I am currently completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology through Yorkville University, with the objective of obtaining licensure as a Registered Psychologist. I am entering the psychology field after over a decade of working in healthcare as a Registered Nurse. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Alberta. My nursing experience spans from inpatient/outpatient psychiatry, emergency medicine, home care, and end-of-life care.

My interest in creating genuine connections with other people is what has led me to pursuing higher education and a career in psychology. My therapeutic approach centres on authenticity, mutual respect, and trust, in which I aim to create a space where you feel heard, validated and empowered to move forward. I work in a collaborative, non-judgemental manner that is grounded in curiosity.

I aim to specialize in providing care to other healthcare providers and first responders. I know first-hand how demanding healthcare careers can be. With this mutual understanding, I aim to create a space to slow down and debrief those never-ending shifts or hard calls. I have a deep interest in exploring meaning, especially in the context of individuals and professionals impacted by traumatic events. That being said, my skill and knowledge base can be applied to a variety of populations who are not in these professions. Please reach out if you think I could be a good fit for you!

I care deeply about social justice and am continually learning from those from diverse orientations and cultural backgrounds. I wish to journey alongside those who have been marginalized or who have felt “othered,” because your story matters to me.

Supervised by: Samantha Gruber, RPsych and Samantha Dover, RPsych

I respectfully acknowledge that I live and work on Amiskwaciwâskahikan/ᐊᒥᐢᑲᐧᒋᐋᐧᐢᑲᐦᐃᑲᐣ: land that is the traditional home for many Indigenous peoples, the ancestral home of the Papaschase Cree, Treaty 6 Territory, and Métis Region 4 Territory.

I am currently completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology through Yorkville Universit... Read More

Hi, I’m Holly! I am a Counselling Psychology intern in my final year of the Master of Counselling Psychology program at City University of Seattle. I have a background in Psychology and Sociology, along with experience working in social services with both youth and adults, where I have supported individuals as they navigate personal challenges, life transitions, and barriers to well-being.

I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, and adults. My clinical interests include trauma, grief and loss, relationships, women’s mental health, anxiety, depression, and attachment-related concerns. I believe meaningful counselling begins with feeling heard, understood, and accepted. I value genuine connection and strive to create a space where you can show up authentically and feel seen for who you are, without judgment. My work is grounded in trauma-informed and client-centered principles, drawing from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), attachment-based, and strength-based practices. I also incorporate somatic and mindfulness-based practices to support self-awareness and practical coping.

I recognize that everyone’s journey is different, and I aim to tailor our work to your individual needs, goals, and what feels most helpful for you. Together, we can explore your experiences, develop a deeper understanding of your thoughts and emotions, and identify strengths and strategies that support your well- being and personal growth.

Outside of my work and studies, I enjoy staying active, spending time with friends and family, and reading.You can often find me hiking, exploring new places, or simply enjoying time in nature.

Supervised by: Samantha Dover, RPsych

Hi, I’m Holly! I am a Counselling Psychology intern in my final year of the Master of Counselling... Read More

Hi there! My name is Amanda, and I am a Registered Psychologist here at Balance Psychological Services. My journey and passion with mental health started long ago, and it has been a dream come true to have the opportunity to work in this field.

My personal therapeutic philosophy is one of both holism and collaboration. My perspective is that we as humans are shaped by our thoughts, feelings, trauma’s (big or small), experiences, relationships (both past and present), environment and biology. Together these factors collide to shape who we are as individuals, and as a result, can hold the key to overcoming many of the challenges that have brought you here. I wholeheartedly believe that everyone’s healing journey is their own, and that throughout the process, both the mind and body should be given the space and time necessary to heal.

Throughout my career I have had the pleasure of working with adolescents and adults who are feeling stuck, are experiencing anxiety and depression, diagnosed with personality disorders, have survived trauma or who feel they do not have a solid sense of identity, among other things. I view the therapy space through a lens of both attachment and trauma, and as your therapist, will guide you to play an active role in your own healing process, while offering a safe space to reflect on your journey. Together we will work to invite curiosity back into your world, safely explore those emotions which can often feel overwhelming, analyze the beliefs and narratives that shape how you view yourself, and work to find solutions to those problems that feel as though they follow you around.

At the end of the day, we are all humans trying to navigate a messy world. My hope is that together we can set you up with tools that can help you navigate the unknown more comfortably.

Now to end things off, a little about me…. When I am not working in this career that I love, you can find me hanging out with friends and family, on some body of water either fishing or boating, hiking in the mountains, or cuddling on the couch with my adorable creatures.

