BSW, Registered Social Worker (RSW), psychotherapist (Founder & Clinic Owner)

Provides Christian Counselling

Tanis is the owner and one of the therapists at Words of Hope Counselling Services. She holds a Social Services Worker Diploma and an Honours Bachelor of Social Work Degree from Lakehead University, graduating with first-class standing. Since then, she has dedicated herself to expanding her expertise through postgraduate studies and specialized training in mental health, marriage success, parenting, and family issues.

Tanis has advanced skills in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFCT), trained by Sue Johnson, the originator of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). EFT is widely regarded as one of the most effective, empirically validated approaches to couples therapy, as it focuses on strengthening the love relationship as an attachment bond.

As a Registered Social Worker, Tanis has devoted over 24 years to meticulous self-study and has been providing counselling and therapy across various settings for more than 20 years. Residing in Barrie with her four children, Tanis enjoys the outdoors and is actively involved in her local church. She has volunteered her time coordinating and leading the “Mom’s Need a Break” group, supporting children through grief and loss in the Rainbows Program, and facilitating spiritual small groups. She has also served as a motivational speaker, inspiring others to recognize their inherent worth.

Tanis is deeply committed to empowering her clients by equipping them with the tools they need to lead more fulfilling and successful lives. Known for her non-judgmental, honest, and caring approach, she takes the time to fully understand her clients’ concerns, offering respectful and effective guidance tailored to their needs.

Client Focus: Adults, individuals, couples.
Presenting Issues: Relationship challenges, anxiety, stress, life transitions.
Modalities: Gottman Method, CBT, trauma-informed care, EFT, EFCT.

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Provides EMDR
Therapy

With over a decade of experience, Kirstyn is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who has worked in various mental health and addiction programs, supporting both adults and youth. Her therapeutic approach is integrative, tailoring therapy to each client’s specific needs and goals. She draws on a variety of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, and Attachment Theory. Currently completing her EMDR basic training, Kirstyn plans to offer EMDR therapy—an effective treatment for PTSD and other mental health challenges—starting December 2023. To learn more about EMDR, visit this link.

Kirstyn specializes in addressing addiction (substance use and technology use), anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, stress management, and self-esteem. She enjoys working with both adults and youth. When working with youth, she often involves caregivers in the therapeutic process and offers one-on-one caregiver coaching sessions, recognizing that healing is often a family journey. With a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and additional studies in addiction, Kirstyn is a lifelong learner dedicated to continually enhancing her skills to better serve her clients.

Having experienced therapy from both sides of the chair, Kirstyn brings a unique ability to relate to her clients, creating a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for them to be their authentic selves. She supports clients in exploring the root causes of their challenges and works collaboratively to develop effective coping strategies. Prioritizing relationship building in her sessions, Kirstyn enjoys incorporating humor to create a comfortable and engaging therapeutic environment.

Kirstyn would love to connect with you and support you on your path to healing.

Client Focus: Adults, youth, caregivers.
Presenting Issues: Addiction (substance use and technology use), anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, stress management, and self-esteem.

Modalities: CBT, DBT, EMDR (upcoming), Narrative Therapy, Attachment Theory, motivational interviewing, and attachment theory, EMDR

Experience: Over 10 years
Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person

MSW, Registered social worker (RSW), psychotherapist

Rudy is a highly educated and experienced therapist with a previous background in teaching Social Work at Lakehead University. Driven by a deep desire to understand the complexities of the human experience, Rudy earned an Honours Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree in Human Nature, specializing in Psychology and Sociology. He then obtained an Honours Bachelor of Social Work degree and became a Registered Social Worker. To further enhance his clinical expertise, Rudy pursued and attained a Master of Social Work degree, equipping him with the latest research and evidence-based practices to support his clients.

