Hi there!

I’m Owain. I’m a lifelong Edmontonian raising a family of three girls alongside my spouse. As a counselling therapist I work with adults, couples, children, and youth, and I use a variety of modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Gottman Couples Therapy, and Child Centered Play Therapy, among several others.

Prior to my career as a counselling therapist, I worked as a child and youth care worker (CYCW) in a congregate care facility in the Edmonton area with high-resource children and youth. This was a formative experience that introduced me to the challenges and needs of children in care, as well as the needs of their families and staff that work with them. I learned how to interact and care for children who had experienced trauma, abuse, and neglect, but of greater importance was what those children taught me: lessons about resilience, post-traumatic growth, and thriving.

During my time as a CYCW I also had the privilege of learning from cultural supports. I had the opportunity to participate in ceremony with elders who support indigenous children in care. I was also introduced to equine therapy at this time, and I learned to appreciate the therapeutic presence horses could have on children experiencing mental health challenges– though I’m still not much of a rider myself!

Before the COVID-19 pandemic I worked as a youth pastor in a culturally, ethnically, and socioeconomically diverse community church. When I started this job, I thought my main responsibilities were organizing fun activities for teenagers and offering occasional spiritual guidance. I soon found that the needs of the community were greater than I anticipated, and I got a crash course in the human services field. In 2019 I received my Master of Arts in Religious Studies degree from the University of Alberta. As a result of these experiences, I am comfortable and open to incorporating and exploring a multitude of faith practices into my counselling practice. Faith and spirituality can be powerful factors in the healing process.

In my free time I enjoy a variety of athletic pursuits including mountain biking, canoeing, and more recently, ultra-running. I completed my first 50-mile foot race this past July at the Sinister7 race in Crowsnest Pass. Learning to play hockey as an adult is another fun and challenging endeavour I enjoy, and I play an appallingly bad game on a community rec team.

Areas of Specialty: Couples Challenges (e.g., marital distress, infidelity, disconnection, sexual issues) Grief and Loss Anxiety Depression Emotional Regulation Procrastination Interpersonal Challenges Existential Challenges Men’s Issues

“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of human freedoms– to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.” – Viktor E. Frankl

Hi there! I’m Owain. I’m a lifelong Edmontonian raising a family of three girls alongside my spo... 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 have had the privilege to work alongside individuals from diverse cultural, social, and economic backgrounds providing guidance and conflict resolution for a number of years. Additionally, I have also had the opportunity to deliver therapeutic support and guidance to high-risk youth and adolescents within a school environment through my multiple years with the Edmonton Catholic School District. My therapeutic approach emphasizes a collaborative client-centered and culturally sensitive focus with the aim of establishing a safe and non-judgmental space that encourages exploration and growth. Through empathy, compassion, and support, I aspire to help empower clients to achieve their unique goals related to counselling by identifying their unique strengths. I blend techniques rooted in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT). I welcome children ages 7+, adolescents, adults and couples creating a space to explore: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Oppositional defiance disorder (OOD), anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, relational difficulties, conflict resolution, men’s health, stress, and trauma. When I am not in the office, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, as well as watching sports. When there isn’t a game or fight to watch, I enjoy staying active outside playing basketball, baseball, and golf.

Favorite Quote: “Uncomfortable doesn’t mean bad; uncomfortable simply means you’re doing something you haven’t done before” - Joe Vitale

I have had the privilege to work alongside individuals from diverse cultural, social, and economi... Read More

Hello!

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

Through my internship, I receive regular supervision and guidance from a fully licensed senior psychologist. This allows my clients to receive support from a trained and skilled therapist who also has regular consultation and access to a senior therapist’s skills and knowledge. Clients benefit from the experience and knowledge of two therapists!

I have taught for over 10 years, working with students, families, and communities in many different areas throughout Alberta. These experiences have allowed me to support children of various ages, parents, and diverse populations. I look forward to supporting clients on their journey to finding empowerment, fulfillment, and reach their goals, under the guidance of my supervisor.

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. I also integrate narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural approaches adapted for each client’s goals and needs.

When supporting clients, I will focus on using evidence based techniques for supporting ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress, coping skills, emotional regulation, grief and loss, and relationships and women’s health.

Hello! My name is Jen, a Mental Health Therapist. I acquired my Master’s of Counselling through ... Read More

Hello! My name is Jenna Marchand, and I am a mental health therapist with a deep commitment to supporting individuals and families through their unique challenges. I grew up in the small town of Bonnyville, Alberta, where my interest in psychology and counselling began at a young age. I first became involved in the field while providing respite care for family members with children diagnosed with autism and other developmental disabilities. This early experience sparked my passion for helping others and guided my educational and professional path.