AMANDA’S ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS

-Bachelor of Science with Distinction Major in Biological Sciences; Minor in Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta

-Master of Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University, Fredericton New Brunswick

FURTHER TRAINING

-EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

-The Gottman Method

-Adult Attachment: Trauma-Informed Assessment and Treatment Interventions

-Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Beginners

Hi there! My name is Amanda, and I am a Registered Psychologist here at Balance Psychological Se... Read More

I am a Registered Psychologist who focuses on the treatment of trauma and complex loss. I find that so much of my practice is based on the idea of the shattered vase (Dr. Stephen Joseph). Trauma and loss have a way of making us feel as though we have been broken, perhaps into thousands of little pieces, but I want my clients to recognize that even with this, they now have a choice. They can throw those pieces away and see themselves as missing parts, they can attempt to recreate the vase knowing it will never be what it once was, or, they can use these pieces to create a mosaic: something different than what we anticipated but beautiful none the less.

I have a bachelor of Science majoring in Biological Sciences (why yes I am a bio nerd, thank you so much) and a Master of Counselling Degree through City University of Seattle. As mentioned, my area of practice focuses on trauma and complex grief. The vast majority of my clients are either first responders or perinatal individuals (pregnant and/or postpartum) however, I am happy to consult to see if I could be a fit for your needs. I am a behaviour based therapist (which often means I am more directive in session) who is heavily influenced by attachment theory and existential perspectives. My clients will often get some mixture of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, the Grief Recovery Method, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with flavors of attachment based, existential, and narrative processing.

Simply put, my personal philosophy is to provide a space where I sit with, support, and at times, guide other individuals to rediscover their most balanced selves. I specifically choose the word balanced because I understand that we cannot strive for things to be successful, or even happy, all of the time. Unfortunately, life will always present challenges but I work to help my clients find the strength to meet those challenges when they arrive, to cope and find recovery when those challenges knock us down, and to soak up the moments and sense of contentment that exist when the challenges are not present (or at least are less present).

I am a Registered Psychologist who focuses on the treatment of trauma and complex loss. I find th... Read More

Hi, I’m Chantelle. I am a counselling psychology intern with a background in psychology, criminology, and 18 years in law enforcement. Originally from Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, I completed my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminology at the University of Ottawa.m My personal and professional experiences have helped me understand how stress, trauma, and life’s demands affect individuals and families.

Through my work, I have supported people in high-stress, emotionally complex situations, strengthening my ability to connect with others genuinely and compassionately. As a spouse of a first responder and parent of two teenage daughters, I understand the challenges of balancing family, relationships, and well-being.

I work with adolescents (10+), adults, and those in high-demand roles, including first responders and healthcare workers. I’m especially interested in supporting women experiencing stress, burnout, life transitions, or emotional overwhelm. My focus areas include trauma, emotional regulation, stress, work-life balance, and building healthy relationships through better communication and boundaries.

My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), with elements of Narrative Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I take a trauma-informed approach, recognizing how past experiences can shape current thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. I also integrate mindfulness and practical coping strategies to help clients feel more in control and better equipped in their daily lives.

I believe therapy should be collaborative, approachable, and tailored to each individual. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can show up as you are and feel supported in making meaningful, realistic changes. Whether you want to better understand yourself, manage stress, or navigate difficult experiences, I’m here to help you build awareness, confidence, and lasting coping skills.

Outside work, I enjoy time with my family, boating, reading, puzzles, and cheering for the Toronto Blue Jays. I’m a true crime fan, often listening to podcasts or watching documentaries. And at home, I’m happily outnumbered by my three cats, who, of course, run the house and just allow me to live there.

Hi, I’m Chantelle. I am a counselling psychology intern with a background in psychology, criminol... Read More

Hello!

My name is Jen, a Canadian Certified Counsellor . I acquired my Master’s of Counselling through Yorkville University, and I hold a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta.

With over 10 years as an educator, I have worked with diverse populations, ages, and communities. These experiences allow me to bring cultural competence, acceptance, and patience into the sessions. I look forward to supporting clients on their journey to finding empowerment, fulfillment, and reach their goals.

Recognizing that each person is unique, nurturing these differences by creating a safe space for each individual to be valued and heard. Recognizing that it takes courage to seek counselling, I am here to work as a team and support you through your journey.

I am excited to connect with clients, using a person-centred and strengths-based framework. Drawing on clients strengths and values, creating a supportive space where clients feel comfortable exploring their experiences.

When supporting clients, I focus on using evidence based techniques for supporting ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress, coping skills, grief and loss, parenting, and couples.

Hello! My name is Jen, a Canadian Certified Counsellor . I acquired my Master’s of Counselling t... Read More

Hi! I’m Meagan (she/they), a Registered Provisional Psychologist.

