Adoption Therapists in Guelph, ON

Photo of Alexandra Phillips, MSW, RSW, HBSc, Registered Social Worker
Alexandra Phillips
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, HBSc
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm so happy you are here. I have the joy and privilege of walking alongside children, youth and families. As a Child and Family Therapist, my areas of expertise include anxiety, emotion regulation and processing of difficult experiences. I have a passion for issues regarding foster care, adoption and attachment. I believe in working collaboratively with parents and caregivers to empower them to be the primary agent of change in their child’s life. I work closely with parents throughout the therapeutic journey to create a safe, non-judgmental space while providing evidence-based strategies.
Hello! I'm so happy you are here. I have the joy and privilege of walking alongside children, youth and families. As a Child and Family Therapist, my areas of expertise include anxiety, emotion regulation and processing of difficult experiences. I have a passion for issues regarding foster care, adoption and attachment. I believe in working collaboratively with parents and caregivers to empower them to be the primary agent of change in their child’s life. I work closely with parents throughout the therapeutic journey to create a safe, non-judgmental space while providing evidence-based strategies.
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Photo of Skb Keelan-Bishop, RP, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Skb Keelan-Bishop
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1E  (Online Only)
My clinical certifications include Perinatal Mental Health (CPMHT), Adoption Competency for Mental Health Professionals (ACO), and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (ATMA).
Neurodiversity-affirming therapy with a neurodivergent therapist. Identity exploration, navigation of neurotypical institutions, screening for autistic burnout, processing lived experiences of ADHD, and more. My healing-centred approach creates space for you to safely unmask and explore your authentic self. Sessions are available via video, phone, and secure synchronous text.
My clinical certifications include Perinatal Mental Health (CPMHT), Adoption Competency for Mental Health Professionals (ACO), and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (ATMA).
Neurodiversity-affirming therapy with a neurodivergent therapist. Identity exploration, navigation of neurotypical institutions, screening for autistic burnout, processing lived experiences of ADHD, and more. My healing-centred approach creates space for you to safely unmask and explore your authentic self. Sessions are available via video, phone, and secure synchronous text.
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Photo of Barbara Wilkinson, RP, MA, MEd, ACTT, OACCPP, Counsellor
Barbara Wilkinson
Counsellor, RP, MA, MEd, ACTT, OACCPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
Life is hard. Everybody hurts- sometimes. Finding the way can be challenging. Often, it can help to talk to someone beyond our family and friends. Barbara believes we all have inner resources which are easier to find with the encouragement of a good listener. She brings a refreshing mix of common sense and compassion to her work. She believes that awareness is the key to liberation. With newfound clarity, we have choices we didn't realize. Barbara understands the courage it can take to make the call to talk to someone and learn to trust.
Life is hard. Everybody hurts- sometimes. Finding the way can be challenging. Often, it can help to talk to someone beyond our family and friends. Barbara believes we all have inner resources which are easier to find with the encouragement of a good listener. She brings a refreshing mix of common sense and compassion to her work. She believes that awareness is the key to liberation. With newfound clarity, we have choices we didn't realize. Barbara understands the courage it can take to make the call to talk to someone and learn to trust.
(855) 338-2152 View (855) 338-2152
Photo of Yasmin Smith, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Yasmin Smith
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1L
I have spent over 10 years supporting children, adolescents, emerging adults, and parents in the area of mental health and well-being. As a registered clinical social worker, I adopt a client-centred approach utilizing various treatment modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), DBT skills, Narrative Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. I work with children, teenagers, and young adults struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), and social behavioural challenges (emotional regulation, and ADHD symptoms).
I have spent over 10 years supporting children, adolescents, emerging adults, and parents in the area of mental health and well-being. As a registered clinical social worker, I adopt a client-centred approach utilizing various treatment modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), DBT skills, Narrative Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. I work with children, teenagers, and young adults struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), and social behavioural challenges (emotional regulation, and ADHD symptoms).
(226) 702-2938 View (226) 702-2938
Photo of Kristen McLeod, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Kristen McLeod
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
I work with children and adolescents struggling with trauma or regulation-based concerns, and their families. Trauma-informed care strives to create physical, psychological, and emotional safety for individuals with every contact. Trauma-informed care moves away from a "what's wrong with you" perspective and seeks to determine "what's happened" and how best we can move forward collaboratively in a safe, strengths-based way.
