Meet the Volunteer Counsellors and Referral Affiliate Student Counsellors

Cheri-Lee Ford

Practicum Site and Supervisor: Metamorphose Counselling and Tricia-Kay Williams

Cheri-Lee Ford (She/her) is currently a Master’s level MA in counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

​

Cheri also has a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Psychology from South Africa, her country of origin, Cheri brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her counselling practice. Additionally, she holds qualifications in Early Childhood Education, specializing in Montessori.

Drawing from her background in education, Cheri has a deep passion for assisting children and their families, both on an individual basis and within the family unit. She possesses extensive experience working with diverse cultural groups and navigating complex family dynamics within an educational context. Now, she is excited to extend her expertise to the field of counselling.

Having personally experienced the joys and challenges of immigrating to Canada in 2019, Cheri understands the complexities and transitions that accompany significant life changes. This firsthand understanding allows her to empathize with clients who are going through similar experiences.

Cheri’s therapeutic approach is Client-Centered, ensuring that the clients’ needs and goals are at the forefront of the counselling process. She specializes in providing support for anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, and more. By incorporating techniques from Narrative Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused therapy, Cheri takes an integrative and holistic approach to understanding her clients’ stories and tailors her techniques to best suit their individual needs.

Madison Fai

Practicum Site and Supervisor: Renew Psychology and Dotun Ogunfowora.

Madison Fai, MACP Candidate

Languages: English

Madison is currently a Master’s level MA in counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

Madison is a registered student therapist completing her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She has an extensive background in the education sector, working with adolescents and adults to discover their inner strength and navigate life's challenges. Madison believes that "story follows state." This means is that each individual's story and their emotional states are connected, hence, it is important to understand emotional states as life stories unfold in transformative ways.

Madison works with her clients in co-regulating, and creating a safe and supportive environment to facilitate self-discovery, personal growth and freedom. She walks alongside her clients as they collaboratively uncover strengths and resources to manage obstacles and create a meaningful life

Sarah Loraine Lewis

Practicum Site and Supervisor: West Coast Vitality – 212 - 212-2475 Bayswater Street, Vancouver – Available in person and virtually. Supervisor: Rebekkah Stainton, RCC.

Sarah Lewis, MACP Candidate

Languages: English

I am currently a Master’s level MA in counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

For the past 15 years I have been working in healthcare and education gaining a wealth of experience that I am now eager to apply to my new career in counselling. In working with my patients and students, I have been blessed to witness extraordinary acts of courage in seemingly small moments, and I have seen these to be transformative. This led to the change in my career and the opportunity and privilege to work with you.

My role is never to judge, but rather to provide empathy, kindness, and encourage your growth even when you may not be able to provide that to yourself. My goal is to create a partnership of mutual respect and trust, and then empower you by helping you recognize your strength and capacity.

I am currently an intern completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University, and I hold a Bachelor of Health Science from Thompson Rivers University. From my previous careers, I also hold a diploma of Massage Therapy and my Provincial Instructor Diploma. I am currently enrolled in continuing education for grief counselling. I really like learning, and I will use this to learn about anything I can do to help you.  

When we work together, I will focus on your individual nature, the journey of self-discovery and your full potential as a person. I use positive psychology which focuses on the traits all people have to flourish, thrive and grow, even in the face of adversity.

Carmen Lafontaine

Practicum site: The Therapy Space.

Supervisor: Catherine Howson and contact: Info@howson.ca.

Carmen is currently a Master’s level MA is counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

Carmen Lafontaine (MACP Candidate, Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying), BMUS, BA Honours Therapeutic Recreation

Welcome! I’m Carmen Lafontaine! Life’s journey presents a multitude of changes and challenges that can be overwhelming, often leaving you uncertain about where to begin. You’ve taken the courageous and brave step of seeking support, and I am here to assist you in navigating these challenges.

In the therapeutic space, I guide you on a journey of self-exploration, fostering increased self-awareness, self-discovery and self-confidence as we navigate the complexities you are facing. This process is designed to empower you on your path to growth and positive changes. 

