Tracey uses a relational, client-centered approach to counselling that integrates strategies from Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, with a focus on a strengths-based approach. She has worked extensively in supporting children and their families through the course of her 25 + year career as an administrator and educator and continues to do so in her counselling practice. Supporting clients dealing with life changes; illness, divorce and loss of a loved one are also areas of strength and experience.

Tracey holds a Master’s degree in Counselling from Acadia University. Additionally, she has completed a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology, Human Relations, from Mount Saint Vincent University, a Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Arts degree from Mount St. Vincent University and has extensive experience in the field of education and leadership.

Tracey uses a relational, client-centered approach to counselling that integrates strategies from... Read More

I remember my first time going to a therapy appointment, and I did not have a very good experience! For this reason, a foundational element of my practice is establishing a safe and comfortable environment which is ideal for those who may feel apprehensive or are new to the therapeutic process. I aim for a relaxed, client-focused approach that is rooted in building a strong and trusting relationship and I am genuinely interested in learning your story. In addition to counselling therapy, I have twelve years of experience working in the mental health field with a diverse range of clientele, particularly youth, marginalized, and vulnerable populations. I have run several clinical youth groups and have worked in emergency temporary care homes. This helped me learn effective mainstream psychology and led me to explore some modalities outside of traditional therapy that focus on all the elements of life and systems that shape our individualism. Pulling from evidence-based and humanistic models, I aim to build an approach that is tailored to the problems expressed rather than trying to fit unique experiences into a single model. When appropriate, I integrate humour and fun activities into skills-building with clients looking to manage a variety of concerns such as anxiety, ADHD, communication, and emotional regulation. I believe in therapy as a tool to support in identifying unhelpful cycles and patterns, to building connection with ourselves and others, and ultimately to finding a meaningful, confident (and fun!) way of life.

I remember my first time going to a therapy appointment, and I did not have a very good experienc... Read More

Navigating life’s complexities can often leave us feeling overwhelmed and stuck as we grapple with emotional wounds and seemingly insurmountable challenges. Trauma can make it hard to feel safe, building protective walls in the place of meaningful connections. If you are feeling alone in your experiences, navigating inner turmoil, grappling with grief, or relationship challenges, this space is here to offer solace.

Together, we will explore your inner and external worlds and get curious about protective mechanisms that may no longer serve you. In a safe and judgment-free space, you can freely explore your feelings and experiences. My therapeutic approach is tailored to your unique needs, drawing from therapeutic methods like Internal Family Systems (IFS), Person-Centred Therapy (PCT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Narrative Therapy (NT), and Psychodynamic Therapy (PT).

Building a trusting relationship is fundamental to the success of the therapeutic process and is central to my approach. I believe you are the expert of your life, and I will always encourage your voice and pace throughout the process. I understand the challenges of seeking help, especially when chronic stress makes the unfamiliar feel unsafe. I strive to foster a safe and nurturing space that honours openness, and vulnerability, and thrives on collaboration.

If you are curious to learn more before diving into the therapeutic process or if you are ready to schedule your first session, feel free to book either a 15-minute consultation or your initial appointment online. I look forward to meeting you!

Navigating life’s complexities can often leave us feeling overwhelmed and stuck as we grapple wit... Read More

Feeling stuck is a common response to overwhelm and distress, especially in a world full of pressure and external noise. My practice focuses on looking to the body for information on where emotion and experiences are stored, and providing a map for uncovering patterns that are no longer serving us. I provide therapy for youth, adults and elders who are experiencing dysregulation, whether that be from traumatic experiences, attachment wounds, anxiety, or depression. Often, we attach to negative experiences unconsciously, which shows up in our day to day lives implicitly and in ways that may be unfamiliar to who we were before those experiences. Our body may be remembering through sadness, avoidance, guilt, people pleasing, anger, dissociation, perfectionism, or isolation. The most important aspect of being able to tune into our emotional states, is building a trusting space to do so. I prioritize stabilization within the therapeutic setting through collaboration, so clients are more willing to explore their systems with curiosity and acceptance. After graduating from Dalhousie University, I completed my Masters in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and am a Registered Counselling Therapist, Candidate with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. Since then, I have been trained in Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and am working toward my Level I Certification in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP) which emphasize a trauma-informed approach. I have worked with a wide range of mental health complexities and offer individual sessions. If the time is right, but you may still have lingering questions, I am able to offer 15-minute consultations to support your curiosities. I look forward to meeting you!

