LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Okotoks, AB
![Photo of Leigh van Rootselaar, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f232840a-2f25-496d-8032-612c10cfd346/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide a supportive environment for those on their journey of identity exploration and healing. As someone who shares in the experience of queer identity, my practice is a safe haven that welcomes and affirms all queer and gender-diverse individuals. My expertise includes serving individuals facing trauma, addiction, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, and emotion dysregulation.
I provide a supportive environment for those on their journey of identity exploration and healing. As someone who shares in the experience of queer identity, my practice is a safe haven that welcomes and affirms all queer and gender-diverse individuals. My expertise includes serving individuals facing trauma, addiction, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, and emotion dysregulation.
![Photo of Amy Gale, BA,, MSc, Registered Provisional Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e6ce7a6-3795-4127-af2c-260926e99419/2/320x400.jpeg)
LGBTQIA+ Affirming.
Reduced Fees and Evening Availability- Currently a Registered Provisional Psychologist. The challenges life presents are REAL. The recent challenging times has created an opportunity for deep healing, connection and profound growth. The first step toward feeling better is simply reaching out for help. Humans are exceptionally strong and adaptive, but often we don’t recognize our own internal strengths and abilities when faced with life’s roadblocks.
LGBTQIA+ Affirming.
Reduced Fees and Evening Availability- Currently a Registered Provisional Psychologist. The challenges life presents are REAL. The recent challenging times has created an opportunity for deep healing, connection and profound growth. The first step toward feeling better is simply reaching out for help. Humans are exceptionally strong and adaptive, but often we don’t recognize our own internal strengths and abilities when faced with life’s roadblocks.
![Photo of Jennifer Rioux, MC, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed8f654-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals & couples with a variety of issues including addictions, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship wellness, anger management, life stress, self-harm, infertility, unresolved trauma, grief, and sexual identity. I value a collaborative approach whether offering support or working to look at the thoughts, feelings, and behaviour that are keeping you stuck in unhealthy or unsatisfying patterns. My goal is to help you recognize your strengths and potential, increase positive life experiences, and build capacity to cope with life's struggles. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I work with individuals & couples with a variety of issues including addictions, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship wellness, anger management, life stress, self-harm, infertility, unresolved trauma, grief, and sexual identity. I value a collaborative approach whether offering support or working to look at the thoughts, feelings, and behaviour that are keeping you stuck in unhealthy or unsatisfying patterns. My goal is to help you recognize your strengths and potential, increase positive life experiences, and build capacity to cope with life's struggles. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
![Photo of Joanna Card, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c4be388-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Card
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with teens, young adults, adults, and families, and helping them transform into confident and successful people with effective life-management skills. I specialize with clients needing individual, and/or family support with: attachment, anxiety, assertiveness, body image, conflict resolution, cross-cultural parenting, depression, grief, parent coaching, parent/teen conflict, performance enhancement (school, work, social), pet loss, relationship issues, self-esteem, self harm, sexuality - including all sexual orientations & gender identities, stress management, and trauma. Queer/Trans & HAES affirming.
I am passionate about working with teens, young adults, adults, and families, and helping them transform into confident and successful people with effective life-management skills. I specialize with clients needing individual, and/or family support with: attachment, anxiety, assertiveness, body image, conflict resolution, cross-cultural parenting, depression, grief, parent coaching, parent/teen conflict, performance enhancement (school, work, social), pet loss, relationship issues, self-esteem, self harm, sexuality - including all sexual orientations & gender identities, stress management, and trauma. Queer/Trans & HAES affirming.
![Photo of Michelle Poon, MC , RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aaa4b83c-dd8b-4b50-b364-895e41af2e91/2/320x400.jpeg)
I welcome clients from all backgrounds and am a LGBTQ+ ally.
