Substance Use Therapists in Thunder Bay, ON
Katrina Hutchingame
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B (Online Only)
I work with people that have challenges with Substance Use, Trauma, Relational issues, Sex and Sexuality.
I am a trauma therapist who specializes in eating disorders and addictions. I am frequently taken by the amount of pain and suffering in the world, I have learned that through these moments we can find the most growth, strength, and beauty. Often we can get stuck in-between these painful moments and a new way of being, That's often what brings people to therapy. Our work together may be a journey to help you get unstuck or out of the place of crisis and to find a sense of safety. I feel it is a privilege to be able to be a part of someone's journey and be able to walk along beside them.
I work with people that have challenges with Substance Use, Trauma, Relational issues, Sex and Sexuality.
I am a trauma therapist who specializes in eating disorders and addictions. I am frequently taken by the amount of pain and suffering in the world, I have learned that through these moments we can find the most growth, strength, and beauty. Often we can get stuck in-between these painful moments and a new way of being, That's often what brings people to therapy. Our work together may be a journey to help you get unstuck or out of the place of crisis and to find a sense of safety. I feel it is a privilege to be able to be a part of someone's journey and be able to walk along beside them.
I offer support in the areas of managing anxiety, life transitions, strengthening parenting skills and attachment, relationship issues, as well as substance use concerns.
Hello! My name is Jade (she/her) and I am a Social Service Worker registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and I am currently completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I have over seven years of experience in the field of social services and mental health. My goal is to provide an inclusive, safe, and comfortable space for you to receive mental health care that is reflective of your individual needs.
I offer support in the areas of managing anxiety, life transitions, strengthening parenting skills and attachment, relationship issues, as well as substance use concerns.
Hello! My name is Jade (she/her) and I am a Social Service Worker registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and I am currently completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I have over seven years of experience in the field of social services and mental health. My goal is to provide an inclusive, safe, and comfortable space for you to receive mental health care that is reflective of your individual needs.
Jennifer Fukushima
Registered Psychotherapist, OPC, Dipl, Psych
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7C (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I embrace that the symptoms you are experiencing are part of a larger whole. Together, we can work to create healing, meaning and clarity for you, on a mental, emotional, somatic and spiritual level. Our sessions are informed by your unique position within time, culture and the fabric of our society. I am 2SLGBTQ aligned, ENM informed and work from a harm reduction, anti-capitalist, feminist lens. I have experience working with depression, anger, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, people pleasing, life transitions, substance use, BPD and more. Consent is a big part therapy and I welcome your no, as much as I welcome your yes.
I embrace that the symptoms you are experiencing are part of a larger whole. Together, we can work to create healing, meaning and clarity for you, on a mental, emotional, somatic and spiritual level. Our sessions are informed by your unique position within time, culture and the fabric of our society. I am 2SLGBTQ aligned, ENM informed and work from a harm reduction, anti-capitalist, feminist lens. I have experience working with depression, anger, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, people pleasing, life transitions, substance use, BPD and more. Consent is a big part therapy and I welcome your no, as much as I welcome your yes.
Tye Laframboise
Registered Social Worker, RSW/BSW
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7A (Online Only)
Dorset Pier Mental Health
Registered Social Worker, RSW, HBSW, MSW, MACP
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
We are a private mental health clinic located in Thunder Bay, Ontario that focuses primarily on your comfort and well-being while incorporating trauma-informed, evidence-based practice.
We are a private mental health clinic located in Thunder Bay, Ontario that focuses primarily on your comfort and well-being while incorporating trauma-informed, evidence-based practice.
Erin Pomanti - Registered Nurse Psychotherapist
Psychiatric Nurse, BScN, RN
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
You are worth the time it takes to heal, in whatever way feels right for you. Do you ever wonder if there's more to life? Maybe you feel an ache inside, like you have so much potential... but something is getting in the way. You might long for more clarity, fulfillment, and inner peace. But what is the path to get there? Sometimes this requires support, which can be hard to ask for or prioritize. The first step often takes the most courage - and the path might be closer than you think. . .
You are worth the time it takes to heal, in whatever way feels right for you. Do you ever wonder if there's more to life? Maybe you feel an ache inside, like you have so much potential... but something is getting in the way. You might long for more clarity, fulfillment, and inner peace. But what is the path to get there? Sometimes this requires support, which can be hard to ask for or prioritize. The first step often takes the most courage - and the path might be closer than you think. . .
