Meet our team in Montreal | West Island Therapy Centre

Josh Applebaum, M.Ed, Counselling

Teen & Adult Services

Josh Applebaum holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Master’s degree in counselling. Josh has many years of clinical support services to teens and adults. Josh has offered his services to the public in his private practice, community agencies, and industry.

Josh has experience assisting individuals struggling with chronic job stress, work setting adjustment problems, General Anxiety , Social Anxiety , Panic Attacks , and Depression.

Josh has the ability to connect quickly with his clients offering support, hope and realistic solutions. He believes that everyone hits hard times in their lives when their ability to cope becomes diminished. It is during these difficult times that we are vulnerable to anxiety, depression, panic, and falling into unhelpful coping behaviours. The therapeutic process is warm, supportive, collaborative and educational. The goal is for clients to regain coping skills, feel better, get stronger, and move on.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Hera Baboudjian, BSW, SW, t.s.

Adult Services

Hera Baboudjian is a trilingual social worker who truly believes in the full potential and the resiliency of each being. She’s passionate about accompanying each person to support them through the challenges they may be experiencing, in order to help them attain a well-being and to regain balance once again.

Hera obtained her bachelor’s degree of Social Work from University of Montreal, is accredited by the Order of Social Workers, Family, and Marriage Therapists ofQuebec (OTSTCFQ) and has 19 years of clinical experience in the public sector and private practice.

She specializes in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, burn out, relationship issues, self-confidence, life changes/transitions, work/study challenges, caregiver role, grief, self-inquiry/existential questions and communication.

Hera is also passionate about spirituality (also a hatha yoga teacher), traveling &cultures and has a holistic/mindful based as well as solution focused, cognitive-behavioural and intercultural approaches with her clients.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Tina Balazovjech, M.A., CSP

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Tina Balazovjech obtained her Bachelor’s in Arts degree in Psychology from McGill University and Master’s in Arts in Child Study from Concordia University. She successfully completed a board level certification for the profession of psychometry. As a Board Certified Specialists in Psychometry, Tina demonstrates the knowledge and experience needed to administer and score psychometric measures. Over the past 20 years Tina has worked with children in a variety of settings, including at the early childhood, elementary and high school levels.

Her easy going and friendly approach allows her to quickly develop a rapport with individuals of all ages and abilities. Tina currently provides clinical support to the therapists at the West Island Therapy and Wellness Centre and is involved in psycho-educational and psychological assessments with children, adolescents and adults. Tina also has a passion for yoga, meditation and believes strongly in the mind body connection. She worked as a yoga instructor for over 10 years and continues to be dedicated to her own practice.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Irene Beeman, MSW, t.s.

Adult, Individual & Couples services

Irene Beeman is a clinical social worker who supports individuals and couples to respond to challenges and difficulties more effectively, and build greater connection and meaning in their lives and relationships. Irene aims to bring compassion, acceptance, and a sense of possibility as she collaborates with clients in their journey of personal discovery and growth.

Irene is passionate about working with individuals and couples regarding a variety of issues including anxiety and depression, interpersonal relationships, intimacy and sexuality, parenting and step-parenting, polyamory/nonmonogamy, and relationship transitions such as separation, divorce, or blending families. She welcomes clients of diverse identities and experiences.

Irene uses an active approach and evidence-based techniques, drawing primarily from mindfulness practices, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from McGill University and is a member in good standing of the Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ). She has received additional training in sex therapy through the Guelph University Intensive Sex Therapy Training Program.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Christina Benedetti, MSW, PSW, MFT, t.s.

Adult Services

Christina Benedetti is a licensed psychotherapist and social worker. She has a post Masters degree in couple and family therapy. Over the past 20 years, Christina has worked with many people struggling with a variety of issues including: relationship and communication difficulties, depression/anxiety, sexual problems, symptoms related to trauma and loss, workplace and parenting struggles. She strives on providing a safe, caring environment for clients to explore complex and often very painful issues in a contained, constructive manner.

Together with her clients she aims to develop goals and examine problematic patterns of feeling, thinking and behaving. Christina aspires to help clients move from feelings of helplessness to a sense of competency. Christina offers feedback to promote new patterns of communication and tools to reduce stress and anxiety.

Christina completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s in Social Work at Mcgill University. She is a certified Marital and Family therapist and is a member of the Ordre Professionel des Travailleurs Sociaux de Quebec and the Ordre des Psychologues du Quebec.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Arielle Ben-Zaken, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Teen & Adult Services

Arielle Ben-Zaken received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Concordia University, and her Master’s of Social Work degree from McGill University. Arielle is a member, in good standing, with the Ordre Professionnel des Travailleurs Sociaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ). Arielle has over 10 years of experience working with children and adolescents.

She is passionate about mental health in youth, as well as supporting her clients as they work through challenges they may be experiencing. Arielle specializes in issues associated with general anxiety, school related anxiety, peer relationships, body image, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and depressive symptoms.

By establishing a strong therapeutic relationship with her clients, Arielle works to create a safe space for them to share their thoughts and feelings. In doing so, Arielle is also able to empower her clients along their journey of self-discovery.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Tracy Braunstein, Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant

Child Services

Tracy Braunstein has been a certified pediatric sleep consultant since 2012. She works with families worldwide, helping them achieve the sleep they need . Working with all ages, from prenatal to adolescent, Tracy has the knowledge, tools and passion for proper sleep and helps tired parents everywhere solve their families sleep problems.She genuinely believes that healthy sleep is a pillar of optimal health and wellbeing. Tracy is here to help you with sleep solutions that will fit in with your family’s parenting philosophies and beliefs.

Tracy is a wife and a proud mother of two young boys. Her first-hand experience as a mother dealing with her own family sleep issues, led her onto the career path she’s now on. Sleep is such an important and integral part of a child’s development, which is the driving force behind Tracy’s work.

Certified with the Family Sleep Institute and The International Association of Child Sleep Consultants (IACSC), Tracy has the experience needed to transform the sleep of your family. She has numerous other continuing education credits in pediatric sleep , as well as specialized education in other areas that commonly affect sleep including Post Partum Depression (PPD) ADHD and GERD (reflux in babies) .

