Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology

Dr. Tamara Dalrymple serves as Dean of the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) program at Yorkville University, where she leads strategic initiatives that promote academic excellence, foster innovation, and strengthen the student and faculty experience. Since joining Yorkville University in 2023 as Associate Dean of Field Training, she has held progressive leadership roles, assuming responsibility for the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) program in 2024.

With more than 30 years of experience spanning clinical mental health, public service, and higher education, Dr. Dalrymple has dedicated her career to advancing excellence in counsellor education mental health practice. Her leadership experience includes graduate program administration, quality assurance, curriculum development, academic governance, faculty development, and strategic planning. Prior to joining Yorkville University, she held academic leadership positions in graduate counselling education and senior clinical and policy leadership roles within British Columbia’s public mental health system, where she contributed to the development and implementation of province-wide initiatives to strengthen child and youth mental health services and professional practice.

Dr. Dalrymple holds a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership (Counselling). She is an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS), a longstanding Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), a member of the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA), and board certified in EEG Neurofeedback (BCIA).

In her role as Dean, Dr. Dalrymple is committed to fostering a culture of academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration that supports student success, faculty achievement, and continuous quality improvement. She is passionate about preparing the next generation of counselling and psychotherapy professionals while advancing Yorkville University’s mission of delivering high-quality, accessible graduate education.

Dr. Foley is a Registered Psychotherapist (Ontario) with nearly 20 years of experience in mental health. She holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and a Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy from Yorkville University. Throughout her career, Dr. Foley has worked in a variety of settings, including hospitals, children’s mental health services, and educational environments, providing her with a diverse perspective on therapeutic care. Her clinical practice is grounded in trauma-informed care, supporting individuals facing complex emotional and psychological challenges.

Dr. Foley is a Certified Trauma Treatment Specialist with the Association of Traumatic Stress Specialists and a Canadian Clinical Supervisor (CCS) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. In these roles, she mentors and guides the next generation of mental health professionals. Since 2023, Dr. Foley has also taught at Yorkville University and other institutions, where she shares her expertise and compassionate approach with students. Through her leadership, she fosters a supportive environment for both clients and students, helping to cultivate a new generation of professionals committed to advancing the field of counselling and psychotherapy.

Dr. Rosina Mete is a Registered Psychotherapist (Ontario) and a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). Dr. Mete originally joined Yorkville University in 2022 as the Course Lead for Assessment. Before joining the Yorkville team, she worked in community health, hospital, academic, and private practice settings. She also has experience as an adjunct professor at other educational institutions. Dr. Mete has won awards for her academic and clinical work. Her research and publications include equity and access to mental health care, stress management, social support, workplace mental health, problem-solving and decision-making, and technology in education. Her recent accomplishments include publishing her dissertation research regarding the impact of social support on emotional wellbeing among a chronically ill (COPD) population in an Ivy League academic journal. Additionally, she co-authored an inaugural study examining online peer support among medical laboratory professionals and collaborated on a chapter about online counsellor education. She is currently working on publications regarding the impact of AI within counselling, resilience and identity among health care professionals, and a Canadian counselling textbook. Dr. Mete is the President of the CCPA Counsellor Educator & Supervisors Chapter and a Board Member with the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP). Her educational credentials include a BSc in Psychology from Carleton University, a MSc in Clinical Mental Health Counselling and a PhD in Leadership and Policy both from Niagara University.

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Dr. Rochelle is the Director, Practicum Coordination in the Department of Field Training. She has completed her MACP at YU in 2010 and is near completion of the DCP program at YU. She has worked within the department of field training for over 10 years in a variety of roles.

Outside of YU, Rochelle maintains a small private practice in her community, she is an LCT with CCTNB and CCC with the CCPA.

Dr. Gwen Zegestowsky is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist living and working in New Jersey in the United States. Her Bachelor’s work was in Behavioral Science and Addiction Counseling, her Masters in Human Resource Management and Organizational Leadership and her Doctoral training is in Clinical Psychology. She has been working in the field for over 20 years and has spent time in short- and long-term inpatient units, community mental health centers, partial hospitalization programs, independent outpatient offices, hospitals, assisted living communities, college counseling centers and both middle and high school settings. She has also worked in drug and alcohol research and in corporate consulting for executive performance enhancement.
Dr. Z has been teaching at the University level since 2007 and transitioned from brick and mortar to online education in 2012. She has been working as a Professor in the States focusing on curriculum development for graduate level courses in Addiction and Recovery.
Dr. Z is also a wife, mother, gardener, reader, runner, friend, volunteer and driver of small people to sports practice.

Dr. Bree Fiissel is a Registered Doctoral Psychologist practicing in Regina, Saskatchewan and brings over 25 years of counselling, supervision, and teaching experience. Her academic training includes a BA in Psychology, an MEd in Educational Psychology (Counselling Psychology), and a PhD from the University of Regina. She has worked in not-for-profit, community, and private practice settings, specializing in complex trauma and co-occurring mental health concerns. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and integrates other evidenced-based methods such as CBT, narrative, and solution-focused therapies. Dr. Fiissel’s research interests include mental health stigma, post-secondary student mental health, professional identity development, ethics, and decolonizing educational practice. Relationship-centred practice is central to her counselling, supervision, and teaching philosophy.

Dr. Aaron P. B. Smith (PhD, Wilfrid Laurier University) has taught in counselling, psychotherapy, and social work programs across Canada for more than fifteen years. A Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO), he has provided therapy and clinical supervision in primary health care, community mental health, domestic violence services, and private practice.

He is the originator of the Theory of Relational Engagement, a framework examining how relational processes unfold across intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational, and societal contexts. His scholarship explores relational dynamics in mental health practice, pedagogy, leadership, trauma, and well-being. More recently, his work has expanded into Artificial Intelligence, examining relational dynamics in human–AI interaction and contributing to the development of Artificial Relational Intelligence (ARI).

Dr. Smith has published in peer-reviewed journals, contributed book chapters, presented widely across North America, and been interviewed on topics related to mental health, education, and relational practice

Dr Kelly Collins, Ph. D., LPC, NCC, NCSC, CCTP completed her doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision at Regent University. She is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (Oklahoma), a Nationally Certified Counselor, a Nationally Certified School Counselor, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Outside of her academic role, Dr. Collins serves in variety of settings ranging from K-12 schools to mental health facilities and a private practice. She serves as the Chair of the Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health licensure. She has presented at local, regional, state, and national conferences, and has been published on topics such as ethics, licensure, and working with military families.

