About Me

Therapeutic Philosophy and Approach

I believe every individual is the expert in their own life and has the ability to heal, grow, and change. My goal as a therapist is to help you identify what isn’t working in your life and collaboratively work alongside you to create the meaningful changes you are hoping for, by drawing upon your strengths, values, and resilience. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore the challenges you are experiencing, and tailor my integrative approach to meet your specific needs.

I have experience working with children, youth, adults, couples, and families. My approach to counselling is strengths-based, trauma-informed and client-centered, drawing upon evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). Being firmly grounded in evidence-based approaches is important, but creating a secure, safe relationship between myself and my clients my first priority. Research shows that 30% of therapeutic change is accounted for by the quality of the therapeutic relationship, so this is something that makes a huge difference!

Specialization: anxiety, parenting, life transitions (including break-ups), and communication

Other areas of interest: depression, low-self esteem, career challenges, boundaries, family conflict, perfectionism, trauma, and grief/loss.

To see if we might be a good fit for each other, book a free 15-minute consultation session by clicking on the link at the bottom of the page.

My Background

I started out my career as an elementary school teacher, teaching kindergarten to grade 6 students. There are many things I loved about teaching, and about working with children, but I realized my passion lay outside the classroom. I began volunteering in the mental health field, as a Crisis Responder, started a Peer Support Team at my local branch of St. John Ambulance, and took a few university research courses in Psychology. I found that I had such a thirst for knowledge when it came to mental health, that I knew I was on the right path for me. I completed a Master of Social Work at University of Toronto, and the rest is history! I know firsthand how difficult it can be to question the path that you’re on, and to make big life changes. One of my favourite things about my job is being able to support my clients to create a life that’s more closely aligned with their values and hopes for the future.

Trent University

Bachelor of Arts, Major in Psychology

Queens University

Bachelor of Education, Primary/Junior

University of Toronto

Master of Social Work, Specialization in Children and Their Families

Registered Social Worker

Contact Us

Reach out to learn more about the services provided and determine whether I could be a good fit for you, by scheduling a free 15 minute phone consultation session.

Email me at jennise@thechangespacecounselling.com