Tracy is regularly called upon as a sleep expert for media appearances and has been featured on CBC Radio, Global Montreal Morning News, Montreal Breakfast Television, Today’s Parent Magazine, Pregnancy & Newborn Magazine, Oh Baby Magazine, Martha Stewart Magazine, Piccolo Universe and various other blogs & articles.

Sleep Hygiene
Sleep Training
Parental Support
Stress and Anxiety related to sleep
Family Wellbeing
Children’s Wellbeing

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Stephanie Brookman, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Adult Services

Stephanie Brookman is a licensed psychotherapist and social worker who has worked in both the public and private sector for the past 20 years. She has experience working with individuals struggling with depression/anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-confidence, work-related burnout, infertility, post-partum depression/anxiety as well as parenting-related issues. Stephanie strives to offer a warm, nurturing environment whereby her clients can safely explore their feelings, thought patterns and behaviours.

Her primary focus is to accompany her clients on their journey of self-discovery, growth and development. Stephanie uses approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy as well as Mindful Self-Compassion to empower her clients and help them develop the necessary tools to make positive changes and achieve their goals.

Stephanie received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from McGill University as well as her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work from McGill University. Stephanie has post-master’s training in the field of marital and family therapy and is a member of the OPTSTCFQ as well as the Ordre des Psychologues du Quebec.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Melanie Caron, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Teen & Adult Services

Melanie is a clinical social worker dedicated to helping people deepen their connection with themselves and their lives. She believes that we all possess the power to regain our vitality and heal our past traumas. She has worked in the public sector for 10+ years having worked in child, youth and adult mental health, and with families who have experienced trauma, bereavement and loss and postpartum issues. Melanie is passionate about working with adults and young adults suffering from issues of anxiety/depression, parenting related issues, infertility, postpartum depression, self esteem, bereavement, and work related burnout.

She works to create a nurturing environment where clients feel safe to do their inner work, and learn to relate to their mind and body from a more accepting place. Her empathy, energy and sense of humour help put clients at ease. She draws from a wide range of different therapies such as mindfulness based cognitive therapy, family systems theory, and somatic experiencing. She is also a strong believer in combining therapy with other stress management techniques, such as body movement, yoga, and meditation.

Melanie completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s in Social Work at Mcgill University and is a member in good standing with the Ordre Professionnel des Travailleurs Sociaux de Québec. She is also pursuing a psychotherapy permit with the Ordre des psychologues du Québec (OPQ).

She is fluent in French and English

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Malina Cipriano, C.C.C

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Malina is a Canadian certified counsellor and Naturotherapist. She completed her Master’s of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University and her Bachelors of Arts in Psychology at Concordia University. Malina first joined the West Island Therapy & Wellness Centre in 2016 and served as a Mental Health Clinical Coordinator on our administration team. She also has many years of experience working with children and adolescents of various ages as a dance teacher.

Malina specializes in issues related to anxiety, depression, school-related anxiety, performance anxiety, peer relationships, self-esteem, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. Her primary focus is to establish a strong therapeutic relationship in a safe, nurturing, and non-judgemental space to support her clients on their journey to self-discovery and growth as they work through difficult challenges. Her approaches used in the therapeutic setting consist of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy as well as Mindful Self-Compassion to help empower her clients to gain the necessary tools to make positive changes in their lives.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Rémi Cloutier, MSW

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Rémi Cloutier holds a Bachelor of Social Work (2008), a Graduate Diploma in Gerontology (2014), and a master’s degree in social administration (2022). He is now undertaking courses in health systems evaluation. Remi has a diverse practice, as he provides psychosocial assessments for curatorships, as well as follow-ups using CBT, systemic and biopsychosocial approaches.

At the beginning of his career and for many years, Rémi Cloutier specialized in intervention with seniors living at home (incapacity, risk management, psychosocial follow-up with caregivers). Initially a social worker, he then held positions in clinical supervision and management. Passionate, he is a professional who feels a constant need to learn and to adapt his interventions to the best evidence. In recent years, he has been keen to broaden his experience, offering clinical follow-up to adolescents as well as adults.

Rémi has the ability to quickly create a bond with the people he meets. He is honest and respectful, knowing that the person being followed is the one who has the expertise to choose the most significant changes to implement in his or her life. He is a real listener, while also offering some relevant feedback and advice. His main goal: that the person being followed feels understood and accompanied through the difficulties experienced.

On a personal level, he loves meditation, physical exercise and discovering new cultures. He is always in search of learning and evolution.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Carly Coxford, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Child & Teen Services

Carly is a clinical social worker with over 15 years‘ experience working with children, teens and their families. She obtained her Bachelor‘s degree in Human Relations at Concordia University and her Master‘s degree in Social Work at McGill University.

Carly is caring and non–judgmental, and uses a collaborative approach when engaging with her clients in an effort to make them feel safe and comfortable to open up, share and work together to improve their current situations.

Her areas of focus include: Behavioral problems; School difficulties; Peer relations; Self Esteem; Anger; Anxiety, Depression; Self–harm thoughts/behaviors; Substance abuse, LGBTQ+ (i.e. questioning sexual identity or orientation), and Trauma. Additionally, Carly has expertise in working with families to improve Parent–Child relations, Attachment, and Communication, as well as appropriate boundaries, discipline and structure.

Carly believes in the importance of being adaptive and choosing therapeutic methods on a case–by–case basis depending on the needs of the individual client; pulling from various models such as cognitive behavior therapy, emotion–focused therapy, strengths based and problem–solving therapy.

Carly is a member in good standing with the Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ).

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Rebecca D’Amico, M.S.W; P.S.W; Certified Clinical Counsellor (C.C.C.)

Adult Services

Rebecca is a Clinical Social Worker registered in Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia. She graduated from McGill with her Masters of Social Work in 2007. Rebecca has been working in the field of social work and mental health for over 20 years; starting out in Child Welfare and moving into mental health, individual counselling, and clinical supervision.

Rebecca has been working in the Mohawk community of Kahnawake since 2001 and is currently the Manager of Child and Youth Wellness. Drawing on her experience, education and continued training, she is able to work with both acute and long-term relationship difficulties, codependency, self-confidence/self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression and burn-out. She specializes in working with family and friends of individuals affected by substance misuse.