Ph.D. – Regent School of Psychology and Counseling Defense
Counselor Education and Supervision, Regent University – December 2010

Master of Arts – Marriage and Family Therapy
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Oral Roberts University – May 2004

Master of Arts – Christian Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor Oral Roberts University – May 2003

Agape School of World Evangelism – Bible School April 2000
Bachelor of Science – Psychology – Summa Cum Laude May 1997
Collateral Minor – Business University of Arkansas

Contact: [email protected]

Dr. Kirstin Dolby holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counselling, and a PhD in Counseling & Psychological Studies with a focus on trauma from Regent University in Virginia Beach, VA. In addition to her counselling internships, Kirstin completed a Trauma Counselling Internship in India in 2016 with the Regent University Center for Trauma Studies.

Dr. Dolby is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with BCACC, a Certified Canadian Counsellor with CCPA, a Certified First Responder Counselor with Academy Hour, Certified EMDR Therapist with EMDRIA and Certified Clinical Traumatologist with the Green Cross Academy of Traumatology. She specializes in working with survivors and first responders. Dr. Dolby’s doctoral dissertation was a mobile website resource development project called First Responder Impact Event Support Services (F.R.I.E.S.S.). Dr. Dolby has experience in private practice, mental health resource development and training, as well as providing mental health first response.

Dr. Dolby takes a client-centered approach utilizing a holistic wellness model. She believes the foundation to good therapy starts with rapport and the therapeutic relationship between client(s) and counsellor. She works with all age groups and has experience with individual, couples, and family therapy, as well as facilitation of support groups and workshops. She has experience helping clients work through trauma (complex and simple), PTSD, mental health disorders, depression, anxiety, separation, parenting and grief.

Dr. Lisa Surrency, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, Registered Play Therapist completed her doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision at University of Holy Cross in New Orleans, Louisiana. She currently holds a counseling license in the state of Louisiana, as well as being a board approved supervisor. Dr. Surrency is currently a Registered Play Therapist and will soon pursue to become a supervisor for Play Therapy. In addition, she is a Nationally Certified Counselor and has predominantly worked with children and adolescents throughout her career. Dr. Surrency serves on the committee for the National Law and Ethics Conference held in Louisiana each year. She assists with organizing international trip to Italy and Ireland each year for counseling students and professionals. Dr. Surrency has presented on state, national, and international levels. Her areas of interest are play therapy, counselor self-care, and ethics.

Dr. Mary MW Killmeyer is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MT2678) in the state of Florida. She has been an Adjunct Professor at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida since 2015 and joined Yorkville University as an Adjunct Professor in 2022. She earned a Master of Science and Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University with a specialization and focus on Medical Family Therapy. Her doctoral research focused on communication practices between primary care physicians and mental health professionals.
She has been in the therapy field since 2005 and has been the owner and primary clinician of her own private practice, Partners in Change, since 2012.
Dr. Killmeyer’s experience includes working in community agencies, private practice, patient advocacy, nonprofit organizations, and in educational settings. As an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, she works directly with Registered Marriage and Family Therapists to consult on cases. Dr. Killmeyer also provides consultations to organizations to promote and enhance communication strategies and employee strengthening practices.

Dr. Theresa Zolner, R . Psych. practices in the province of Alberta. She has a PhD in clinical psychology from the University of Saskatchewan, and she did her predoctoral
internship (residency) at Alberta Children’s Hospital, with a rotation in dual diagnosis/substance use at the Foothills Medical Centre, in Calgary, Alberta. Dr. Zolner has experience in a range of settings, including private practice, school psychology, post-secondary education, forensic, not-for-profit, and government. She also has worked with many Indigenous Peoples and organizations primarily within Treaties 4 and 6.

Dr. Zolner has co-authored a popular Canadian child and adolescent development textbook, and she continues to engage in research in her areas of interest. She has devoted much of her career to working with people who have experienced racial, cultural, and spiritual oppression, trauma, and discrimination. She is experienced in both psychological assessment and intervention and has a special interest in cultural psychology. She is an active speaker, clinical consultant, and supervisor, and she has published a number of peer-reviewed articles primarily in the area of cultural psychology.

Dr. Abby Baumgart Huntley is a full-time faculty at Yorkville, course lead for PSYC6256 Applying Interventions, and a skills coach. She has taught in graduate programs for the past 5 years. She is also an adjunct instructor at The Chicago School of Psychology. Her teaching style is collaborative with a focus on guiding you on your path of learning and developing your counseling self. the owner of Oak Ridge Counseling and Consulting (www.wellnesswithoakridge.com). She has been a licensed professional therapist in mental health and substance use for nearly 10 years. She specializes in trauma and attachment, but is happy to support individuals and families through many issues.

Dr. Abby uses an eclectic approach that is catered to your style and preferences. Her overall goal is to provide you relief quickly and tools to move forward. Dr. Abby enjoys using horses, dogs, chickens, and the outdoors to help you heal and realize your full potential. She is a certified in Animal Assisted Therapy, TFCBT, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, DBT, Attachment, Motivational Interviewing, and more.

Dr. Abby is the president of The Wellness Co-Op, Inc., a non-profit that provides mental wellness and critical incident support to military, veterans, first responders, and their families at no charge to them. This is achieved through a team of clinicians and others who provide archery, hiking, therapy, projects and arts, animal-assisted activities, and retreats. (www.thewellnesscoopwi.com)

Dr. Afarin Rajaei holds a Ph.D. in Medical Family Therapy from East Carolina University and is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). She serves as the Associate Editor of the International Journal of Systemic Therapy. Dr. Rajaei is the author of, “Match Me If You Can!: An Educational Game for Relationships!” and a book being under print called, “Navigating Life’s Triangle.”

With extensive experience in clinical work, teaching, including developing curriculums and courses, research, and leadership positions, Dr. Rajaei’s contributions to the field are multifaceted. She has specific trainings in many models including the Gottman Method, Narrative Therapy, EFT, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Her work focuses on personal growth, emotional awareness, and resilience, emphasizing self-compassion, acceptance, and purposeful action in her therapeutic approach. Dr. Rajaei is also a sought-after presenter on topics such as microfeminism in psychotherapy, social injustice issues in healthcare systems, and the biopsychosocial-spiritual dynamics of romantic relationships.

Alyssa Weiss, PhD, LMFT, CCPT completed her doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy and is currently a Florida Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).

Outside of academia, she has served in a variety of functions supporting mental health including private practice, program development, and program consultation. She has presented at a local, regional, national and international level, as well as, been published on myriad topics, including the therapeutic process.

Dr. Weiss holds advanced training in Traumatology, certification in Hypnotherapy and she is Level 1 IFS trained. She is a column editor for the Humanistic Counselor and serves on the editorial boards for Journal of Human Services, Journal of Adolescent and Family Health, and Counseling Outcome Research and Evaluation.  She has also developed a curriculum at the masters and doctoral levels.

Dr. Andy Brown, Ed. D, LCMHC, has over a decade-long partnership with Yorkville University, currently serving as the Course Lead in Crisis and Trauma. With a background in Counseling Psychology and a Master’s in Physiology from the United States Sports Academy, Dr. Brown seamlessly integrates his expertise.