My passion lies in utilizing various approaches and modalities to holistically address and enhance your life. Some include: person-centered, strengths-based, and at times, I also pull to incorporate expressive art, music and therapeutic art as a powerful tool for healing. These creative modalities offer a unique channel for communication and expression. I am committed to understanding and respecting your unique backgrounds and needs, recognizing the diversity that each individual brings to their therapeutic journey. 

Recognizing that you are the expert in your own life, my role is to guide and facilitate your unique path. Together, we work to create a warm, empathetic, strong, safe, non-judgemental and supportive environment. This space is dedicated to fostering a collaborative experience. Your decision to embark on this therapeutic journey is truly admirable. I am here for you, committed to providing the support and guidance you need as you navigate all of life’s challenges.

Marcy Kralik

Practicum site & Supervisor:

High Point Psychology in Calgary Alberta since May 2023.

Supervisor: Chris Graham, Registered Psychologist (Alberta #6159 & British Columbia #2754).

​

Marcy Kralik (RN, BScN, MACP practicum student at Yorkville University).

​

Language: English

​

Marcy is currently a Master’s level MA is counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

​

Marcy was born and raised in Southern Ontario and graduated with honours from the University of Windsor where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. For the last 7 years, she has practiced in a variety of settings in Calgary, Alberta where she lives (and plays!) with her young family. As an RN, Marcy’s career has been built on caring and partnership. She has shared in many vulnerable moments, on the best and worst of days and she is glad to be able to bring this patience and presence to the counselling space as she completes her Master's degree in Counselling Psychology. Marcy believes that counselling is an opportunity to find connection and meaning- to offer yourself time, attention, and courage to venture inward.  Her goal is to provide a welcome space to slow down, receive, and practice being your most authentic self. Inspired by her own studies and experiences, Marcy’s interests and training in somatic and alternative healing make her approach well suited to individuals who are exploring deepening their mind-body connection.

Kimberley Larocque (Kim)

Practicum Site and Supervisor: GidGalng Kuuyas Naay Secondary School and Jennifer Byrne-Wissink.

​

Kimberley Larocque (Kim), MACP candidate: Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying).

​

Languages: English

I am currently a Master’s level MA is counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

​

I am completing the final year of the Counselling Psychology Master’s Program through Yorkville University. I hold an undergraduate degree in Human and Social Development, Child and Youth Care Specialization from the University of Victoria.

I am dedicated to offering a respectful, warm and kind counselling session for anyone who is dealing with the challenges of life. Challenging issues like anxiety, depression, and grief as well as needing a nonjudgmental person to talk things through with, are things we can explore. 

I focus on client-centred therapy and include elements of CBT and Solution Focused approaches. 

I have worked supporting families and their children for 30 years and I am forever amazed by the hero I see in each and every person I talk to. 

I believe that we all have strengths, resources and qualities that make our journey through life’s difficult times possible. The key is to be able to recognize, build on and use them to respond to life’s challenging problems. 

It is my hope, that we can work together to illuminate and utilize your strengths, resources and character traits to help you move forward with solutions. 

Let’s imagine a better version of yourself and your life so that we may co-create small steps of change for a future that you prefer, in spite of today’s problems.

Sophie Baker

Practicum site and supervisor: Shivani Wells-Shaw Counselling Group and Shivani Wells-Shaw.

​

Sophie Baker, MACP Candidate.

​

Languages: English, French

​

Sophie is currently a Master’s level MA is counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

Sophie is. passionate about providing authentic, anti-oppressive, and socially just support to her clients. Just as her own path has been dynamic and unique, she holds the unwavering belief that each individual has the ability to heal and grow. She approaches therapy from a strengths-based and trauma-informed lens with the goal of empowering individuals to explore their social position and reclaim their personal power. Sophie looks forward to walking alongside each client on their journey from a place of compassion and curiosity.

​

After having worked for eight years in the tech start-up world, Sophie has a special interest in supporting individuals in deepening their relationship with their mind, body, and spirit. Her experience of leading teams in fast-paced environments has been a catalyst to becoming a therapist and working from a heart-centered lens. She believes that within our busy day-to-day lives, we all have the ability to find peace and quiet, allowing us to thrive in whatever our goals are. 

