Sabine works in the Refugees and Vulnerable Newcomers program, providing social and insightful emotional support and counselling to address both the immediate and long-term psychological needs of refugees and newcomers. She has experience working with immigrants and has a sensitive awareness about their life experience which fosters a better understanding of their needs and focuses on building a trusting therapeutic relationship. By understanding the complexity of a migration journey, Sabine makes sure she creates a comfortable and safe environment for clients to feel supported and heard. Sabine’s strengths are practicing active listening, her unconditional positive regard and her capacity to always prioritize the client’s well-being.
Sabine uses various therapy models in her practice such as Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, elements of Play Therapy and Client Centered Therapy from a culturally sensitive perspective. Sabine has experience working with individuals and families; providing counselling in areas including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, anger management, relationship distress, migration, those who have gone through traumatic events and other life transitions. She also works with youth and children who experience difficulties in managing their emotions.
Sabine is a graduate from the University of Ottawa who has a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology and previously a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. She is a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association and offers counselling services in multiple languages such as French, Spanish, English, and Creole.
Areas of Expertise
Anger Management,
Anxiety/Panic,
Bereavement & Loss/Grief,
Couples & Relationship Counselling,
Depression,
Domestic Violence & Abuse,
Family of Origin Dynamics,
Grief,
Isolation/Interpersonal Difficulties,
Loss/Grief,
Mental Health,
Mindfulness,
Newcomer and Refugee Mental Health,
Parenting,
PTSD & Trauma,
Self Esteem,
Self Worth,
Separation & Divorce,
Sexual Assault,
Stress,
Workplace Stress
Sahaza is a compassionate and culturally sensitive psychotherapist who strives to provide a space where clients feel genuinely accepted for who they are and free to explore their inner experiences. She accompanies each person with presence and authenticity, guiding them to reconnect with their authentic selves, clarify their values, and cultivate a greater sense of peace.
Sahaza practices from an integrative lens, drawing mainly from strengths-based, emotion-focused (EFT), and compassion-focused approaches (CFT). She also incorporates techniques from cognitive-behavioural (CBT), narrative therapy, and mindfulness, adapting her interventions with creativity to each client’s pace, needs, and way of being. Her style is both experiential and relational, inviting clients to explore their emotional, physical, cognitive, and existential experiences within a supportive therapeutic relationship.
Her approach is informed by her Master’s degree in Counseling and Spirituality, which supports her ability to integrate spiritual reflection, when it matters to the client, so that they feel wholly supported.
Sarah provides counselling to individuals facing a wide variety of emotional and psychological challenges in their lives. With compassion, caring and acceptance, Sarah’s strength lies in building strong therapeutic relationships with her clients. She strives to support clients to draw from their inner strength and wisdom to help foster positive change in their lives. Sarah creates a safe and open environment to assist with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues, domestic violence, grief/loss, and postpartum difficulties. She welcomes opportunities to work with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures and is LGBTTIQQ+ positive.
Sarah collaborates with each client, tailoring her approach to meet their therapeutic needs. Her practice draws from Narrative, Attachment, Feminist, and Cognitive-Behavioural Theories, and is Trauma-Informed. She is passionate about social justice and poverty reduction. She has worked in a variety of community settings and has extensive experience assisting clients to navigate the different social services, housing, and welfare systems.
She completed her Master of Social Work at Wilfrid Laurier University, is a Registered Social Worker in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Worker and Social Service Workers and is a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers.
Areas of Expertise
Anxiety/Panic,
Bereavement & Loss/Grief,
Depression,
Domestic Violence & Abuse,
Family of Origin Dynamics,
Grief,
LGBTTIQQ Issues,
Life Transitions,
Mental Health,
Newcomer and Refugee Mental Health,
Parenting,
Prenatal & Post-Partum Issues,
PTSD & Trauma,
Stress
Sierra uses a warm, empathetic, and client-centred approach in her work. She aims to create a supportive space to empower clients throughout their therapeutic journey while helping them identify and achieve their unique goals. She holds a compassionate, non-judgemental space to allow clients to feel cared for and validated.
Sierra tailors her therapeutic approach to meet each client’s needs. She uses an integrative person-centered approach which draws on various modalities from Psychodynamic Therapy, Attachment-based therapy, Narrative therapy, and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFCT). Along with these modalities, she uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) tools and Mindfulness-based techniques.
Sierra is experienced in working with adult individuals ages 18 and over, as well as couples. Her areas of experience include working with interpersonal relationships, relationship conflict and communication issues, trauma/ PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, stress, and self-esteem. Sierra is an LGBTQ2S+ positive counsellor and aims to honour the experience of all her clients.
