Couple’s counselling is based on the premise that individuals and their problems are best handled within the context of the couple’s relationship. Typically, both partners in the relationship attend the counselling session to discuss the couple’s specific issues. The aim of this form of therapy is to help a couple deal appropriately with their immediate problems and to learn better ways of relating in general.
How It Can Help
Couples therapy is a useful modality of help for couples who are experiencing difficulties such as repetitive arguments, feelings of distance or emptiness in the relationship, pervasive feelings of anger, resentment and or dissatisfaction or lack of interest in affection or in a physical relationship with one another (Center for Addiction and Mental Health: Couple therapy: Factors influencing a couple’s relationship).
Our Couples’ Clinicians have specifically trained in Marriage and Family Counselling and are here to help couples get their relationships back on track.
With the aid of a qualified clinician, couples can bring peace, stability and communication back into their relationship; thus, affecting their lives and the lives of those most impacted by them and their relationship.
Hi! My name is Brittany and I am a Registered Psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP). I have worked to support children, teens, adults and families in a variety of educational, residential and private practice settings. I am particularly passionate about helping individuals navigate transitional times of life, including childhood, adolescence, early adulthood and the perinatal period.
I place a heavy emphasis on collaboration in the counselling process. I wholeheartedly believe that with support, every individual can grow towards the life they want to live, and that there is no “one size fits all” image of what this looks like or how to get there. I strive to create a warm and inviting space free of judgement and welcoming for all people.
My approach to counselling is client centred and relationship focused. I integrate different modalities and theories in my work, including Play Therapy, Attachment Theory, Theraplay, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Solutions Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I have supported clients to achieve goals related to trauma and attachment concerns, unwanted behaviours, parenting struggles, improving parent-child relationships, school related concerns, emotion regulation, ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem, navigating separation and divorce, as well as other issues. I am continually grateful to my clients for allowing me to be a part of their therapeutic journeys!
Chantal Thorlakson, M.C.
Registered Psychologist
LICENSE College of Alberta Psychologists #7272
YEARS IN PRACTICE Four; Chantal started with the Family Counselling Centres as an intern student and mental health therapist and now a Registered Provisional Psychologist. She provides therapy full-time, Tuesday to Saturdays, at the Beaumont Office.
OFFICE WORKSITE(S) Beaumont
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND Masters of Counselling, City University Seattle, 2020
CLIENTS SUPPORTED Children {age 4+}
Teens
Adults
Parents
EXPERIENCED AREAS OF SUPPORT
Anxiety Depression Family Violence High-risk Youth
Grief and Loss Trauma
MORE ABOUT CHANTAL …
I was born on a farm in Tangent, Alberta, and raised in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. As a farm girl and a northerner, I’m inspired by nature and animals and love walking my dogs, hiking, and backpacking.
I work from an Attachment-Informed Perspective which places emphasis on building safety and security through the relationship with the therapist. I have been trained in Play Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and I also incorporate mindfulness in my practice to assist with anxiety and emotional regulation.
Introducing Suzy, a compassionate and trauma-informed therapist dedicated to providing a warm and supportive therapeutic environment who brings a comprehensive approach that addresses the unique needs of each client.
Building effective therapeutic relationships is a cornerstone of Suzy’s practice. She views clients with unconditional respect, recognizing the importance of creating a safe space where individuals feel heard, validated, and understood. Suzy believes that the therapeutic alliance is essential for facilitating healing
and growth, and she actively fosters a collaborative and trusting partnership with her clients.
As a creative and flexible therapist, Suzy employs an integrative approach drawing from Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Theory (REBT), Reality Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. Her practice is infused with Polyvagal, solution-focussed, and existential themes. Suzy understands that each person’s experiences and circumstances are unique, and she tailors therapeutic interventions to meet those specific needs. Suzy is committed to helping clients develop the beliefs, skills, and tools necessary to overcome challenges and solve their own problems.
In addition to her expertise as a therapist, Suzy brings over a decade of experience working in education, including serving as a dedicated school counsellor. This background has provided her with valuable insights into the challenges faced by individuals and families and further strengthens her ability to support clients effectively. Suzy’s diverse professional background enhances her understanding of the complex factors that can impact individuals’ lives, allowing her to provide comprehensive support tailored to their unique circumstances. By valuing both individual needs and family dynamics, Suzy creates a safe and empowering space for clients to embark on their journey of healing and personal growth.
YEARS IN PRACTICE
Kristianna joined our FCC Leduc team in Summer of 2020.
OFFICE WORKSITE(S)
Leduc
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Masters of Counselling, Adler University, 2019
Bachelors of Science {Specialty in Psychology}, University of Alberta, 2017
Bachelors of Science {Major in Psychology / Minor in Sociology}, MacEwan University, 2015
SPECIALIZED TRAININGS
Foundation Play Therapy Training, Canadian Association of Play Therapy
Theraplay Level 1, Institute of Child Psychology
CBT Essentials Certification, The Association for Psychological Therapies
CLIENTS SUPPORTED
Children {age 4+}
Teens
Adults
EXPERIENCED AREAS OF SUPPORT
Anxiety
Behavioural Concerns
Depression
Divorce
Family Conflict / Violence
Suicidal Ideation
Teen Concerns
MORE ABOUT KRISTIANNA… Therapy is a journey that I am honoured to be a part of with my clients. I take an integrative approach to therapy where I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to customize therapy to suit an individual’s needs. I use a client-centered approach to therapy, which also integrates a wide range of modalities, including but not limited to play therapy, sandtray, cognitive-behavioural therapy, attachment theory, dialectical behaviour therapy, mindfulness, and Theraplay.
My primary focus is with children, adolescents, and parents but also enjoy working with individuals of all ages.