​

Sophie works with adults of all ages and practices from an intersectional feminist approach. She offers cognitive and somatic therapies, with the belief that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. Sophie is calm and approachable, and through her kind nature works with her clients to build a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. 

Sophie's Interests and Areas of Practice:
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship issues
Burnout and stress management
Career and life transitions
 

Archana Krishna

Practicum Site: The Story Isn't Over.
Supervisor: Aneliya Saley.
 

Archana, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP candidate.

​

Languages: English, Hindi.

​

I am currently a Master’s level MA is counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

​

I am Archana (She/Her). I am passionate about helping people. Therapy is a journey of self-discovery and growth. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy. 

​

As someone who has been through a transformative journey, I understand life transitions and challenges. I hope to meet my clients where they are in their life journey and walk with them on the wellness path to reach their goals. I value creating a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients by listening to them with compassion and empathy. I am here to support my clients to discover their strengths and achieve their goals. 

​

I use a variety of modalities including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Narrative therapy. I belong to a minority population and have immigrated to Canada. I can offer a multicultural perspective. I practice culturally sensitive, strength-based therapy that is goal-oriented. I have worked with children and teens diagnosed with Autism and various developmental disabilities.

​

I enjoy helping youth, adults and new immigrants experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, life challenges and managing relationships.

​

I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapy (CRPO), completing my Masters in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. 

Thank you for your valuable time reading my page, and looking forward to working with you!

Kathryn Wilker

Practicum Site and Supervisor: Rachael Riethman at Sandstone Psychotherapy and Counselling. 

​

Kathryn, MACP candidate, Qualifying Registered Psychotherapist.

​

Languages: English

​

I am currently a Master’s level MA is counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

​

I believe strongly in the value of collaboration within therapy, partnering with clients to pinpoint their objectives and leverage their strengths to attain their goals. My therapeutic perspective is informed by a varied range of life experiences. I approach clients with warmth, curiosity, and compassion while building strong relationships based on respect, collaboration, and communication.

​

My integrative approach incorporates elements from Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), as well as other therapies based on clients' needs.

​

I am a student intern currently completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. I also hold a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Education degree. Whether in-person or virtually, I am ready to assist adults and teens in coping with life's challenges, such as stress, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression.
 

Michelle Carter

Practicum site: Nuvista Mental Health.
Supervisor: Denise Mariani.
 

Michelle, MACP candidate, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), OCT.

​

Language: English

​

I am currently a Master’s level MA is counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor. I am also an Ontario Certified Teacher with 10+ years of experience. I am a strong believer in life long learning and know that life’s journey gives us many opportunities to discover and reinvent ourselves.

​

Life provides many challenges, we can feel stuck, confused or overwhelmed, not knowing what to do next. I want to commend you for seeking support, it takes courage and strength to be vulnerable with someone. So take a moment to be proud of yourself for taking the first step.

I can provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgemental space for you to share your story. I would love to hear it.

​

I help individuals, gain better balance, manage stress, and improve their mental well-being. I believe that everyone has strengths that can be drawn upon to create the life they envision. We will work together to help you reach your goals, navigate any challenges, and empower you with the skills and knowledge to feel confident in handling your concerns.

​

I draw from various practices including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness, to assist with anxiety, stress, coping skills, parenting, relationship concerns, self-esteem, and other issues.

​

Outside of work, I am a mom, wife, daughter, and sister who loves to be with my family. I am also a dog mom to a large Newfoundland pup, avid reader and community volunteer.

I am a therapist because I want to help others turn their ‘wounds into wisdom’.

Gina Goldenberg

Practicum and supervisor: Sarah Terwilligar at Sarah Terwilligar & Associates, Counselling and Psychotherapy.

​

Gina, MACP candidate, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Certified teacher.

​

Language: English

​

Gina is currently a Master’s level MA is counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

Gina is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Certified teacher with the Ontario College of Teachers with a specialist in Special Education. Gina has 20 years of experience teaching and 10 years as the Head of Special Education. Gina is seeing clients virtually (via video and phone appointments) to anyone in Ontario for counselling services.  

Gina's Counselling Services

​

Do you believe in your ability to overcome life's challenges and discover your authentic self? Gina is here to help you turn these beliefs into reality.

