Our Crew

Amanda Dewar, MEd, RCC

Executive Director

Amanda graduated from the University of Lethbridge in 2013 with her Masters in Counselling Psychology. Over the course of her career Amanda has worked with adults providing individual, family, couples and group therapy. Amanda has experience working in the crisis field, inpatient addictions treatment, outpatient continuing care and outpatient general mental health.

Amanda founded Strength Counselling Services in 2010 with a desire to help individuals achieve their true potential as they overcome life’s obstacles. Since its origin, Strength Counselling Services has pioneered online counselling in Canada and has become a leading corporation in the field of private mental health services.

Amanda demonstrates both clinical skills and business talents as she has owned and operated three private enterprises since 2005. Amanda has a talent for innovation, business relations and customer service.

At Strength Counselling Services, Amanda is responsible for front-line clinical supervision, human resource functions, overseeing the student training program and quality assurance functions.

Dr. Bekayla Dewar, MA, PsyD, RCC

Director of Operations

Bekayla graduated from Midwestern University in 2013 with her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology after which she completed a two year post-doctoral program at one of the largest behavioural health agencies in Phoenix, Arizona. Over the course of her training and work experience, Bekayla has worked with children, adults and geriatrics providing individual, family and group therapy, equine therapy, crisis stabilization and rehabilitative services. Throughout her 10 year career, Bekayla has worked as the Director of an inpatient psychiatric unit, has held counselling positions at two of Canada’s premiere addiction/residential treatment centres and has served as a supervisor/ethics officer.

Bekayla is a staunch advocate for a strengths-based therapy approach and has expertise in integrated health care to help meet the unique and individual needs of each person served.

Over the course of her career, Bekayla has not only demonstrated strong clinical skill but also notable talent on the business side of the behavioural health field. Bekayla has experience in quality and utilization management, quality assurance and outcomes data management/functions, peer review functions, policy and procedure functions, human resource functions, ethics review/management, program development and contract development.

At Strength Counselling Services, Bekayla is responsible for front-line clinical supervision, monitoring team decisions from a strong ethics-informed lens, reporting outcomes data, performing quality assurance functions, program and contract development, human resource functions and clinical training.

Meena Bolla Singh, MSW, BSW, RSW

Clinical Team Lead

Meena (she/her) has practiced as a Registered Social Worker with the British Columbia College of Social Workers since 2017 and completed her Master of Social Work Degree from the University of British Columbia. Meena joined Strength Counselling in 2022 as a Counsellor and is also part of the leadership team in her role as a Clinical Supervisor. Prior to working at Strength, Meena’s social work career spanned across acute health care settings, most notably in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) throughout early years of the opioid crisis and Covid-19 pandemic. Meena’s experience in health care has given her a personal glimpse into the issue of burnout amongst other systemic issues and challenges faced in health care.

Meena is firmly grounded in social work values of respecting the inherent dignity and worth of a person, promoting social justice and challenging oppressive systems. She passionately leads with a trauma-informed approach, honouring each person who invites her to walk alongside their journey of healing. Meena draws on multiple frameworks that inform her practice, including Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Systems Theory. Meena is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and has experience working with diverse clients, such as those with complex traumas, neurodivergencies (ADHD and Autism), and concurrent mental health challenges.

Meena works with individuals, families and couples and centers all therapeutic relationships in building a meaningful alliance that is founded in safety, trust, and compassion. Meena is committed to providing respectful, strengths-based, culturally safe, gender-affirming, and neurodivergent-affirming care in her practice. As a first-generation Canadian and woman of colour, Meena relates her own diasporic experiences and intersectionalities in her practice. Working with Meena, you can expect to experience her sense of humour, warmth, gentle-challenging, and honesty. Of note, Meena is bilingual and offers services to clients in both English and Punjabi.

