Our Approach
Our goal is simple: To provide you with evidence-based care that honours who you are and helps you move toward where you want to be.
While our work is rooted in evidence-based techniques, we recognize that everyone is different. The plan we develop for you will be tailored to support YOUR emotional, cognitive, and behavioural well-being in ways that feel meaningful and manageable to you.
And it’s important to remember that therapy isn’t something that happens to you, it’s something you actively work towards; a collaboration where results are achieved together. Our team brings their expertise and tools to each session and you bring your lived experience and willingness to try new strategies. When you come in with an open mind and a willingness to put in the work, that’s what makes real change possible.
During your first session, your Psychologist will explore what brought you in and work with you to develop a plan that supports your goals. Depending on your needs, this may include structured tools, open conversation, or strategies drawn from treatment styles such as:
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) ACT is an evidence-based approach that helps people process difficult thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. Instead of attempting to eliminate distress, the components of ACT teaches people how to respond to life challenges with greater awareness, flexibility, and compassion. It helps individuals learn how to step back from unhelpful thought patterns, make space for uncomfortable emotions, and stay connected to the present moment. From this place, clients identify action goals by identifying what truly matters to them and then they map out strategies to work towards their goals. The goal of ACT is accomplishing psychological flexibility. Psychological Flexibility is the ability to remain open to internal experiences while continuing to live a rich, purposeful life. ACT can be helpful for anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic stress, and life transitions, as well as for individuals who feel stuck or overwhelmed by their thoughts or emotions. ACT is not about “thinking positively” or forcing change. Instead, it supports sustainable, values-based change that allows people to live more fully, even in the presence of difficulty.
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) EFCT is a proven approach that helps partners strengthen their emotional connection and improve communication. Rather than focusing on who is right or wrong, EFCT helps couples understand their emotional needs and identifies unhealthy communication patterns that drive conflict. EFCT is based on the idea that close relationships are built on emotional safety and secure attachment. When partners feel disconnected or unsure of each other’s availability, cycles of conflict, withdrawal, or distance can develop. These patterns can leave both partners feeling misunderstood, alone, or stuck. In EFCT, couples learn how to recognize these negative cycles, understand the deeper emotions underneath them, and express their needs in ways that foster closeness rather than conflict. Therapy slows down the interactions, creates a safe space where partners can hear each other more clearly, respond with empathy, and rebuild trust.The goal of EFCT for couples is to help partners feel more emotionally secure, connected, and supported—so they can face challenges together and strengthen their relationship over time.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) CBT is a practical, evidence-based approach that helps people understand how their thoughts, feelings, physical reactions, and behaviours are connected. In CBT, clients learn to notice these thought patterns, question how accurate or helpful they are, and explore alternative ways of thinking about their experiences. As thoughts become more balanced and realistic, emotional and physical reactions often improve, and people are better able to respond in ways that support their well-being. CBT is an active, skills-based therapy. Therapists work collaboratively with clients during sessions and help them build tools they can use independently in daily life. The goal is to break unhelpful cycles and empower people to manage challenges more effectively over time. CBT is based on the idea that it’s often not situations themselves that cause distress, but how we interpret them. When someone is struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress, they may develop negative or unhelpful thought patterns about themselves, others, the world, or the future. These thoughts can increase emotional distress and lead to behaviours that unintentionally keep problems going.
Self-Compassion Therapy Self-Compassion Therapy helps people learn how to relate to themselves with kindness, understanding, and support—especially during times of stress, struggle, or emotional pain. Instead of being self-critical or harsh when things go wrong, this approach encourages a more caring and balanced inner response. This therapy is based on the idea that everyone experiences difficulty, makes mistakes, and feels imperfect at times. Self-Compassion Therapy helps individuals recognize that suffering is part of being human, and that responding with warmth rather than judgment can reduce emotional distress and build resilience. In therapy, clients learn skills to notice their inner dialogue, soften self-criticism, and develop healthier ways of responding to difficult emotions. The goal is not to avoid responsibility or “let yourself off the hook,” but to create a supportive internal environment that makes growth, healing, and change more possible. In simple terms, Self-Compassion Therapy helps people treat themselves the way they would treat a close friend—with care, patience, and understanding.
Behavioural Activation Therapy Behavioural Activation Therapy is a practical, evidence-based approach that helps people improve their mood by gradually increasing engagement in meaningful and enjoyable activities. It is based on the idea that when people feel depressed, stressed, or overwhelmed, they often withdraw from activities that once gave them a sense of pleasure, purpose, or accomplishment—making low mood worse over time. Behavioural Activation focuses on breaking this cycle. In therapy, clients work with their therapist to identify activities that support their well-being and align with their values, then take small, manageable steps toward re-engaging in daily life. As activity levels increase, mood and motivation often improve naturally. Rather than waiting to “feel better” before acting, Behavioural Activation helps people take action first, even when motivation is low. Over time, this creates positive momentum and helps restore a sense of control, routine, and connection. In simple terms, Behavioural Activation helps people feel better by doing more of what matters— even when it feels hard to start.