Your Journey to Authenticity

​

Gina takes pride in guiding individuals toward their most authentic selves by helping them tap into their inner strengths. As a non-judgmental and collaborative listener, she utilizes clinically proven mental health tools to foster vigor, resilience, and self-awareness. With a strong emphasis on nurturing a trusting and caring therapeutic relationship, Gina works hand-in-hand with you to achieve your therapy goals.

​

A Holistic Approach

With a background in business and a passion for fitness, health, and wellness, Gina brings a holistic perspective to her therapy practice. With over 20 years of experience working with teenagers and young adults facing a variety of mental health challenges, Gina is well-equipped to support you. She excels in group settings, specializing in conflict resolution and relationship building. Gina is also passionate working with single or struggling moms. Whether you're facing crisis situations, toxic relationships, or mental health concerns, Gina has a deep understanding of the therapeutic process and can provide the counseling and support you need to thrive.
 
Empathy and Cultural Awareness
 
Gina's innate empathy, along with her ongoing personal growth journey, has deepened her appreciation for the transformation that proper counselling can bring. She approaches therapy with humility and cultural awareness, ensuring that you feel truly understood. Over the years, Gina has discovered great satisfaction in working with and supporting others through their struggles. Her passion lies in helping people overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.

Gina works with:

•    Youth / Teenagers (16 - 19 years old)
•    Adults (19 years old +)
•    Single Mothers
•    Families

Gina works with youth and adults who are dealing with:

•    Anxiety
•    Depression
•    Stress & Coping
•    Family Conflict & Divorce
•    Difficult Change
•    Career Issues
•    Learning Disabilities
•    Self - Esteem Issues

​

Kinds of Therapy Gina brings into her work with clients:

•    Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
•    Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
•    Narrative Therapy
•    Solution Focused Therapy
•    Trauma-Informed Counselling
•    Strengths-Based Counselling
 

Online/Virtual Counseling in Ontario

Gina is currently accepting new clients for online/virtual counselling throughout Ontario.

Ready to Begin Your Transformation?

Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, personal growth and strength building? Gina is here to support you every step of the way. Contact her today to take the first step toward a brighter and more confident future.

Sue Charette

Practicum Site and Supervisor: Kathleen Skinner  at KS Therapy Services.

​

Sue, MACP candidate, Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying, Registered Occupational Therapist.

​

Language: English.

​

My name is Sue, I am currently a Master’s level MA counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

​

I am a Qualifying Registered Psychotherapist and Registered Occupational Therapist. Choosing to seek counselling is a courageous decision that can begin a journey toward greater ease and satisfaction in your life. I strive to provide a non-judgmental therapeutic space where you will feel safe and accepted while pursuing the goals that matter to you. I am committed to offering client-centered, strengths-focused care drawing from evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. Working as an occupational therapist for many years has afforded me experience in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, facing multiple issues including physical limitations and severe mental illness. I believe that life’s challenges can be an opportunity to discover our inherent strengths and achieve personal growth. Having said that, my personal and professional experiences have taught me that facing obstacles alone can be overwhelming. My priority is to support you in navigating the challenges and questions you face with openness, care, and compassion. It would be my pleasure to walk with you on this journey.

Danicia Clarke

Practicum Site: Broadview Psychology. Supervisor: Naiara.

​

Danicia, MACP candidate, (Qualifying) Registered Psychotherapist.

​

Language: English

​

Danicia is currently a Master’s level MA counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

Danicia Clarke is a current practicum student therapist and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from York University. She is currently pursuing her Master's degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She has over 3 years of experience working in a leadership role in different settings with children, youth and young adults.

While being clinically supervised Danicia’s approach as a therapist is informed through Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) where she integrates the principles of these modalities with young adolescent, young adult clients and their guardian(s). Danicia believes that ultimately, her clients are capable of succeeding and attaining any personal goal they have set for themselves. She brings a sense of collaboration and awareness into her sessions as she supports her clients non-judgmentally. After completing her Master’s degree, Danicia plans to become a registered Psychotherapist and work with children, youth and young adults. Her goal is to inspire and guide others to seek holistic healing as they navigate their own life challenges and transitions.