Jake Sombrutzki, MACP, RCC

Counsellor

Jake is a seasoned professional boasting a robust educational background. He earned his Bachelor of Health Sciences with a focus on Addiction and Mental Health from the University of Lethbridge in 2013, followed by a Master's in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in 2022. With a wealth of experience in addiction and codependency, Jake is dedicated to helping individuals navigate challenges related to codependency, anxiety, depression, and self-worth.

Jake's approach to counselling is marked by his innate ability to articulate insights into thought patterns in a pragmatic and nonjudgmental manner. Grounded in presence, acceptance, and compassion, his methodology underscores the importance of self-worth and self-compassion in achieving holistic well-being. He perceives counselling as a transformative journey, where the therapeutic relationship serves as a catalyst for inner realization and empowerment.

In his practice, Jake prioritizes inclusivity, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds and identities. He recognizes the resilience and strengths inherent in each client, fostering effective collaboration through therapeutic modalities such as Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Somatic Therapy Techniques, and Brief Solution-Focused Therapy (BSFT).

Proficient in addressing issues like fear, low self-worth, and anger management, Jake guides his clients in establishing healthy boundaries and tapping into their innate healing capacities. Inspired by his travels across Asia, he integrates elements of Eastern philosophy and spirituality into both his personal life and professional practice.

Rosa Toste, CCAC

Counsellor

Rosa writes from the traditional territory of Halalt First Nation, where they have the privilege of providing therapeutic services across this beautiful, culturally rich Nation. As a settler, they express their gratitude to all Nations surrounding them for the opportunity to deepen their understanding of reconciliation and reside on this beautiful Nation with their family.

2SLGBTQI+

Rosa (They/Them) is a passionate queer humorous being who has a knack for intuitively supporting many different folx. Issues such as self-esteem, identity, gender, sex and sexuality, body image and eating disorder issues throughout their journey. Rosa continues to deepen their knowledge, experience and empathy through working with individuals experiencing anxiety and depression, survivors of trauma (sexualized violence, domestic or physical abuse, emotional abuse, experiences of racism and discrimination, religious trauma, childhood trauma and intergenerational trauma), various relationship issues, including communication and conflict resolution, ethical non-monogamy and other non-traditional relationship and family structures, navigating life transitions, chronic illness, disability, and neurodivergence.

Rosa has both personal and professional experience in the mental health and addictions field for almost 20 years and, specifically, with eating disorders for the past 10 years. Rosa’s person centred approach can assist clients to increase their knowledge, and alter their attitudes, and behaviours associated with disordered eating, body image issues, and any relatable dependency issues. Some areas of interest include sexual orientation and gender identity investigations, and coping strategies for dealing with mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety, and coming out processes.

Rosa’s personal experiences allow them to connect with others from a place of empathy and profound respect for their strengths. Rosa’s experiences are also the base for an approach that recognizes the many layers that we all have, our privileges and oppressions, our traumas and experiences of healing, our attachments, and the behaviours that we foster. Rosa is committed to walking alongside their clients through their process in the timeline that is necessary for optimal healing.

Janet Nielsen, MEd, CCC, CHyp

Counsellor

Janet has a Masters of Education in Counselling Psychology (Addictions and Mental Health) from the University of Lethbridge and is a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. She is also a certified clinical hypnotherapist (C.Hyp). She graduated from the University of Lethbridge in 2016 with a BA double major in Psychology and Religion, and an M.Ed. in 2019.

At Strength Counselling Janet has worked with clients experiencing loss and grief, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), Bipolar Disorder (BD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and other disorders such as anxiety and depression. Janet believes in creating trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship in order to help support the client’s healing journey.