Rebecca uses an eclectic approach and tailors the counselling to meet the needs the individual. She has experience and knowledge in CBT and pulls from systems theory, attachment theory and uses a trauma-informed lens to looking at how to manage individual issues.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Andrea Davidson, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Teen & Adult Services

Andrea Davidson has over 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents and their families. Andrea has particular expertise in areas associated with anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, peer relations, parenting challenges, body image, self-esteem, physical abuse, complex trauma, conjugal violence and crisis intervention.

Andrea is passionate about taking a client-centered approach that is flexible and accommodating to her client’s needs while remaining solution focused. Andrea strives to create a warm and non-judgmental environment where children and adolescents can express themselves freely and feel at ease.

Andrea received a Bachelor’s degree in Humanistic Studies from McGill University, a Bachelor’s of Law degree from Université de Montréal and a Master’s degree in Social Work from McGill University. Andrea is a member in good standing with the Ordre Professionnel des Travailleurs Sociaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ) and the Barreau du Quebec.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Stefanie Demberg, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Stefanie is a clinical social worker and a licensed member of the Ordre des Travailleurs Sociaux et Therapeutes Conjugaux et Familiaux du Quebec. She has a Masters degree from McGill University and over a decade of experience working in public health. Stefanie has experience working with persons with disabilities of all ages, and can assist both adults and children in navigating life challenges that result in stress/anxiety/ and an inability to cope.

Stefanie uses an eclectic approach to best meet her client’s needs and often employs techniques from cognitive behavior therapy and narrative therapy to help clients achieve their therapeutic goals. She firmly believes in harnessing the power of a person’s own resilience and encouraging a person’s ability to understand the influence of their choices. She can assist clients who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, relationships, parenting, and self-esteem, in addition to supporting families post-diagnosis with techniques to navigate the private and public healthcare systems.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Michael Di Giovanni, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Teen & Adult Services

Michael received his undergraduate degree in Social work from McGill University (2014) followed by his masters in social work from Université de Montréal (2016). He is a licensed clinical social worker with the Order of Social Workers, Family and Marriage Therapists of Quebec (OTSTCFQ). He has over 10 years of experience working with individuals and families in the public sector.

Starting off his career in geriatrics, Michael specialized in risk management and adapted care living with seniors while providing social interventions with their families. In recent years, he has expanded his clinical experience in addictions. He provides individual and group treatment to teenagers and adults struggling with drugs, alcohol, cyber-use gambling along with supportive treatment to their concerned family members. In addition, he works with individuals and families overcoming diverse challenges such as interpersonal conflict, care-giver burnout, codependency, and anger management.

Michael has the capacity to identify clients’ underlying issues quickly so that solutions can be provided and healing can begin. His clinical approaches consist of CBT, DBT, humanistic, solutions focused mindfulness, strengths based and attachment style. He is a firm believer that all unwanted behavior is tied to our deepest unmet needs and limiting beliefs. Therefore, in order to make long-lasting changes, the work must be done at the subconscious level.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Jennifer Dupuis, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Child & Teen Services

Jennifer is a clinical social worker with almost 15 years of experience in the helping profession. She is passionate about helping people overcome challenges and become agents of change in their own lives. Her lived experience, down-to-earth nature, non-judgemental approach and use of humour, when appropriate, allows her to connect with people of all ages and establish a collaborative working relationship, to empower each individual to achieve their goals and identify skills and tools that will be useful in all spheres of their lives.

Jennifer’s expertise centers around working with children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families addressing topics that include anxiety and depression, school challenges, behavioural issues, peer and family relationships, decision-making, self-esteem, self-discovery, complex trauma, youth protection and life transitions. Jennifer is also trained and experienced in crisis intervention. She uses an eclectic approach that is tailored to the needs of the individual, with incorporated elements of cognitive behavioural, emotion focused, strength based, solution focused approaches and her practice is culturally responsive.

Jennifer has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work from McGill University and is a member of the Order of Social Workers, Family and Marriage Therapists of Quebec (OTSTCFQ).

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Dena Elgendy, C.C.C

Adult Services

Dena is a Canadian certified counsellor and holds a Master of Arts Counselling Psychology graduate from Yorkville University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Concordia University. Dena has a passion for helping others and is dedicated to seeing her clients achieve their goals. She strives to maintain a safe and nonjudgmental atmosphere for her clients. Dena believes fostering a good therapeutic relationship and a safe environment are key aspects of helping her clients move towards psychological health and happiness.

Dena has experience working with clients of various age groups and backgrounds. She also has experience working with clients presenting with a variety of issues such as stress management, life-changes, ADHD related anxiety, school related anxiety, performance anxiety, anxiety related to social settings, relationship issues, self-esteem, and loss. Dena is interested in working with clients struggling with anxiety and depression and takes a collaborative multimodal approach to helping clients. Dena’s multimodal approach consists of using cognitive behavioural therapy, psychodynamic exploration, and mindfulness self-compassion to empower her clients to make positive changes in their lives and work toward their goals.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Alexandra Elharrar

Administration

Alexandra Elharrar is a member of the administrative team at the West Island Therapy and Wellness Centre. She has completed her D.E.C at John Abbott College. She is currently studying her Bachelor’s in Social Work at McGill University. Alexandra is a creative, sensitive, nurturing and organized individual who uses all of her strengths in helping our clients feel safe and understood.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Gina Glidden, PhD, PSW, SCC

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Gina Glidden, PhD, PSW, SCC Gina Glidden is a professional social worker and special care counselor with over 25 combined years of work experience. She works with young adults, adults, and seniors; individually, in couple relationships, or in groups. With her clients, Gina provides support, guidance, and emotional accompaniment related to loss and grief; sadness, depression and anxiety; relationships and communication; transitioning into adulthood; adjustment to new life circumstances; and post-diagnostic parenting support.

Gina recognizes that asking for help is not easy, and she strives to provide gentle support so that her clients can experience their journey through change as meaningfully as possible

Gina completed her PhD in social work (2019) at McGill University and a postdoctoral fellowship through the University of Calgary where her research focused on the help-seeking of mothers and fathers of children with neurodisabilities, and on the provision of post-diagnostic support. She also received her Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in social work at McGill University, and a DEC in Special Care Counselling at Champlain Regional College. Gina is a member of the Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ).

In her free time, Gina loves to read, garden, and go on walks with her husband, and she has recently begun learning to play the cello.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Laura Gilbert, MFT

Teen & Adult Services

Laura Gilbert is a licensed MFT and ADHD Coach. She has a MA in Clinical Psychology, and a Ph.D. in Literature. She has more than 20 years of experience in the practice of psychotherapy and is an Adjunct Professor of Psychology and Literature Online.