His passion for trauma treatment and resilience is evident in his holistic approach, combining Counseling Psychology and Physiology. Dr. Brown holds advanced certifications in Traumatology, Hypnotherapy, and is certified in both Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and BrainSpotting at levels one and two, respectively. He has also developed Dynamic Narrative Exposure Therapy, an innovative treatment for trauma and anxiety.

Outside academia, Dr. Brown is the Vice President of Education at the International Trauma Training Institute, showcasing his leadership and dedication to trauma education and treatment.

For inquiries or collaboration opportunities, please contact Dr. Brown at [email protected].

Dr. Denise Mannell has been working in private practice as a Registered Psychologist in Fort McMurray since 2003. Her education consists of a Masters of Education in Counselling Psychology from Memorial University of Newfoundland and a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology from Capella University. Prior to being a psychologist, Dr. Mannell was a teacher/guidance counsellor for 11 years.
Dr. Mannell is a long-standing member with the College of Alberta Psychologists and her declared areas of competency fall in the domains of Clinical/Counselling Psychology and School/Educational Psychology. In her current practice, she is providing psychological therapy, assessment, and consultation, as well as supervision/mentoring for provisional psychologists. Dr. Mannell has been teaching at Yorkville University in the MACP program since September 2023, and is thoroughly enjoying her role as an instructor/facilitator in a variety of courses. She is also currently the Course Lead for Assessment.
On a more personal note, Dr. Mannell enjoys a simple, quiet life, which consists of good books, great friends, and wonderful vacations.

I moved to Edmonton from Calgary in August 2007 after I finished my PhD in Applied Psychology at the University of Calgary. I am a Registered Psychologist and I have been teaching for MACP for over 9 years. I have taught in various other programs and faculties such as being a Clinical Lecturer for 1st-year Medical students and have taught online graduate counselling psychology courses since 2004.

I got to Counselling Psychology via a rather circuitous route: competitive athlete (figure skating and track); unfocused university student in Sciences (BSc at York U); professional athlete/performer (basically a paid vacation performing as a professional figure skater in over 50 countries); focused university student – Chiropractic degree (Toronto) and then practice (Saskatoon); MSc in Kinesiology in Sport Mental Training/Sport Psychology; BA Psychology (MSc & BA both at U of Saskatchewan); transition to Psychology as my hands and forearms wore out working as a chiropractor. I completed the course work for the MEd program (USask) before entering and then completed my Applied Psychology PhD (UCalgary). I am particularly passionate about culture-infused and diversity counselling and working with non-dominant and minority cultural groups. In my dissertation research, I looked at what might make it easier for minority sexuality clients to talk about sexuality with counsellors and psychologists.

I am still involved in figure skating as an official for Technical evaluation and had been on the Board for the Alberta-NWT/Nunavut Skate Canada Figure Skating Section for several years. I love being able to volunteer for a sport that has provided me so much enjoyment in my life. I also sing with the Greenwood Singers here in Edmonton and we do several performances a year including with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra in December.

I am also passionate about life-long learning and teaching and I am looking forward to meeting you online.

Dr. Glenn B. Gelman brings more than 40 years of experience working in the helping profession, 36 years of which are as a doctoral-level Licensed Clinical Psychologist. During his career, he has worked in clinical, medical, organizational, forensic, and academic areas of psychology.

Dr. Gelman developed and/or directed several mental health practices and substance abuse programs. His varied background includes working in mental health and medical hospitals in administrative and clinical capacities. Dr. Gelman led the Division of Psychology for a major Chicago-area hospital as Section Chief. He administered programs in partial hospital, intensive outpatient, day-treatment, dual-diagnosis, wellness-center, and outpatient settings. Clinically Dr. Gelman has diagnosed and treated a diverse population of adults, couples, children, and families, across the full spectrum of mental health disorders.

Since 1987, he has supervised, consulted with, and trained mental health, medical health, human service, and allied health care professionals, as well as masters and doctoral students. Since 1999, he has taught students in in-seat, hybrid, web-enhanced, and online classrooms.

He has consulted with corporations and organizations, municipalities, social service agencies, religious leaders, and judicial institutions. He has served on health planning and oversight committees at the federal, state, and local levels. As president of a community alliance, he piloted an initiative to bring public and private sector professionals together to address community mental health care needs.

He is the author of several published articles and has been a featured mental health expert to community groups, radio talk shows, and newspapers. Dr. Gelman also served as a Reviewer for the Mental Measurements Yearbook (MMY) and Sage Publications.

Since 1991, Dr. Gelman has served as Vice President and Executive Clinical Director of a private practice, located in the Chicago metropolitan area. As a practicing psychotherapist, Dr. Gelman provides direct mental health assessment and treatment services to adults, couples, children, and families.

https://yorkvilleu-tfs.zoom.us/j/7096796343

PIM #: 709-679-6343

Passcode:  998746

Heath Walters believes education is life changing and enjoys preparing students in their pursuit of their personal and professional life goals, as they learn to be of service to others. Heath has earned a Ph.D. in Counselor Education from Regent University and an MSW in Clinical Social Work with an emphasis in Mental Health and Children & Families from Walla Walla University. He has also obtained certification in Geriatric Mental Health from the University of Washington Extension Campus. Heath is a Licensed Clinical Social Work in Idaho and Washington State and has obtained Approved Clinical Supervisor Status (ACS) in both states, as well as the Center for Credentialing and Education.  He has served as Director of Social Services for a hospital district, Social Worker III for the State of Washington’s Aging & Disability Services Administration, as well as a clinician and clinical supervisor for licensure in various private practice settings. Heath has also served as the Masters in Social Work Site Coordinator for Boise State University’s Coeur d’ Alene campus and Assistant Professor of Social Work/Federal Title IV-E Child Welfare Coordinator for Lewis Clark State College. In addition, he has taught for Tulane University’s School of Social Work online program

Dr. Inverpal Braich, PsyD, is a psychologist in both Alberta and Ontario. Specifically, he is a registered psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists and a chartered psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. Dr. Braich has worked and volunteered in a variety of diverse roles in both the public and private sectors in mental health across North America including being a mental health practitioner, being an educator, being a supervisor, and more. As a mental health practitioner, Dr. Braich works with a diverse set of client populations and appreciates the diversity of experiences each client brings to the therapy room.

Jo is a full-time faculty and Course Lead for the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology program and a faculty for the Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy program at Yorkville. Jo completed her Master of Business Administration (MBA) in management and her master and doctorate in counseling psychology.

Jo has been teaching in higher education for more than a decade. Her teaching focus is research methods at the master and doctoral levels. Jo has served on numerous dissertation committees. She has taught at the bachelor, master and doctoral level in business, education, and counselling psychology programs in various universities in the States. Jo has developed curricula for doctoral-level qualitative research and advanced qualitative research, master-level research & evaluation, and bachelor-level introduction to critical thinking skills, business ownership, and business financial literacy courses.