Ever Feel Stuck? Let me help guide you through. Hi I'm Michelle, a Registered Psychologist. I started her career in the not-for-profit sector working with clients in home and long-term care settings, particularly with children and teens with behavioral disorders. During this time I gained extensive experience supporting parents and working with clients experiencing oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder. I also began working in private practice in 2019 where I worked with a diverse range of clients and their concerns. For more information or to book an appointment visit www.throughthewoods.ca.
I welcome clients from all backgrounds and am a LGBTQ+ ally.
Ever Feel Stuck? Let me help guide you through. Hi I'm Michelle, a Registered Psychologist. I started her career in the not-for-profit sector working with clients in home and long-term care settings, particularly with children and teens with behavioral disorders. During this time I gained extensive experience supporting parents and working with clients experiencing oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder. I also began working in private practice in 2019 where I worked with a diverse range of clients and their concerns. For more information or to book an appointment visit www.throughthewoods.ca.
![Photo of Emily Wasylenko, MA, RPsych, CCC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c88a09f4-fca2-4a0d-aa9a-e71bb4305d01/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Wasylenko
Psychologist, MA, RPsych, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that you should walk away from counselling feeling empowered; with a sense of agency to make choices that improve your quality of life within the social contexts and systems you operate in. My role is to provide a nonjudgmental, warm, and accepting environment while accompanying you in discovering the resources you hold within you to move past the difficulties you’re facing.
I believe that you should walk away from counselling feeling empowered; with a sense of agency to make choices that improve your quality of life within the social contexts and systems you operate in. My role is to provide a nonjudgmental, warm, and accepting environment while accompanying you in discovering the resources you hold within you to move past the difficulties you’re facing.
![Photo of Nicole Mullen, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/550a6be1-f29d-435f-be99-1a0592ecb4fc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Starting therapy can be overwhelming but you have come to the right place! I will help you understand the underlying factors contributing to your challenges and help you create lasting positive change. I work with those 14 years and older who are facing anxiety, stress, burnout, parenting struggles, illness adjustment, grief/loss, trauma, relationship issues and much more. I have a special interest working with health care workers and first responders.
Starting therapy can be overwhelming but you have come to the right place! I will help you understand the underlying factors contributing to your challenges and help you create lasting positive change. I work with those 14 years and older who are facing anxiety, stress, burnout, parenting struggles, illness adjustment, grief/loss, trauma, relationship issues and much more. I have a special interest working with health care workers and first responders.
![Photo of Shauna Greene, CCC, MACP, BA, Registered Provisional Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80f5ab53-cee3-45c0-b091-c8b781a1c8a9/6/320x400.jpeg)
Shauna Greene
Registered Provisional Psychologist, CCC, MACP, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Evening and Weekend Availability. Seeking support is brave. It signifies that you already have the strength and capacity for resilience and growth. I would be honoured to learn about you and your story, and adjust my approach so that your unique needs are met. It is my priority to provide a safe, non-judgmental, and unbiased space where you will be seen, heard, and comfortable exploring your inner and outer world and working through your concerns. I hope all my clients feel understood, accepted, validated, cared for, and empowered. I believe in mutual transparency and cultural humility, and value your perspective and feedback.
Evening and Weekend Availability. Seeking support is brave. It signifies that you already have the strength and capacity for resilience and growth. I would be honoured to learn about you and your story, and adjust my approach so that your unique needs are met. It is my priority to provide a safe, non-judgmental, and unbiased space where you will be seen, heard, and comfortable exploring your inner and outer world and working through your concerns. I hope all my clients feel understood, accepted, validated, cared for, and empowered. I believe in mutual transparency and cultural humility, and value your perspective and feedback.
![Photo of Celine Olsen, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9aafc234-6c0c-4eaf-aea9-53b6145aa003/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel disconnected and alone as you journey through life? Are your emotions overwhelming right now? Does it feel like the anxiety, depression, isolation, or emotional overwhelm are a barrier to living a whole and connected life? Maybe you’ve experienced some kind of trauma, sexual abuse, or depression and you are at a point where you are ready to move forward. If you are reading this, a part of you is ready for change and to feel better.