I’m passionate about creating a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported as you navigate life’s challenges. I work with individuals exploring identity, managing socioeconomic stress, and affirming Queer identities.

My approach is collaborative and client-centred, emphasizing your expertise in yourself. In short, my goal is to be YOUR therapist - partnering with you to build on your strengths, personal stories, and experiences. I draw from strength-based, narrative, and solution-focused techniques to develop strategies that align with your goals.

I’m committed to culturally responsive and inclusive practice. I recognize how systemic inequities, such as colonialism, racism, and heterosexism, impact mental health. As a white settler on Treaty 6 territory, I continually reflect on my privilege and aim to challenge harmful dominant narratives.

My practice is informed by feminist, decolonial, and Queer frameworks, and I welcome feedback as I continue learning and growing.

Outside of therapy, you’ll likely find me curled up with a good book, my cats, and a giant mug of coffee. My favourite ways to ground myself are dancing it out (thank you Grey’s Anatomy), listening to music, and wandering through nature. I also enjoy turning everyday tasks into little grounding rituals - washing my face, unloading the dishwasher, playing with my cats, or reading before bed are some examples!

If this feels like a good fit, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Hi! I’m Meagan (she/they), a Registered Provisional Psychologist. I’m passionate about creating ... Read More

My extensive life experiences, challenges, and evolution have guided me here, into the helping profession. I grew up on a small cattle farm in central Alberta. Before my college years I participated in a farm exchange to Denmark, where I still have family connections.

I began my career as a substitute teacher for many years before having children of my own. I was fortunate to stay at home with my kids, volunteering at their schools and various activities. As a family we experienced a year long Firefighter exchange to New Zealand in 2017. These immeasurable life experiences and being exposed to diverse cultures through travel and volunteering have helped hone my person-centred skills.

I believe in the power of connection. Connection to self, others, and the world we live in. Building a safe, empathetic, respectful connection with you is my priority. My role is fellow explorer alongside you, supporting you and discovering ways to increase your well-being and connections.

We can work together on issues such as relationships, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and the uncertainties of life. My passion for incorporating mindfulness into every day living has helped build stronger connections personally and therapeutically. My trauma-informed, client-centred approach meets people where they are, and my compassion supports and encourages people to start where they are.

In my personal life I value my family connections most, with two teenagers, loving husband of fifteen years, and our wee dog, Tui. I thoroughly enjoy travelling with my family and value the cultural experiences. Outside of parenting, family trips and kid activities, I also enjoy gardening, yoga, camping, skiing, paddle boarding, and nearly anything to do with the ocean.

My extensive life experiences, challenges, and evolution have guided me here, into the helping pr... Read More

Seeking support can feel hard, especially if you are used to being the one others rely on. My goal is to provide a warm, inclusive, and non-judgmental space where you feel heard and supported as you make sense of your experiences and work toward your goals. I am currently completing the last year of my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology degree at Yorkville University and am a counselling intern working under the supervision of registered psychologists.

Before pursuing counselling, I spent more than a decade as an emergency nurse. I also have previous experience in various other areas of nursing and as a crisis intervention worker in a women’s shelter. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of supporting individuals through some of their most vulnerable moments, including experiences of crisis, trauma, uncertainty, and grief. These experiences have shown me how resilient people can be through difficult times and have shaped my path toward counselling. I am especially interested in supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, trauma-related concerns, and life transitions. I am also particularly interested in working with healthcare professionals and first responders. My previous experience has given me an appreciation for the unique complexities that come with caring for others while trying to balance your own needs and well-being. Drawing from a person-centred lens, I strive to provide an empathetic and genuine approach where you feel unconditionally accepted within a validating and supportive therapeutic relationship. I believe you are the expert on your own experiences and value collaborating with you to understand your unique needs and how your experiences have shaped you, while working together to tailor goals to realistically support how you envision where you would like to be in life. My approach is also from a trauma-informed lens and holistic, with therapy tailored to your needs, strengths, and goals. I also draw from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and solution-focused approaches when they fit your needs and preferences. My hope is to provide support as you navigate life’s challenges, deepen your understanding of yourself, build on your strengths, and move toward meaningful change. Outside of school and counselling, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, cooking and going out to enjoy delicious food, exploring the river valley, practicing yoga, and engaging in pottery as a therapeutic and creative outlet.

Supervised by: Samantha Gruber, RPsych and Samantha Dover, RPsych

Seeking support can feel hard, especially if you are used to being the one others rely on. My goa... Read More

I believe that trust is the bridge to change and support. Being able to fully trust your therapist and build a strong therapeutic relationship are essential in building an environment where you can feel comfortable and safe. While therapy can guide this process, I have learned that the mechanisms of change come from within, as each person is the expert in their own lives.