Jo has presented at the International Congress of Qualitative Inquiry at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the Caribbean Congress of Qualitative Inquiry at the University of West Indies, Jamaica.

Jo’s professional career and her business and counseling psychology degrees have allowed her to have a broad range of skills and expertise in regulatory compliance,  risk management, fraud investigation, executive coaching, and consulting, as well as community mental health. Her recent independent consulting work included several applied research projects within the Office of Administrative Management at the National Institutes of Health. Her consulting specialties include organizational assessment and development, leadership development, performance management, and strategic planning. Jo also remains active in the mental health field through providing diagnostic assessments and treatment planning within the DC Department of Behavioral Health, Washington, DC.

Dr. Hildy Bennett earned her Doctor of Education and Master of Education from Cambridge University specializing in Child and Young People Psychotherapeutic Counselling.  She has taught undergraduate and graduate students since 2014. This has included working in departments specializing in Psychology, Educational Psychology, and Counselling theory and practice. 

Dr. Bennett has worked with children, adolescents, and their families using an integrative model drawing on Person-Centred, Psychodynamic and Gestalt theory since 2011. Interventions tend to be arts-based and include the creation and use of images, sand tray, clay, story and play to explore experiences, relationships, and the self. This work has been based in both schools and in private practice.

Dr. Kaitlyn Hillier obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Women’s Studies in 2009 from Athabasca University. Also at Athabasca University, Dr. Hillier completed her Master of Counselling in Counselling Psychology in 2016. She then completed her Doctoral studies at Walden University, achieving a Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology degree in 2019. Dr Hillier practices from a psychodynamic perspective and is a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, and a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.

Dr. Leili Heidema is a faculty member at Yorkville University, teaching in both the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) and the Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy (DCP) programs. She is the Course Lead for Ethics (MACP PSYC/P 6203) and brings expertise in professional ethics, including serving on the CCPA Ethics Committee – complaints division, as Chair of the Ethics Committee of a regional health authority, and as a member of the working group that established the first ethics framework and committee for the Government of the Northwest Territories.

Dr. Heidema is a Registered Psychologist in Alberta and the Northwest Territories. She holds a Doctor of Psychology degree from California Southern University and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Adler University.

In addition to teaching, Dr. Heidema maintains an active group practice, providing trauma-focused and couples counselling. She is a certified EMDR therapist and integrates an eclectic, evidence-informed approach to treatment. Dr. Heidema has15 years of experience in the public sector, where she managed multidisciplinary mental health teams in remote regions, including medical social work, child and youth counselling, and community-based mental health services.

Master’s in Science with a Major in Psychology – Walden University

Master’s in Science in Mental Health Counseling – Walden University

Doctorate of Philosophy in Human Services – Walden University

Dr. Melissa Lee-Tammeus (Tah -May-Us) is a full-time professor and Course Lead for PSYC 6246 Counseling Skills and Competencies with the MACP at Yorkville University. She is a wife, mother, doctor, counselor, and college professor. She has lived in Jacksonville, Florida in the United States for the past 25 years, originally hailing from Denver, Colorado. She has a Ph.D. in Humans Services, an M.S. in Psychology, and an M.S. in Mental Health Counseling.

Dr. Mel has taught a variety of psychology and philosophy classes at the undergraduate and graduate levels for the past 17 years in both brick and mortar and online universities. Some of the classes taught include General Psychology, Lifespan Development, Counseling Skills & Competencies, Addictions, Couples and Families, Successful Strategies for Online Learning, Philosophy, Theories of Personality, Speech, Critical Thinking, and Abnormal Psychology. She is also a team lead and professor for an online American University, assisting and guiding professors in their work online as well as teaching.

Dr. Mel has been in the counseling field for over 25 years. She began working as a psychotherapist in Colorado in 1996 and is now a licensed mental health counselor in private practice for the State of Florida. She is the owner of Possible Self Counseling, PL which specializes in LGB and heterosexual couples, transgender support, grief and trauma, and self-empowerment. She has worked extensively with those who suffer from schizophrenia, running social skills and communication groups. She has worked with her local community to offer trauma counseling at local residential centers and businesses. She is a certified rape crisis hotline counselor, a certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, a Clinical Telemental Health Provider, and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. She has worked in both private practice settings and residential treatment centers. She is also certified in Mindfulness Therapy and EMDR and believes in the connection of mind, body, and spirit for total well-being.

Dr. Mel is a member and writer for American Counseling Association. She is also a member of the Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Issues in Counseling, Citizen Therapists, Equality Florida, and Open Path Psychotherapy Collective.

Dr. Mel’s research includes dissociative identity disorder treatment, male anger, test anxiety in college students, and the educational needs of counseling interns in regard to counseling LGB couples. Early in her career, Dr. Mel wrote extensively on the need for a collaborative stance on treatment protocols for dissociative identity disorder. She has studied the effects of test anxiety on college students, particularly those in the medical field. She developed an Anger Management Protocol for Court Appointed Anger Management classes which includes a familial element to work within the family system and learn healthy and communicative anger displays. Dr. Mel has written extensively on academic learning and the needs associated with counseling interns working with LGB couples to ensure that both clients and therapists get the support they need for the optimal therapeutic relationship. She is currently working on a book about her counseling experiences.

Contact: [email protected]

Dr. Pauline O’Brien (she/they) is a clinical supervisor, educator, and researcher with a deep commitment to trauma-informed and integrative mind–body healing. Their work weaves together Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), somatic approaches, and gender- and neurodivergent-affirming practices to gently support people navigating trauma, dissociation, and inspires spaces for transformational healing.

Dr. Pauline brings a rich and diverse professional background to her work. She has lived and worked in rural northern Canada in relationship with Indigenous communities, worked on interprofessional primary healthcare teams, as well as in urban centers providing shelter-based emergency mental health services within a hospital-diversion model of care. These experiences continue to shape her values of cultural humility, accessibility, and ethical care.

Through her teaching and supervision, Dr. Pauline is passionate about supporting counsellors and supervisors to grow their skills with integrity, curiosity, and compassion. She designs training programs grounded in cultural safety, critical pedagogy, and reflective practice. Since April 2022, she has served as an adjunct professor at Yorkville University and is presently Course Lead for the PSYC 6104 Biopsychosocial course.

Dr. Sanaz Adibian has a post-doctorate in clinical psychology. She obtained her Bachelor of Science from the University of Houston and then started her master’s at the University of Houston as part of Psi Chi (The International Honor Society of Psychology). She finished her PsyD. and her post-doctorate at Argosy University. Dr. Adibian has an extensive background working with clients of diverse backgrounds with various treatment needs. She has conducted individual and group therapy; including anger management, gang intervention, dealing with severe trauma of different various, parenting classes, stress management, and coping mechanisms, and is a licensed hypnotherapist. Dr. Adibian is an expert in regard to working with bipolar and personality disorder by looking at a more holistic approach that frees the mind as well as the body. She has been independently researching culture, beliefs, psychology, and linguistics for almost a decade.