Do you feel disconnected and alone as you journey through life? Are your emotions overwhelming right now? Does it feel like the anxiety, depression, isolation, or emotional overwhelm are a barrier to living a whole and connected life? Maybe you’ve experienced some kind of trauma, sexual abuse, or depression and you are at a point where you are ready to move forward. If you are reading this, a part of you is ready for change and to feel better.
![Photo of Megan Sherback, MA, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcb25087-ff93-456b-a1c9-f4774869eb07/1/320x400.jpeg)
It’s hard to feel like people will understand you when you’ve been through difficult life experiences and have had to do hard things to survive. Getting control of your emotions and finding a way to stop the pain and suffering is possible. You may fear that feeling deeply makes you weak but your strength comes from your sensitivity and your ability to make it through tough times, even when you’re afraid the world won’t understand or that people will abandon you. You might feel like something is wrong with you or that no matter what you do nothing will get better.
It’s hard to feel like people will understand you when you’ve been through difficult life experiences and have had to do hard things to survive. Getting control of your emotions and finding a way to stop the pain and suffering is possible. You may fear that feeling deeply makes you weak but your strength comes from your sensitivity and your ability to make it through tough times, even when you’re afraid the world won’t understand or that people will abandon you. You might feel like something is wrong with you or that no matter what you do nothing will get better.
![Photo of Toni Harris, MSc, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5e0fc91-eadc-4917-8564-85b9ddb6b3b3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Weekdays/evening /weekend availability: I offer 25 years experience in the psychology field with extensive background in a variety of modalities that range the continuum of science and soul. I have been honoured to journey thousands of hours with clients through the intricate and sacred stories of their lives. I strive to bring grounded knowledge and theory, compassionate witnessing, heart-led guidance, practical tools and strategies, and body/mind techniques to support the reflection, healing and change process. A little humour goes a long way too ;)
Weekdays/evening /weekend availability: I offer 25 years experience in the psychology field with extensive background in a variety of modalities that range the continuum of science and soul. I have been honoured to journey thousands of hours with clients through the intricate and sacred stories of their lives. I strive to bring grounded knowledge and theory, compassionate witnessing, heart-led guidance, practical tools and strategies, and body/mind techniques to support the reflection, healing and change process. A little humour goes a long way too ;)
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![Photo of Tia Bell, BSW, RSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea67abdb-9ccd-4e44-89b0-55e229b0f3c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ready for real change? No waitlist—I'm accepting new clients now! Whether you're a womxn navigating what happens next after university, battling imposter syndrome while elevating your career, or trying to regain your self-identity within motherhood, I'm here to help you navigate life's transitions and transformations. Engage in 60 minutes of authentic conversation where you can drop societal expectations and explore your true self.
Ready for real change? No waitlist—I'm accepting new clients now! Whether you're a womxn navigating what happens next after university, battling imposter syndrome while elevating your career, or trying to regain your self-identity within motherhood, I'm here to help you navigate life's transitions and transformations. Engage in 60 minutes of authentic conversation where you can drop societal expectations and explore your true self.
![Photo of Elizabeth Muhle, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9c9453-0a7b-43c6-8474-a70602611948/2/320x400.jpeg)
Evening and weekend appointments available in person or virtual. I hold a deep seeded belief that we each are doing the very best that we can in any given moment. I believe no one is exempt from struggle and at times it is difficult to know how we got to this painful place, and at other times an event (trauma) takes place which can leave us not recognizing ourselves or our life. I offer a safe validating space to heal and rediscover how you want to show up in your life. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck or wanting support in any area of your life, please reach out to me. I would be honored to be a part of your healing journey.
Evening and weekend appointments available in person or virtual. I hold a deep seeded belief that we each are doing the very best that we can in any given moment. I believe no one is exempt from struggle and at times it is difficult to know how we got to this painful place, and at other times an event (trauma) takes place which can leave us not recognizing ourselves or our life. I offer a safe validating space to heal and rediscover how you want to show up in your life. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck or wanting support in any area of your life, please reach out to me. I would be honored to be a part of your healing journey.