Hi, I'm Kathy! I am of Algonquin Anishinaabe and English European heritage. I am a proud member of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation. Like many Anishinaabe people, I come from a family of story tellers. Whether we were sitting around the kitchen table or the campfire, stories were the way we understood where we came from and how we knew where we belonged in the world. As I got older, I began to wonder about the stories that weren’t told. The stories that were too painful to share. Becoming a therapist has allowed me to create a safe space to explore, understand, and give voice to our most painful stories.
Hi, I'm Kathy! I am of Algonquin Anishinaabe and English European heritage. I am a proud member of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation. Like many Anishinaabe people, I come from a family of story tellers. Whether we were sitting around the kitchen table or the campfire, stories were the way we understood where we came from and how we knew where we belonged in the world. As I got older, I began to wonder about the stories that weren’t told. The stories that were too painful to share. Becoming a therapist has allowed me to create a safe space to explore, understand, and give voice to our most painful stories.
John Esposti Anna Tarjan
Registered Social Worker, BA, BFA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7A
John has been a clinical social worker for over thirty years, completing my degrees at York University. I have obtained advanced training in Emotion Focused Couple Therapy, as well as being informed by the work of Daniel Wile and Terrence Real. Additionally, I have had extensive training in Family Therapy, primarily adopting a Structural/Strategic Approach. Of course, I also provide individual therapy both with adults and teens/children. I am very comfortable and well trained in treating mood disorders, trauma and loss issues, and all behavorial addictions. We have been operating our private practice successfully since 1999.
John has been a clinical social worker for over thirty years, completing my degrees at York University. I have obtained advanced training in Emotion Focused Couple Therapy, as well as being informed by the work of Daniel Wile and Terrence Real. Additionally, I have had extensive training in Family Therapy, primarily adopting a Structural/Strategic Approach. Of course, I also provide individual therapy both with adults and teens/children. I am very comfortable and well trained in treating mood disorders, trauma and loss issues, and all behavorial addictions. We have been operating our private practice successfully since 1999.
Julianna Servello
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7B (Online Only)
I exclusively offer online sessions through a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services. Over the years, I’ve gained a strong understanding of what makes therapy effective, especially when it comes to the social and psychological aspects that can impact peoples lives. My work as a full-time Hospital Social Worker has given me hands-on experience, particularly in mental health care across different settings like geriatric rehabilitation, emergency medicine, and psychiatric care. My background in psychotherapy has sharpened my skills in both group and individual therapy, especially when it comes to helping kids and teens.
I exclusively offer online sessions through a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services. Over the years, I’ve gained a strong understanding of what makes therapy effective, especially when it comes to the social and psychological aspects that can impact peoples lives. My work as a full-time Hospital Social Worker has given me hands-on experience, particularly in mental health care across different settings like geriatric rehabilitation, emergency medicine, and psychiatric care. My background in psychotherapy has sharpened my skills in both group and individual therapy, especially when it comes to helping kids and teens.
Finding the right counsellor can be difficult- it can be hard to find someone you naturally click with. I pride myself on being the same person in-office as you would meet on the street. I value authenticity and am very much a “what you see is what you get” kind of person. I am more than willing to be a compassionate ear, but I am most interested in equipping you with the skills you need so that you no longer need to rely on therapy to get through. My goal is to help you become as self-sufficient as possible by exploring CBT and DBT-based skills to help you address emotional distress, life transitions, or relationship struggles.
Finding the right counsellor can be difficult- it can be hard to find someone you naturally click with. I pride myself on being the same person in-office as you would meet on the street. I value authenticity and am very much a “what you see is what you get” kind of person. I am more than willing to be a compassionate ear, but I am most interested in equipping you with the skills you need so that you no longer need to rely on therapy to get through. My goal is to help you become as self-sufficient as possible by exploring CBT and DBT-based skills to help you address emotional distress, life transitions, or relationship struggles.
At its core, therapy is all about you. After all you are the expert about your life. So if you are looking for a therapist that will crack a joke in therapy, instill hope, celebrate your success, and hold space for the dark and heavy stuff you have yet to ever say out loud... you are in the right place. I'm here to help you process it all so you can let go, restore, and grow. If you are ready to surprise yourself with your capacity for growth and want to unblock yourself from living a life that is meaningful to you, please connect!