Dr. DiGiacomo has been a psychotherapist working in the field of mental health for 22 years. He has worked in both hospital and community-based, and in both inpatient and outpatient treatment settings and in private practice. Dr. DiGiacomo has a long history of graduate and post-graduate student supervision, and has taught in various university-based mental health and healthcare related programs. Dr. DiGiacomo’s specific therapeutic interventions of interest revolve around mindfulness, cognitive-behavioural and strengths-based practices. He is a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). He has specific research interest and experience in counselling and psychotherapy interventions, clinical education, the definition and implementation of evidence-based practices, and knowledge translation. He has also authored and co-authored peer-reviewed journal articles and edited book chapters and continues to peer-review articles for publication.

Avideh Najibzadeh is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and holds a doctorate degree (PhD) in General Psychology from Azad University of Iran. Avideh finished her PhD degree in 2018. Her dissertation was “The development of a coherent identity in a conflictual situation: religious and sexual development among Iranian Muslim Adults”. Within a mixed methods research framework, it examined the theoretical foundation of identity configuration through analyzing the life narratives which were collected around a conflictual issue of religion and sexuality. Avideh has participated in various research projects in Iran and Canada. She has taught interactive workshops in mental health and facilitated psychotherapeutic and psychoeducational groups in clinical or non-clinical settings.

Avideh has worked with clients in various settings such as hospitals, community centers, family health teams, crisis centers, and private practices and is trained in different trauma-informed trainings and brain-body based therapy modalities such as Brainspotting, Accelerated Resolution Therapy ART, and Internal Family Systems IFS. Avideh is a certified Brainspotting therapist. As a dedicated psychotherapist, Avideh conducts thorough psychosocial assessments, conceptualizes cognitive, behavioral, contextual, and relational formulations of the presenting problems, and implements effective treatment plans within different psychotherapeutic frameworks. She works with individuals with a history of complex trauma, dissociation, and treatment resistant depression.

Dr. Bolanle Odulate-Ogunnubi is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the State of Illinois, USA, a board-certified counselor (NCC) by the National Board for Certified Counselor (NBCC). She has a PhD. in Advanced Studies in Human Behavior from Capella University, Minnesota. She graduated with honors from Governors State University Illinois, with a Master of Arts in Counseling, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

She is a Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP), Certified Crisis Intervention Counselor, (CIC) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). She specializes in depression, anxiety, self-esteem, work-related issues, anger issues, relationship and family issues, abuse and trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, stress management, substance abuse, personal growth, and coaching services.

Dr. Bolanle provides consultation, presentations, and facilitates training workshops and Employee Assistance Programs for some Federal and State Ministries and Agencies. She also facilitates training workshops for other therapists, communities, and workplaces on various topics.

Dr. Bolanle is a member of the Chi Sigma Iota, a counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society International, the American Counseling Association, National Board of Certified Counselors, and the Employee Assistance Professionals Association International. She enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family. She has a passion for advocacy on Gender Equality, Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, and other social welfare-related issues. She works in collaboration with some Federal and State Ministries to effect social welfare changes.

Dr. Beth Triano (she/her) is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Approved Clinical Supervisor based in Vancouver, British Columbia. She provides counselling to individuals and couples, many of whom have experienced sexualized trauma. Her doctoral research focused on this population. Beth integrates the principles of Imago Relationship Therapy into her work with couples. Dr. Triano also serves as a clinical supervisor to early-career counsellors, as well as more seasoned counsellors, supporting them as they develop their professional identities and clinical skills.

Dr. Triano’s experience as a clinician and supervisor informs her work as a professor. Her teaching is grounded in a client-centered, humanistic approach and a strong belief that lived experience meaningfully shapes the development of effective counsellors. With roots in yoga and mindfulness practices, she integrates these perspectives into her roles as counsellor, supervisor, and educator.

Committed to fostering an engaged and responsive learning environment, Dr. Triano prioritizes active listening, timely communication, and meaningful student interaction. She values the opportunity to learn alongside her students and encourages them to engage fully in their professional and personal growth.

Dr. Brigette Krieg is Metis therapist from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. She began her academic journey at the University of Saskatchewan with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and continued with her Bachelor of Social Work at the University of Regina and finished with her Masters and PHD in Social Work with the University of Calgary. She has worked throughout Northern Saskatchewan and Ontario with Indigenous communities.  Working from a holistic, traditional perspective in clinical practice including narrative therapy, she has been connecting with clients to walk with them through their trauma. She has worked with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, family difficulties, generational trauma, familial violence and addictions. Her approach comes from compassion, and her understanding of mental health comes from the focus on kindness and empathy. As a school therapist, she has worked with many clients as they come to understand their gender and sexual identity. She strives to create safe spaces, community allies and confidence in the youth as they navigate their understanding of themselves.

As a therapist, her approach emphasizes holistic healing, acknowledging the interconnectedness of mind, body, spirit, and community. Her approach prioritizes cultural safety, respect, and collaboration, recognizing the unique experiences and resilience of those she works with. Incorporating narrative therapies that engage in storytelling, ceremony, and connection to nature, fostering healing through cultural revitalization and connection to ancestral knowledge. The therapeutic process respects individual autonomy while recognizing the collective impact of historical trauma. By blending traditional and contemporary methods, her approach to counselling promotes empowerment, resilience, and cultural reclamation, facilitating healing journeys rooted in cultural identity and community strength.

Dr. Carolyn Phillips holds a Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Counselling Psychology and a Doctorate in Counselling and Psychotherapy. She is a registered Social Worker and a graduate of Yorkville University (MACP, DCP). Dr. Phillips has thirty years of experience in community-based counselling, crisis care and managed care to individuals, couples and families. She currently works with those who have been in serious motor vehicle accidents and has a private practice. Dr. Phillips has experience working with those with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), catastrophic injuries, addictions, acute stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, domestic violence, physical, sexual and emotional abuse, depression, anxiety.

Dr. Phillips has also taught at a number of Colleges in Ontario. She believes education is a collaborative approach and looks forward to being the GPS on your academic journey.

When not at work she enjoys time with her husband, children and more animals than one should have under one roof!

Dr. Cindi Saj is a full practicing member with the British Columbia College of Social Workers with a professional designation. Her academic training includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Criminology and Social Work, a master’s degree in social work and a doctoral degree from the University of Manitoba. Dr. Saj’s doctoral research focused broadly on stress and conflict in practice, burnout within the helping profession and exploring coping strategies and self-care. She has declared competencies in clinical and counselling areas with children and adolescents, and experience working with adults, couples and families. Dr. Saj’s background extends from working as a senior clinician, clinical director, social worker and mental health counsellor within the public and private sectors in Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia. She is a published author and researcher and explores such topics such as burnout, trauma recovery, and self-care, self-esteem, addiction, as well as has an interested in specific focus on adhd research and clinician practice approaches.