With warmth and empathy, Rudy values the uniqueness of each client and their circumstances, fostering a collaborative journey toward healing. Drawing on a blend of practical knowledge and professional training, he supports individuals facing challenges such as stress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, trauma (emotional, physical, and religious), addiction and substance use disorder (SUD), relationship issues, identity challenges, and more. His therapeutic techniques include mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), narrative therapy, solution-focused and strengths-based approaches, trauma-informed care, psychodynamic psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and the Gottman Method for couples therapy.

As a father of nine children, grandfather to three, and husband of 30 years, Rudy’s personal life experiences have deepened his understanding of life’s joys and pains. What are your joys? What are your pains? What is your story, and what do you want it to be? Let’s explore this together.

Client Focus: Individuals, couples, families
Presenting Issues: Stress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, trauma (emotional, physical, and religious), addiction and substance use disorder (SUD), relationship issues, identity challenges.

Modalities: Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Gottman Method
Experience: Over 30 years
Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person

MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Na provides a collaborative, safe, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings freely, finding clarity, peace, and a sense of control. When you come for individual sessions, Na will work with you to foster healing and help you develop a more positive outlook on life. For Na, the most rewarding part of being a psychotherapist is witnessing people create meaningful change in their lives. No matter how small or significant, she is committed to helping you grow into your authentic self.

With compassion and acceptance, Na is a focused and dedicated health practitioner who finds joy in supporting individuals through their transformative journeys. She strives to offer a collaborative and integrative approach tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Na is trained and experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Meditation, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Supportive Talk Therapy.

Client Focus: Individuals
Presenting Issues: Anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, life transitions.
Modalities: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Meditation, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Supportive Talk Therapy.

Session Types: Phone, virtual

MSW, registered social worker (RSW), psychotherapist

Neethu is a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. She has 14 years of experience working with a diverse range of clients and issues. Neethu prioritizes creating a safe and supportive space where clients feel secure, empowered to reflect on their circumstances, and evaluate their challenges. Her calm, compassionate, and non-judgmental approach helps clients feel heard, validated, and supported as they work toward a meaningful and fulfilling life. Neethu finds deep joy in working with children and their families.

Neethu also has extensive experience supporting adults facing challenges related to trauma, parenting, anxiety, depression, and general life difficulties. She utilizes a variety of evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Therapy. Together, you can explore what you need to best support yourself and discover tools to overcome these challenges.

Client Focus: Children, families, adults
Presenting Issues: Trauma, parenting, anxiety, depression
Modalities: CBT, DBT, Trauma-Focused Therapy
Experience: 14 years
Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person

Registered psychotheripst (qualifying)

Bimalpreet is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. She proudly is a Member of the Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists and the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals. She completed her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She also earned her Master of Psychology degree and completed her further studies in New Zealand.

As a committed and skillful therapist, Bimalpreet feels privileged to work with individuals and couples during some of their most difficult times. She knows that clients are entrusting their sensitive issues to a professional, and Bimalpreet creates a safe space that enables clients to work through their issues in a non-judgemental space. With an empathetic, warm, interactive and accepting approach, she can provide counselling in various languages, including Hindi, Punjabi and English. Her experiences working in a cross-cultural context, including India, New Zealand, and Canada, helps her to understand human behaviour in diverse cultural circumstances.

Bimalpreet supports couples using the Gottman Method. She utilizes different techniques, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Meditation, and Relaxation Techniques, to support people dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, individual trauma, motor vehicle accident traumas, and low self-esteem.

Bimalpreet can help you develop greater self-awareness, find resolve of difficult emotions or experiences, identify your goals and discover your authentic self, all while feeling supported and safe.

Client Focus: Individuals, Couples, Adults and Youth
Presenting Issues: Stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, individual trauma, motor vehicle accident trauma, and low self-esteem.

Modalities: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Client-Centered, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Meditation, Relaxation Techniques, and the Gottman Method.

Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person

Languages: English, Hindi, Punjabi

MSW, Registered social worker (RSW), psychotherapist

Meet Yamilet (Jammy) V. Falcon, a compassionate and experienced professional in the field of mental health. Holding a Master of Social Work degree and registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, Jammy brings over a decade of expertise to her practice. Her roles as a Clinical Lead and Manager in various mental health programs across York Region and South Simcoe have further enriched her skills and understanding.