Over the years, Laura has worked with adults, adolescents, couples and families with particular expertise in areas associated with Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Addictions, Grief, Stress Management, Relationships as well as Cognitive-Behaviuor Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. She also has specialized training with children and has worked in schools addressing such issues as Asperger Syndrome, ADHD as well as social, emotional and behavioural issues.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Taylor Goodleaf, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Taylor is a Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) clinical social worker and registered member of the Order of Social Workers, Family and Marriage Therapists of Quebec (OTSTCFQ). She completed her Master of Social Work degree in Indigenous Trauma and Resiliency at the University of Toronto, her Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Relations from Concordia University and her professional technical D.E.C. in Youth and Adult Correctional Intervention from John Abbott College. Taylor will soon be entering McGill University to study in the joint degree program of Bachelor of Civil Law/Juris Doctor.

Taylor has nearly 10 years of culminated experience working with folks who are experiencing houselessness/homelessness, domestic violence, sexual abuse/assault, elder abuse, incarceration, mental health and addiction issues, Youth Protection issues, crisis intervention and other long-term health issues. Taylor works from a trauma-informed lens and uses a harm-reduction approach with an emphasis on intergenerational trauma and cultural safety.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Thérèse Gsell, MSW, PSW

Adult Services

Therese Gsell has over 11 years of counseling experience with families, couples and adults who struggle with relationship issues, behavioral issues, crisis, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and systemic violence.

Fluent in French, English and Spanish, she uses mainly cross-cultural, systemic, and solution-focused approaches in her work.

Thérèse is appreciated by her clients for her deep sense of empathy-for understanding situations from their perspectives, and for helping them discover resources within themselves to overcome difficulties.

She has been working with couples for the past 5 years and is fascinated by the unique dynamics and sets of solutions that arise from the creativity of each couple in each context.

Inspired by her experience with indigenous communities, Thérèse dedicated her Masters to developing an innovative and culturally safe approach to help people who experience trauma within a context of systemic racism and violence.

Thérèse completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Concordia University and a Masters of Social Work at Université de Montréal.

She is a licensed social worker, and a good standing member of the Order of Social Workers, Family, and Marriage Therapists of Quebec (OTSTCFQ).

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Sherri Gutberg, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Teen & Adult Services

Sherri Gutberg is a graduate from McGill University where she obtained her bachelor and master of social work. She has close to 20 years experience working in the public sector and has particular experience in working with children, teens, individuals, couples and families affected by ADHD, school anxiety, low confidence, autism, intellectual disabilities, generalized anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, stress management, relationship issues and life changes.

Sherri uses an emotionally focused approach to therapy, believing that each person is unique, bringing their own personality, experience, and perceptions into therapy. Therefore, her approach is holistic and client-centered. She aims to be very flexible and open minded, providing a safe environment for clients to share their stories. She works together with clients, helping them regain their strengths and empowering them on their journey to recovery and healing.

Sherri provides both short term and long term therapy.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Jennifer Haydock

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Jennifer Haydock is a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. She received a Master of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Concordia University. Her professional experience as a bilingual counselling intern, mental health specialist, intake counsellor, and academic youth mentor has shaped her into the helping therapist she is today.

Through deep listening, empathy, and curiosity, Jennifer intends to collaborate with her clients to help them understand how they have the capacity to tap into their unique potential to ultimately support their biopsychosocial health and well-being. She offers a safe therapeutic space for individuals to express and explore their intrapersonal and interpersonal concerns related to anxiety and panic, depression, effective communication, grief, identity, life transitions, relationships, and trauma. She integrates the theoretical approaches of acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and mindfulness in her practice.

Jennifer is passionate about being in service to others so they can pave a path to manifest their deepest and wildest dreams. As a lifelong learner, she is fascinated by the healing bridge possible between science and spirituality to help create a world that values collaboration, community, inclusivity, and diversity. Her warm, empowering attitude is driven by the dedication she has to help her clients cultivate kindness, compassion, honesty, hope, and gratitude as they navigate the ebb and flow of life.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Kathleen Kelly Special Care Counsellor

Child & Teen Services

Katie is presently a clinical supervisor who is passionate about the ASD and ADHD community. Katie has 20 years of hands-on experience working in the health care sector with a variety of different clientele, ASD, ADHD, Mental Health disorders, Challenging Behavioral Disorders aging from 0-90 years of age. She has extreme compassion for her clients as well as the families that she works with as she has personal experience with ADHD and learning difficulties. She offers exceptional knowledge in home, school and community adaptations as well as guiding families to access services needed within different sectors.

Katie provides an individual approach to every case that she works in as she believes in her heart that everyone is unique and deserves a personally designed intervention to ensure the most success. The challenge that each individual brings to the table is what keeps her growing clinically and creatively. Searching for resources and consultations from other professionals is another important tactic this worker uses to ensure that those she services are well surrounded and that every possibility of intervention is explored.

Katie continues to learn from the individuals that she works with as they are the reason that she continues on this journey of helping others find their place in this world. She equally finds value in helping families see their loved ones surpass achievements and share in their accomplishments.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Ryce Kreissl, SCC, BSW, t.s.

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Ryce is a clinical social worker and registered member of the Order of Social Workers, Family and Marriage Therapists of Quebec (OTSTCFQ). Ryce has over 10 years of culminated experience working with individuals and families who are experiencing houselessness/homelessness, domestic violence, sexual abuse/assault, mental health and addiction issues, trauma, YouthProtection issues, and crisis intervention. Ryce works from a strength-based and trauma informed lens in order to best support her clients.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Margaux Lamy, BSW, MSW, CFT, psychotherapist

Teen & Adult Services

Margaux Lamy holds a Bachelor’s degree of Social Work (Université de Montréal, 2012), a Master degree of Social Work (Université de Sherbrooke, 2018) and a Master degree of Applied Science in Couple and Family Therapy (McGill University, 2020). She is a licensed member of the OPQ (Ordre des psychologues du Québec) and of the OTSTCFQ (Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec).

Her academic training and clinical experience allow her to help individuals (teenagers and adults) and couples.