My approach to therapy is client-centred, evidence-based, and rooted in compassion. From a CBT perspective, I work alongside clients to clarify their goals and understand how certain thought and behaviour patterns may be standing in the way.

In addition to traditional CBT approaches, I utilize strategies rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as other strengths-based approaches to enhance resilience and support individuals.

My clinical interests include men’s mental health, trauma, anxiety, depression, and attachment-related concerns. I am passionate about helping individuals better understand their patterns, strengthen their resilience, and move toward meaningful change.

I believe that trust is the bridge to change and support. Being able to fully trust your therapis... Read More

Hello, I’m Tabitha. You may recognize me from my work as an intern with our Balance Without Barriers program. I have successfully completed my internship and have taken on a new role as a Mental Health Therapist, while I work towards graduating with my Master’s in Counselling Psychology from City University of Seattle.

I offer a space where you can feel safe, respected, and genuinely heard. Beginning therapy can be a meaningful and sometimes challenging step, and I aim to meet you with steadiness and care as we navigate both the difficult and growth-oriented parts of the process. My approach is collaborative and grounded in the belief that lasting change happens through authentic connection, insight, and aligned action.

My work is primarily informed by attachment theory, which helps guide an understanding of how our relationships shape the way in which we experience ourselves and others. I also draw on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as a central framework, supporting clients in building psychological flexibility and reconnecting with what matters most. Alongside this, I integrate mindfulness practices, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), tailoring the process to your unique needs and goals.

Grief work is a central part of my practice. Having completed training in the Grief Recovery Method, I support individuals in navigating the many forms of loss; whether through death, relationship changes, identity shifts, or life transitions. My own experiences with grief were a meaningful catalyst in my decision to pursue this career, and they continue to inform the care, sensitivity, and respect I bring to this work.

Before becoming a therapist, I spent many years working as a legal assistant in high-pressure professional environments. This experience informs my understanding of workplace stress, burnout, and the importance of boundaries and balance. I have also volunteered on crisis lines supporting individuals impacted by sexual violence, which has deepened my commitment to trauma-informed, compassionate care.

I am particularly drawn to working with individuals navigating grief, trauma, relationship challenges, and work-life stress, as well as those seeking greater self-understanding and direction.

It is a privilege to do this work. I aim to support you in making sense of your experiences, strengthening your sense of self, and moving toward a life that feels more grounded, intentional, and meaningful.

Hello, I’m Tabitha. You may recognize me from my work as an intern with our Balance Without Barri... Read More

Hello, I’m Kyla! I work with adolescents (13+), adults, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, supporting clients through challenges including OCD, identity exploration. interpersonal relationship concerns, and identifying behavioural patterns/cycles.

My approach is trauma-informed, attachment-based, and collaborative. I draw from Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), CBT, IFS, and DBT to support clients in building insight, emotional resilience, and meaningful change.

I have a particular interest in working with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), intrusive thoughts, and working through attachment trauma. I strive to help clients better understand their internal experiences while gradually building confidence in facing fear, uncertainty, and overwhelming emotions with greater flexibility and self-compassion.

My goal as a counsellor is to provide a supportive and gently challenging space where clients feel safe to explore, heal, and grow. I believe meaningful change happens within a strong therapeutic relationship grounded in trust, authenticity, and curiosity.

Outside the counselling room, I’m an animal mom, plant lover, and someone who values being anywhere but the city.

Hello, I’m Kyla! I work with adolescents (13+), adults, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, supp... Read More

Hi! I’m Jessica and I’m so glad you’ve made it here.

Life can feel especially heavy when you’re navigating the challenges of parenting or coping with loss and life transitions. You may be juggling endless responsibilities while trying to show up for others, yet quietly carrying emotions that feel too big, or too complicated, to share. Many of the people I work with are people who feel stretched too thin, stuck in self-doubt, or are unsure how to find balance between caring for others and caring for themselves. Others come to therapy after loss – grieving a loved one, a relationship, a dream, or a version of themselves.

My approach to therapy keeps it really accessible. I aim to meet you where you are – with empathy, collaboration, and respect for your pace and goals. As a parent myself, I understand how life’s demands can add up and how easy it is to lose touch with your own needs. Counselling offers a space to pause, reflect, and begin again with intention.

My approach is trauma-informed and collaborative. I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Narrative Therapy, somatic practices, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I help you tune into your inner thoughts and feelings with curiosity.