I have over five years of experience working with youth that have a wide range of developmental disabilities. I have also volunteered extensively with high-risk youth that are impacted by mental health, as well as individuals with terminal illnesses. Currently I am working towards becoming a Registered Play Therapist.
jocelyn@familycounsellingcentres.com
I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree from The King’s University College in 2012. I completed my Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Trinity Western University in 2014. I am Registered Provisional Psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists. I have received additional training in sand-tray therapy, sand play therapy (level IV), play therapy (levels I,II,& III through the CAPT), art based therapy, Animal Assisted Play Therapy (AAPT), Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT), Child Parent Relationship therapy (CPRT), Circle of Security Parenting (COSP), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), level I training in pivotal response therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and suicide assessment/prevention.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults. It’s always a privilege to meet with clients and hear their life stories. Each client is unique in the experiences they have had and the journey in which they are seeking support. It is my belief that therapy is both a dialogue and collaborative relationship between the therapist and their clients. I aim to establish a safe, trusting and encouraging environment for my clients; however, I also strive towards building resiliency, raising self-awareness and connecting my clients to a greater sense of community. My therapeutic approach is integrative and largely stems from existential analysis, attachment theory and a relational-cultural framework. I also integrate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior interventions, emotion-focused therapy, mindfulness based practices, and systemic frameworks. Over the years I have taken training in filial approaches that strengthen the parent-child relationship. This has enabled me to help parents shift or tweak their parenting approach and repairing ruptures that have taken place in their parent-child relationship. Often parents feel overwhelmed by the parenting advice offered online and struggle to understand what approaches to take with the concerns they are hoping to address. I work with parents to help them find an approach that is developmentally appropriate for their child but is grounded in the latest research in neuroscience and attachment. My work with parents is collaborative and fulfilling. Parents often gain an insight into their child’s needs while reflecting on their parenting approach. Parents also benefit from exploring how their own childhood experiences impact their parenting practices.
Many of my clients have often asked deep existential questions that are similar to the four existential fundamental motivations:
I exist-but can I be as a whole person? Do I have the necessary space, protection and support? We experience these when we feel accepted; which supports us in having an accepting attitude towards ourselves.
I am alive- do I like this? Do I experience fulfillment, affection, or an appreciation of values?
I am myself- but do I feel free to be myself?
This motivation examines whether there are experiences of justice, appreciation, esteem, respect, and self-worth. I am here- for what purpose? This motivation examines whether the present is part of a meaningful whole. Moreover, it asks what do you live for? We are not isolated beings and our relationships strongly influence how we develop and how we feel about ourselves.
Areas of Interest:
Self Esteem
Bullying
Self Harm
Bereavement
Grief and Loss
Anxiety
Trauma
Domestic Abuse and Violence
Abuse (Verbal, Emotional, Sexual, Physical)
Attachment Issues
Relationship Struggles
Parenting
Divorce and Separation
Emotional Regulation Struggles
Life Transitions
Amanda Montey (She/They) Registered Psychologist
LICENSE
College of Alberta Psychologists
OFFICE WORKSITE(S)
Edmonton
MORE ABOUT AMANDA…
I completed my Master of Education in Counselling Psychology at the University of Lethbridge in 2021. I previously obtained my Bachelor of Science with Specialisation in Psychology at the University of Alberta in 2019. I am a Registered Psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists. I have received additional training in play therapy (Green Stream through the RMPTI), Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), trauma-informed care, and suicide assessment/prevention. I highly value increasing access to mental health supports and I co-founded a mental health non-profit dedicated to connecting Albertans in need of mental health supports with qualified mental health professionals.
I am passionate about supporting children, teens, and adults as they embark on their unique mental health journeys. I enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals with diverse mental health experiences as they learn to understand and thrive with their diagnoses. In particular, I specialise in working with children, teens, and adults with ADHD. Additionally, I have experience working with people of all ages with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and I am pursuing additional training in this area. When working with kids and teens, I offer them independence, while ensuring parents stay involved to a developmentally appropriate level. In addition to ADHD and ASD, I am interested in working with individuals who are experiencing:
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Suicidal ideation
• Self-injury
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Behaviour concerns
• Developmental transitions
• Emotional dysregulation
• Self-esteem issues
• Major life changes
*Please note, I specifically work with adults who have or suspect they have ADHD and/or ASD. I support kids and teens both with and without ADHD and/or ASD.
I apply a person-centred, cognitive behavioural, and strengths-based approach to counselling whereby clients are recognized as the experts on their own context and experiences. I believe it is essential that you have an active voice in the therapeutic process, so I welcome any feedback you may have about how we can work together to improve your overall experience with therapy. I integrate techniques from cognitive behavioural therapy as well as acceptance and commitment therapy. I regularly use therapeutic play and art-based interventions in sessions to help children, teens, and even adults express themselves.
I recognize that it can be challenging to find time during your busy schedule to attend appointments, so I offer flexible availability with appointments in the mornings, afternoons, evenings, and on Saturdays.
YEARS IN PRACTICE Gillian joined the FCC Leduc Team in September 2022 as an intern.
OFFICE WORKSITE(S) Leduc
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Masters of Counselling Psychology, City University of Seattle, July 2023
Bachelor of Arts Degree, Concordia University, Major Psychology
SPECIALIZED TRAINING
Therapeutic Play: Healing through Connection, Institute of Child Psychology
CLIENTS SUPPORTED
Children {age 7+}
Teens
Adults
AREAS OF INTEREST
Anxiety
Depression
ADHD
Interpersonal Relationships
Self-esteem/self-compassion
Life Transitions
Divorce/ Separation
Behavioural Concerns
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Early Childhood Trauma
Attachment
Emotional Regulation
Parenting Support
MORE ABOUT GILLIAN…
I am passionate about supporting individuals on their unique journeys. Through a compassionate client-centered approach, I believe in using techniques that best suit the needs of each individual. Some modalities I use include, cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, play therapy and person-centered therapy. Through an attachment-based framework, techniques are used in collaboration with each client to formulate achievable goals while focusing on the client’s strengths. I believe in guiding and supporting all clients to foster change while being compassionate with themselves.