Dr. Saj is a full-time teaching staff at Yorkville and teaches primarily the skills and applying intervention courses with the MACP.

Dr. Daniela Rabellino is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and a member of the Ontario Association for Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP), American Psychological Association (APA), and the European and Italian Associations for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ESTD and AISTED). She holds aMA in Clinical Psychology and a Ph.D. in Neuroscience/Cognitive Science from the University of Turin, Italy. She also earned a Specialty Diploma from a 4-year School in Cognitive Psychotherapy in Italy. Since her move to Canada in 2013, she has been conducting cutting-edge research on the impact of psychological trauma at the psycho-physiological and neural level, in collaboration with Western University and McMaster University. Her seminal work has been published in several international peer-reviewed journals, cited in numerous research papers, and presented at international conferences. 

Since her Specialty School in Cognitive Psychotherapy, Daniela has expanded her knowledge to include DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy), EFT (Emotion-Focused Therapy), mindfulness-based and body-oriented interventions in her clinical practice, especially geared toward trauma-informed care for adult individuals. Daniela has worked with clients in the Public Mental Health sector in Italy, and currently leads a private practice in Canada, working with individuals with complex trauma, depression, anxiety, and with first responders. 

Her current goal is to combine the latest scientific knowledge and her direct clinical expertise to develop an understanding of the mind-body connection, help adults struggling in their life journey, and transfer this knowledge to future practitioners.

Dr. Seabrook (she/her) is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (#17031),a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (#001849) a Certified Music Therapist (#0334) with the Canadian Association of Music Therapists, and a recognized Climate Aware Therapist with the Climate Psychology Alliance of North America. She earned a PhD in Individualized Studies from Concordia University and holds a Master of Music Therapy with a specialization in Music Psychotherapy from Wilfrid Laurier University. Dr. Seabrook’s research interests include intersectionality, music psychotherapy, and addressing the climate emergency in clinical work. Her work is published in scholarly journals, including: The Arts in Psychotherapy, and the Nordic Journal of Music Therapy.

Dr. Delhia Smith is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and a Professional Member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. She brings over 15 years of clinical experience in the mental health field, along with a strong background as a post-secondary instructor. As a graduate of Yorkville University’s MACP program and a doctoral degree holder in Counselling and Psychotherapy, Delhia offers not only extensive academic and clinical expertise but also a firsthand understanding of the student experience within Yorkville’s unique learning environment.

Her clinical practice is informed by formal training in a range of therapeutic approaches, including psychodrama, solution-focused therapy, nature-based therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, trauma-informed and Neufeld’s attachment-based model. In her work with clients navigating diverse interpersonal needs, Delhia emphasizes the relational factor. She has learned through her clinical experience that authenticity, empathy, collaboration, and respect are among the most powerful “tools” in the therapy room. Delhia is committed to integrating these values into her teaching and supervision, striving to support students in developing their professional identity with confidence and integrity.

Dr. Elaine Toombs is a clinical psychologist who works predominately within 13 First Nation communities in the Robinson Superior Treaty Area. Throughout her practice, she provides assessment, intervention, and consultation services for children, adolescents, and adults. Although Dr. Toombs approaches her work predominately from a trauma-informed, cognitive-behavioural lens, she integrates various aspects of additional culturally-relevant psychological treatment models, including acceptance and commitment therapy and dialectical behavioural therapy.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Toombs previously held a Canadian Institutes of Health Research Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship award from 2020 to 2022. Her research primarily focuses on measurement-informed care, adverse childhood experiences, eHealth interventions, and First Nations mental health. She explores these topics using a range of community-based methods. As a co-investigator, Dr. Toombs has held over 1.5 million dollars in research funding to date, and has published over 40 peer-reviewed manuscripts in a variety of scientific journals on topics related to First Nation mental health, resilience, and wellbeing. She spends her spare time in the woods around Lake Superior, and enjoys camping, hiking, and cross country skiing.

Dr. Jessica Cole is a licensed professional counselor and board certified telemental health provider with over 20 years of experience in behavioral health. Recently, she provided outreach services for residential treatment facilities covering Mississippi and Louisiana. Previously, she held the Director of Psychological Health position under the direction of the United States Department of Defense (DoD) for over 8 years. She has been a professor in the MACP at Yorkville University since 2019. Her experiences in behavioral health encompass many areas including inpatient, partial, and outpatient treatment focusing on issues including depression, addiction, and traumatic brain injury.  Nationally, she was president of the Integrated Care Interest group for the American Counseling Association and frequently provides lectures on a variety of behavioral health topics. Dr. Cole received her doctorate of professional counseling from Mississippi College, master’s in counseling from Louisiana State University, and bachelors in psychology from the University of Mississippi.

Dr. Jodi Basch is a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), a Certified Canadian Counsellor-Supervisor (CCC-S) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), and an Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT) with the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT). She earned her Ph.D. at Queen’s University, a Master of Counselling Psychology from the University of Ottawa, and a Trauma Therapy certificate from Wilfred Laurier University. Dr. Basch served as the project manager for a SSHRC-funded pan-Canadian study on university student well-being. She has authored and co-authored peer-reviewed journal articles and edited book chapters on the topics of resilience, authentic leadership, well-being, and transitional periods. Dr. Basch provides therapeutic support to college and university students, healthcare workers, first responders, and individuals recovering from workplace injuries. She is a certified Brainspotting therapist and has completed training in Narrative Psychotherapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy. Dr. Basch also supervises novice counsellors, supporting their professional development and clinical growth.

Dr. Jodie Lockey-Duesling is an innovative therapist, neurodivergent advocate, and passionate educator dedicated to integrative healing. She works with a wide array of therapeutic modalities, focusing on neural script reprogramming, neuroplasticity, EMDR, somatic experiencing, and trauma-informed yoga to help release stagnant emotions and support deep nervous system regulation. Through soul work and authentic self-discovery, she empowers individuals to reconnect with their inner resilience. As a curriculum designer and experiential learning facilitator, she integrates creativity, interaction, and holistic approaches to healing mind, body, and soul.