At its core, therapy is all about you. After all you are the expert about your life. So if you are looking for a therapist that will crack a joke in therapy, instill hope, celebrate your success, and hold space for the dark and heavy stuff you have yet to ever say out loud... you are in the right place. I'm here to help you process it all so you can let go, restore, and grow. If you are ready to surprise yourself with your capacity for growth and want to unblock yourself from living a life that is meaningful to you, please connect!
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Hunt Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, MDiv, CCTP-1, RP-Qual
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
Not feeling yourself? Are you confronting a struggle that feels bigger than you are, or maybe feel like you are just about "done"? Have you wondered if life could be better or thought that you are somehow missing out? It is not uncommon for people to feel anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about life, relationships or careers, but the good news is you don't need to remain stuck with these feelings. Allowing yourself some time and opportunity to attend to your needs can make all the difference and become life changing. If you were to ask me why you should begin therapy, my answer would be, "Because you are worth it!"
Not feeling yourself? Are you confronting a struggle that feels bigger than you are, or maybe feel like you are just about "done"? Have you wondered if life could be better or thought that you are somehow missing out? It is not uncommon for people to feel anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about life, relationships or careers, but the good news is you don't need to remain stuck with these feelings. Allowing yourself some time and opportunity to attend to your needs can make all the difference and become life changing. If you were to ask me why you should begin therapy, my answer would be, "Because you are worth it!"
Previously as a Registered Nurse and presently as a Registered Psychotherapist I have seen clients with a multitude of mental health challenges. I am most familiar and trained in supporting depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD. Regardless of a person's diagnosis or lack there of, I appreciate being able to guide people in exploring themselves beyond the limitations of personal labels. Whether a person is in an overwhelmed or curious place I want to meet them where they are at and learn together from there.
Previously as a Registered Nurse and presently as a Registered Psychotherapist I have seen clients with a multitude of mental health challenges. I am most familiar and trained in supporting depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD. Regardless of a person's diagnosis or lack there of, I appreciate being able to guide people in exploring themselves beyond the limitations of personal labels. Whether a person is in an overwhelmed or curious place I want to meet them where they are at and learn together from there.
Waawaate Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RCC
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7E
Waitlist for new clients
Boozhoo, A'nin. I'm Leah Lychowyd, a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) living in Thunder Bay in Northwestern Ontario. I am a member of Red Rock Indian Band. I am specifically trained in working with Indigenous peoples including First Nations, Métis and Inuit. If you are experiencing a dysregulated nervous system, anxiety, trauma (complex & intergenerational) or an overall feeling of a lack of belonging, I would be honoured to hear your story. If you are looking to cultivate inner calm and peace and feel grounded and more connected with yourself and your life, send me an email to see if I can be helpful to you.
Boozhoo, A'nin. I'm Leah Lychowyd, a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) living in Thunder Bay in Northwestern Ontario. I am a member of Red Rock Indian Band. I am specifically trained in working with Indigenous peoples including First Nations, Métis and Inuit. If you are experiencing a dysregulated nervous system, anxiety, trauma (complex & intergenerational) or an overall feeling of a lack of belonging, I would be honoured to hear your story. If you are looking to cultivate inner calm and peace and feel grounded and more connected with yourself and your life, send me an email to see if I can be helpful to you.
Chaos to Connection
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7A (Online Only)
Vulnerability is the first step to healing. When we are able to be vulnerable with ourselves, we are able to open up,. I want your messy self to show up and feel safe in your own space alongside me. I am a student of the Satir Family System's model and help the whole family grow alongside one another. I love the challenge of helping the client heal and being part of the process. My goal is to help clients associate self-responsibility with success. The Satir approach can help clients work through trauma and develop a greater sense of harmony and inner peace. I am a firm believer in therapy being client-driven and action orientated.
Vulnerability is the first step to healing. When we are able to be vulnerable with ourselves, we are able to open up,. I want your messy self to show up and feel safe in your own space alongside me. I am a student of the Satir Family System's model and help the whole family grow alongside one another. I love the challenge of helping the client heal and being part of the process. My goal is to help clients associate self-responsibility with success. The Satir approach can help clients work through trauma and develop a greater sense of harmony and inner peace. I am a firm believer in therapy being client-driven and action orientated.
Kalie McIntosh Counselling and Consulting Inc.