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps people process and heal from emotionally distressing/ traumatic experiences. It is based on the idea that traumatic memories can become “stuck” imbedded in the primal area of the brain and create flash bulb memories. Meaning, the brain can often randomly or when triggered, continue to cause emotional distress long after the event has passed. In EMDR, therapy helps the brain reprocess these memories in a safe rate that the brain can tolerate so the visual image of the memory becomes less upsetting and no longer feel as intense or overwhelming. This is done using gentle, guided techniques such as eye movements, tapping, or sounds, while the client briefly focuses on aspects of the memory in a safe and controlled way. EMDR does not require people to talk in detail about their trauma. Instead, it helps the brain do what it naturally knows how to do—heal. As memories are processed, people often notice reduced emotional distress, fewer physical reactions, and a more balanced understanding of themselves and their experiences. In simple terms, EMDR helps the brain “unstick” painful memories so they no longer interfere with daily life.
No matter who you are or what you’re struggling with, we’re here to help you feel understood, supported, and equipped for growth.
If it’s identified that our practice isn’t the right fit to meet your needs, we would be happy to refer you to other colleagues in the field who match your needs.
Meet Our Team
Safe. Skilled. Specialized. Supportive.
That’s our team in a nutshell. And while we are confident that we have great Psychologists on our team, finding the right person is important. Take a moment to explore each team member’s background and get a sense of who they are and what they deliver. If you're undecided our intake worker would be happy to recommend who they believe would be the best fit based on your referral information. Once decided, your chosen Psychologist is happy to meet with you for your initial session either in person or by video. When you’re ready, reach out to set up your first appointment.
Deborah Bird (She/Her) - M.Sc
Founder – Registered Psychologist
R0637
Deborah has over 20 years of experience providing therapy and psychological assessment in schools, community mental health, and private practice settings.
AREAS OF FOCUS
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Adults, couples, and families
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Emotional, cognitive, and behavioural concerns
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Trauma-related difficulties
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Stress, anxiety, mood concerns, and life transitions
TECHNIQUES USED
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Emotion Focussed Couples Counselling (ECFT)
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Eye Movement Desensitization Therapy (EMDR)
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)
A lifelong learner committed to staying current, she recently completed advanced training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for adolescents and adults and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a leading trauma-focused treatment.
Currently not accepting new clients.
Dr. Craig Gosse (He/Him) - MD, FRCPC
Psychiatrist
Trained at the University of Toronto and a graduate of Harvard’s Global Mental Health: Trauma and Recovery program, Dr. Gosse provides comprehensive psychiatric care to adults, helping people navigate complex life challenges.
He has served in senior consulting roles with major Canadian insurers and workers’ compensation boards and previously led Occupational Psychiatry at Homewood, a major Canadian health care provider. His work includes extensive support for first responders, military personnel, and individuals affected by trauma or displacement.
AREAS OF FOCUS
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Anxiety and depressive disorders
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Post-traumatic stress and trauma-related conditions
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Occupational Psychiatry / workplace mental health
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Psychiatric assessment and diagnosis
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Ongoing psychiatric care and medication management
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Psychotherapy
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Risk assessment
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Dr. Gosse only accepts internal referrals only.
Internal referrals only.
Dr. Anne Sophie Champod (She/Her) - Ph.D
Registered Psychologist
BILINGUAL
R0730
Not only is Dr. Anne Sophie Champod a valuable member of our team, she is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at Acadia University and co-leads the Acadia University Centre for Neuroscience and Cognitive Health. Her work explores how the brain supports thinking and learning, how these processes change with experience or illness, and how they can be strengthened through targeted interventions.
AREAS OF FOCUS
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Neuropsychological assessment
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Chronic pain management for adults of all ages
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Brain–behaviour relationships in health and disease
TECHNIQUES USED
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
Her use of therapeutic approaches help “turn down” the brain’s pain signals, reducing distress, and improving day-to-day functioning. With a warm, collaborative style, Dr. Champod helps her clients build skills, regain control, and improve their overall quality of life.
Currently not accepting new clients.
Dr. Will Shead (He/Him) - Ph.D.
Psychologist (Candidate Register)
C10900
In addition to his work with our team, Dr. Shead is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Mount Saint Vincent University, where his research focuses on gambling and addiction.
AREAS OF FOCUS
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Anxiety and depression
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Addictive behaviours
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Motivation and behaviour change
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Stress and emotional challenges
TECHNIQUES USED
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
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Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Known for his fun, easygoing personality, Dr. Shead helps clients feel comfortable quickly so they can focus on learning practical strategies, building insight, and moving toward meaningful, lasting change.
Temporary leave.
Dr. Breanna Young (She/Her) - Psy. D
Registered Psychologist
R1055
Breanna has trained in private practice, community organizations, and hospital settings, giving her a well-rounded understanding of the many ways people seek mental health support. She creates a safe, inclusive, and queer-friendly space where clients feel heard, respected, and welcomed as they are. Her approach is client-centred and culturally sensitive, which allows her to build strong, supportive relationships.