![Photo of Sheryl Field, MACP, BN, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97bb773f-a20c-4cb4-b9a3-fb97a6c0a61a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Following an extensive and rewarding career as a registered nurse, with experience in critical care, cardiology, and family medicine, I have thoroughly enjoyed learning how I can better help others who are in need of support. I have worked alongside adult individuals who have endured developmental and acute trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, addiction, and life transitions including relationship and parenting support. It is a privilege to walk alongside my clients as they grow and expand in self-awareness, self-determination, compassion for themselves, and overall confidence to live their best life.
Following an extensive and rewarding career as a registered nurse, with experience in critical care, cardiology, and family medicine, I have thoroughly enjoyed learning how I can better help others who are in need of support. I have worked alongside adult individuals who have endured developmental and acute trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, addiction, and life transitions including relationship and parenting support. It is a privilege to walk alongside my clients as they grow and expand in self-awareness, self-determination, compassion for themselves, and overall confidence to live their best life.
![Photo of Dawn H Furlong, MSc, RPsyc, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cba1632b-9cb8-4ed5-959c-13efba540a39/1/320x400.jpeg)
Reaching out and researching professionals who can help can be an intimidating and overwhelming experience. However, finding the right fit for you (or a family member) is absolutely critical to achieving the results you are wanting. So allow me to introduce myself... My name is Dawn Furlong and I am a Registered Psychologist serving Okotoks and surrounding areas. I provide individual counselling services to individuals ages 16 and up. I have a wide range of experience working with youth and adults from many different backgrounds. I am also passionate about parent consultation to help you improve your relationship with your child.
Reaching out and researching professionals who can help can be an intimidating and overwhelming experience. However, finding the right fit for you (or a family member) is absolutely critical to achieving the results you are wanting. So allow me to introduce myself... My name is Dawn Furlong and I am a Registered Psychologist serving Okotoks and surrounding areas. I provide individual counselling services to individuals ages 16 and up. I have a wide range of experience working with youth and adults from many different backgrounds. I am also passionate about parent consultation to help you improve your relationship with your child.
![Photo of Lierin Churla, MC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83289358-ba63-433e-a396-b1baea0823dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Evening and weekend availability - We can all feel lost and overwhelmed by our emotions or get stuck in patterns of unhelpful thoughts and behaviours - when all we really crave is connection, support, and tools to help us show up more peacefully for ourselves and others. My experience is primarily with teenagers and adults facing challenges related to anxiety, stress, depression, interpersonal relationships, grief and loss, self-worth, & challenging life transitions. Together, we can explore how to help you gain better insight and overcome the barriers that are preventing you from accessing your authentic self.
Evening and weekend availability - We can all feel lost and overwhelmed by our emotions or get stuck in patterns of unhelpful thoughts and behaviours - when all we really crave is connection, support, and tools to help us show up more peacefully for ourselves and others. My experience is primarily with teenagers and adults facing challenges related to anxiety, stress, depression, interpersonal relationships, grief and loss, self-worth, & challenging life transitions. Together, we can explore how to help you gain better insight and overcome the barriers that are preventing you from accessing your authentic self.
![Photo of Gita Ward; Anxiety And Trauma Specialist, BA, MSW, RCSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42767f8a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gita Ward; Anxiety And Trauma Specialist
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Now Offering Therapy Intensives! Accelerate your healing by feeling better faster with our 1, 2, 3 & 4 day intensives. Anxiety and trauma can make us feel stuck and overwhelmed, but there is hope. Let me pour you a cup of coffee or tea and let's talk. Anxiety and trauma no longer has to take over you and your world. You deserve to live a fulfilling life. I can help you find the answers you are looking for and start to live the life you want. I know how intimidating it can be to reach out to a therapist. Take a deep breath and connect with me.