She has experience in psychotherapy with people dealing with anxiety, depression and adjustment disorders, self-esteem problems, interpersonal and communication issues, couple and blended families issues, parenting and co-parenting difficulties, parents-teen relationships issues, bereavement, life transitions and work-related issues.

As a strong advocate of integrative approaches in psychotherapy, she strives to adapt her help according to the persons’ needs and goals, her clinical practice is embedded in the main psychotherapeutic approaches: systemic, intercultural, solution focused, emotionally focused, cognitive and behavioral.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Mollie Lawrence, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Mollie Lawrence is a clinical social worker who has over ten years of experience working with children and over the last 8 years, she has worked with children, adolescents, young adults and their families in both the public and community sectors, including youth protection. Mollie has particular expertise in areas associated with a broad range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder and psychosis. She also has expertise in parent-child relationships, attachment, peer relations, body image and self-esteem, behavioral issues, complex trauma, conjugal violence and crisis intervention.

Mollie is aware that reaching out for therapy can be a scary process. She therefore strives to offer a warm, non-judgmental and supportive therapeutic environment, whereby her clients can feel comfortable to express themselves with ease.

Mollie believes strongly in empowering her clients by using a strengths-based approach, while also working from a systems theory approach by keeping her clients at the core. Mollie also frequently draws from various therapeutic modalities, in order to best accommodate her clients’ needs.

As Mollie is a new mother to a beautiful daughter, she personally understands the realities and complexities of adjusting to parenthood. Mollie is passionate about supporting other parents on their parenting journey, while also focusing on perinatal mental health and relationship dynamics.

Mollie obtained both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees of Social Work from McGill University, and is a member in good standing with the Ordre des Travailleurs Sociaux et des Thérapeutes Conjugaux et Familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ).

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Deborah Levy, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Deborah has over 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. She specializes in areas associated with anxiety, peer relationships, sibling relationships, parent-child relationships, couples and family relationships, physical abuse, sexual abuse, conjugal violence and children with special needs.

Deborah has a passion for working with people and being able to really connect and listen to them in a comfortable and safe environment.

Deborah has clinical experience in the spheres of individual and family therapy, youth protection and working with special needs children and their families. All of her past experiences have contributed to her ability to work with a systems theory and solution-focused approach, while keeping her client at the core.

Deborah received her Bachelor’s Degree in Arts, Bachelor of Social Work and Masters of Social Work from McGill University. She is certified in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy from McGill. Deborah is a member in good standing of the Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Ilana Lichtman, OCCOQ

Adult Services

Ilana is a registered counsellor with the Order des Conseillers et Conseillères d”Orientation du Quebec (OCCOQ). She received her Bachelor’s of Arts in Honours Psychology from Concordia University and recently graduated with a Master’s of Education in Counselling Psychology from the University of Ottawa. Ilana’s graduate clinical experience surrounds working with university students coping with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, self-esteem, and relational issues from a cognitive-behavioural lens.

Additionally, Ilana works as a school counsellor at a private elementary school in Montreal where she provides emotional support and counselling for school-aged children.

Ilana strives to provide a safe and collaborative therapeutic space for her clients so that they can feel comfortable exploring difficult emotions, thoughts or feelings. Through empathy and trust, she works to accompany her clients on their journey towards self-understanding and positive change.
EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Jaclyn Mestel, MSW

Adult Services

Jaclyn Mestel is a member of the Quebec Order of Social Workers and the Ordre des Psychologues du Québec. She is a clinical consultant for the West Island Therapy Center and offers supervision to the therapists who are on our team.

Jaclyn has a warm and compassionate approach when working with her clients. Jaclyn believes that the relationship between the therapist and client is very valuable to help the client understand how they manage relationships outside of therapy. She likes to use the therapeutic relationship to help the client feel safe and understood and hopes that she can help the client transfer this acceptance and vulnerability into their lives.

Jaclyn practices from an evidence based and trauma informed lens while always holding space for the client to direct the session as they need. This is your journey and she feels privileged to be by your side and support you through it.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Amy Mikhael, MSW

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Amy is a clinical social worker with extensive experience working with youth and families in the community. She strives to equip her clients with tools that will ultimately help enhance their quality of life and lead to happy, healthy and fulfilling futures. For the past decade, Amy has focused on providing a safe and nurturing space for her clients to feel heard and validated while working through challenges. She believes in implementing mindfulness, CBT and research-based tools, which empower her clients to break negative cycles, build resilience and find balance in their lives.

Amy holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and recreational therapy, as well as a master’s degree in social work. She has worked in the public sector with at-risk youth as well as children with special needs and their families.

With this diverse background, she is well equipped to understand human behavior from different perspectives, as well as appreciate how the mental, social and cultural processes shape how humans think, act and feel.

Amy believes that finding balance in life is vital, along with incorporating leisure, nature and mindfulness in our everyday routines. She strives to follow her own advice, finding balance as best she can as a wife and mother of two young kids. In the summer you can find her gardening or swimming with her kids at the community pool, and in the winter she does yoga and dreams of summer. She hopes to welcome a therapy dog into her family and practice in the future.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Melissa Myers, Occupational Therapist

Adult Services

Melissa received her masters in Occupational Therapy from Western University. As a mental health clinician, she works with clients on a diverse spectrum of issues including addiction, severe and persistent mental illness, and first episode psychosis. Melissa’s mind-body approach to wellness helps women and their partners navigate the deeply personal landscape of fertility and reproductive health issues. During her career, she has worked at the Allen Memorial Hospital and Griffith Edwards house as part of the MUHC’s mental health mission.

As a mental health OT, Melissa guides clients on their return to meaningful and productive roles in their daily lives. She is uniquely positioned to help clients using activity-based therapy, supportive therapy, and a psychosocial rehabilitation approach. Melissa employs cognitive behavioural as well as acceptance and commitment therapy techniques to empower her clients in regaining healthy work-life balance, one of her core values. Melissa works with clients in group and individual settings.

Melissa mentors occupational therapy students at McGill and is a member in good standing of the Ordre des Ergotherapeutes du Quebec (OEQ).

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Dorothy Nicolaou, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Adult Services

Don’t feel bad if people remember you only when they need you. Feel privileged that you are like a candle that comes to their mind when there is darkness.” Anonymous

Do you wonder why the same patterns reoccur multiple times at different stages of your life? You have consulted professionals, sometimes even for years, in order to heal the wounds of the past – old and more recent. Life seems to find its flow and then suddenly, through a new crisis, wounds resurface and memories of a distant or near past come back to haunt you.