Jammy has extensive experience supporting individuals facing a wide range of mental health conditions, including Schizophrenia, Early Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and Eating Disorders. Her expertise also extends to areas such as Loss and Grief, Self-Esteem, Self-Harm Behaviors, Relationship Challenges (Divorce, Domestic Violence, Family Conflict), Isolation, Addictions, Anger Management, Identity Concerns, and Trauma.

Recognizing the uniqueness of each client’s journey, Jammy tailors her therapeutic approach to meet individual needs. She rejects a one-size-fits-all mentality and instead draws from a diverse range of evidence-based, client-centered therapies to create personalized and effective treatment plans.

Yamilet is proficient in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy, Culturally Sensitive Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Expressive Arts Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Strength-Based Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, and The Gottman Method.

Driven by her passion for fostering resilience and facilitating recovery, Jammy is committed to creating a nurturing and compassionate environment. Her clients find support, guidance, and a path toward hope, healing, and personal growth.

If you are navigating mental health or relationship challenges, Jammy is here to help you overcome obstacles, embrace your healing journey, and uncover your inner strength. Your transformation toward a brighter future starts here—with Jammy as your trusted guide.

Client Focus: Individuals, families, couples
Presenting Issues: Schizophrenia and Early Psychosis to Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and Eating Disorders, Grief, Self-esteem, Self-harming, Relationship issues (Divorce, Domestic Violence, Family Conflict), Isolation, Addictions, Anger Management, Identity concerns, and Trauma and PTSD.

Modalities: ACT, CBT, EFT, Family Systems Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
Experience: Over 10 years 
Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person

HBSW, M.Ed, MSW(candidate), registered social worker (RSW), psychotherapist

Gagan Gill is a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. He holds an Honours Bachelor of Social Work from Lakehead University, an undergraduate degree in psychology from King’s University, and a Master of Education with a specialty in Indigenous relations. Gagan also taught in the addictions department for the Canadian Mental Health Association and is passionate about working with clients from diverse backgrounds, abilities, and disabilities. He is deeply motivated to walk alongside his clients as they build their unique identities, boundaries, and sense of self-worth.

Gagan collaborates with clients on issues such as self-worth, boundary setting, addictions, life transitions, intergenerational trauma, exploring personal values, and more. He also works with individuals navigating neurodiversity, anxiety, anger, PTSD, family conflict, immigrant and refugee mental health, and pediatric emotional regulation. Additionally, he offers life coaching for those seeking guidance through various stages of life.

His approach is client-centric, integrating humour, kindness, and authenticity to build a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. Gagan helps clients develop resilience by first fostering self-compassion, and he tailors each therapy plan to suit the individual’s strengths and challenges. His goal is to support clients in their healing journey and help them thrive. Gagan works with a variety of different modalities but mainly pulls from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness techniques in session.

In his spare time, you can find Gagan cheering on the Edmonton Oilers, running trails, visiting the gym, or enjoying a can of Bubly or hot tea out in the community.

Client Focus: Individuals, Families, Adults and Children
Presenting Issues: Self worth, building boundaries, addictions, life transitions, intergenerational trauma, exploring values, immigrant and refugee mental health, neurodiversity, anxiety, anger, PTSD, family conflict, life coaching, and Pediatric emotional regulation

Modalities: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Internal family systems, Mindfulness
Experience: Over 10 years
Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person
Languages: English, Hindi, Punjabi

msw, registered social worker (RSW), psychotherapist

Jayne is a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. She holds a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Calgary and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from King’s University College at The University of Western Ontario. With over 20 years of experience as a social worker and more than 15 years as a counsellor, Jayne brings extensive expertise to her practice.

Jayne has recently relocated to the Barrie area and is excited to offer counselling services to adults, children (6+), adolescents, families, and couples. After meeting Jayne, you’ll feel an immediate sense of relief, knowing you’re in good hands. She is a warm, compassionate, and calm social worker and counsellor.