Now Offering Therapy Intensives! Accelerate your healing by feeling better faster with our 1, 2, 3 & 4 day intensives. Anxiety and trauma can make us feel stuck and overwhelmed, but there is hope. Let me pour you a cup of coffee or tea and let's talk. Anxiety and trauma no longer has to take over you and your world. You deserve to live a fulfilling life. I can help you find the answers you are looking for and start to live the life you want. I know how intimidating it can be to reach out to a therapist. Take a deep breath and connect with me.
![Photo of Helene Eldegard (Nordic Psychology Inc.), R Psyc, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0896d9eb-6725-4dd9-9780-610de7b6d7ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Helene Eldegard (Nordic Psychology Inc.)
Psychologist, R Psyc
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
I am a Registered Psychologist specializing in couples counselling. I work with couples on a variety of obstacles in their relationship, such as a breakdown of communication, recurring arguments, life transitions, disconnection between partners, and intimacy issues. I also specialize in working with adult individuals struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationship/communication difficulties.
I am a Registered Psychologist specializing in couples counselling. I work with couples on a variety of obstacles in their relationship, such as a breakdown of communication, recurring arguments, life transitions, disconnection between partners, and intimacy issues. I also specialize in working with adult individuals struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationship/communication difficulties.
![Photo of Jessica Donovan, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6147f1b0-7112-4719-9101-bac9345ac959/1/320x400.png)
Jessica Donovan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Life can be tough, even at the best of times, and we can all use a little help! I am passionate about supporting children, teens and their parents create better connections, increase communication, build coping skills and of course bringing back the fun to the family. Along with my work with families, I also support individuals on their journey of self discovery, whether it is by examining their values, relationship patterns or gaining perspective.
Life can be tough, even at the best of times, and we can all use a little help! I am passionate about supporting children, teens and their parents create better connections, increase communication, build coping skills and of course bringing back the fun to the family. Along with my work with families, I also support individuals on their journey of self discovery, whether it is by examining their values, relationship patterns or gaining perspective.
![Photo of Valerie Stitchman, MSc, Registered Provisional Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac176ae2-6440-4b34-9a02-0f951c6f9c5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Valerie Stitchman
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
If you’ve had a less than positive experience with therapy in the past I’d love to hear from you. I draw from the most relevant elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Processing Therapy to craft a truly unique therapeutic approach that is structured, effective, and at the same time ultra-personalized to every client. One size fits all doesn’t live here. If it’s not working for you then it’s not working for me. I am also certified in Clinical Hypnotherapy by the Alberta Clinical Hypnosis Society (ACHS).
If you’ve had a less than positive experience with therapy in the past I’d love to hear from you. I draw from the most relevant elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Processing Therapy to craft a truly unique therapeutic approach that is structured, effective, and at the same time ultra-personalized to every client. One size fits all doesn’t live here. If it’s not working for you then it’s not working for me. I am also certified in Clinical Hypnotherapy by the Alberta Clinical Hypnosis Society (ACHS).
![Photo of Shannon Jones, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9efe521d-1763-49fa-ab8e-166f78584274/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Jones
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Ph.D. trained clinical psychologist in private practice, conveniently located in south Calgary, Alberta. I am committed to fostering a strong, respectful and collaborative therapeutic relationship with my clients, which I believe is integral to achieving success in therapy. I work with clients to identify goals and tailor a treatment plan around altering unhelpful thoughts, maladaptive behaviour patterns, and difficult emotions, to enhance overall wellness and promote a positive quality of life. In my practice, I work with adults of all ages.
I am a Ph.D. trained clinical psychologist in private practice, conveniently located in south Calgary, Alberta. I am committed to fostering a strong, respectful and collaborative therapeutic relationship with my clients, which I believe is integral to achieving success in therapy. I work with clients to identify goals and tailor a treatment plan around altering unhelpful thoughts, maladaptive behaviour patterns, and difficult emotions, to enhance overall wellness and promote a positive quality of life. In my practice, I work with adults of all ages.