I have over 10 years of experience working with children in a variety of settings. For the last few years I have provided support to children with ADHD, autism and anxiety as an Emotional Behavioural Specialist in the school setting.
Outside of the office, I enjoy singing and being active outdoors. I am a certified yoga instructor and enjoy teaching kids yoga and mindfulness.
YEARS IN PRACTICE Anh joined our FCC Leduc Team in September 2022 for her internship.
OFFICE WORKSITE(S) Leduc, Millet, and Beaumont
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University, 2023
Bachelors in Education, University of Alberta, 2008
SPECIALIZED TRAININGS Foundation Play Therapy Training, Rocky Mountain Play Therapy
The Power of Play: A Key Tool in Fostering Resilience, Institute of Child Psychology
Level B Assessment, Edmonton Regional Learning Consortium
CCAATA Fundamentals Training, Child-Centered Animal-Assisted Therapy Association
Supporting Individuals through Valued Attachments Training, SIVA Training LTD.
ASIST Suicide Prevention Training Program, Centre for Suicide Prevention
CLIENTS SUPPORTED Children {age 3+}
Teens
Adults
Parents
EXPERIENCED AREAS OF SUPPORT Anxiety
ADHD
Attachment/Early Childhood Trauma
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Behavioural Concerns
Cognitive Disabilities
Depression
Developmental Delays
Divorce/ Separation
Emotional Regulation
Family Conflict / Violence
Grief and Loss
Infertility
Life Transitions
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Parenting Support
Self-esteem/Self-Compassion
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma
MORE ABOUT ANH…
I completed my undergraduate degree in Education at the University of Alberta and have spent the last 15 years working with children ages 3 and up as an elementary school teacher with specialized training and experience working with children and families who are neurodivergent or experience cognitive, social, developmental, or physical diversities. In 2023, I completed my Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University.
What drew me into the field of counselling was the ability to focus on building and maintaining connections and relationships with client’s founded in an attachment based perspective and through a person-centered approach. I work collaboratively with client’s to explore how early relationships influence the way we understand, view, and belong in the world and create meaningful and purposeful goals as we journey on a path together towards healing, growth, and change. As individualistic as my clients, I use modalities specific to the needs of the client: play therapy, animal assisted therapy, art activities, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness, sandtray, and person-centered therapy.
Personally, I enjoy fishing, rock climbing at the gym, hot yoga, and spending time on our acreage with my husband, 3 dogs, and cat.
Krister Temme
Registered Psychologist, Registered Play Therapist & Somatic Experiencing Practitioner
We are built to be adaptive and flexible, but sometimes we encounter times in our lives when the problems facing us mismatch the particular set of adaptations that have worked well enough for us. Psychotherapy is particularly effective at exploring alternate ways to make sense of and adapt to our circumstances. Beyond that, it is effective at helping transform the very core of our self towards more flexible and authentic ways of being, to help us with future and present crises.
Every person is distinct and every problem requires individualized approaches unique to the psyche of who each of us are. My approach to therapy emphasizes an interweaving of listening to your experience of what you are facing and growth towards a more adaptive and authentic you. This will empower you to face whatever life throws at you with courage and conviction, and with an empathetic heart to accompany you when it gets overwhelming.
My method of therapy
Psychotherapy is foundationally set in the relationship between you and your therapist. This is because we are a relational, social species, and because the function of emotions is embedded in relationship as a means of guiding us towards healthier, more congruent ways of being. My worldview is that everyone is intrinsically valuable, and that everyone’s value is absolute.
I utilize two broad approaches to therapy that come from different schools of thought, and so compliment each other’s strengths and weaknesses. My grounding approach is psychodynamic, a view of the human experience that is embedded in the context of how early experiences shape life-long patterns that shape present experience. Interventions focus on unravelling the limited set of lifelong patterns that were “good enough” to adapt to the experiences of childhood but which are maladaptive to current problems. The outcome of psychodynamic therapy includes not only working through the problem that you come into therapy with, but also facilitating wider and deeper changes that are life-long in outcome.
In balance with this approach, I utilize feedback-informed treatment, an approach that highlights and maximizes those elements of therapy most empirically known to produce short-term changes. This approach includes keeping track of changes each session and monitoring the progress of not only the goals you want to work on, but your well-being and its more rapid, short-term rise to a higher quality of life.
The types of counselling I provide
I enjoy working with all age groups, with individuals, couples, and families.
Trauma Therapy
Trauma is what happens when life throws at us an experience that is outside our range of adaptations, and which challenges our very understanding of not only the world, but of who we are as well. It is a profound experience that most people go through at some point in their lives, and which, unchecked, can lead to maladaptive responses to life that set us up for present and future struggles and unhappiness.
Trauma is also one of the most researched areas of psychotherapy and the type of problem that research shows people can have the most hope of therapy alleviating. There are a small number of approaches to encountering the symptoms of unprocessed trauma that can help you work through it to the other side, and these approaches have success rates that are among the highest in psychotherapy. I am trained in and emphasize a number of these approaches (SE & EMDR), putting particular emphasis in my practice on trauma-focused therapy.
Play Therapy
Play is a remarkable part of humanity. Unique to mammals, it is inherently biologically tied into relationship, emotion, and adaptation—the cornerstone of what makes us human. It even has its own unique and selected biological circuitry in the brain. There is little in human experience that is more innate and natural than play.
Play is also the language of children. Whereas adults benefit from “talk therapy”, the “talk” of children is play itself, and so the best approach to working with children is through a specialized approach in which the therapist and your child “talk” about the struggles your child is going through via play. Through this more natural and spontaneous language that is closer to the problem—and the solution—in your child’s mind than “mere words” are, play therapy facilitates foundational changes in children.