Jayne specializes in mental health, focusing on mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), stress, burnout, self-harm, suicide risk, disordered eating, and substance abuse. She also has experience working with couples and families dealing with marital and relationship challenges, infidelity, communication concerns, conflict, family violence, separation and divorce, infertility issues, and parenting.

Jayne employs a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused (Brief) Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, Attachment-Based Therapy, and the Gottman Method for Couples. In addition, she has experience leading therapeutic groups, facilitating mental health and wellness workshops, and conducting debriefs after traumatic events.

Passionate about helping people, Jayne is a caring, straightforward, and approachable counsellor who works collaboratively with her clients to help them achieve their therapeutic goals. She adopts a person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based approach, providing a safe and supportive environment where clients can express themselves without judgment. Jayne takes the time to build strong therapeutic relationships, ensuring her clients receive services tailored to their unique needs.

Her calm, patient, and empathetic demeanor, combined with her sense of humour, makes her an exceptional counsellor and social worker. Jayne will make you feel seen, heard, and safe to share your story.

Client Focus: Adults, children (6+), adolescents, families, couples
Presenting Issues: Depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), stress, burnout, self-harm, suicide risk, disordered eating, and substance abuse, martial and relationship challenges, infidelity, communication concerns, conflict, family violence, separation and divorce, infertility issues and parenting

Modalities: CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, Gottman Method
Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person
Experience: Over 15 years

MSW, registered social worker (RSW), psychotherapist

Provides Grief Counselling

Laura is an experienced and highly trained Registered Social Worker with over 17 years experience. She holds a Masters of Social Work degree from the University of Toronto, specializing in Mental Health, and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Carleton University, Ottawa.

If you are struggling or suffering with: life transitions, depression, anxiety, psychiatric illnesses, trauma, grief and loss, addictions, relationship issues, communication issues, health issues, low self worth, and/or generally feeling stuck or stressed, Laura is the right counsellor for you.

Laura has worked in a variety of settings, including crisis services, hospital, and community settings.

Laura recognizes that each situation is unique as she makes use of a number of evidenced based therapeutic methods to create a tailored individualized approach for each client. Some of the evidenced based approaches she is skilled at include: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma Informed, crisis intervention, bereavement, Strengths Based Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. She compassionately supports clients as they navigate challenges, empowering them to build on strengths, and gain self awareness and coping skills to be able to address their concerns and improve their quality of life.

Laura, additionally, is passionate and skilled when working with couples. Using Gottman’s Method Couples Therapy as her guide, Laura works with couples to address complex challenges in their relationship and meet relationship goals.

Laura believes positive change is possible as she works in a collaborative manner with her clients. She believes in the capacity to create meaningful change. She looks forward to connecting with you and assisting you and/or your loved ones in working on your journey to a better quality of life.

Client Focus: Individuals, couples, families
Presenting Issues: Life transitions/adjustments, depression, anxiety, psychiatric illnesses, trauma, grief and loss, addictions, relationship issues, communication issues, health issues, low self worth.

Modalities: CBT, DBT, Solution Focused, Mindfulness, Trauma Informed, crisis intervention, bereavement, Strengths based therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, Gottman’s Method Couples Therapy

Experience: Over 17 years 
Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person

Registered Psychotherpist (Qualifying)

Provides Christian Counselling

Jessy holds a degree of Masters of Divinity in Clinical Counselling from Tyndale Seminary. She is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. Her years of experience at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre has been invaluable. While working in the health care setting, Jessy worked with a variety of clients displaying issues with addictions, end of life, grief and loss, trauma, depression and anxiety. She uses a multi-dimensional approach with all of her clients and employs evidence-based therapies such as Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused Therapy.

Jessy also enjoys working with couples. She supports couples using the Gottman Method and is experienced in both pre-marital and couples counselling. Jessy aims to help her clients navigate their relationship goals by means of therapy techniques and interventions.