Bethan Kondric

Practicum site: Sandstone Psychotherapy and Counselling. Supervisor: Rachael Riethman,
 

Bethan, MACP candidate; Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying).

​

I am currently a Master’s level MA counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

​

I hold an additional undergraduate degree in Psychology from Queen's University.

 I'm passionate about providing a safe and nonjudgmental space for anyone who needs it. What I bring to the session is warmth, compassion, patience, and an understanding that one size doesn't fit all when it comes to therapy. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, or you just feel stuck and need to talk your situation through, together we can decide where to go from here. I commend you for your courage that has brought you to this next step.

Sidney Osborne

Practicum Site: Sweet Spot Family Counselling.

Supervisor: Kathleen Skinner.
 

Sidney, Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying, MACP candidate.

​

Language: English

​

I am currently a Master’s level MA counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

Are you feeling stuck, or working through uncomfortable emotions and thoughts about certain areas of your life? You do not have to go through this alone. Having someone on your side to be an empathetic listener and help you navigate life can be extremely beneficial to your healing journey, and I can be that person for you. As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a Practicum Student Intern through Yorkville University, I will work with you to help you discover and reach your goals all while learning a little something about yourself along the way. We will work together to overcome life's challenges and manage your emotions while working towards your goals. I have experience working with people from all ages and backgrounds, including adolescents, teens, adults, senior citizens, and couples. I come from an integrative approach which includes aspects from client-centred therapy, DBT, ACT, CBT, and solution focused. Feel free to reach out through email at any time! 

A little bit about me! I believe our minds should be a safe place to be as we must live with ourselves our entire lives, and wasted time is never actually wasted if you enjoyed it! I love being outside especially for sunset walks. I also love animals, and I have a black cat and a Husky mix dog at home and frequently visit my family’s dog, Evie the corgi. Pop on a Stevie Wonder or Taylor Swift record and I will be the happiest person in the room!

Iryna Azarova

Practicum Site & Supervisor: Alli & Anna D

MACP candidate

​

Languages: English, Russian or Ukrainian languages.

​

I am currently a Master’s level MA counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

​

Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, or difficult relationships? Let's walk this path together and become the best version of yourself. You are not alone. We will explore your positive and negative cognition and overcome life difficulties together.

My prior practice focused on working with both individuals and couples, and my personal approach helps achieve long-lasting results. I am not looking to change your goals, but instead work with you to find a way which is right for you. Treatment begins with a focus on behavioral change and moves into deeper analysis of emotion and thoughts.

Let me guide you towards the best version of yourself.

I can practice in English, Russian or Ukrainian languages.

Stefanie Stanley

Practicum Site: Boomerang Counselling Centre. 

Supervisor: Brandys Evans.

​

Stefanie, MACP Candidate.

​

Languages: English and French

​

Stefanie is currently a Master’s level MA counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

​

Stefanie is finishing her master’s degree in counselling psychology and holds a BFA in Theatre and a Bachelor of Education from UBC.

​

Originally from the east coast, Stefanie is a mom to two teenagers, and she has been a teacher in B.C. for the past 17 years.

​

Stefanie enjoys helping children, adults, and families who are neurodiverse by supporting them to manage school, societal pressures, lifestyle demands, and anxiety. She is available for parent coaching to help develop strong connections and navigate systems such as developing IEPs.

Stefanie looks forward to working with anyone finding their way through life transitions and challenges, such as career changes, new relationships, marriage or separation/divorce, co-parenting, post-partum, loss of a loved one, and aging.

​

In session with Stefanie, you can expect a conversational, warm, and safe space for you to uncover your needs and move forward with awareness, compassion, and a stronger sense of self.

Sarah Weissmeyer

Supervisor: Joy Sereda.

​

Sarah, MSW, RSW. 

​

Languages: German, English 

​

I am passionate about helping people manage anxiety, depression, stress, self-worth, and identity crises. My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming space where you feel supported and comfortable to say what is on your mind. I am here to help you make sense of your emotions and feel more at ease working through negative thoughts and worries. 