I am continually amazed by the outcomes of play therapy in helping children work through trauma, changes, and challenges that are new or have been there since the beginning.
Individual Therapy
Everything we can face in life, no matter how awful, can be worked through in ways that make us stronger, more authentic people who reach their potential. The journey is sometimes difficult but done together in a relationship with a psychotherapist can be meaningful and transformative. Therapy is not the only way to overcome human suffering, but it has at is centre, the chief ingredient of human change and relief from suffering: relationship with a caring other who is there to accompany you on the path through to the other side. My areas of focus in individual therapy are listed below.
Couples Therapy
We know a surprising amount about the science of love and relationship. 69% of relationship arguments are perpetual—meaning they are about topics that will never be solved. This shocking statistic points us towards one of the most foundational rules that makes couples therapy so effective: it’s not about what you’re fighting about, but about how you “fight” about it, that determines the health of a relationship. The interventions and models that help couples through relationship crises and difficulties that are based on this fundamental truth are most successful. I work with couples to help craft a specialized means of communication that alleviates the sore points in the relationship, but also embeds the relationship in a new life of shared meaning and experience that is enriching and encouraging of an always changing love.
Education & Further Training
Master of Counselling (City University of Seattle)
Bachelor of Arts with Distinction – Psychology Major (University of Alberta).
I have received additional training in:
-Play Therapy (I am a Registered Play Therapist (RPT))
-Registered Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator
-Greenspan DIR Floortime Approach
-Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) (Level 1)
-Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) (Basic Training)
I am a Creative Arts Therapist passionate about helping adults, adolescents, and children process life’s challenges and express them-selves through an artistic avenue; helping them find their own voice, creating a space to be heard, and living the life they desire to live. My Art Therapy approach is person-centered, strength-based, trauma-informed, focusing-oriented, and emotion-focused. I am dedicated to fostering a safe and creative space to explore and transform anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, etc. and I feel art therapy is uniquely situated to assist in this transformative process, giving clients an opportunity to physically create and express aspects of their concerns, memories, emotions, body sensations, etc. and transform these images as a first step in developing healthier patterns for more fulfilled living.
Background
Crystal Stretch has earned her Master’s degree in Psychotherapy and Spirituality, with an Art Therapy Specialization. From the beginning of she has had a special interest in working with individuals through grief, loss and trauma. She is a professional member of the Canadian Art Therapy Association and is a Certified Canadian Counsellor.
Masters of Counselling Psychology, Registered Provisional Psychologist
YEARS IN PRACTICE Erika joined our FCC Leduc team July 2022.
OFFICE WORKSITE(S) Leduc
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND Masters in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University, 2017
Bachelors of Arts, University of Alberta, Augustana Campus 2011
CLIENTS SUPPORTED Children
Adolescents
Teens
Adults
Parents
AREAS OF INTEREST
My areas of interest are: anxiety, depression, self- esteem, trauma, abuse, obsessive compulsive
disorder, attachment issues, emotional dysregulation, and life transition.
MORE ABOUT ERIKA
I obtained my Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in 2017. I am a
Registered Provisional Psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists. I have
over 5 years of experience in clinical counselling. I use a variety of treatment modalities that are chosen
based on the client’s needs including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Dialectal
Behavioral Therapy and Person Centered Therapy. I recently completed the green stream level of
training for play therapy that supports my work with children. I am pursuing full certification in play
therapy.
I like working with adults, adolescents, and children. I am honored whenever a client shares their story
with me and that I get to be part of their journey. It can be difficult for someone to seek out help for
one’s internal struggles and that is why it is so important for me to create a comfortable, safe, and non-
judgmental environment that people can share their story with me. I believe that each and every client
is unique and requires a plan that is tailored to them. I have spent my career thus far, working with
clients that experienced significant trauma in their life and as such building trust is a fundamental
component for any therapeutic relationship. I am also a firm believer that our early childhood
experiences are significantly important in shaping who we are, how we view ourselves and how we view
the world. I always seek to give my clients understanding and compassion so they can freely explore
who they are in a meaningful way so they may further grow as human beings.
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Masters in Counselling Psychology, Athabasca University, 2018
Bachelors in Psychology / English, University of Alberta, 2010
SPECIALIZED TRAININGS Crisis Intervention Training
Emotional Freedom Technique (Level 1)
Narrative Approaches to Grief and Loss
CLIENTS SUPPORTED Children {age 6+}
Teens
Adults
EXPERIENCED AREAS OF SUPPORT
Anxiety
Attachment
Boundaries/Communication
Depression
Family Conflict
Grief & Loss
Identity
Self-Esteem
Sexual Violence Trauma
MORE ABOUT SHANNON …
I am a compassionate, creative, and caring therapist and my goal is to support my clients on their journeys of growth and healing through relationships built on respect, trust, acceptance, and curiosity.
I draw on different therapeutic approaches to meet the needs and goals of each client. I am here to collaborate with my clients so that they can develop healthy relationships and connections with others, explore and express their feelings, build life skills, and engage in problem-solving, self-exploration, and processing their experiences.
I have completed training in play therapy, narrative therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have experience delivering therapy to both individuals and groups.
Outside of my training and work as a therapist, I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and English, and I have worked with Children’s Services and in group home and non-profit community organizations supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families.