Janet supports that we are a combination of body, mind, and spirit and that these elements need to be considered when trying to heal the whole person. She practices an integrative approach to counselling, which combines Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Existential Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Hypnosis, Trauma-informed and Transpersonal Therapy amongst others. Within this integrative framework, her central aim is to promote wholeness for her clients in all aspects of their lives. She counsels from a client-centred focus and believes in individual services and interventions that meet the unique needs and personalities of each client. She believes in facilitating the integration of body, mind, and soul by promoting growth and compassion for her clients that can lead to long-lasting, transformational change. Janet is passionate about exceptional human experiences (near-death experiences and mystical/transcendent experiences) and has researched these extensively. She has worked with many clients in relation to grief and loss, death and dying, and she completed her death doula certification in October 2019. She considers this work to be sacred and it allows her to support people and their families as their life comes to a close.

Kayla Koster, MA, Mpsy, RP(Qualifying), PsyD(Student)

Counsellor

Kayla (she/her) completed her Masters of Arts in Communication and Culture Joint Program at York and Ryerson University, now known as Toronto Metropolitan University, focusing on mass media and crowd psychology. She also completed a Masters of Psychology in Clinical and Counselling Psychology at Adler Graduate Professional School. Kayla is currently enrolled in the Doctorate Program at Adler Graduate Professional School in Clinical Psychology. Kayla is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, Ontario. She also has experience in psychological assessment.

At Strength Counselling Kayla has worked with clients experiencing Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD), Bipolar Disorder (BD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Adjustment Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Epilepsy, Seizure Disorder, Grief, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and other anxiety disorders such as Social Anxiety.

Kayla values building a therapeutic alliance first before implementing any therapeutic modality. She works with each client’s unique situation and disposition to help provide individual tools and exercises to initiate self-reflection and self-development. Kayla values each client as a unique individual and would always consider each unique person as such.
Kayla is passionate about providing client-centred services to support clients on their journey toward understanding themselves and their interpersonal relationships. She draws on multiple frameworks that inform her practice, including Adlerian Therapy, Client-centred Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Couples Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Grief Counselling, and Talk Therapy.

Kayla offers couples therapy and provides assistance with navigating tough conversations around general concerns and miscommunications in a relationship, as well as concerns around infidelity. Kayla offers family counselling with the intent to provide ways and questioning to emotionally process pent-up emotions, thoughts and emotional pain while suggesting effective communication methods to assist with navigating tough relationships that are worth working through and trying for.

Kayla is interested in growing her skill set in Sex Therapy and Exposure Based Therapy.

Dr. Danelle Kabush, PhD, RCC, CMPC

Counsellor

Danelle graduated in 2007 from the University of Ottawa, from where she holds a Doctorate in Psychology focused on motivation and communication, and a Masters in Sport Psychology focused on attention training. She is Certified Mental Performance Consultant, Registered Clinical Counsellor, and has Level 1 & 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.

At Strength Counselling, Danelle has worked with clients experiencing grief and loss, generalized and social anxiety, depression, burnout, friendship and romantic relationship concerns, eating disorders, career transitions, and those working through finding deeper meaning through existential, spiritual or faith based journeys. Danelle is committed to providing her clients with a safe, warm and nonjudgmental space to express, explore, deepen their existing strengths, develop tools, and work towards their counselling goals. Danelle is also a former professional endurance athlete and has over a decade of experience working with athletes, coaches, performers, national and Olympic teams. At Strength Counselling she has also worked with client's seeking to reach one’s performance potential in sport, work or the arts. Tools that she draws from in working with performers include regulating arousal, stress and/or emotions, improving confidence, motivation, and focus, mental preparation for training and competitions, coach/team communication, performance enhancement techniques (e.g. goal setting, imagery, mindfulness), mental recovery and regeneration, psychological rehabilitation from injuries and making a positive career transitions.

For all clients, Danelle believes in viewing presenting concerns or desired goals from a biopsychosocial spiritual approach, which means considering the various areas in her clients lives that influence the issue. Danelle draws from various counselling modalities including person centered, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, CBT (Cognitive Behavioural therapy), ACT (Acceptance Commitment Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy), Attachment Based Therapy and Gottman Couples Therapy. Danelle uses an integration of various counselling modalities to collaborate with clients in providing hope, and tangible objectives for individuals to achieve their desired goals. In addition to individual therapy, Danelle also offers family and couples therapy. She provides guidance to constructively work through conflict, increase intimacy, and rebuild trust.