My approach is based on your needs and is guided by principles of compassion, authenticity, and acceptance. I strive to help my clients feel empowered and ready to use their strengths to make changes toward their goals. I believe you deserve to have someone on your side while you explore new ways to overcome your challenges and gain the confidence to grow. 

Imrana Khan

Practicum Site and Supervisor: Shalyn Dussaime

​

Imrana, MACP Candidate.

​

Languages Spoken: English and Urdu

​

I am currently a Master’s level MA counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

I am grateful to offer representation to those who are struggling with their mental health. I have extensive knowledge and understanding of varying family systems and how birth order, race, age, religion and culture effect ones mental health. I have the goal of helping you take steps towards healing by teaching you the skills you need for a mindset that your future self will thank you for. I have experience working with high school teenagers as well as young adults. I am an advocate for pre and post natal women’s health.
I strive to provide a safe space for you so that you can explore your feelings, personality and struggles confidently and see what approach works best for you. Although making the choice to begin therapy or counselling can be difficult, especially in cultures where vulnerability is faced, I hope that this step you take is one we can take together.

Alice Kong

Practicum: U-Matter Counselling and Coaching Services.

Supervisor: Tamara Ukwu. 

​

I'm a referral affiliate counsellor, currently a Master’s level MA counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor. 

​

Languages: English, Mandarin, Cantonese

​

Yorkville University's Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology

​

“When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!”

​

Sometimes life situations throw at us so many unexpected challenges and difficulties that we find it difficult to navigate. Asking for help can be intimidating; therefore, I will provide a warm and non-judgmental environment so you can feel safe and supported as we collaborate to help you move toward your goals.

​

My approach is a combination of cognitive behavioural therapy, solution-focused therapy, and person-centered therapy because I will tailor the treatment plan to your needs and goals. I am fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin and am aware of cultural differences, intergenerational, and intercultural conflicts.

​

If you are being thrown with lemons, I would like to invite you to have a brief (and free) consultation with me to discuss how I may assist you. You can schedule a time through the booking page on our website. I look forward to working with you!

​

古語有云：隨遇而安。

​

有時，生活會帶來許多意想不到的挑戰和困難，以至我們難以駕馭 、不能喘息。尋求幫助可能使人恐懼，尋求輔導亦需要勇氣。因此，我將提供一個溫暖和無批判的環境，透過我們的合作，幫助閣下實現目標時，同時感到安全和獲得支持。

​

我會結合認知行為療法、以解決方案為中心，和以人為本的療法，配合您的需要和目標。我能說流利的英語、廣東話和普通話，並且了解文化差異、代際和跨文化衝突。

如果您需要幫助，歡迎與我進行一次簡短的（免費）諮詢， 從而討論我可以如何引導/幫助您解決問題。您可以通過網頁的預約頁面安排時間。 我期待與您合作！

Zafrin Alam

 Practicum Site & Supervisor: Boomerang Counselling Centre & Brandys Evans  

​

Zafrin Alam, BA, BEd (BC Secondary School Teacher)

​

Languages: English, Bengali

​

Zafrin is finishing her master’s degree in Counseling and holds a BA in Arts with a major in English, and minor in Kinesiology from SFU, and a Bachelor of Education from UBC. She is a Vancouver native and has been a teacher for 7 years, teaching abroad and in the North Vancouver district.

​

Zafrin enjoys helping youth, adults, and new immigrants adapt to life stressors by supporting them to combat societal pressures, anxiety, balancing school and work, and lifestyle concerns. Zafrin is passionate about working with adults from all walks of life and youth who are facing challenges or major transitions and need help navigating them through this difficult endeavour.

​

In a session with Zafrin, you can expect a calm, safe space, inviting smile and warmth to help you create a path forward to uncover your needs. Her experience teaching internationally and across all grades from K-12 has helped her think of inventive ways to help people navigate, communicate and understand their emotions.

​

I love to laugh, be social, and have a slight obsession with coffee. In my down-time you can find me combining my love for all the above, sitting at a coffee shop with a friend or enjoying a nice cup of coffee at home and enjoying a good movie. My other passion is travelling. I have spent some time volunteering, teaching in China, and a few years living and teaching in Sweden. Living in Sweden, I had the pleasure to visit 18 different countries in two years. I aim to make it to every continent and explore more uncommon destinations. I would say the top 3 most unique travel destinations have been to the Faroe Islands, Reykjavík, and Casablanca.