In my 30+ years of social work, I have accompanied thousands of clients who have experienced trauma and through those experiences I have realized that life is not linear – it is circular. I believe we are alive to discover our true potential, beyond our personal stories that we keep stored in our conscious or subconscious memories -the stories that lovingly protect and keep our wounded parts hidden. Each new situation that triggers buried “wounds” can serve as an opportunity to go beyond what you may have imagined was possible in your life.

I work as a guide, a companion on your life’s journey for a brief moment in time – gently and kindly nudging you to discover the blocks, the knots, the obstacles that are present in your life so that you could unlock your potential and redefine your story. You will ignite or maybe reinforce your life’s purpose. Drawing from various approaches and theories, the process is trauma-sensitive and incorporates Richard Schwartz’s Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, Narrative/Storytelling Approach, Humanistic and Eco-systemic approaches, Meditation & Reconciliation and Non-Violent communication.

I am an eternal student and have completed 2 Master’s degrees, in Social Work from McGill University and in Health Administration from Université Laval à Montréal. I cared for clients in CLSCs and hospitals, led teams and projects in the institutions and in the community, supervised students and professionals in the public health care system in Québec since 1990 until I retired in 2021. Since then, I have continued to support and accompany individuals, couples and families in private practice through Employment Assistance programs and through self-referral.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Stephanie O’Coin, RPN, Mental Health Coach

Teen & Adult Services

Stephanie O’Coin has ten years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and their families. She engages a compassionate and non-judgemental approach to coaching, being respectful of her client’s distinctive journeys and life experiences. Stephanie provides a safe and nurturing space for clients to reflect and move forward while empowering them to challenge some of the fears and perceptions that may be hindering their progress,

Stephanie is trained in several approaches to coaching and therapy including cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy and motivational interviewing. Stephanie shapes her approach to best fit her client’s needs.

Stephanie specializes in issues associated with disordered eating and eating disorders. She has five years of in-patient experience as a primary support, and is fully aligned with the principles of weight neutrality in eating disorder care and the reality that the severity of an eating disorder, or disordered eating, is not always related to body size or weight. Stephanie also works with issues associated with anxiety, life transitions and depression.

Stephanie is a registered member of the College of Nurses of Ontario, Registered Practical Nurses of Ontario and the Canadian Nurses Association.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Caroline Pawelczyk, Clinical Care Counselor

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Caroline is a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychology Association (CCPA). She has a specialized psychology undergraduate degree from Concordia University and a Masters in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. Her professional experience working collaboratively in a mental health firm as a counselling intern, national manager as well as intake counsellor helped her become the therapist she is today.

Her experience consists of working with individuals to address concerns related to anxiety, depression, life transition, infertility, stress, burnout, relationship issues and crisis related problems. She uses a mixed model of therapeutic practice by including cognitive-behavioral and solutions focused techniques while working from a person centered framework.

Caroline strives to provide a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust, creating a safe space where clients can explore their values and beliefs. She believes that each person is the expert of their own life and assists clients find the power of self-awareness within them that will help them gain insight into their experiences, feelings, and behaviors

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Sierra Pecsi, M.Ed., CCC

Child & Teen Services

Sierra Pecsi is doctoral student in School/Applied Child Psychology at McGill University and is a Canadian Certified Counsellor with several years of experience working with children and teens in a variety of settings. Sierra’s doctoral research will be examining the long-term effects of COVID-19 on youth anxiety and the factors that contribute to post-pandemic mental health outcomes. The goal of her research is to make research more practical and useful for clinicians.

Sierra’s clinical interests focus on helping children and teens overcome challenges associated with depression, anxiety, anger, self-esteem, stress, bullying, and relationships. She is dedicated to working with youth and their families to establish rapport and build healthy, and meaningful relationships.

Sierra uses a collaborative approach to suit the needs of her clients incorporating aspects of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy and Play Therapy.

Sierra received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Concordia University and her Master’s in Counselling Psychology from the University of Ottawa. She is a member in good standing with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association and is excited to be working toward her doctoral degree. Sierra has worked as a university career counsellor and co-facilitated parenting groups that focused on developing a positive and strong relationship between parent and child. Sierra is also a former dancer and dance teacher and enjoys learning about her clients’ interests and hobbies.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Meagan Reinish, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Teen & Adult Services

Meagan is a clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience in both the private and public sector. Her primary goal is to help alleviate distress, and improve quality of life, while striving to teach the client to better manage difficult emotions. Meagan is passionate about the creation of a safe, collaborative and validating therapeutic environment. She empowers and teaches the client to develop the skills to approach various adversities and challenges in a healthier way and guides them along a journey of personal growth. Her approach is warm and nurturing; she offers a supportive space for the client to share their thoughts and feelings.

She specializes in working with individuals and families struggling with anxiety; depression; trauma; grief/bereavement; life transitions; burnout; relational difficulties; substance use issues; gender dysphoria; behavioural issues; and special needs. Meagan takes a client-centred and integrative approach, including cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and more. She draws upon different methods guided by the client’s presenting symptoms. Meagan received her Bachelor’s and Master’s of Social Work from McGill University. She is a member in good standing with the Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ). She is clinically trained to conduct both psychosocial assessments and social functioning evaluations.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Barbara Richardson, Special Care Counsellor

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Barbara Richardson is a Special Care Counsellor with 17 years’ experience working with individuals with ASD, ADHD, and ASD/Comorbidity within the public healthcare system. She has worked in many different areas helping individuals develop skills related to all aspects of life, from elementary aged children to older adults. She has extensive experience working with families, schools, community programs, employment programs, long term care, and psychiatry.

Barbara uses a behavioral approach to coach individuals, parents and groups by expanding on existing strengths. Working on social skills, recognizing emotions, preparing for work or school, building communication skills, increasing independence in daily routines and reducing or eliminating self-injurious behaviors can be worked on using a behavioral approach. Each person with ASD or ADHD is unique with different strengths and weaknesses, your child’s treatment plan should be tailored to meet their current needs.