I work with children and adolescents struggling with trauma or regulation-based concerns, and their families. Trauma-informed care strives to create physical, psychological, and emotional safety for individuals with every contact. Trauma-informed care moves away from a "what's wrong with you" perspective and seeks to determine "what's happened" and how best we can move forward collaboratively in a safe, strengths-based way.
(226) 894-0403 View (226) 894-0403
Photo of Marnie C Neve, MA CPsy, RYT
Marnie C Neve
MA CPsy, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1G
I work with individuals seeking guidance, emotional support, mental clarity, harmony in mind and body. Whether experiencing relationship conflict, stress, grief, trauma or seeking new perspectives and fresh solutions on your life journey, the essence of my approach is to provide a safe, supportive base where you can explore, understand, and heal issues causing discomfort and imbalance in your life. Physical limitations, social discomfort, and the challenge of living in a fast-paced changing world all contribute to "dis-ease" in the body/mind. This can present itself in the form of anxiety, depression, chronic pain, insomnia, eating disorders, addiction and more.
I work with individuals seeking guidance, emotional support, mental clarity, harmony in mind and body. Whether experiencing relationship conflict, stress, grief, trauma or seeking new perspectives and fresh solutions on your life journey, the essence of my approach is to provide a safe, supportive base where you can explore, understand, and heal issues causing discomfort and imbalance in your life. Physical limitations, social discomfort, and the challenge of living in a fast-paced changing world all contribute to "dis-ease" in the body/mind. This can present itself in the form of anxiety, depression, chronic pain, insomnia, eating disorders, addiction and more.
(647) 697-4056 x416709 View (647) 697-4056 x416709
Photo of Erin MacPherson, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin MacPherson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
Building connections with ourselves and others is one of the most important components of a fulfilling life. However, negative messages from the world and our past experiences can often make us feel like we are not good enough. This negative self-talk and self-doubt can make it difficult to form meaningful connections and enjoy life the way we want to, leaving us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, confused, or stuck.
Building connections with ourselves and others is one of the most important components of a fulfilling life. However, negative messages from the world and our past experiences can often make us feel like we are not good enough. This negative self-talk and self-doubt can make it difficult to form meaningful connections and enjoy life the way we want to, leaving us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, confused, or stuck.
(226) 457-3432 View (226) 457-3432
Photo of Barbara Collins, MA, RP, RCAT, Registered Psychotherapist
Barbara Collins
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RCAT
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
If working through life's challenges feels more overwhelming than staying stuck in your current situation, I would like to have the opportunity to help you navigate your way to a life worth living. Often negative thinking patterns and behaviours can influence our sense of self and impact on our family, work and school life. My goal in art psychotherapy is to assist you in discovering your potential while finding your internal voice. A client centered, anti-oppressive approach provides a safe and confidential environment to explore what matters most to you.
If working through life's challenges feels more overwhelming than staying stuck in your current situation, I would like to have the opportunity to help you navigate your way to a life worth living. Often negative thinking patterns and behaviours can influence our sense of self and impact on our family, work and school life. My goal in art psychotherapy is to assist you in discovering your potential while finding your internal voice. A client centered, anti-oppressive approach provides a safe and confidential environment to explore what matters most to you.
(289) 212-6688 View (289) 212-6688
Photo of Kaitlyn Duquette, MSW, RSW, BASC, RT, Registered Social Worker
Kaitlyn Duquette
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BASC, RT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1G
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. My name is Kate, and I am a Therapist that supports clients of all ages across the life span. Here are some of the populations I have served to give you an idea of clientele I support: women and men with past trauma, men with schizophrenia and past addictions, perinatal support and parent coaching, and caregivers of loved ones with complex health issues. My overarching goal when working with clients is to reduce the overwhelm they experience in their lives and to promote feelings of calm and control.
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. My name is Kate, and I am a Therapist that supports clients of all ages across the life span. Here are some of the populations I have served to give you an idea of clientele I support: women and men with past trauma, men with schizophrenia and past addictions, perinatal support and parent coaching, and caregivers of loved ones with complex health issues. My overarching goal when working with clients is to reduce the overwhelm they experience in their lives and to promote feelings of calm and control.
(226) 286-0478 View (226) 286-0478
Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(236) 239-5085 View (236) 239-5085
Photo of Nadine Hill-Carey, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Nadine Hill-Carey
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
If overwhelmed, stressed out, and anxious seem to be your common state of being, or if you are struggling with feelings of guilt, shame, and hopelessness, or if despite all your best efforts you can't seem to get from where you are to where you want to be, leaving you feeling stuck; then therapy can provide you with a safe space to be seen, heard, and understood. We can uncover the root of why you are stuck and struggling, and discover the innate wellness and wisdom that resides within you, which can help create a new way of being in the present, so that your future can look like what you desire.