In addition to working with adult individuals and couples, Jessy enjoys coming together with children, teenagers and young adults. Her experience is extensive and she continues to be passionate in this area. Jessy is active in her desire to learn and is dedicated to her clients. She has recently taken courses with a focus on Play Therapy as well as Art Therapy.

When she is not in the office, Jessy enjoys going out for sushi with her husband Taylor or hanging out with her cat, Spencer! She is also a huge Disney fan and had the opportunity to be a cast member.

Jessy is passionate about equipping clients with the skills they need to navigate their mental health journey and find healing through safe and open communication.

Client Focus: Adults, couples, families, children, youth, teenagers
Presenting Issues: Addictions, end of life, grief and loss, trauma, depression and anxiety.

Modalities: CBT, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Gottman Method
Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person

Registered Nurse (RN), Certified Nurse Psychotherapist (CNP/CPN), Trauma-Informed Yoga Teacher, Reiki Master, psychotherapist

Holly is a Registered Nurse with 24 years of experience. She has worked extensively with individuals across a variety of vulnerable populations, managing both acute and chronic conditions, from obstetrics to palliative care. Throughout her career, Holly has had the privilege of working in diverse settings, including hospitals and community environments, where she has cared for, educated, and counselled clients.

In 2009, Holly specialized her clinical practice in Mental Health and has since continued to expand her knowledge and skills, integrating both clinical and holistic approaches to address the complexities of mental health. In 2013, she earned her Trauma-Informed Yoga Teacher Certification, enhancing her understanding of mindfulness and somatic treatments. In 2015, she achieved certification as a Mental Health Psychiatric Nurse through the Canadian Nurses Association. Furthering her expertise in energy-based healing, Holly became a Reiki Master in 2021. In 2022, she pursued equine therapy by completing her Equine-Assisted Learning Facilitator training and subsequently qualified as a Certified Psychotherapist Nurse.

Holly tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of her clients, empowering them to improve their quality of life and overall functioning. She applies a variety of evidence-based clinical approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy, Humanistic Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care.

Holly specializes in supporting clients facing challenges such as codependency, grief, coping skills, life transitions, pregnancy loss, trauma, healthcare-professional relationship dynamics, self-esteem, stress, trauma and PTSD, and women’s issues.

Let’s work together to help you grow, expand, and thrive in this journey called life.

Client Focus: Individuals, healthcare professionals
Presenting Issues: Codependency, coping skills, grief, life coaching, pregnancy loss, trauma in healthcare-professional healthy relationship, self esteem, stress, trauma and PTSD, women's issues.

Modalities: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused, Humanistic Mindfulness-Based, Somatic, Strength-Based and Trauma focused informed care.

Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person

cyw, bsw, Registered social worker (RSW), psychotherapist

Katrina has worked hard to have two separate designations and is proudly a Registered Social Worker (holds a BA in Psychology & Honours Degree in SW) and a Registered Psychotherapist with a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She also has an advanced diploma in Child and Youth Work.

Katrina has been told by clients that she is a highly empathetic therapist. She is passionate about helping her clients to improve their mental health and well-being. Her approach is one where she works collaboratively with clients to create a path towards their healing.

She believes that therapy can be a tool to foster self-development, self-understanding, self-acceptance and compassion. Katrina uses a multi-dimensional approach, utilizing a variety of modalities to meet her client’s needs, all with an understanding that each individual is unique.

When working with individuals, Katrina draws from therapeutic modalities such as a Trauma-Informed Approach, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy. When having the pleasure of working with couples, Katrina utilizes the Gottman Method approach. She also believes strongly that her clients are the experts of their experiences, therefore incorporates a Strengths-Based and Person-Centered approach at all times.

Katrina has extensive experience and enjoys working with adults, children, youth, couples and families; supporting a wide range of needs through individual, couple and family therapy sessions.
She works with clients struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, depression, relationship issues, grief, ADHD, autism, FASD, crisis intervention, neonatal bereavement, low self-worth, and generally feeling stuck or stressed.

Katrina looks forward to supporting you in a warm, non-judgmental, and safe space.