Counsellor, BA, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7J (Online Only)
Kalie’s area of concentration has been working for children, youth and their families. Kalie’s background has enhanced her ability to connect with young people in their unique ways, and to work with their timing. At the core of Kalie’s work is the understanding that a person’s dignity must always be upheld, and she focuses on finding the different ways in which people work hard to maintain their dignity every day.
Kalie’s area of concentration has been working for children, youth and their families. Kalie’s background has enhanced her ability to connect with young people in their unique ways, and to work with their timing. At the core of Kalie’s work is the understanding that a person’s dignity must always be upheld, and she focuses on finding the different ways in which people work hard to maintain their dignity every day.
You didn't expect or plan your life to be like this. It wasn't supposed to be this hard. You're struggling with things that you thought you were over. Your relationship with your partner and/or children feels painful; there is a better way to connect but it seems hopeless. You want to feel comfortable with yourself, in your skin, and with others but just can't seem to. You're asking yourself "Why can't I get it together?" or "How come I can't just get over this?". You might wonder if people are judging you. You're so ready for you, your life, and your relationships to be peaceful and fun again. Welcome, I can't wait to meet you.
You didn't expect or plan your life to be like this. It wasn't supposed to be this hard. You're struggling with things that you thought you were over. Your relationship with your partner and/or children feels painful; there is a better way to connect but it seems hopeless. You want to feel comfortable with yourself, in your skin, and with others but just can't seem to. You're asking yourself "Why can't I get it together?" or "How come I can't just get over this?". You might wonder if people are judging you. You're so ready for you, your life, and your relationships to be peaceful and fun again. Welcome, I can't wait to meet you.
I feel incredibly grateful to be able to sit with individuals and support them in some of the hardest times of their lives. I bring a compassionate, calm and non-judgemental energy to every session, ensuring that you feel safe and heard. I always welcome the difficult conversations, as I know this is where healing happens. My style of therapy is informal, compassionate, and responsive to each person’s unique needs. With a strength-based, real-life, and collaborative approach, I work to provide emotional support and guidance to adults and young adults challenged by the many adjustments to life transitions.
I feel incredibly grateful to be able to sit with individuals and support them in some of the hardest times of their lives. I bring a compassionate, calm and non-judgemental energy to every session, ensuring that you feel safe and heard. I always welcome the difficult conversations, as I know this is where healing happens. My style of therapy is informal, compassionate, and responsive to each person’s unique needs. With a strength-based, real-life, and collaborative approach, I work to provide emotional support and guidance to adults and young adults challenged by the many adjustments to life transitions.
Confidential & Accessible: Connect from anywhere in Canada to find emotional healing and wellness through art making at My Online Art Therapy. Creative expression in an art therapy session helps to release trauma, depression, anxieties, stress and more. Confidentiality, especially for LGBTQ+ clients is an important factor. Online art therapy can provide that safe healing space. My sessions are affordable and I offer free consultation sessions to see if art therapy is a good fit. Contact me especially if you are part of the LGBTQ+ community or struggling with issues around trauma.
Confidential & Accessible: Connect from anywhere in Canada to find emotional healing and wellness through art making at My Online Art Therapy. Creative expression in an art therapy session helps to release trauma, depression, anxieties, stress and more. Confidentiality, especially for LGBTQ+ clients is an important factor. Online art therapy can provide that safe healing space. My sessions are affordable and I offer free consultation sessions to see if art therapy is a good fit. Contact me especially if you are part of the LGBTQ+ community or struggling with issues around trauma.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you ever just feel stuck? Unresolved past experience? Feeling alone and isolated? These life challenges can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate through them by ourselves. Let me partner with you in navigating through these challenges. In this partnership, I will bring my skills to create an atmosphere of safety, warmth, and respect. That will supports you to courageously tell your own story, face difficult emotions, learn new ways of coping, transform the impact of trauma, and move toward the positive change you might be seeking.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you ever just feel stuck? Unresolved past experience? Feeling alone and isolated? These life challenges can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate through them by ourselves. Let me partner with you in navigating through these challenges. In this partnership, I will bring my skills to create an atmosphere of safety, warmth, and respect. That will supports you to courageously tell your own story, face difficult emotions, learn new ways of coping, transform the impact of trauma, and move toward the positive change you might be seeking.
See more therapy options for Thunder Bay
Substance Use Counsellors
How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counsellors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.
How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?
Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.
How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.
Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?
There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.