Dr. Joel Geleynse, PhD., is a registered psychologist licensed in both Ontario (College of Psychologists of Ontario) and Alberta (College of Alberta Psychologists) and thoroughly enjoys his work in private practice serving adolescents, adults and couples. His training and designations have included Canadian Certified Counsellor (C.C.C), Registered Psychotherapist (R.P), Clinical counselling hypnotherapist (C.Hyp) and RYT-200. Dr Geleynse is a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, the Canadian Psychological Association, Psychologist’s Association of Alberta, and the American Counseling Association. He is located in Hamliton/Beamsville area in Ontario and has a hobby farm with many animals that sometimes are incorporated into his sessions as animal-assisted therapy. His undergraduate degree was at McMaster University where he studied sociology and psychology. He is Yorkville alumni where he completed his M.A in this Masters of Counselling Psychology program. He completed his doctoral training in “Counselor Education and Supervision” with an addictions specialization at the University of the Cumberlands in KY, USA. As part of his PhD, he conducted a randomized clinical control trial of cranial electrotherapy (N=75) and attention which produced significant and meaningful results and he continues to pursue that direction in research in presentations and publications. Dr Geleynse enjoys guiding counselling students to find their unique genius in the field and to promote counsellor efficacy through equipping counsellors in training with a diverse set of tools to meet the evolving needs of our patients.

Dr. Karen Mason, DCP, MACP, MN, BSN, RN, RCC, ACS, is an educator and clinician with over 15 years of experience in post-secondary education. She holds a Doctorate in Counselling and Psychotherapy and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Nursing Education from the University of Victoria.

As an educator, Dr. Mason is committed to fostering inclusive and compassionate learning environments that value the diverse perspectives students bring to their professional development. Her teaching emphasizes reflection, collaboration, and the thoughtful integration of theory and practice.

In her clinical work, Dr. Mason focuses on counselling veterans and first responders, supporting individuals navigating trauma, operational stress, and life transitions through evidence-informed and holistic approaches. Her professional interests include trauma-informed care, integrative mental health, and mind-body wellness.

Outside of her professional roles, Karen identifies as a proud parent, loving partner, devoted friend, guardian of pets, athlete, amateur musician, and mediocre cook.

Dr. Maria Tepina is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and an experienced educator, psychologist, and mental health professional. She earned her Ph.D. in Personality Psychology from South Federal University in 2008, where her doctoral dissertation focused on Emotional Self-Disclosure.

With more than 10 years of teaching experience in higher education, Dr. Tepina has taught a wide range of psychology courses, helping students develop a strong understanding of human behavior, personality, mental health, and psychological well-being. She is committed to creating engaging and supportive learning environments that encourage critical thinking, self-reflection, and professional growth.

In addition to her academic work, Dr. Tepina has over 15 years of professional experience providing evidence-based psychological services. She specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Art Therapy, and group counselling, working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and with a broad range of mental health concerns. Her clinical approach emphasizes collaboration, resilience-building, self-awareness, and personal growth through individualized treatment planning and therapeutic support.

Dr. Tepina is passionate about bridging psychological theory and practice, integrating her extensive teaching expertise with clinical experience to support both student learning and client well-being.

Dr. Mariam Ayoub earned her Doctorate in the Clinical and Counselling Psychology program at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) of the University of Toronto. She has been trained as both a researcher and clinician, working with diverse populations of adolescents and adults, including marginalized communities (e.g., Indigenous, 2SLGBTQ+). Mariam operates from a scientist-practitioner lens, ensuring her clinical work is grounded in empirically supported treatments. She integrates evidence-based interventions (e.g., EFT, CBT) within a client-centered and culturally sensitive framework, tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of each client.

Dr. Navdeep Kaur is an educator, researcher, and a registered clinical counselor in the province of BC. She represents YU as a SOTL scholar at various seminars and conferences. Her professional experience spans university teaching, psychological research, and clinical counselling, with a particular focus on supporting university students through a wide range of academic, personal, and mental health challenges. She has taught diverse psychology courses in post-secondary institutions and is committed to making complex psychological concepts accessible, engaging, and relevant to real-world contexts.

She continually refines her teaching philosophy to reflect advances in educational research. Indeed, with recent advances in artificial intelligence, her philosophy these days is, “I think, therefore I am not – I feel, therefore, I am- a better teacher than AI” with no offence to Descartes and his legacy!

Dr. Singh holds a Doctorate in Counselling and Psychotherapy and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, both awarded by Yorkville University. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Toronto. Dr. Singh is a Registered Psychotherapist in good standing with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and a professional member of the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP).

Dr. Singh’s therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and is tailored to meet the unique needs of her clients. Her areas of specialization include corporate mental health and the treatment of a wide range of psychological concerns, such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and interpersonal and relationship challenges.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Singh is deeply committed to creating a compassionate, inclusive, and supportive environment for both her clients and the students she mentors. Her work reflects a strong dedication to mental health advocacy, education, and the empowerment of individuals through empathetic care and professional guidance.

Dr. Olivia Stewart is a Registered Psychotherapist (#008325) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and a professional member (#6005-G) of the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP). She holds a Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy degree from Yorkville University. Her academic background includes an Honours B.Sc. in Psychology from the University of Toronto and a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. Her doctoral research focused on concepts of acceptance and willingness as clinical change-agents for treating chronic pain in adults.

Her comprehensive clinical background spans long-term care, in-patient and out-patient hospital settings, the elementary school system, and crisis and community work with a particular focus on supporting marginalized populations, including people living with disabilities, the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and Indigenous peoples. As the sole proprietor of a thriving private practice and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCTP-II), Dr. Stewart specializes in working with teens and adults on themes of complex trauma, chronic pain, self-esteem, and identity. Her integrative practice is informed by a non-oppressive, feminist lens, utilizing modalities such as Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), hypnotherapy, experiential methods including expressive arts, and more.

Paula is a registered clinical counsellor and approved clinical supervisor (RCC-ACS) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and is also registered with the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA). She brings over 17 years of front-line experience from specialized mental health teams, child welfare social services, and educational settings. Paula is passionate about the role of technology in education, mental health, and human development. She works closely with individuals to maximize their strengths, identify areas for growth, foster collaboration and a strong work ethic, and achieve personal, professional, and educational goals. Additionally, Paula strives to continuously learn how to support equity-seeking individuals based on the values of kindness, respect, tolerance for diversity, and a humble acknowledgment of privileges, inequalities, and human suffering. She has successfully collaborated with various underrepresented groups, including neurodivergent individuals, immigrants, BIPOC, LGBTQ2SIA+, and those with developmental and physical disabilities. As an equality-seeking ally with lived experience, she aims to promote emotional and environmental safety as the foundation for collaboration and co-creating an inclusive learning culture. Paula brings enthusiasm, meaningful commitment, and a team-oriented mindset to fostering mutual reliance on personal and professional growth. She is dedicated to creating a safe and intellectually stimulating academic environment, placing the individual’s best interests at the forefront. She has facilitated several courses, including biopsychosocial assessment, group work, trauma, humanistic and CBT approaches, and practicum and skills-based courses.