Dr. Amber Gear, Ph.D. Registered Psychologist: Assessment Specialist
LICENSE
College of Alberta Psychologists #3190
YEARS IN PRACTICE
Fifteen; Amber joined our FCC Leduc Team in 2016
OFFICE WORKSITE(S)
Leduc
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Doctor of Philosophy, {Psychological Studies in Education} University of Alberta, 2007
Masters in Education, {Educational Psychology} University of Alberta, 2002
Bachelor of Arts, {Major in Psychology / Minor in Sociology} University of Alberta, 2000
SPECIALIZED TRAININGS
*
ASSESSMENT OF CHILDREN/ADOLESCENTS Throughout my graduate training and beyond I have specialized in assessment. Many children face academic, emotional, and behavioural challenges in school. Assessment is crucial to identifying and addressing these challenges, and can shed light on many issues, such as your child’s:
Throughout this process, consultation and collaboration with students, parents, teachers, and other service providers is essential, as is effective report-writing and communication of assessment results. Recommendations are provided that are practical and specific, and are designed to help guide decisions, access resources, and provide suggestions about the next steps to take.
I have extensive experience creating Individualized Program Plans, which are sometimes required to address a child’s learning needs and to optimize their learning potential. As such, I frequently provide consultation to parents and teachers throughout this process.
ASSESSMENT OF ADULTS Assessment is also highly beneficial to adults, as many people have questions regarding their levels of functioning. You may be interested in your cognitive ability, your academic potential, or your emotional health. You may wonder why you are struggling in university or college, whether you are in the right job, or whether you qualify for certain government or community programs. Assessment can help you answer these questions and many more.
MORE ABOUT AMBER …
Since completing my Ph.D., I have taught various psychology-related courses both at the undergraduate and graduate level at the University of Alberta, City University, and Taylor University.
For the past 11 years a large amount of my time has been spent providing psychological assessment services to a charter high school in downtown Edmonton. I have also provided private and contracted assessment services in various settings throughout Alberta. This experience has led to extensive travel to many small communities and reserves throughout Alberta, as well as some travel to the Northwest Territories. I have worked on contracts in several different school divisions throughout Alberta, and I have extensive experience doing assessments of both children and adults.
Another area I am interested in is neuropsychology. I applied for and was accepted into the Neuropsychology Post-Doctoral Certificate program at Fielding Graduate University in New York City. This program will allow me to specialize in neuropsychology so that I gain a strong skill set in neuropsychological assessment and intervention. I am excited to begin this program in September of 2021!
I welcome any and all assessment-related questions and I am happy to answer any questions you may have about how the assessment process works!
TO SCHEDULE YOUR ASSESSMENT, PLEASE CONTACT AMBER AT THE E-MAIL ADDRESS ABOVE.
Dani-Lyn Neufeld, M.A. Registered Psychologist
Animal Assisted Therapist
LICENSE College of Alberta Psychologists #6018
YEARS IN PRACTICE Dani joined our FCC Leduc team in Fall of 2021.
OFFICE WORKSITE(S) Leduc, Millet and Beaumont
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University
Bachelors of Arts in Applied Psychology, Concordia University of Edmonton
CLIENTS SUPPORTED Children {age 3+}
Adolescents
Teens
Adults
Parents
AREAS OF FOCUS Anxiety
ADHD
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Behavioral Concerns
Boundary Disturbances
Brain Injury
Emotional Regulation
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum
Global Development Delays
Intellectual Disabilities
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Multiple Complex Diagnoses
Parenting Support Trauma
MORE ABOUT DANI …
I am an experienced clinician with a passion for helping others achieve personal growth and find healing in their lives. I strive to develop a genuine, warm and compassionate relationship with my clients to help support them and their goals.
I am a Registered Psychologist and animal assisted therapist. I have worked with children, youth and families in a therapeutic setting since 2010. I specialize in working with children with disabilities and complex mental health diagnoses. As well as supporting parents with parenting strategies and behaviour management. I also specialize in helping people with anxiety and depression. I use several modalities to help my clients, which include: animal assisted and equine assisted counseling, play based therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and art mediums.
I am also a mom, artist and animal enthusiast who enjoys the outdoors and spending time with family.
I completed my Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Psychology at McEwan University and I obtained my Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta. I am a Registered Psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists. I specialize in childhood trauma and I have received training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy [TF-CBT], sand play therapy, play therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing [EMDR], and suicide assessment/prevention. I also have experience delivering therapy in both individual and group-based settings.
I greatly enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and their families. I understand that attending therapy can be overwhelming and that it requires vulnerability to share trauma that has been stored in our bodies and mind. Therefore, I strive to ensure that each client feels safe, supported and empowered as they move towards healing in their journeys. I also value creating a collaborative relationship with each client [and their families], as we move towards meeting our therapeutic goals. My client-centered approach enables me to meet each unique client where they/he/she are at in terms of therapeutic work.
I have extensive experience working with families and the impacts of trauma. As such, I have previously worked with families who were experiencing homelessness and are in need of support to overcome systemic barriers. Moreover, I have worked with Indigenous children/adolescents and their families to break the cycles of intergenerational trauma stemming from the impacts of colonization. I have also spent a number of years working with children and adolescents who have experienced sexual abuse/assault. Therefore, I have experience navigating systems, and advocating for clients and their families, when working with other service providers, such as the RCMP, and the corrections/court system. My career path has also afforded me the opportunities to work with clients with neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as caregivers and mature adults experiencing cognitive impairments/dementia.
My therapeutic approach is eclectic, as I integrate various interventions from EMDR, TF-CBT, family systems approaches, culturally/spiritually relevant practices, as well as mindfulness and self-compassion based practices. I often work with parents to help them implement developmentally appropriate interventions that are based on neuroscience research and attachment theory. In addition, from my experience working with mature adults, I will often utilize neuroscience, current aging research, and existential theory to support caregivers and their families. I also have a special interest in further developing my competency in animal-assisted therapies to treat childhood trauma.
It is always a privilege to be able to collaboratively build a therapeutic relationship with clients as they undertake their own unique healing journeys. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with each client as they grow, cultivate self-love and deepen their connections within their communities and families.