Barbara’s compassion towards the individuals she works with is limitless. Her keen eye to identify specific areas of need and non-judgmental approach is what brings success to each person she works with. Barbara is passionate and motivated by helping people learn skills to increase their independence and achieve their personal or professional goals. Come work with Barbara in person or via virtual session to unlock your full potential.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Emily Riley, Mental Performance Consultant

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Emily is a Mental Performance Consultant and member of the Canadian Sport Psychology Association. She helps athletes reach their goals by optimizing their performance and well-being. Whether or not you’re an athlete, Emily can help you develop the mental skills and techniques that elite athletes use so you can be the best version of yourself.

She can help you find your individualized path towards reaching your goals, finding joy in your endeavours and surpassing your perceived limits by optimizing your well-being, setting goals, improving confidence, enhancing motivation, regulating emotions, managing pressure, creating a positive inner dialogue, visualizing, practicing mindfulness, moving past mental blocks, connecting to your values, optimizing your habits and routines, building team cohesion, enhancing recovery, improving resilience and more.

As a member of the Quebec women’s curling team with 7 national championship appearances including a Canadian junior silver medal and a Canadian mixed bronze medal, Emily’s ongoing Olympic pursuit has given her a lot of experience in the world of high performance. She has a Master’s degree from the University of Ottawa in Human Kinetics with a concentration in Intervention and Consultation focused on Sports Psychology. These tools are transferable to life and Emily finds great joy in helping people thrive through her strengths-based and person-centred approach. While she is on a mission to enhance the experiences of youth and female athletes, she loves to work with clients of all ages and backgrounds. She creates a warm environment where you can feel safe, heard, and free to go after your most ambitious goals.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Nataki Roberts, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Teen & Adult Services

Nataki Roberts MSW, psw, has over 20 years experience working in mental health. Nataki works with couples, adults and adolescents experiencing relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder and burnout. Nataki offers a safe space where she works collaboratively with clients finding their inner strength and developing the necessary tools to address the issues they are struggling with.

Nataki helps individuals reach their therapeutic goals utilizing approaches such as systematic approach, solution focused therapy, and CBT techniques. Nataki offers both long term and solution focused therapy

Nataki also has extensive experience with individuals and their families from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, who have been affected by Autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disabilities.

Nataki received a masters degree in Social Work from McGill University and is a member of l’Ordre des Travailleurs Sociaux du Québec.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Melissa Rodney, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Adult Services

Melissa is a clinical social worker with 18 years of experience working with adults in the public sector facing critical illness. She is a registered member of the l’ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ).

Her area of clinical expertise includes health diagnosis, grief & loss, advance planning, feelings of stress, anxiety, and caregiver burnout.

Melissa’s practice takes a client centered approach that includes elements of strength based therapy and solution-based therapy. She strives to establish a therapeutic relationship that fosters a collaborative approach while providing a safe space. She encourages and supports her clients to develop tools to navigate through difficult periods in their lives to achieve personal and emotional growth.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Lisa Rutledge, RD

Teen & Adult Services

Lisa Rutledge is a registered dietitan who has worked in both the public and private sector for the past 15 years. She is currently registered with the College of Dietitians of Ontario, Order of Dietitians of Quebec and is a member of Dietitians of Canada.

Lisa graduated from McGill University in Nutritional Sciences and completed a dietetic internship at various institutions in Montreal, Quebec. Lisa is experienced working with both adults and teens in both individual counselling and group nutrition education.

She is dedicated to helping folx repair their relationship with food and body through a weight inclusive lens. Lisa works with clients who are seeking recovery from their eating disorder as well as those interested in adopting an intuitive eating approach.

Lisa specializes in nutritional support for eating disorder recovery and healing from disordered eating, the intuitive and mindful eating approaches to wellness as well as experience managing chronic conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Farah Samkissoon, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Child, Teen, Adult Services

Farah Samkissoon is a licensed social worker who has worked in both the public and private sector. Farah received her Bachelor’s and Master’s of Social Work from McGill University. She has over ten years of expertise working with children and their families in child protected services and five years of expertise working with victims and perpetrators of conjugal violence.

Farah has in-depth experience working with individuals struggling with mental health concerns, parenting-related issues, complex trauma, attachment and behavioral issues. Farah aims to provide a safe, non-judgemental and warm space whereby her client’s can openly discuss their fears and concerns. She has a niche for making her client’s feel comfortable and strives to empower each of her clients.

Farah takes a client-centred and integrative approach, including cognitive behavioural therapy, play therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and strengths based therapy. She places emphasis of being culturally sensitive and utilizes an anti-oppressive framework with all her clients.

Farah is a member in good standing with the Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ).

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Dr. David Sarfati, MD, FRCPC, Psychiatrist

Teen and Adult Services

Dr. David Sarfati is a McGill University trained Psychiatrist with an expertise in occupational mental health and community psychiatry. He has an active multi-provincial outpatient practice with a focus on mood and anxiety disorders, and is affiliated with McMaster University as an assistant clinical professor.

Dr. Sarfati also performs clinical assessments with a focus on functional recovery for multiple high-quality providers in the occupational health field, and provides consulting services to one of Canada’s largest insurance providers.

In the past he has worked at a private hospital, primarily treating individuals with substance use disorder, PTSD, and personality disorders. Dr. Sarfati has published original scientific articles and textbook chapters in the field of depression and occupational psychiatry. He is licensed to practice in Ontario and Quebec and eligible to provide telemedicine services into New Brunswick. Certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Tracy Satov, Registered Dietitian (RD), BA, MSc

Teen & Adult Services

Tracy pursued her bachelor’s degree at McGill University and completed her masters in science at New York University. She completed her dietetic internship at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
Tracy’s experience includes clinical settings such as the intensive care unit (surgical and other) as well as private practice. She also taught nutrition to college level students in New York city.
Tracy is licensed to practice in Quebec and New York state.

Tracy has been in practice for over 20 years and has made numerous appearances on Global TV as well as on CJAD talk radio. She has also been a contributing writer for the Suburban newspaper in Montreal and has been published in the Journal of Obesity Research. She is well recognized for her unique approach to dietary health and regards herself as the “everyday” dietitian. This approach entails teaching her clients to embrace healthy eating habits and achieving nutritional goals while continuing to enjoy life. Her clients regard her as engaging and charismatic with a positive approach to client care.
Areas of expertise:

Weight management
Digestive health including Irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s/colitis, celiac disease, GERD;
Cardiovascular health (high blood pressure and high cholesterol);
Women’s health (hormonal imbalances;
Pre- and post-natal nutrition;
Diabetes management (pre-diabetes, gestational and type II);
Liver disease;
Geriatric nutrition;
Kidney health;
Menu planning;
Specialized diets (ie gluten free, dairy free, vegan, etc)

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Tara Saxe, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Tara received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and a Master’s degree in Social Work from McGill University. She is a member in good standing with the Ordre Professionnel des Travailleurs Sociaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ).