If overwhelmed, stressed out, and anxious seem to be your common state of being, or if you are struggling with feelings of guilt, shame, and hopelessness, or if despite all your best efforts you can't seem to get from where you are to where you want to be, leaving you feeling stuck; then therapy can provide you with a safe space to be seen, heard, and understood. We can uncover the root of why you are stuck and struggling, and discover the innate wellness and wisdom that resides within you, which can help create a new way of being in the present, so that your future can look like what you desire.
(226) 407-8003 View (226) 407-8003
Photo of Nichole Caswell, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Nichole Caswell
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1E
Hello, my name is Nichole Caswell. I'm a registered social worker with several years of training and experience working with individuals and families. I hope to empower clients to make changes in their lives. I strive to create a secure and supportive environment, allowing for an atmosphere that feels comfortable and collaborative. I listen to my clients with compassion and strive to create a safe space for people to share their experiences and hopes for the future.
Hello, my name is Nichole Caswell. I'm a registered social worker with several years of training and experience working with individuals and families. I hope to empower clients to make changes in their lives. I strive to create a secure and supportive environment, allowing for an atmosphere that feels comfortable and collaborative. I listen to my clients with compassion and strive to create a safe space for people to share their experiences and hopes for the future.
(226) 270-2985 View (226) 270-2985
Photo of Andrew Vu - The Adhd And Spectrum Centre, RP(Q), MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Andrew Vu - The Adhd And Spectrum Centre
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MA
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
I specialize in ADHD & Autism Lvl. 1 and also have experience working with social & general anxiety, trauma, depression, suicidal feelings, substance abuse, video game addiction, stress, and relationship concerns (family, romantic, and friendships). Working with neurodivergent kids, adults, couples, & families is very important to me because I was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult and struggled a lot without proper support. I get how frustrating navigating the mental health and education systems can be and want to support others in learning to harness their amazing abilities and make lasting positive change.
I specialize in ADHD & Autism Lvl. 1 and also have experience working with social & general anxiety, trauma, depression, suicidal feelings, substance abuse, video game addiction, stress, and relationship concerns (family, romantic, and friendships). Working with neurodivergent kids, adults, couples, & families is very important to me because I was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult and struggled a lot without proper support. I get how frustrating navigating the mental health and education systems can be and want to support others in learning to harness their amazing abilities and make lasting positive change.
(226) 782-3602 View (226) 782-3602
Photo of Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1G  (Online Only)
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
(867) 731-0384 View (867) 731-0384
Photo of Simon Peter K Smith - Cogent Psychological Services for Men, CPsych, Psychologist
Cogent Psychological Services for Men
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
One million Canadian men suffer from major depressive disorder each year. Three of every four completed suicides in Canada are by men. The prevalence of alcohol use disorder is twice as high in men with another mental health diagnosis than in the general population. One third of Canadian men worry that talking about mental health at work could put their job at risk. Men are just as likely as women to have mental health issues yet are far less likely to utilize traditional mental health services. Men are more likely to believe that mental health services are difficult to access, ineffective and invasive. At Cogent, Ontario’s new mental health clinic focussed solely on supporting men, we’re changing that.
One million Canadian men suffer from major depressive disorder each year. Three of every four completed suicides in Canada are by men. The prevalence of alcohol use disorder is twice as high in men with another mental health diagnosis than in the general population. One third of Canadian men worry that talking about mental health at work could put their job at risk. Men are just as likely as women to have mental health issues yet are far less likely to utilize traditional mental health services. Men are more likely to believe that mental health services are difficult to access, ineffective and invasive. At Cogent, Ontario’s new mental health clinic focussed solely on supporting men, we’re changing that.
(548) 325-9642 View (548) 325-9642
Photo of Sue Graham, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sue Graham
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
Hello my name is Sue Graham and I am a Registered Social Worker with 30 years experience. I have been working with individuals to help them increase their self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives within an empowering and respectful therapeutic relationship. I specialize in treating clients with Eating Disorders, alcohol and drug addiction, mental health issues as well as survivors of abuse. I am a trauma informed therapist, certified in Trauma Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST). I offer both evening and daytime appointments and look forward to speaking with you through a free telephone conversation.