Talking about mental health can be scary, but you’ve already made the first step! I’d be honoured to walk alongside you. My hope is that our work together helps you feel more connected, supported, and empowered to live in alignment with your values.

Hi! I’m Jessica and I’m so glad you’ve made it here. Life can feel especially heavy when you’re ... Read More

My approach to therapy is integrative, which means I draw from different therapeutic approaches depending on each person’s needs. These include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Existential Therapy, the Grief Recovery Method, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

I have a particular interest in supporting people experiencing grief, loss, trauma, major life transitions, and emotional difficulties connected to identity and relationships. I believe grief can take many forms—not only the death of someone we love, but also the loss of a relationship, a sense of home, identity, belonging, or the life we expected to have.

As an immigrant woman who moved to Canada over 10 years ago, I also understand some of the emotional challenges that can come with starting over in a new country, raising a family, and living between cultures.

Coming from a collectivist background has also shaped my understanding of connection, family, belonging, and the loneliness that can sometimes accompany major life changes. I bring these experiences into my work with cultural sensitivity while recognizing that every person’s story is different.

Outside of counselling, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, cooking, reading, travelling, music, yoga, and warm weather when possible. I also appreciate simple everyday routines that help create a sense of balance and connection.

If you are going through grief, trauma, change, or simply a difficult time in your life, you don’t have to have everything figured out before reaching out. My goal is to offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, better understand what you are experiencing, and work toward healing and meaningful change.

My approach to therapy is integrative, which means I draw from different therapeutic approaches d... Read More

Hello!

My name is Alisha, and I am excited to join Balance Psychology as a counselling intern, completing my Master’s in Counselling and Psychology under the supervision of Samantha Dover.

For 17 years as a dedicated teacher, I had the privilege of supporting diverse students, focusing much of my career on Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, as well as those who are neuro-diverse. This deep experience, particularly with children and their families, is what guided me to expand my expertise into counselling. I wanted to move beyond the classroom to offer intentional mental health support, allowing me to build deeper connections with individuals and families.

As a parent of neuro-diverse children, I share a profound and genuine understanding of the joys and challenges families face, including navigating behaviour, self-regulation, self-care, and mental health. Similarly, my years in education give me a firsthand appreciation for the complexities of career burnout, work-life balance, and anxiety.

My approach is fundamentally person-centered, meaning our work will be deeply collaborative and focused on your unique needs. I integrate practical tools from therapies like DBT, ACT, and CBT, always ensuring we proceed with a trauma-informed lens.

I am here for you, you are safe! You can bring your whole self, whether you need to laugh, cry, express frustration, or sit in silence. I will be your supportive co-pilot on this journey. You are in the driver’s seat, and I’m here to offer the map and the tools to help you develop meaningful goals, navigate challenges, and ultimately feel successful and empowered in all aspects of your life.

Hello! My name is Alisha, and I am excited to join Balance Psychology as a counselling intern, c... Read More

As a Registered Provisional Psychologist, I bring over a decade of experience supporting children, youth, adults, and families through life’s challenges, transitions, and opportunities for growth. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked in group homes for adolescents, as an early childhood educator, a family support worker, a kinship support worker, and as a supervisor at a domestic violence shelter. These experiences shaped my trauma-informed, relationship-based approach and reinforced the importance of creating spaces where people feel safe, understood, and accepted.

I work with children ages 4 and up, teens, and adults, and I also offer parent consultation and support sessions. Whether you are seeking support for yourself, your child, or navigating the challenges of parenting, I strive to provide a compassionate and collaborative space where healing and growth can occur.

I am committed to providing culturally responsive and identity-affirming care and value the ways culture, relationships, life experiences, and identity shape each person’s healing journey.

My approach is trauma-informed, attachment-focused, and strengths-based. I recognize that no two people are the same and tailor therapy to meet you where you are. I draw from evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems (Parts Work), mindfulness practices, and play-based interventions.

I have a particular interest in supporting children, teens, parents, and individuals navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, neurodivergence, emotional awareness and regulation, as well as coping skills, including unhelpful coping patterns such as substance use. My practice also includes grief and loss, fertility struggles, pregnancy loss, relationship concerns, and recovery from intimate partner or domestic violence.

Being a mom of two amazing kids has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life and has deepened my appreciation for both the joys and challenges that come with growth, change, and connection. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, walking my dogs, exploring nature, learning about plants, and finding opportunities for laughter along the way.

My own experiences have taught me the importance of having support through difficult seasons, and I would consider it a privilege to walk alongside you as you build on your strengths, deepen your self-understanding, and move towards meaningful change.

As a Registered Provisional Psychologist, I bring over a decade of experience supporting children... Read More