I hold a specialization in psychology from the University of Alberta, followed by a Master’s in Counselling, which has further honed my ability to support individuals across the lifespan. Throughout my career, I have gained extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and families, particularly those navigating developmental disabilities and trauma.

I specialize in providing behavioural interventions, offering support in a wide range of areas, including emotional regulation, attachment issues, and trauma-informed care. My approach is rooted in client-informed care, and I work from a trauma-informed, attachment-based perspective to ensure that my clients feel safe, supported, and understood.

Over the past four years, I have had the privilege of working with children and adolescents with complex behaviours within both Children Services and the Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) program. My goal is to create a therapeutic environment where clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and work through challenges with a sense of empowerment.

If you’re seeking support for yourself or your family, whether it’s navigating trauma, behavioural challenges, or emotional difficulties, I’m here to help. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and I am committed to working together to create a path forward that aligns with your needs and goals. Feel free to reach out to schedule a free consultation and see if we are a good fit for your journey.

Hello! My name is Jenna Marchand, and I am a mental health therapist with a deep commitment to su... 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

I am a counselling intern currently completing my Master’s in Counselling Psychology at City University of Seattle. At the core of my work is a strong commitment to providing a space where you feel safe, respected, and genuinely heard. I recognize that starting therapy can be a difficult step, and that the process may bring both challenges and growth. My goal is to walk alongside you in a supportive, collaborative way as we explore what matters most to you and work toward meaningful, lasting change. Before becoming a counsellor, I spent many years working as a legal assistant with lawyers and other professionals navigating high-pressure environments. That experience has helped me understand the stresses of demanding careers and the importance of boundaries, balance, and emotional wellbeing. I have also volunteered on crisis lines supporting individuals impacted by sexual violence, which has strengthened my trauma-informed perspective and my belief in the healing power of connection and support. My approach to counselling is flexible and rooted in evidence-based care. I am influenced by a range of approaches—including DBT, ACT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy—depending on what best supports each person’s unique needs and goals. I aim to meet clients with warmth, openness, and curiosity, always honouring their lived experience. I am especially passionate about working with people navigating grief, trauma, relationship challenges, work-life stress, or those simply seeking to better understand themselves. It is a privilege to hold space for others as they reconnect with their values, reclaim their stories, and move toward greater clarity and resilience.

I am a counselling intern currently completing my Master’s in Counselling Psychology at City Univ... Read More

I work with adolescents (14+), adults, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, supporting clients through a wide range of challenges including emotional regulation, anxiety, identity exploration, and interpersonal relationship difficulties. My approach is trauma-informed and grounded in attachment theory. I draw from emotionally focused therapy (EFT), somatic practices, and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) to meet each person where they are and support meaningful, sustainable growth.

My goal as a counsellor is to provide a supportive and gently challenging space where clients feel safe to explore, heal, and connect more deeply with themselves and others. I believe that healing begins within a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship and that everyone has the capacity to thrive with the right support.

Outside of the counselling room, I’m an animal mom of three, a plant lover, and an art enthusiast. You’ll often find me in the mountains, tending to my plants, or reading a good book on the deck.

Favourite quote: “We’re all mad here.” – Alice in Wonderland This reminds me that in a world full of chaos and complexity, we’re all just doing our best—and that everyone has their own unique journey.

I work with adolescents (14+), adults, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, supporting clients th... Read More

Hello! I’m Jessica, a counselling intern with both a background in counselling and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Prior to returning to school for a Master of Counselling, I was an acupuncturist here Edmonton. This gives me a unique, holistic lens on emotional wellness. I focus my practice on supporting clients through the complex terrain of fertility, parenting, and mental health – areas I’ve both studied professionally and lived personally.

Many of my clients are parents, people navigating the stress of family life, or those facing fertility challenges. I offer a compassionate, grounded space for you to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and walk through whatever’s feeling heavy or overwhelming.

I use a trauma-informed approach that weaves together Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), somatic practices, Narrative Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Whether we’re exploring patterns of anxiety, emotional regulation, identity, or burnout, my work is always collaborative and respectful of your pace and goals.

As a parent with a busy household, I understand how life’s demands can stack up and how important it is to have support that is both practical and emotionally attuned.

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply needing space to focus on your own wellbeing, I’d be honoured to work with you.

Hello! I’m Jessica, a counselling intern with both a background in counselling and Traditional Ch... Read More

Hello! I’m Karley and I am a wife and a dog mom to my 2 fur babies. You will often find me in the gym, walking and playing with my dogs, spending time with family and friends or curled up on the couch with a cup of coffee and a good book.

I have always been drawn to helping others. Growing up, I was the person everyone confided in, which naturally led to my interest in psychology. This interest deepened during my early adulthood as I became increasingly aware of the mental health challenges faced by my loved ones. My passion for advocating for those struggling with mental health issues was particularly ignited when I witnessed a loved one battling addiction without receiving the necessary support.