Sierra received her Master’s degree in Counselling and Spirituality with a specialization in Couple and Family Counselling from Saint Paul University and her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Carleton University. She is also a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).
Areas of Expertise
Adjustment to Disability,
Anxiety/Panic,
Bereavement & Loss/Grief,
Childhood Sexual Abuse,
Couples & Relationship Counselling,
Depression,
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR),
Family of Origin Dynamics,
Grief,
Inter-racial & Inter-cultural Relationships,
LGBTTIQQ Issues,
Life Transitions,
Loss/Grief,
Mental Health,
Mindfulness,
Moral Injury,
Navigating Transition,
PTSD & Trauma,
Self Esteem,
Self Worth,
Seniors,
Sexuality,
Stress,
Workplace Stress
Sophie Jolicoeur-Bécotte is a Music Therapist–Board Certified (MT-BC) and holds an Honours Bachelor of Music Therapy with a Minor in Psychology from Wilfrid Laurier University. She has also completed advanced levels in vocal performance and piano through the Royal Conservatory of Music. In addition, Sophie has completed training with the International Neurologic Music Therapy Training Institute. This strong academic, clinical, and musical background equips her with a deep understanding of the therapeutic benefits of music, particularly in mental health settings.
As a compassionate and skilled music therapist, Sophie uses the power of music to support mental health and emotional well-being. She has experience providing music therapy in various settings, including adult mental health services and special education classrooms. Sophie’s approach involves creating a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their emotions and experiences through music, fostering healing and growth. At The Counseling Group, she offers specialized music therapy sessions designed to help individuals navigate challenges, reduce stress, and improve overall mental health. If you or a loved one are seeking a personalized and innovative approach to mental health support, connecting with Sophie could be the first step toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
No musical experience is needed — just an open heart!
Areas of Expertise
Abuse/Assault,
Adjustment to Disability,
Anxiety/Panic,
Bereavement & Loss/Grief,
Childhood Sexual Abuse,
Children & Youth,
Chronic Pain/Illness,
Depression,
Grief,
Isolation/Interpersonal Difficulties,
LGBTTIQQ Issues,
Life Transitions,
Loss/Grief,
Mental Health,
Mindfulness,
Navigating Transition,
Neurodivergence,
Personal Injury (Motor Vehicle),
Play Therapy,
Prenatal & Post-Partum Issues,
Self Esteem,
Self Worth,
Seniors,
Sexuality,
Special Needs & Behavioural Disorders,
Stress,
Workplace Stress,
WSIB,
Youth Counselling & Counselling for Young Adults
Stephanie’s work with clients is collaborative, client centered and non-judgmental. She strives to create a safe and comfortable space for clients to identify and reach their goals. Stephanie supports clients in exploring challenges they face and moving towards their goals. She uses approaches including Dialectical Behaviour, Cognitive Behavioural, Narrative, Solution-Focused therapeutic modalities. Counselling with Stephanie involves components such as goal setting, psychoeducation, curious exploration, action planning, processing, reframing and mobilizing resources.
Stephanie holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work and is a Registered Social Worker in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers & Social Service Workers.
Areas of Expertise
Anger Management,
Anxiety/Panic,
Childhood Sexual Abuse,
Depression,
Isolation/Interpersonal Difficulties,
Mental Health,
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD),
PTSD & Trauma,
Self Esteem,
Stress,
Workplace Stress
Svetlana has over 15 years of experience as a social worker in various departments within hospital settings in Israel and in Canada, where she has provided support to families, youth at risk, and individuals experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV).
Her goal is to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space, fostering self-awareness as a therapist. She offers a supportive environment where clients can share their stories and feelings openly and has experience in helping clients navigate community services suited to their needs.
Trilingual in Russian, English, and Hebrew, Svetlana bridges language gaps effectively. She holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Bar-Ilan University and is a registered social worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, as well as a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers.
Areas of Expertise
Adoption,
Anger Management,
Anxiety/Panic,
Bereavement & Loss/Grief,
Childhood Sexual Abuse,
Children & Youth,
Chronic Pain/Illness,
Depression,
Mental Health,
Newcomer and Refugee Mental Health,
Parenting,
Parenting Children with Special Needs,
PTSD & Trauma,
Self Esteem,
Self Worth,
Special Needs & Behavioural Disorders,
Stress,
Youth Counselling & Counselling for Young Adults
One of Valerie’s greatest strengths is her ability to connect with other people, understanding their perspective, to create a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. In this warm and nonjudgmental atmosphere, Valerie works with clients to develop a toolbox of strategies to support them toward their goals. Additionally, she extends her expertise by offering clinical consultation and supervision to other clinicians in the community.