(Agnieszka) Agnes Olszewska, M.Ed. Registered Psychologist & Registered Play Therapist
LICENSE
College of Alberta Psychologists #3922 American Association of Play Therapy #T3694
YEARS IN PRACTICE
Ten; Agnes joined our FCC Leduc team in Fall 2016.
OFFICE WORKSITE(S)
Leduc
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Masters in Education {Counselling Psychology}, University of Alberta, 2011
Bachelor in Arts {Cooperative Program in Psychology / Minor in Linguistics}, University of Alberta, 2008
SPECIALIZED TRAININGS
Accelerated Resolution Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Assessment, Intervention, & Co-morbidities Training, Level I & II Gottman Couples Therapy
Clinical Hypnosis Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator Training, by Deidre Quinlan 8 Phases of EMDR with Children and Adolescents: Integrating Play, with Jackie Flynn EMDR Levels I, II and Advanced Training with Children, Attachment, Preverbal and Recent Traumatic Events Protocol EMDR Sandtray Specialist: Intensive training with Ana Gomez
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy Externship (EFT) Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Prolonged Exposure for Survivors of Trauma, by Dr. Elna Yadin. Red Stream Advanced Theory and Techniques Program, Rocky Mountain Play Therapy Institute (RMPTI)
Somatic Psychology and EMDR therapy, by Arielle Swartz Somatic Experiencing Trauma Therapy, Level I
CLIENTS SUPPORTED
Children {age 4+}
Teens
Adults
Couples
Parents
EXPERIENCED AREAS OF SUPPORT
Anxiety
Attachment
Behavioural Concerns
Depression
Disordered Eating / Body Image
Family Violence
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Panic Attacks
Parenting Support
Relationship Concerns
Sleep Concerns Trauma
MORE ABOUT AGNES … I am a Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists and a member in good standing with the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta. I obtained my Master’s in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta in 2011. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings including non-profit organizations, primary care network, University of Alberta counselling centre, and various schools across Alberta.
I offer psychological counselling to children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I utilize an integrative approach to providing psychological treatment and tailor interventions based on specific client issues. In addition to working with a broad range of issues, I have received specialized training in Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PET), and Eye Movement Desensitization Therapy (EMDR), which are evidence based treatments for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Additionally, with children I have experience in providing psycho-educational assessments and have also completed advanced training in play therapy. I utilize creative play-based interventions, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), EMDR, and emotion coaching. I also work in collaboration with parents to address any child parent relationship concerns.
Furthermore, I am also passionate about working with couples. In order to provide the most effective counselling services, I have completed training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) and Level II Gottman Method Couple’s Therapy. These approaches have been shown to assist couples in creating long lasting and meaningful connections with one another.
Cierra Chmiliar, M.C. (she/her) Registered Psychologist, Registered Play Therapist
Animal Assisted Therapist
LICENSE College of Alberta Psychologists #5459 Association for Play Therapy {United States} #T5101
YEARS IN PRACTICE
Three; Cierra joined our FCC Leduc team in Fall of 2017 for her Internship!
OFFICE WORKSITE(S)
Leduc & Millet {Rural Office}
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Masters of Counselling, City University of Seattle, 2018 Bachelors of Arts {Major in Psychology / Minor in Sociology}, University of Alberta, 2015
CLIENTS SUPPORTED:
Children ages 4+
Teens
Adults
Parents
SPECIALIZED TRAININGS:
Play Therapy (I am a Registered Play Therapist)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) (Basic Training)
Somatic Experiencing (Beginner)
AREAS OF INTEREST:
Trauma/ Post-Traumatic Growth
Attachment/Early Childhood Trauma
Grief and Loss
Anxiety
ADHD
Autism
Behavioral Difficulties
Parenting support
Divorce/Separation
Self-esteem/Self-compassion
Life Transitions
MORE ABOUT CIERRA:
I am most passionate about working with children, teens, and parents, working primarily in play therapy and animal-assisted therapy. I work from a client-centered approach; I believe it is important to work collaboratively with each client to help them meet their goals and help them build and draw upon their own internal resources and strengths to thrive (not just survive) in their lives. To this effect, I use a range of modalities, including: person-centered therapy; play therapy; sandtray, art directives; Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR); Somatic Experiencing; and animal-assisted therapy (primarily equine- and canine-assisted therapy).
In my personal time I am an avid reader, outdoor adventurer, and spend most of my time with my dog or riding my horse.
I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists. My degrees include a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education and a Master of Counselling Psychology.
I provide individual counselling to children, youth and adults who are facing life challenges and mental health concerns. I have gained a variety of experience with children and youth as both an elementary school teacher and mental health counsellor. I have worked extensively with individuals who have faced trauma, anxiety and depression, autism spectrum disorder, and behavioural concerns.
For the past three years, I have lived and worked in Indigenous communities in Northern Alberta. I facilitated youth community engagement sessions and assisted in suicide prevention initiatives. In addition, I have assisted families during times of crisis and have provided individual therapy.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet the unique needs of each client. I have training in play therapy, narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy and solution focused therapy.
In my free time, I enjoy exploring the outdoors with my French bulldog, Ivan. I also enjoy cooking, yoga and working out.
Brittany Goertz
Registered Psychologist
I am a registered psychologist in good standing with the college of Alberta Psychologists (#6401). I have experience in both clinical and community-based settings, supporting clients spanning the lifespan for over a decade. My passion for child and adolescent psychology started with an internship in child psychology after completing my masters of counselling psychology.
I practice from a client-centered approach, with an attachment and trauma-based lens, viewing the individual in the context of the family and community. I am also integrative in the modalities I use with each client, believing that treatment should be made to fit the client’s strengths and needs. These modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, Theraplay, Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), Circle of Security (COS), the Indredible Years (IY), Client Centered/Rogerian, and Narrative therapy. I have specialized training in a variety of evidence-based modalities, including: infant to early childhood development (DC: 0-5), Theraplay, Play Therapy, autism behavioural interventions (ESDM), and crisis intervention and support for survivors of sexual violence (U of A Sexual Assault Centre). I work with children and adolescents from a non-directive, empathetic, and playful approach, matching their developmental level. My goal is to create an environment that feels safe and supportive for my clients.