Client Focus: Adults, children, youth, couples, families
Presenting Issues: Anxiety, mood disorders, depression, relationship issues, grief, ADHD, autism, FASD, crisis intervention, neonatal bereavement, low self-worth, and generally feeling stuck or stressed.
Modalities: Trauma-Informed Approach, SFBT, CBT, DBT, ACT, Gottman Method

Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Ontario Certified Teacher

Jess holds degrees in Interdisciplinary Studies, Education, and is completing her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. Her experience as an elementary school teacher, behavioural therapist, yoga instructor, and parent enable her to offer a deeply empathetic and educated understanding of how to come alongside her clients to provide diversely tailored support.

Jess’ foundation grounds in authentically understanding and supporting clients through honouring and exploring their unique experiences, strengths, and stories. She guides her clients through their relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, addiction, infertility, adoption, and disabilites.

Jess practices with individuals, couples, and families, utilizing evidence based approaches including Existential Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. Jess’ additional training in Gottman method and Dynamic Narrative Exposure Therapy allow her to offer the most up to date evidence based techniques to couples and families.

Jess provides a warm and inclusive environment to support her clients in exploring the tools inside themselves to live their most authentic and peaceful life. Jess prides herself in being a community advocate for people with disabilities, rare diseases, loss, and the 2SLGBTQ+ community through her work with the City of Barrie and Hospice Simcoe. Jess enjoys spending time with loved ones, animals, nature and playing music.

Client Focus: Individuals, couples, Children, and families

Presenting Issues: Relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, addiction, infertility, and adoption.

Modalities: Existential Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy, Gottman method, Dynamic Narrative Exposure Therapy

Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person

MSW, registered social worker (RSW), Psychotherapist

Provides EMDR
Therapy

Alina is a passionate and dedicated therapist and educator with a Master of Social Work (MSW), registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. She also holds a Bachelor of Education, a Bachelor of Sociology, and an Early Childhood Education diploma. Alina specializes in supporting children, youth, and families through challenges such as anxiety, stress, emotional regulation, behavioural issues, and relationship dynamics. Additionally, she works with individuals navigating life transitions, trauma, and personal growth.

Prior to becoming a therapist, Alina worked extensively with children, youth, adolescents, and young adults in educational and supportive environments for over 18 years. Alina has nearly two decades of experience supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder, developmental, intellectual, behavioural, and cognitive disabilities, as well as those facing mental health challenges.

Having recently navigated her own journey with breast cancer and intensive treatment, Alina brings lived experience to her practice. She understands the emotional and relational challenges that can arise for individuals, families, and caregivers during health crises. As a mother of three young children, she also deeply understands the joys and struggles of parenting and balancing family life. In her practice, Alina is committed to empowering individuals and families to face life's complexities with resilience and confidence. Whether helping clients manage mental health challenges, relationship difficulties, parenting struggles, or significant life changes, Alina works with each person to uncover their strengths and achieve their goals. Alina strives to make clients feel seen, heard, and safe in sharing their stories. Drawing on a range of evidence-based modalities, she tailors her approach to meet each client's unique needs. Her collaborative, down-to-earth style fosters trust and connection, helping clients navigate challenges and work toward meaningful change.

Driven by a deep commitment to learning, Alina continually immerses herself in research and professional development. She regularly attends workshops, seminars, and training to expand her knowledge. She is currently working toward certifications in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Her approach combines evidence-based practices with compassion, creating a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their concerns.

Client Focus: Children, Adolescents, Youth, Adults, Families, Couples

Presenting Issues: Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Emotional Regulation, Social & Peer Relationship Difficulties, School/Work Stress and Academic Challenges, Behavioural Challenges, Communication & Conflict Resolution, Parenting & Relationship Challenges, Marital Issues, Trauma & Grief, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions & Adjustments, Coping Skills, Health-Related Life Changes, Addictions & Substance Use

Modalities: Trauma-Informed Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, CBT, DBT, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Attachment Therapy

Session Types: Phone, virtual, in-person