Valerie has taught mindfulness since 2004 and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) since 2010 which remain a cornerstone of her practice. She uses mindfulness to increase awareness, acceptance, and self-compassion, and to support mental health when shown to be effective. She also draws on dialectic behaviour therapy, emotionally-focused therapy and interpersonal therapies. Valerie has been working in the Ontario Structured Psychotherapy program since 2018 providing cognitive behavioural therapy to people dealing with anxiety, depression, panic, avoidance, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma including treating PTSD. She works with individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and families. She values diversity in all of its forms, including working with people from marginalized communities.
Valerie holds a Master’s Degree in Psychology (neuroscience), in which she studied the effects of mindfulness on health and well-being. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work. She is a member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and the Ontario Association of Social Workers.
Areas of Expertise
Anger Management,
Anxiety/Panic,
Bereavement & Loss/Grief,
Childhood Sexual Abuse,
Depression,
Family Therapy & Transitions,
Grief,
Isolation/Interpersonal Difficulties,
Mental Health,
Mindfulness,
Mood Challenges,
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD),
PTSD & Trauma,
Special Needs & Behavioural Disorders,
Stress,
Workplace Stress,
Youth Counselling & Counselling for Young Adults
Victoria approaches her work with warmth, compassion, and empathy. She strives to create a safe space for her clients to process emotions, live in line with their values, and find meaning in their experiences. Victoria has experience working with youth and adults. She has a particular interest in working in areas of self-esteem, trauma, anxiety/panic, depression, grief/loss, and identity issues. Victoria is an LGBTQ+ positive counsellor and has past experience working as a counsellor in Post-Secondary School and private practice settings.
Victoria’s therapeutic practice is primarily influenced by a Narrative, Strengths-based, and Collaborative perspective. She also incorporates techniques from self-compassion, Mindfulness, Positive Psychology, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Victoria holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Education in Counselling Psychology from the University of Ottawa. She is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). Victoria works at Jewish Family Services of Ottawa as part of The Counselling Group and The Walk-In Counselling Clinic.
Areas of Expertise
Abuse/Assault,
Anxiety/Panic,
Bereavement & Loss/Grief,
Childhood Sexual Abuse,
Depression,
Domestic Violence & Abuse,
Eating Disorders,
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR),
Family of Origin Dynamics,
Grief,
LGBTTIQQ Issues,
Life Transitions,
Loss/Grief,
Mental Health,
Mindfulness,
Mood Challenges,
Moral Injury,
Navigating Transition,
PTSD & Trauma,
Self Esteem,
Self Worth,
Sexual Assault,
Stress
Wendy’s practicing philosophy is that every person deserves an opportunity to heal, to grow and to seek support in doing so: “Our personal growth has a profound impact on how we understand ourselves and function in the world. When we create change within ourselves, we can develop healthier relationships with others, and with the world around us. We are all worthy of this process.” Additionally, Wendy offers clinical consultation and supervision to other clinicians in the community.
Wendy has worked in the counselling field for over twenty-five years. In her work with adult clients, she reflects an appreciation of diversity and the unique knowledge that clients hold about their history and current situation. She helps people manage emotionally challenging situations and life transitions, and is experienced in working with anxiety, depression, family of origin dynamics, sexual abuse, grief and loss, and trauma-related issues. Wendy works with the modalities of Narrative Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness and Experiential-Systemic Theory. Her approach to therapy is collaborative and inclusive, and she offers a calm, respectful, and supportive environment where clients feel understood and encouraged.
Wendy’s counselling experience includes EAP counselling, intensive in-home therapy, group facilitation, Play Therapy, and private practice. Wendy also has many years of experience working specifically with adult survivors of sexual abuse and early childhood trauma.
Wendy holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work and is a Registered Social Worker in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, and the Ontario Association of Social Workers.
Areas of Expertise
Anxiety/Panic,
Bereavement & Loss/Grief,
Childhood Sexual Abuse,
Depression,
Family of Origin Dynamics,
Isolation/Interpersonal Difficulties,
Life Transitions,
Loss/Grief,
Mental Health,
Moral Injury,
Personal Injury (Motor Vehicle),
PTSD & Trauma,
Self Esteem,
Sexual Assault,
Stress