My areas of interest are with children and adolescents experiencing emotional dysregulation, attachment concerns, anxiety, depression, anger, aggression, ADHD, self-harm and suicidal ideation, low self-esteem and confidence, and academic challenges. My work often includes parent coaching, dyadic work, and collaboration with parents as I believe it is through the parents that the biggest change happens. This may include parent involvement during sessions, helping support homework and treatment goals, learning new strategies and skills, and psychoeducation. I look forward to working with you and/or your child, and finding ways to best support your
family’s needs.
Jocelyn Nand
Registered Provisional Psychologist
Executive Director
780-612-8577 Ext. 13
jocelyn@familycounsellingcentres.com
I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree from The King’s University College in 2012. I completed my Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Trinity Western University in 2014. I am Registered Provisional Psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists. I have received additional training in sand-tray therapy, sand play therapy, play therapy (levels I,II,& III through the CAPT), art based therapy, Animal Assisted Play Therapy (AAPT), Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT), Child Parent Relationship therapy (CPRT), Circle of Security Parenting (COSP), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), level I training in pivotal response therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and suicide assessment/prevention.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults. It’s always a privilege to meet with clients and hear their life stories. Each client is unique in the experiences they have had and the journey in which they are seeking support. It is my belief that therapy is both a dialogue and collaborative relationship between the therapist and their clients. I aim to establish a safe, trusting and encouraging environment for my clients; however, I also strive towards building resiliency, raising self-awareness and connecting my clients to a greater sense of community. My therapeutic approach is integrative and largely stems from existential analysis, attachment theory and a relational-cultural framework. I also integrate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior interventions, emotion-focused therapy, mindfulness based practices, and systemic frameworks. Over the years I have taken training in filial approaches that strengthen the parent-child relationship. This has enabled me to help parents shift or tweak their parenting approach and repairing ruptures that have taken place in their parent-child relationship. Often parents feel overwhelmed by the parenting advice offered online and struggle to understand what approaches to take with the concerns they are hoping to address. I work with parents to help them find an approach that is developmentally appropriate for their child but is grounded in the latest research in neuroscience and attachment. My work with parents is collaborative and fulfilling. Parents often gain an insight into their child’s needs while reflecting on their parenting approach. Parents also benefit from exploring how their own childhood experiences impact their parenting practices.
Many of my clients have often asked deep existential questions that are similar to the four existential fundamental motivations:
I exist-but can I be as a whole person? Do I have the necessary space, protection and support? We experience these when we feel accepted; which supports us in having an accepting attitude towards ourselves.
I am alive- do I like this? Do I experience fulfillment, affection, or an appreciation of values?
I am myself- but do I feel free to be myself?
This motivation examines whether there are experiences of justice, appreciation, esteem, respect, and self-worth. I am here- for what purpose? This motivation examines whether the present is part of a meaningful whole. Moreover, it asks what do you live for? We are not isolated beings and our relationships strongly influence how we develop and how we feel about ourselves.
While the hub of human life may revolve around establishing interpersonal bonds, before such bonds can be fruitful it is the relationship that we have with ourselves that will ultimately define the kind of relationship we have with others.
In my counselling practice I believe that the goal of therapy is to deepen self-awareness and inner understanding by helping to cultivate the inner drive towards personal growth.
As a psychotherapist I have come to appreciate that the healing process takes time and that the possibility for change unfolds, as the other would have it. I pride myself in helping my clients come to that “moment” of self-awareness wherein they can take control of their lives, as they move towards achieving a sense of individual wholeness.
The journey of therapy may originate as a search for an end to emotional suffering, but it is also one that may continue to develop towards a sense of self-renewal.
Clinical practice:
I work primarily from A psychodynamic/psychoanalytic framework (i.e., depth/insight-orientated, interpersonal). I also draw upon other depth-orientated therapies and philosophies (such as existential psychotherapy), to facilitate healing and growth.
As an adjunct to traditional ‘talk therapy’, I occasionally use expressive arts, as a therapeutic tool, with clients who may find it initially difficult to express or verbalize their thoughts/feelings, with the goal of enhancing their ability to share and talk about their subjective experiences. Expressive arts may also serve as a facilitative tool for reaching individuals who are non-verbal, emotionally withdrawn, or developmentally delayed.
I work with individuals (adolescents, adults, seniors) and couples. My areas of clinical experience and interests include:
– Anxiety
– Depression
– Grief & loss
– Relationship issues
– Discovering meaning in life
– Identity issues
– Life transitions
– Creativity and blocks to creativity
– Personality disorders
– Attachment issues
– Mindfulness
– Addictions
– Anger
– Spirituality
– Parent-teen conflict
– Stress management
– Special needs (adolescents, adults)
More about some of my areas of focus.
Teens:
Adolescence is a time of flux, rebellion and separation that can surface in various forms such as depression, anxiety, or self-harming behaviors. A significant part of my work with adolescents is to help them to form an identity that is chosen by them, rather than one that is imposed. In order to accomplish this, it is crucial that therapy becomes a safe space where a trusting therapeutic relationship between the teen and myself is established. In my many years of experience with adolescents i have also come to understand that the parent-teen relationship can be a challenging one, for during this phase teens are seeking emotional and physical distance from their parents and caregivers. Thus, my goal is also to empower parents and caregivers to trust in themselves to build positive relationships with their teens.
