hidden from our usual way of thinking and of showing up in the world. Originally from Saskatoon, Deanne has worked and lived in Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia before settling in Nova Scotia in 2019. She has also been called upon to do workshops and presentations at Physicians’ General Meeting (Vancouver), Social Work Conferences (Red Deer, Calgary, Edmonton) and The University of Hong Kong (Risk Threat Protocol).

Deanne has experience in various treatment modalities to adapt to the client’s needs. These include: Clinical Hypnotherapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD (CPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Couples Therapy.

Deanne is passionate about her chosen profession and the people she meets and serves. Connect with Deanne today to see how her energy and creativity can assist in your healing journey and increase your quality of life.‍

Please note that Deanne is only accepting new Hypnotherapy clients and outside of that, online booking is reserved for her current caseload only.

Deanne is accepting new Hypnotherapy Clients only, at this time. Deanne is a Registered Social W... Read More

Julia has been dedicated to the helping field since 2010, driven by her deep compassion for others. Her commitment to making a positive impact led her to pursue a career as a counsellor. With a person-centered approach, Julia empowers clients to find balance and stability in their lives. By recognizing and harnessing their strengths, she guides clients to build confidence and regain control of their life’s journey.

Previously, Julia ran her own successful private practice as a Registered Professional Counsellor from 2018 to 2021. This experience fueled her desire to provide even more comprehensive support to her clients, leading her back to school to pursue a Master’s degree. During her time in private practice, Julia worked with individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Her unwavering commitment to social justice and advocacy ensures that she creates a safe and inclusive space for everyone. Julia has cultivated strong relationships within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and is a passionate ally.

Julia is currently a Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT). She holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and a Diploma in Human Services.

Julia has been dedicated to the helping field since 2010, driven by her deep compassion for other... Read More

Avani is a Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate committed to creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Her client-centred approach fosters collaboration, helping each person to discover their unique strengths and set personalized therapy goals. Avani believes that everyone is naturally inclined towards positive psychological growth. She also offers counseling sessions in other languages, including Gujarati, Malayalam, Hindi, Rajasthani, Panjabi, Tamil, and Urdu.‍

She has extensive experience working in a multi-specialty hospital setting under three psychiatrists. Avani’s expertise spans various age groups and mental disorders. She is dedicated to her continuous education and professional development, staying informed of the latest research and therapeutic techniques to provide the best care. Avani’s passion lies in supporting individuals through their mental wellness and personal growth journeys. Whether tackling overwhelming emotions, navigating life’s transitions, or seeking deeper self-awareness, she offers unwavering support at every step.‍

She holds a special interest in addressing women’s issues, including Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), Postpartum Depression (PPD), and menopause-related depression, focusing on building strong connections with clients to collaboratively develop effective treatment plans and help them get their life back. Moreover, her specialties include medically unexplained symptoms, grief (loss of loved ones), anxiety, overthinking, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, work-related stress, relationship issues, depression, childhood trauma/childhood abuse, personality disorders, and adults with ADHD/Autism. Avani also has experience working with immigrants who are struggling to settle in a new country.‍

Her integrative therapeutic approach combines various modalities, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, and solution-focused therapy, tailored to meet the individual needs of her clients. She is currently welcoming new clients and offers both in-person and telehealth sessions, catering to a wide range of preferences and ensuring accessible support for all. Avani has also recently received her certificate in EMDR training.

Avani works with adult individuals, couples and families.

“In secret life, many of us have confusions, thoughts, feelings, and desires that we have no place to express. This beautiful stranger called a ‘Therapist’ can study your life, understand your feelings, and guide you the right way.” - Avani

Avani is a Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate committed to creating a safe, supportive, a... Read More

Andrea approaches her work with a compassionate and empathetic mindset, understanding that every individual has unique strengths and sometimes needs a helping hand to navigate life’s challenges. She is dedicated to creating a welcoming, supportive, and collaborative environment where clients can feel safe to engage in open and meaningful discussions.‍

Andrea employs an eclectic approach to therapy, integrating various therapeutic modalities to best meet the needs of her clients. She draws on Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help clients understand and heal their internal parts, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to promote psychological flexibility, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to strengthen emotional bonds, and Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) to address personal emotional experiences.‍

Originally from the United States, Andrea brings a rich academic background to her practice. She holds a Doctorate in Neuroscience from the University of British Columbia, where she developed a deep understanding of the brain’s mechanisms and their impact on behavior and emotions. She also earned a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, which equipped her with the skills and knowledge to support individuals through their mental health journeys.‍

Andrea, a Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists, is committed to ongoing professional development and upholding the highest standards of practice. She has completed basic training in EMDR and is also trained in Group Traumatic Episode Protocol (GTEP), allowing her to utilize EMDR within the group setting.

Andrea offers both online and in-person sessions, ensuring accessibility and convenience for her clients and works with the 2SLGBTQI+ community.

Andrea is not accepting new clients, at this time, as she focuses on providing personalized and effective therapeutic support to help her current clients achieve their goals and improve their well-being.

Andrea approaches her work with a compassionate and empathetic mindset, understanding that every ... Read More