Feeling stuck is a common response to overwhelm and distress, especially in a world full of press... Read More

Feeling overwhelmed can show up in your life for so many reasons. Stressful life events and experiencing trauma can significantly impact your ability to feel engaged and content in your day to day life. It can be easy to lose hope when life feels hard. I think of myself as championing hope for people when they feel like they can’t find the way.

I have had the privilege of offering therapy for almost 20 years. I am always blown away by the capacity of people to experience really hard things and move through those events to find a life that is filled with meaning and purpose and where you feel like your best self.

I draw from a number of modalities in my work and have recently expanded my practice to offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. This is an evidence based treatment for PTSD and many other presenting issues. I have used this modality to treat phobias, support people in driving after an accident and for abuse experienced in childhood and as an adult.

Feeling overwhelmed can show up in your life for so many reasons. Stressful life events and exper... Read More

For the times in life when life is challenging – when hope is hard to find, change is difficult to make, and the way forward is uncertain – having a trusted other can make all the difference. Working with a counsellor can help.

I have been fortunate to have others accompany me on many journeys of growth and change. Likewise, I have had the privilege to accompany clients as they navigate their own journeys, set goals and a path forward, and envision their own preferred future. As a Registered Counselling Therapist, my clients are adults who seek to address or find relief from stress, burnout, anxiety, low mood, health issues, life transitions, loss, relationship challenges, and more. With an exploration of strengths, values, and resources within, we co-create meaningful goals and pathways to growth, change and well-being. With an integrative framework, I draw from person-centered, strengths-based, solution focused, emotion focused, and acceptance and commitment therapies.

I know it takes energy and courage to begin, to ask for help, to start that journey. I am committed to providing a safe and confidential counselling experience where there is respect, compassion, and hope. Moments of calm, joy, lightness, and sometimes humour might emerge. I am honoured to accompany clients on that journey.

For the times in life when life is challenging – when hope is hard to find, change is difficult t... Read More

I’ve experienced working on topics such as grief and loss, depression, and anxiety.

If you are an athlete looking for support, some of the work I do surrounds performance anxiety, game preparation, habit/routine formation, and building confidence/self-esteem.

Above all, I strive to create a comfortable, and judgement-free environment as I can understand the complexity of seeking support. I look forward to chatting with you, and supporting you in reaching your goals.

I’ve experienced working on topics such as grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. If you are a... Read More

I have over 25 years working as a therapist, in the field of mental health. While I have lots of training and experience, I find that the most important aspect of therapy is the relationship between clients and their therapist. I work hard to understand your point of view, and will help you grow as a person from there.

Mental health difficulties can make us want to avoid things in life, and this avoidance can make our lives complicated and unfulfilling over time. It can be difficult to get out of bed and get things done, and I have training, experience, and understanding that can help you make your life worth living again. Therapy can be work but together we will strive to get you to where you want to be in life, step by step.

We will construct goals, sell ones at first, and build up from there. Whether it is working together on goals as a family, or working with you as a parent, or whether you’re a teen and trying to figure out who you are and where you want to go in life, relationship building and goal setting are key components in successful therapy. And when appropriate I try to bring a sense of humour and irony into the room.

I have over 25 years working as a therapist, in the field of mental health. While I have lots of ... Read More

Hi, I’m Justin from Halifax, Nova Scotia. As a skilled counsellor, case manager, researcher, and facilitator, my career has centred around mental health, addictions, and family support. My expertise lies in utilising a trauma-informed, strength-based, solution-focused approach to empower individuals, families, and groups to make positive changes and live happier and healthier lives. My career also has equipped me with a wealth of experience spanning various human services and I’m excited to enrich that knowledge further while doing my internship at SMB Counselling.

Throughout my professional journey, I have honed my abilities to resolve challenges on individual, family, and group levels. Whether I’m counselling clients or managing cases, my focus remains on maximising empowerment, resilience, and helping individuals from all walks of life.

Hi, I’m Justin from Halifax, Nova Scotia. As a skilled counsellor, case manager, researcher, and ... Read More