As a therapist, I am dedicated to ensuring that everyone struggling with their mental health receives the help they need. My therapeutic approach is integrative and client-centered, meaning I meet clients where they are and tailor my methods to best suit their individual needs. I primarily draw from Play Therapy (PT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

I practice from a trauma-informed perspective, ensuring that my clients feel empowered, respected, safe, and open to collaboration. I believe in giving clients a choice in their therapeutic journey and fostering an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their stories. I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of populations, including children, adolescents, and adults. However, I now primarily focus on working with children. I practice from a multisystemic lens, recognizing that in order to help the youth, it is often essential to involve and support the family. My approach includes a strong emphasis on parenting and family interventions, as I believe that empowering families and enhancing their dynamics can significantly contribute to the well-being of the child. I am particularly skilled in addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral challenges in young clients. By utilizing an integrative approach, I am able to adapt to the unique needs of each child, providing them with the most effective and compassionate care possible.

I recognize and deeply appreciate the courage it takes to open up to a stranger, and I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that is welcoming, supportive, and conducive to healing.

Hello! I’m Karley and I am a wife and a dog mom to my 2 fur babies. You will often find me in the... Read More

Musa’s (he/him) philosophy towards psychology is rooted in the belief that every individual has the capacity for growth, resilience, and healing when provided with the right support. He views therapy as a collaborative process that empowers clients to navigate their challenges by drawing on their strengths and lived experiences. Musa’s approach is informed by evidence-based practices, with a strong emphasis on cultural humility and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. He believes in integrating scientific research with compassionate practice, ensuring that his work is both ethical and client-centered.

Ultimately, Musa’s goal is to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where individuals can explore their concerns, develop insight, and move towards meaningful change.

Musa’s (he/him) philosophy towards psychology is rooted in the belief that every individual has t... Read More

Hello, I’m Asli Verel – an intern mental health therapist.

I am currently in the final year of the Master of Counselling program at City University of Seattle. I also hold a dual bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts and Teaching English as a Second Language from SUNY New Paltz and Middle East Technical University. I offer therapy in Turkish and English.

My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing on several evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Existential Therapy, the Grief Recovery Method, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). As an immigrant woman who moved to Canada over 12 years ago, I bring a lived understanding of migratory grief, parenthood challenges, and the emotional complexity of living between cultures. Coming from a collectivist background, I also recognize the deep sense of loneliness and disconnection that can emerge when adjusting to a more individualistic society. These experiences enable me to connect with diverse individuals as they navigate identity, transition, loss, and belonging in culturally sensitive ways.

Outside of my clinical work, I enjoy art, reading, traveling, listening to music, practicing yoga, and creating simple self-care routines. Also value time spent with family and friends, and find joy in nature and everyday exploration.

If you’re seeking support on your journey or need a space to be heard, I would be honored to walk alongside you. Please feel free to reach out to schedule a consultation or book a session. My goal is to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can work together to clarify your goals and move toward healing and growth.

Hello, I’m Asli Verel – an intern mental health therapist. I am currently in the final year of t... Read More

Hello! My name is Roxanne. With over a decade of experience supporting individuals with their mental health, I’ve worked in various roles, including 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 roles have allowed me to develop strong relationship-building skills, the ability to hold space, and a trauma-informed approach.

I am committed to culturally responsive care and have experience working with clients from a wide range of backgrounds, including Indigenous communities, newcomers to Canada, and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. I value the importance of cultural and gender identity in healing and creating a respectful, collaborative space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.

As a mom of two amazing kids and a lover of nature, especially animals, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family and friends, walking my dogs, swimming, being near water, and going to the mountains. I value laughter and learning about plants, and I believe that these simple joys contribute to my well-being.

Having faced my own challenges in life, I deeply understand the value of support when healing and growing through difficult times. I am passionate about helping others achieve balance and fulfillment by creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where they can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I blend empathy and authenticity to build trust and I am looking forward to helping clients feel understood while navigating their personal growth in a meaningful way. I believe that healing and growth are processes that take time, and I am committed to walking alongside my clients as they navigate their journey.

I work with children ages 4+, adolescents, and adults.

I draw from evidence-based practices like Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), recognizing that each client is different and meeting them where they are at. I also utilize mindfulness-based practices and offer Play Therapy.

My experience has taught me the importance of cultural humility and the need for a tailored approach that respects each person’s unique experience and perspective.

I am committed to continuing my learning and growth to further support and empower clients in unlocking their potential and cultivating a sense of inner peace.

Hello! My name is Roxanne. With over a decade of experience supporting individuals with their men... Read More