Hi, my name is Ashley Baldwin and I am a Registered Social Worker (MSW, RSW), Psychotherapist in the Province of Ontario. I am a Certified member of both the OCSWSSW (Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers); as well as the OASW (Ontario Association of Social Workers). I have 15+ years’ experience in community mental health including work within mental health agencies (such as CMHA), addiction treatment, women's shelters, hospice, and long-term care. I opened Counselling Bruce County during the pandemic in early 2021; going from a solo therapist to the team we are today! I to say we are the first small business to be Rainbow Registered in Bruce County! Who do I work with & What can I help with? I work with clients of all ages addressing all areas of life from a holistic perspective (mind, body, and spirit). I work with individuals ages 12 and up, as well as couples. I have experience in many areas including depression & anxiety, adult ADHD, self-compassion, self-harming behaviours; family relationships (including healthy boundaries), work stress, gender identity & sexuality, infidelity, grief/bereavement and addictions of all kind. I work within various modalities depending on the concern, including DBT (dialectical behaviour therapy skills); CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy); as well as the Gottman Method for couples. I am a strong ally for the 2S-LGBQT+ and neurodivergent communities.
My Therapeutic Approach My therapeutic style is calm yet affirming with a goal to help you reach your desired outcome in a time frame that best suits your needs. Through empathetic listening, re-framing, and guidance, I will assist you in viewing your concerns from all angles, offering insight and alternative coping techniques to help support and heal; offering outside resources and support as needed within the community. Many of my clients come back to me due to my direct, "no nonsense" and sometimes challenging style, so this is something to consider before booking with me.
Training I have attended Safer Spaces training as well as Rainbow Health's training on removing barriers to assist me in creating a more inclusive and safer space for the LGBTQ2IA+ community within our clinic. I have completed training with the Gottman Institute in order to become a certified Gottman Therapist for marriage and couples therapy. I have also completed training in LGBTQ2IA+ Couples & Relationship Therapy. I am trained in ADHD & Neurodiversity Affirming Care and support individuals who are under the spectrum of Neurodiversity. I am also training to become a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional. What else should you know? It is important for you to know as much as you can about a counsellor before you choose them. It is essential that you feel it is the right "fit" for your personal needs. Not every counsellor will be right for you, and not every client will be right for a counsellor. In order to have the most effective counselling treatment, it is important that you are working with someone that can provide you the right amount of support that you are comfortable with, and that you feel you need.
Outside of the clinic I support our local hospice when needed for end-of-life care on a contract basis. I am also a proud member of the Metis Nation of Ontario!
See you soon! -Ashley
Sarah Pedersen -MSW, RSW Registered Social Worker - She/Her *In-Person- Teens & Adults*
Hello, my name is Sarah and I’m a Registered Social Worker (MSW, RSW) in Ontario, as well as a member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). With over 25 years of experience in social services, I’ve provided counselling, behavioural therapy, education, and employment supports through a number of organizations across Grey & Bruce Countries. As someone who currently works in both community mental health and private practice, I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to connect with people from a range of backgrounds and experiences in our local communities.
Who do I work with & what can I help with? I provide individual talk therapy to youth and adults. My areas of expertise include counselling in relation to addiction, trauma, grief, disabilities, life transitions, parenting and relationships, as well as mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, personality disorders, and bipolar disorders. I have significant experience in working with neurodiverse individuals (autism, ADHD), Indigenous Peoples, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
My Therapeutic Approach I believe the most important aspect of therapy is creating a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship so you feel seen and heard without judgement. Whether it’s your first time accessing counselling or something you’ve done before, we’ll work together to address your concerns and goals in a way that works best for you and your life circumstances. As a therapist I integrate wholistic approaches that support balance and connection, with an awareness of the potential impacts of trauma and oppression. Training I obtained a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Windsor, a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Waterloo, and a Bachelor of Arts degree with a focus on psychology and sociology from Wilfrid Laurier University. I have training and expertise in using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing (MI), solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), internal family systems (IFS), and narrative therapy. I am also trained in the Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM) which integrates drawing, somatic therapy, visualization, cognitive-behavioural techniques, and bilateral stimulation to support those who have experienced trauma.
What else should you know? I love living in this beautiful area, and prioritize my own mental health and wellness by spending time in nature whenever possible. Some of my favourite activities include kayaking the Saugeen, backyard campfires, camping, and spending time with my family and friends. I’m available for in-person appointments in Port Elgin on Monday and Wednesday afternoons and evenings, and look forward to connecting with you!
Hello, my name is Stephanie Brien and I am Registered Social Worker (MSW, RSW) in Ontario. I am a member of both the OCSWSSW and OASW. I have 19+ years of experience as Social Worker. My experience includes working in community settings such as inpatient/outpatient mental health, corrections and the school board. I started in private practice in February 2020, just before the pandemic. I moved from Puslinch in September 2023 to the Grey-Bruce area and am happy to be supporting my new community.
Who do I work with & What can I help with? I work with clients ages 12 and above who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, and trauma. I also specialize in helping individuals who may struggle with an eating disorder, as well as First Responders who may have symptoms of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). My main modalities of treatment include: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Motivational Interviewing.