Sumara Riaz

 Practicum Site & Supervisor: In Wholeness and Shalyn Dussiaume.

​

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying).

​

Languages: English, Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi

​

Sumara is currently a Master’s level MA counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

​

Sumara has a background in psychology and she is finishing her master’s degree in counselling psychology.

Ereny Saleh ايرينى صالح

Ereny, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying).

Areas of Specialty: Individual counselling, Relationship difficulties, Stress, Anxiety & Depression, Personal Growth and Recovery, Divorce & Separation Support, Self-Esteem and Life Purpose & Direction.

Languages Spoken: English, Arabic العربيه 
Appointments available: Mondays to Fridays, 4:30 pm – 8 pm EST, Saturdays (days), Online and in-person Appointments.

Ereny strives to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental, and safe environment for you to share your personal experiences and challenges. She hopes to accompany you along your journey to explore and deal with any ambiguous feelings that may occur in various situations in our lives. From an EFT and CBT, SFT approaches, we will work together to collaboratively discover your fears, vulnerabilities and difficulties to set long-term plans and solutions. She is passionate about helping couples reconnect and build long loving relationships. From a culturally responsive, personal experience and social justice lens, Ereny is fully aware of how experiences in the cultural and socio-economic context impact our physical and mental health. Ereny’s primary goal is to encourage you to bring awareness to emotions, behaviours, and environmental factors that may interfere with your ability to maintain a complete, authentic, and meaningful life. Ereny’s medical background allows her to obtain appropriate knowledge about general health and well-being. Ereny has a Spiritual Counselling Diploma from the USA. She has had the privilege of coming from a different country and occupying different jobs that allow her to experience meaningful engagement with many people from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds, abilities, and life stages. Interacting with diverse cultures has profoundly enhanced her compassion and humility for all humanity. This invaluable experience has shaped her personal journey towards helping others seek clarity and direction, finding balance and a deeper understanding of oneself. She is providing counselling services in English and Arabic under the supervision of Joseph Wong, RP CCC RCC.

Ereny is currently providing both pro bono counselling sessions. If you would like to book with her, please email us.

Sidra Batool

Practicum Site: The Counselling House. 
Supervisor: Dr. Laurie Ponsford-Hill,

​

Sidra, MACP candidate.

​

Languages Spoken: English and Urdu

​

Sidra is currently a Master’s level MA counselling psychology practicum student who is qualified to practice under the clinical supervision of an approved practicum supervisor.

She believes that each client comes with unique needs and therefore, uses an integrative approach with evidence-based theories customized to fulfill the needs of each client. She provides counselling services from a culturally sensitive perspective and her counselling strategy is highly collaborative in nature. Sidra believes that the client should be in the driving seat in the therapeutic process, with her offering counselling support as a facilitator. She aims to bring out the best in her clients by taking a strength-based approach in counselling. She empowers her clients by handing them some coping tools which they can use to deal with any struggles that they bring to the therapy room.

Through her non-judgmental approach, Sidra creates a safe space for her clients where they can uncover any unsettling thoughts and feelings. She welcomes clients of all ages whose lives are affected by mental health issues, and provides online (video and voice call) sessions for individuals, couples and families in English and Urdu.

Larysa Lubnina

BCACC application in process

​

Language spoke: English, Ukrainian, Russian

​

Appointments available: Mondays to Saturdays 8 am- 5 pm Pacific time

​

Larysa has a Master’s degree in Applied Psychology and is currently undergoing specialized training in Consonance Therapy that helps clients to heal traumas and PTSD as well as other issues related to anxiety, panic attacks, depression, autism, ADHD, grief, and emotional issues.

​

In her practice and approach, she adheres to one foundational belief that behind any inner conflict of personality are unmet basic needs that must be addressed. When we learn to identify our own basic needs and be able to manage our emotions we can nurture and strengthen an adult part of our personality and live an effective, prosperous, and productive life. She believes that every one of us is worth living in joy, peace, and a loving connection with ourselves.