Dr. Penny Lane Hamblin has been a licensed psychotherapist and counselor educator since 2015. She trained in North Carolina gaining experiential practice while serving the mental health community, before settling into her private practice, PLC Counseling, PLLC in 2019. Dr. Penny Lane specializes in treating trauma and promoting trauma-informed language, as well as, viewing the world from a trauma lens. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focusing on treating adolescents. She also works with young adults with specific phobias, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress symptoms.

Dr. Penny Lane’s work is directive focusing on body awareness, body sensitivities, and connecting the body to the mind. She combines awareness with mindfulness connecting choice to the physiological response embedded in the individual while recognizing body sensations. Dr. Penny Lane recognizes the connection of the body sensation leading the traumatic thought association and the importance of awareness. She focuses on healing the physical body in a mindful practice individualized to recognize one’s needs and the necessity of feeding the needs of the whole self. From a holistic lens, she treats the mind, body, and soul turning open wounds into scars of battle that tell an empowering story.

Education:

EdD, Counselor Education and Supervision, Argosy University, Sarasota, FL

M.A. Mental Health Counseling, Argosy University, Sarasota, FL

B.A., Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC

Dr. Rebecca Burrows holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and a Doctorate in Counselling and Psychotherapy, both from Yorkville University. She is a Registered Psychotherapist in good standing with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

Dr. Burrows brings a decade of dedicated experience supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Her areas of expertise include complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), crisis intervention, and relational challenges, with her clinical approach grounded in evidence-based, trauma-focused care.

Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Burrows is a dedicated educator and mentor committed to shaping reflective, ethically grounded counsellors. Her teaching emphasizes the integration of research with practice, fostering cultural humility, compassion, and critical thinking in the classroom. By drawing on her dual roles as clinician and academic, she creates a supportive, student-centered learning environment that equips future counsellors to navigate the complexities of professional practice with both confidence and care.

Dr. Rhett Mohajer earned a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) from California Southern University, where he completed a phenomenological qualitative research on the impacts of music improvisation on the psyche. He holds a bachelor’s degree in applied psychology, a master’s degree in clinical mental health counselling, and a graduate certificate in industrial and organizational psychology. He is a Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO), a Registered Clinical Counsellor (BCACC), a psychoanalyst (ISAP), a member of the Canadian Association for Psychodynamic Therapy (CAPT), and a member of the American Psychological Association (APA).

Dr. Mohajer’s research interests include understanding the impacts of trauma on the psyche, music and psychological health, and applications of psychoanalytic theories. Dr. Mohajer is the BCACC 2025 award winner for “distinguished professional contributions to applied research.” He has published on the applications of object relations theories, is a chapter contributor to the Palgrave Handbook of Ecosystems and Well-being, and serves as an editorial board member of Dialogues in Health.

Dr. Ron Hallman PhD, is a registered psychotherapist with the College of Ontario Psychotherapists.   His doctorate is in Psychology/Education from Capella University.   Ron is passionate about coaching, leading, and providing strategies to individuals and groups toward healthy relationships.  He has 30 years’ experience in providing support to individuals and groups in the workplace, presenting seminars for businesses, and leading coaching courses within many Human Resource endeavors.  He has worked effectively with many educational institutions, representatives of government ministries and programs as well as individuals from both large and small businesses.  Ron currently owns and operates Unlimited Potential Inc., an organization that brings workplace interventions, seminars, and coaching as well as providing qualified staff to work in homes of people with disabilities.

Ron brings a very effective combination of expertise and experience when providing conflict resolution and workplace development support.  He is particularly capable of providing assistance and direction in the establishment and maintenance of positive workplace environments.  He also has had great success in coaching supervisors with their supervision skills with particular focus relating to the supervision of “difficult employees”. 

In Ron’s private counselling practice he deals with a wide variety of issues which include relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, phobias, depression, drug/alcohol issues, family dynamics and individual issues.

Ron has worked along side the KW counsel for addiction and suicide prevention.  He also served as the CEO of an organization providing care for youth in trouble with the law.

Contact: [email protected]

Dr. Ryan is a passionate and approachable educator who brings a rich blend of academic knowledge and real-world experience to his teaching. With a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, master’s degrees in Counseling and Industrial Counseling, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, he is a Registered Clinical Counselor (RCC) and a Canadian-certified Counselor (CCC). His early training in adult addiction, aging, and child development continues to guide his compassionate and client-centered approach. He currently works with children and youth facing a wide range of challenges, including trauma, mood disorders, dissociation, and bipolar disorder, drawing from modalities such as CBT, EMDR, narrative therapy, and family systems approach. His experience extends to working with adults, couples, families, and First Nations communities. In academic settings, Dr. Ryan has served in roles from dean to curriculum specialist, always driven by a love of learning and a belief in collaborative growth. He values open dialogue, critical thinking, and creating a welcoming, respectful space where students feel supported and inspired.

Dr. Shaelyn Kraemer is a registered psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). She graduated, with distinction, from Yorkville University from the Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy program. Dr. Shaelyn also holds a master’s degree in counselling psychology from Yorkville University and bachelor’s degree in psychology from Wilfrid Laurier University. 

Dr. Shaelyn has spent time working in both public and private sectors. She has worked with clients in hospitals, schools, addiction facilities, shelters, family health teams, and private practices. She specializes in working with children and youth along with domestic violence, trauma, addictions, anger, and abuse. Shaelyn provides clinical supervision stemming from a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, attachment framework, IFS, SFT, Narrative, and trauma models. 

Dr. Sheryl Symister-Allen is a Registered Psychologist in Alberta, Canada, with a profound commitment to mental health, crisis intervention, and education. She holds a Master of Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and a Doctor of Psychology from California Southern University. Her research interests include minority stress, burnout, and impostor syndrome.

Beyond her academic life, Dr. Symister-Allen works with a government-based crisis and stabilization team, where she applies her expertise to support individuals in acute mental health distress. Her work is integral to community-based initiatives aimed at providing immediate and effective responses to mental health crises.

With a passion for all aspects of psychology, Dr. Symister-Allen is dedicated to advancing the field through continuous learning and the application of evidence-based practices. Her approach is characterized by empathy, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to enhancing mental well-being within the community. Her work exemplifies a harmonious blend of clinical expertise, educational mentorship, and a profound dedication to the well-being of individuals and communities.

Hailing from Spain, Dr. Soraya Centeno embarked on her academic journey at 16, earning a Biology Bachelor’s, a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, and a Ph.D. in Psychology. Specializing in neuroscience, her research delved into the brain’s motivational intricacies and the nexus of cognitive pathways and emotions. After traversing U.S. states and Canadian provinces, she settled in British Columbia in 2013. Driven by her commitment to immigrants and refugees, she joined VICCIR in 2015, becoming a trauma professional in 2018 and EMDR certified in 2019. As a clinician and supervisor, she trains master-level students and explores resilience and childhood attachments. Balancing a thriving career with motherhood, Dr. Centeno is devoted to fostering a diverse, embracing community.