Couples:
A couple’s current relationship issues tend to be fueled by an unconscious re-enactment of old patterns and experiences, which can lead to conflicts in such areas as communication and trust. I serve, as a resource and ally to both partners in helping them to better understand each other’s relationship needs, as well as their own needs. I try to help couples in crisis come to a level of conscious awareness that will make it easier to let go of unwanted behavior patterns and defenses that are making it difficult for them to connect on an emotional and empathetic level. Ultimately I serve to facilitate couples’ capacity to move forward in making sense of their conflicts and learn to manage more effectively their relationship in the present and future.
Grief & Loss:
When we lose someone or something of great value and meaning, the natural tendency is to experience grief. The causes of grief can include many forms of loss, for instance, the death of a loved one, death of a pet, loss of self, loss of friendship, divorce or relationship breakup, and retirement. There is no wrong way to grieve and everyone grieves in their own way based on several factors such as their personality, coping style, faith, or nature of the loss. As your therapist I am here to ‘walk’ with you through your pain, to help you make sense of your loss, and return you to a place of hope.
Professional Qualifications:
Master of Arts
– Counselling Psychology (City University of Seattle) Bachelor of Arts
– Psychology (University of Alberta) Canadian Certified Counsellor (#5112)
– Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association
It is a privilege for me to be able to work with clients to achieve the goals that they have set for themselves. My desire is to provide a safe place where you can explore the issues that are creating difficulty in your life right now and to help you to find the solution that is right for you.
My Therapeutic Philosophy
Much of my philosophy in therapy stems from the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy.
In my work with adults, I believe that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact with one another to create our perception of the situations we experience. Exploring your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to discover problematic/unhelpful patterns or positive patterns can help to change the pathway you are on to set you in a preferred direction.
The meaning that we apply to the situations and experiences we encounter can either help or hinder our life experiences. The therapeutic relationship is a safe place to explore these beliefs and once understood to accept and build on these beliefs or to transform these beliefs to be more helpful.
Each of us needs to find a healthy balance physically, emotionally, cognitively, relationally and spiritually to lead whole and healthy lives. When one of these factors is not in balance it can lead to problems.
In my work with children, I believe that play is the language that children use to express their thoughts and feelings, so I work to use their language in the therapeutic relationship. Working through play allows me to interact with the child in a natural way allowing them to take the lead in the process of change. Common Issues I work with:
Marriage
-development and enhancement
-communication
-infidelity
-separation/divorce
-premarital
Family
-parenting
-attachment
-communication
Individuals
-depression
-anxiety
-abuse
-grief
-life direction
-drug/alcohol abuse
Children
-divorce issues
-peer difficulties
-school issues
This is not an exhaustive list of issues and there are many reasons that individuals, children, families or couples seek counselling. I am open to exploring whatever issues are most concerning for you. If requested, I am also willing to integrate the Christian faith perspective into the counselling process. “Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” C. S. Lewis
I’m privileged to sit with my clients through their pain and successes, hardships and joys. I love learning about what makes you thrive, and helping you reach your potential – what you truly want to see come to life. Whether it be for yourself or for your relationship, we will work together to set achievable goals. Therapy takes trust, and vulnerability. I create a space for my clients where we can be open, honest, and work towards your goals at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
I believe you are your own best expert. I work from a variety of approaches, including Satir Family Systems, Gottman Therapy, and Emotionally-Focused therapy. I see huge growth and changes when clients stay invested in therapy outside of our sessions, so I’m happy to send handouts, readings, podcast suggestions, or book suggestions to help your continued growth.
Credentials and Training:
I hold an Honours, Bachelor of Arts with a specialization in Psychology from the University of Ottawa, and continued on to complete my Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Trinity Western University. I am a registered Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (#10004092) and a Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists (#3022p).
I’ve pursued additional couples therapy training in Gottman Levels 1 and 2, to help better serve couples working towards a healthier and more fulfilling relationship, as well as in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples and individuals. I have the privilege of working with couples of diverse backgrounds, age ranges, and experiencing a wide array of struggles. We can work together on rebuilding your marriage, learning new skills, and healing from past hurts. I am also a Certified Prepare-Enrich Canada Facilitator, and enjoy working with couples preparing for marriage. I offer both 80 minute and 50 minute couples sessions. I also specialize in perinatal mental health, and maternal health. If you’re experiencing pregnancy loss, stillbirth, the loss of an infant, fertility treatments, or postpartum depression, I can help support you. Kenneth Doka defines disenfranchised grief as grief that cannot be openly mourned, publicly acknowledged, or socially supported. Some of you may have loved ones who have no idea what you’ve experienced, and you may feel isolated and alone in your experience. We can navigate this together, and all the complexities of how you feel and how it impacts your relationships.
Mr. Nechio has worked in mental health and educational settings providing psychological assessment and therapeutic services. Mr. Nechio has worked collaboratively with various educators, mental health professionals, and families to deliver evidence-based, client centered, psychological services to school-age children and adults both in Alberta and abroad. Mr. Nechio has also been recognized by the provincial court of Alberta as an expert witness in parenting capacity and child psychology legal matters.
I am a Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists, and am trained in the fields of Clinical and Forensic Psychology. I am excited to provide services in the areas of Clinical and Forensic psychology with adults, adolescents and families in both English and French. My main interests and areas of practice include psychotherapy, with an emotion focused approach, with adolescent and adult populations, assessments and consultation. I am also equipped to service those clients with more complex symptomology and/or a more complex presentation.
Regardless of the forum, my ultimate goal is always to provide my clients with the utmost quality help and services by helping individuals and their families navigate through troubling times in their life (including those of a legal nature), in a comfortable and supportive environment. Throughout my 13 years working in the mental health field, 5 of which have been in the role of a Registered Psychologist, I have learned that the process of therapy is as unique as the people who choose to take this brave journey into themselves. Challenges and difficulties are a reality of life, and my role is to guide you toward answering the “now what” question with the goal of obtaining peace and well-being.