![Photo of Alyssa Edmunds, MSc, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a3487cb-a1e3-4c32-8789-a29de36fb077/1/320x400.jpeg)
For the past 14 years, I have worked and trained in a variety of settings, including children's mental health facilities, schools, hospitals, and private practice. I have enjoyed the rewarding challenges of treating children, adolescents and adults who are struggling with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, gender identity issues, personality disorders, substance abuse issues, anger management issues, low self-esteem, and social skills deficits.
For the past 14 years, I have worked and trained in a variety of settings, including children's mental health facilities, schools, hospitals, and private practice. I have enjoyed the rewarding challenges of treating children, adolescents and adults who are struggling with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, gender identity issues, personality disorders, substance abuse issues, anger management issues, low self-esteem, and social skills deficits.
![Photo of Jenny Peetoom, MC, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48930966-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
It can be hard to step into life the way you want when struggling with painful thoughts, emotions, or experiences. Asking for help takes courage. I offer a welcoming and supportive space for you to engage in the work of healing and change. I am passionate about working with people who feel hijacked by their thoughts, emotions and behaviours, and with couples who are finding it difficult to feel securely connected. In therapy we work collaboratively so that you can gain new insight, experience healing, and find creative, workable ways to tackle difficult behavioural, emotional, or interpersonal problems.
It can be hard to step into life the way you want when struggling with painful thoughts, emotions, or experiences. Asking for help takes courage. I offer a welcoming and supportive space for you to engage in the work of healing and change. I am passionate about working with people who feel hijacked by their thoughts, emotions and behaviours, and with couples who are finding it difficult to feel securely connected. In therapy we work collaboratively so that you can gain new insight, experience healing, and find creative, workable ways to tackle difficult behavioural, emotional, or interpersonal problems.
![Photo of Jeff G Sturgeon, MSW, RCSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88a0b4f9-6d48-4369-877e-4b340cf5b974/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeff G Sturgeon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice a core value and focus is to help you achieve a balance in overall health and wellbeing. I truly believe that with support, personal exploration and reflection that we all have the ability to build resiliency and bounce back from adversity. In my work with individuals and families I draw from both my professional and personal experience to engage with individuals on meaningful, collaborative, and supportive levels. My goal is to support you in overcoming life's adversity by setting goals, working towards improving your overall wellness, and to decrease stress in your life.
In my practice a core value and focus is to help you achieve a balance in overall health and wellbeing. I truly believe that with support, personal exploration and reflection that we all have the ability to build resiliency and bounce back from adversity. In my work with individuals and families I draw from both my professional and personal experience to engage with individuals on meaningful, collaborative, and supportive levels. My goal is to support you in overcoming life's adversity by setting goals, working towards improving your overall wellness, and to decrease stress in your life.
![Photo of Melodie Sanford, MA, MSc, CST, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0336841-c4de-49a1-8577-b9feca930c61/2/320x400.jpeg)
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - My passion for psychology comes from my genuine belief that we have the ability to not only overcome significant challenges, but to transform our lives. As a Registered Psychologist, I work with a wide range of topics including relationship challenges (i.e. intimacy, communication, infidelity, separation/divorce, blended family, etc.), trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief and loss, and wellness. As an AASECT certified Sex Therapist, I am highly trained in working with sexual(ity) concerns, alternative relationship structures (i.e. open relationship, Poly, Kink), and LGBTQ2S+ challenges.
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - My passion for psychology comes from my genuine belief that we have the ability to not only overcome significant challenges, but to transform our lives. As a Registered Psychologist, I work with a wide range of topics including relationship challenges (i.e. intimacy, communication, infidelity, separation/divorce, blended family, etc.), trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief and loss, and wellness. As an AASECT certified Sex Therapist, I am highly trained in working with sexual(ity) concerns, alternative relationship structures (i.e. open relationship, Poly, Kink), and LGBTQ2S+ challenges.
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Nearby LGBTQ+ Counsellors Searches for Okotoks
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Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialised training, either during their degree programme or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalisation in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialised training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.