AREAS OF FOCUS
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Anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation
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Identity and sexuality exploration
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Gender-affirming care and transition support
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Parenting challenges
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Adjustment to medical diagnoses
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Interpersonal difficulties and self-esteem concerns
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Life transitions and major stressors
TECHNIQUES USED
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
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Emotion Focussed Therapy (EFT)
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Humanistic/Person Centered
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Interpersonal Therapy
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Mindfulness-based Therapy
Additionally, Breanna is WPATH trained and can provide letters of support for gender-affirming care (SoC 8).
Currently accepting new clients.
Nadine Haddad (She/Her) - MPsych
Registered Psychologist
R1069
Nadine completed her master’s degree with a focus on counselling psychology and cultural considerations in therapy. She brings a grounded, heart-forward approach to her work and strives to create a space where clients feel truly seen, heard, and supported. Nadine is a certified trauma informed therapist with extensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
AREAS OF FOCUS
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Anxiety and depression
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Grief and loss
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Trauma and complex trauma
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Self-esteem concerns
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Life transitions and adjustment challenges
TECHNIQUES USED
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Eye Movement Desensitization Therapy (EMDR)
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Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
Nadine pursues ongoing training to stay connected to her clients and our ever-evolving world, and believes authenticity, compassion, and empathy are essential for establishing solid therapeutic relationships.
Currently accepting new clients.
Ashley Gallant (She/Her) - MC
Registered Psychologist
R0969
Since 2009, Ashley has been providing mental health services with a gentle, supportive presence to both individuals and couples.
AREAS OF FOCUS
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Anxiety and phobias
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Depression
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Perinatal mood concerns
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Relationship conflict and couples work
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Complex trauma and abuse
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Addictions
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Grief and loss
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Personal growth and overall wellness
TECHNIQUES USED
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Emotion Focussed Couples Counselling (EFT)
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
Empathetic understanding is central to Ashley’s work. She aims to help clients make sense of their emotions, thoughts, and patterns so they can move toward healthier functioning, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of well-being.
Currently accepting new clients.
Noémie Bergeron-Germain She/Her - M.Sc
Psychologist (Candidate Register)
BILINGUAL
C10960
Noémie (pronounced No-Emmy) comes from a Québecer and Haitian ancestry. From a culturally informed lens, Noémie understands the experiences of racialized people and the barriers they face in accessing culturally appropriate mental health care. Guided by her lived experience and an awareness of systemic influences on well-being, she prioritizes culturally sensitive approaches in both assessment and therapy, and contributes to Impact of Race and Culture Assessments through the African Nova Scotian Justice Institute.
AREAS OF FOCUS
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Depression and anxiety
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Specific phobias
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Obsessive-compulsive disorders
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Interpersonal challenges
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ADHD symptom management
TECHNIQUES USED
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Cognitive Processing Therapy (CBT)
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Mindfulness Therapy
Noémie also provides cognitive, ADHD, psychoeducational and general psychological functioning assessments.
Currently accepting new clients.
Summer Fox She/Her - M.Sc
Psychologist (Candidate Register)
C10959
Summer strives to create a gentle, non-judgmental space where clients can feel seen, supported, and empowered as they grow.
AREAS OF FOCUS
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Anxiety
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Depression
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ADHD
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Stress and emotional challenges
TECHNIQUES USED
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
In addition to therapy, Summer provides comprehensive ADHD and psychological functioning assessments.
Currently accepting new clients.
Karly Ivany She/Her - MSc
Registered Psychologist
R0972
Karly is a Registered Psychologist who obtained her Master of Science degree in School and Applied Child Psychology from the University of Calgary. She has gained experience through her work in private practice and at the school district level in both Alberta and Nova Scotia.
AREAS OF FOCUS
Karly specializes in psychoeducational and ADHD assessments for children, adolescents, and young adults who are experiencing learning, mental health, and behavioural challenges. Her experience includes working with mood and anxiety disorders, giftedness, and neurodevelopmental disorders such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Intellectual Developmental Disorder, and Learning Disorders. Karly also provides autism assessments for school-age children and youth.
In her assessment work, she prioritizes creating a supportive and welcoming environment to develop a thorough understanding of each client’s needs and to provide meaningful recommendations.
Currently accepting new clients.
Emily Carson She/Her
Administrative Assistant
In the fall of 2024, Emily joined our team as an Administrative Assistant. Her collaborative eagerness to contribute to the organization of our clinic, quickly earned her the title of Office Manager. Emily is responsible to oversee the day-to-day administrative functioning of the practice, including front-desk reception, managing and triaging referrals, coordinating client appointments to ensure the best possible clinician match, and supporting clients through offering direct billing to many insurance companies.
Her pleasant and warm demeanour for our clients and clinicians is central to the effective operation of the practice.