Tara has extensive experience working with neurodiverse children, adolescents and youth adults and their families in helping them navigate their challenges and the system. Her therapeutic interests include anxiety disorders, stress management, behavioural issues and loss.

Tara works collaboratively with her clients to help them develop requisite tools and strategies and helps empower them to meet their individual needs. She offers a nurturing, non-judgmental and safe environment for her clients to share their thoughts and feelings.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Hamida Shahid, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Teen & Adult Services

Hamida is a clinical social worker accredited by the Order of Social Workers, Family, and Marriage Therapists of Quebec (OTSTCFQ), and pursuing a psychotherapy permit with the Ordre des Psychologues du Québec (OPQ). She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Human Relations at Concordia University and her Master’s degree in Social Work at McGill University.

Hamida is continually inspired by the strength, determination, and resiliency she witnesses in individuals who strive to thrive despite adversity.

She engages in an open, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach to ensure that her clients feel safe and empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Hamida often includes elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and Culturally Sensitive Therapy along with Positive Psychology approaches in her work. She uses an eclectic intervention approach tailored to the unique needs of her clients to help them function to the best of their abilities and live meaningful lives.

Hamida specializes in issues associated with anxiety, depression, stress management, anger management, self-esteem, career/education concerns, adjustments to life transitions, and family and relationship concerns.

Individuals, couples, and families of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds are welcomed.

Languages: English, French, Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Yasmine Sikender, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Adult Services

Yasmine Suzanne Sikender is a bilingual social worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from McGill University. She works with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions and loss/grief. She provides a safe space for you to share your story with her.

She’ll explore the best tools to help you adapt to our ever-changing world, manage your symptoms and increase your well-being and resilience. While using an empathic and holistic approach, she can help you learn how to build on your strengths, manage your difficulties and find solutions.

Yasmine also creates and delivers webinars on mental health for both private companies and public organisations.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Ronna Sinclair, Special Care Counselor

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Ronna Sinclair is a Special Care Counselor with 25 years’ experience in the public sector. Her extensive career in the helping profession has allowed her to work with neuro-typical clientele and those with a diagnosis. She has practiced in daycares, schools, group homes, home environments and/or in the community. Her role as an SCC has allowed her to work with children, teenagers, young adults and with parents who have children with challenges. She has extensive experience with variety of diagnoses: ASD, ADD, ADHD, ODD, emotional, social and/or behavioral challenges.

Ronna is skilled in the areas of prevention, adaptation, rehabilitation, emotional regulation and social integration. She is hands-on, uses a behavioral approach, and will work with the client to develop concrete tools and strategies that work best for them. Tools, strategies and interventions will be individualized so they best match the clients personality, level of cognition, environment and needs. Ronna has had tremendous success in creating a “solution-based” focus and pairing that with helping the client generalize the tools to the environment where it is most needed.

Working with parents who struggle with a child who presents with difficult behavior is also an area that Ronna has expertise. It is not uncommon for parents of children with challenging behaviors to find themselves in a “survival mode “ state, and realize they need support to rework their approach, reactions and responses. Ronna has had success in working along side parents and together developing concrete tools and strategies to help them regain calm and consistency in the home.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Christine Zaklama, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Adult Services

Christine Zaklama is a licensed social worker and a member in good standing with l’Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ). She works with individuals in Quebec and across Canada, helping them achieve their goals and become the best version of themselves

Christine has spent the last several years providing short-term counselling and coaching through the Employee Assistance Program at one of Canada’s largest providers of EAP services in both English and French. She offers solutions-focused, concrete support to clients looking to make positive changes in their lives.

Christine supports adults struggling with anxiety and stress, interpersonal relationships, parenting challenges, grief and loss, workplace as well as caregiver burnout, and difficult life transitions. She also works closely with families having recently received a diagnosis of Autism or ADD/ADHD for their child. She supports parents in identifying the best resources for their child’s development.

Christine’s background is in school social work, working with children, teens and their families. Today, she works primarily with adults. Christine offers a safe environment where her clients can explore their thoughts, feelings and actions and share their stories. Her style is practical, drawing from various therapeutic approaches all with the aim of encouraging her clients to create healthy patterns in life, while also developing positive coping strategies.

As a former television journalist and co-host, Christine had a passion for telling human interest stories that explored people’s resiliency and their ability to overcome adversity and hardship. In her practice, she empowers individuals to access their inner resources as well as the people and resources available in their environment, to work through their challenges, and live up to their full potential.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Annie Werbitt, MSW, PSW, t.s.

Child, Teen & Adult Services

Annie is a clinical social worker, whose clinical experience is working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families, in the public and private sector. She is a registered member of the l’Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ). Her areas of clinical expertise include anxiety and depression; emotion regulation, minor and major health diagnoses; peer relations and family difficulties; and life transitions.

EMAIL: info@westislandtherapycentre.com

Annie’s practice includes various evidence-based therapeutic techniques; she takes a client-centered approach, including elements of cognitive behavioural therapy, strength based therapy and solution-based therapy. She strives to establish a strong therapeutic relationship with her clients, creating a safe, supportive and collaborative space. Annie empowers and supports her clients to explore and develop the skills and tools they need to meet their personal, social and emotional goals. She is grateful to have the opportunity to watch her clients’ as they make positive changes in their lives.

Theo

Emotional Support Dog

My name is Theo. I am a three year old Bernese Mountain dog who is trained to be an emotional support dog. I am extremely affectionate and gentle. I love running outside, playing tug of war, taking long lazy naps in the sun but most of all, I love putting smiles on people’s faces. I very much welcome a good belly rub and some cuddles so don’t hesitate to approach me! I may be big but i’m extremely loving and nurturing. I look forward to helping all kinds of people, both kids and adults, by putting them at ease, reducing their stress and bringing joy to their lives!