My Therapeutic Approach My therapeutic style is direct, compassionate and genuine. I believe in starting where you are at in your journey and fostering a working relationship where change can be supported and sustained. I will encourage change and promote reliance in your journey. I may use humour and non-conventional approaches as a way to foster change and to promote compassion in a non-judgmental space.
Training I am formally trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
I look forward in meeting you and being part of your therapeutic journey!
Hi, my name is Marissa Moran and I am a Registered Psychotherapist and a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I am coming to Counselling Bruce County after my professional experience at Keystone Child Youth & Family Services where I provided mental health support services to children and youth under the age of 18, while also providing parenting support to their caregivers. Prior to this, I worked at a live-in treatment facility for children and youth who had complex mental health needs, as well as a hospital in the mental health sector.
Who do I work with & What can I help with? I have a passion for working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and I bring particular experience in supporting children and youth. I have experience working with children and youth who may be experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, emotion dysregulation, low self-esteem, self-harming behaviours, family breakdown, school behaviours and trauma.
My Therapeutic Approach My therapeutic style focuses on providing a collaborative approach that is centred around each individual’s uniqueness and the strengths they possess. I believe by building on these strengths, each individual can work towards positive change and learn resilience. I strive to create a safe and supportive space where everyone feels heard and valued.
Drawing on approaches such as CBT, play therapy, and trauma-informed care, I work collaboratively to help individuals build coping skills, strengthen resilience, and move toward healing and growth. I will help you develop coping strategies, and heal from difficult experiences. My personality can be described as calm and compassionate.
Training I graduated from Yorkville University with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, as well as a Bachelor of Arts at University of Guelph. I have training in various topics, including play therapy, integrative trauma and attachment treatment, circle of security parenting and trauma informed cognitive behavioural therapy.
What else should you know? I have previously facilitated arts based therapy groups and other emotion-focused groups, using creative, activity-based approaches to help children and youth improve emotion regulation and develop healthy coping skills.
I look forward to working with you or your child!
Hi, my name is Melri Wright and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. Taking the step to talk with someone about the challenges you are facing takes courage and I am glad you are here! I have more than 20 years of experience working with youth and young adults, helping individuals and teams build the tools they need to lead themselves well and navigate life’s ups and downs with more confidence.
Who do I work with & what can I help with? I work with individual clients aged 14+, supporting them through a range of topics including depression, anxiety, adult ADHD, self-esteem, and relationships. I understand that life transitions can be overwhelming—whether it’s graduating from high school or post-secondary education, starting a new job, or navigating new relationships. I also support parents and guardians who are supporting their children during these times of change. I’m an ally of the 2S-LGBTQ+ community and strive to create a safe, inclusive space for all clients. I am passionate about co-creating safer, supportive spaces where clients feel comfortable sharing their stories and exploring what is important to them.
My Therapeutic Approach I have a person-centred, strength-based approach to therapy. During our sessions I will compassionately listen to your story and provide a non-judgemental space to explore your past experiences, current circumstances, and future possibilities. We will work together to discover strengths and habits that could help you move forward with hope and resilience. Your perspective, goals, and priorities will be central as we work together.
I have a calm, warm, and integrated style, drawing from SFBT (Solution Focused Brief Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy), and mindfulness techniques. Training I graduated from Yorkville University with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) in 2024. I am currently working toward becoming an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). I am committed to ongoing training opportunities that deepen my knowledge and enhance my ability to support clients.
What else should you know? I only work Thursday afternoon/evening. I believe that your story is important and I look forward to supporting you in taking this next step in your wellness journey. Looking forward to meeting you!
Erin Tims MSW, RSW Registered Social Worker - She/Her *In-Person - Children & Teens*
Hello and congratulations on taking this step to seek support for yourself, child, or family! My name is Erin Tims and I am a Registered Social Worker (MSW, RSW).
My professional experience includes working inpatient and outpatient mental health, prenatal and postnatal support for new mothers and their families and with older adults and their families at the Alzheimer’s Society. Prior to becoming a registered social worker, I worked as an educational assistant, a developmental service worker, in long term care homes, and even supervised a children’s theatre camp!
Who do I work with & what can I help with? I work with individuals ages 3 and up using play and talk therapy, as well as adults and families who are coming for individual therapy. I have supported individuals with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, post-partum mental health conditions, ADHD, childhood trauma, family and relationship breakdown, grief and bereavement, and addictions.
My Therapeutic Approach I view therapy as a creative and collaborative process that honors the uniqueness of each individual. My approach is holistic, flexible, and creative, considering the full spectrum of experiences that shape your life. I draw on each individual’s strengths and resilience to guide our work together. My approach has been described by past clients as direct, compassionate, and playful at times. I enjoy using humour and creative outlets to aid therapeutic growth and healing. Training I am formally trained in trauma informed approaches to psychotherapy, and have an extensive training in topics related to Recreation Therapy (such as play, art, music, dance/movement, nature, and animal based approaches) and Social Work. I am excited to be working towards multiple certifications for play based therapy interventions, and am passionate about ongoing learning and professional development. I have completed many courses in play therapy and this is my focus when working with children.
What else should you know? I am excited to be a part of the community at Counselling Bruce County, and am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you.