Hello my name is Sue Graham and I am a Registered Social Worker with 30 years experience. I have been working with individuals to help them increase their self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives within an empowering and respectful therapeutic relationship. I specialize in treating clients with Eating Disorders, alcohol and drug addiction, mental health issues as well as survivors of abuse. I am a trauma informed therapist, certified in Trauma Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST). I offer both evening and daytime appointments and look forward to speaking with you through a free telephone conversation.
(226) 407-0483 View (226) 407-0483
Photo of Liz Mineo, RP, RECE, RT, Registered Psychotherapist
Liz Mineo
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RECE, RT
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1G
I have a unique background of over 30 years experience working with young children, adolescents and their families. I offer a variety of client centred psychotherapeutic services specializing in individual and family therapy. My relaxed play-based approach helps children explore difficult emotions and situations. I use a strength-based approach helping adolescents building their self confidence, self esteem and coping strategies. When parents feel capable and they are better able to understand their child's individuality the potential risks for mental health concerns decrease for every family member.
I have a unique background of over 30 years experience working with young children, adolescents and their families. I offer a variety of client centred psychotherapeutic services specializing in individual and family therapy. My relaxed play-based approach helps children explore difficult emotions and situations. I use a strength-based approach helping adolescents building their self confidence, self esteem and coping strategies. When parents feel capable and they are better able to understand their child's individuality the potential risks for mental health concerns decrease for every family member.
(226) 455-5637 View (226) 455-5637
Photo of Alina Kislenko - The ADHD & Autism Centre - Alina Kislenko , MA, RP
The ADHD & Autism Centre - Alina Kislenko
MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
I am an ADHD/Autism specialized Psychotherapist/Coach as well as an Asst. Adj. Clinical Psych & Neuroscience Professor. Myself and the other practitioners at The ADHD & Spectrum Centre offer in-person services in Guelph/Ottawa and virtual services across Canada and internationally. I love working with families, individuals, and couples seeking to understand ADHD & ASD in their lives, and working to master everything from organization to impulse control. My own diagnoses of Autism & ADHD help me fight for my clients every day and have equipped me with a diverse set of strategies in my toolkit that are personalized for each client.
I am an ADHD/Autism specialized Psychotherapist/Coach as well as an Asst. Adj. Clinical Psych & Neuroscience Professor. Myself and the other practitioners at The ADHD & Spectrum Centre offer in-person services in Guelph/Ottawa and virtual services across Canada and internationally. I love working with families, individuals, and couples seeking to understand ADHD & ASD in their lives, and working to master everything from organization to impulse control. My own diagnoses of Autism & ADHD help me fight for my clients every day and have equipped me with a diverse set of strategies in my toolkit that are personalized for each client.
(844) 402-2516 View (844) 402-2516
Photo of Lori Ferguson - Guelph Psychology Centre
Guelph Psychology Centre
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1G
We are a group of highly skilled and understanding psychologists offering a breadth of psychological and related services to adults, adolescents, children, couples and families in the Guelph and surrounding areas. We are committed to providing the finest, broad range of psychological services to assist you in your emotional growth, physical health, and overall well-being. The psychologists at Guelph Psychology Centre are dedicated to providing quality psychological services to help you achieve your goals.
We are a group of highly skilled and understanding psychologists offering a breadth of psychological and related services to adults, adolescents, children, couples and families in the Guelph and surrounding areas. We are committed to providing the finest, broad range of psychological services to assist you in your emotional growth, physical health, and overall well-being. The psychologists at Guelph Psychology Centre are dedicated to providing quality psychological services to help you achieve your goals.
(226) 408-4838 View (226) 408-4838
Photo of Trajan-James Bulman - Compass Community Services, MSW, RSW, MThThDR, RMFT, MSc, Registered Social Worker
Compass Community Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MThThDR, RMFT, MSc
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
Hours: Monday - Thursday (9:00 am - 9:00 pm), Friday (9:00 am to 5:00 pm) Our Mission: To provide responsive and professional resources, fostering wellbeing in our communities. Our Vision: A resilient and supported community. Our Values: People, Inclusion, Collaboration, Accountability
Hours: Monday - Thursday (9:00 am - 9:00 pm), Friday (9:00 am to 5:00 pm) Our Mission: To provide responsive and professional resources, fostering wellbeing in our communities. Our Vision: A resilient and supported community. Our Values: People, Inclusion, Collaboration, Accountability
(519) 900-5690 View (519) 900-5690
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Adoption Counsellors

Does my adopted child need therapy?

Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioural or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.

When should adoptive parents seek therapy?

Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioural, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.

Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?

Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.

What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?

A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.