Shari Block, MSW, RSW

Counsellor

Shari is a Registered Social Worker who lives and practices on First Nations Treaty 1 territory, the ancestral territory of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Dakota, Dené, and Ojibway-Cree, and the traditional homeland of the Métis Nation. Shari obtained a Master in Social Work with a specialization in Clinical Intervention from the University of Manitoba in 2011. Over her career she has cultivated diverse practice experience in a variety of settings ranging from K-12 schools to post-secondary education to a psychiatric hospital to government and community.

Shari works from her heart and believes that healing happens in relationship. She begins the counselling relationship by creating a safe space where one can allow themselves to be fully seen and heard. One of Shari’s greatest strengths as a Counsellor is the ability to move through the surface and go to the deeper root of any issue. She is able to balance tender with fierce compassion to hold clients accountable to their own goals and commitments. Her practice is grounded in understanding and integration of ethical standards and practices; respect for diversity; culturally safe, trauma-sensitive and competent care.

Shari integrates a knowledge of behavioural science and neuropsychology with an integrative theoretical approach to support holistic well-being for the mind, body and soul. While her approach is flexible, it is always grounded in a strengths-based, person-centered approach. Shari believes in the body’s natural intelligence to heal, process, grow, transform and thrive, and she is trained in somatic approaches that help clients create deeper, more sustainable and long-lasting transformation, at the level of the nervous system.

Shari is honoured to be considered to support you in your healing journey.

Julianna Servello, MSW, RSW

Counsellor

Julianna Servello is a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers bringing a robust and diverse clinical background. Holding a Master's in Social Work from York University, and having earned her Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Carleton University, Julianna has cultivated a deep understanding of social and psychological dynamics crucial to therapeutic practice. Her tenure as a full-time Hospital Social Worker has provided her with comprehensive experience in navigating the complexities of mental health care across various units including geriatric rehabilitation, emergency medicine, and psychiatric settings.

Throughout her career, Julianna has demonstrated proficiency in conducting thorough psychosocial assessments and formulating tailored intervention plans. She integrates evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and narrative therapy into her practice, adapting these approaches to meet the specific needs of her clients. Her role in crisis intervention has been pivotal, supporting families through bereavement and helping homeless individual’s access necessary resources.

Julianna’s expertise extends to discharge planning, where she skillfully navigates barriers to ensure seamless transitions for patients, whether reintegrating into the community or facilitating transitions to supportive living environments. Her collaborative approach, evidenced through multidisciplinary team meetings and family consultations, underscores her commitment to holistic patient care.

Moreover, Julianna is dedicated to ongoing professional development, evidenced by her participation in workshops and training sessions focused on trauma-informed care, social determinants of health, and therapeutic modalities. Her experience doing psychotherapy has further enriched her skills in group facilitation and individual therapy, particularly in addressing anxiety, depression, and social interaction challenges among children and adolescents.

Julianna’s passion for advocating for marginalized populations and her proficiency in documenting patient interactions using comprehensive case notes further exemplify her commitment to ethical practice and patient-centred care. Julianna provides individual therapy, as well as well as group therapy sessions for both youth and adults. Her application of therapeutic techniques in real-world scenarios, combined with her empathetic approach will contribute to enhancing client outcomes and fostering a supportive therapeutic environment.

Gabrielle Richard, MSW, RSW

Counsellor

Gabrielle's therapeutic journey began as a client herself, giving her a deep understanding of how daunting it can be to take that first step toward seeking help. As a practitioner, Gabrielle is dedicated to walking alongside her clients on their path to well-being, supporting them in creating a life they truly love—a beautiful life.

Gabrielle is a Registered Social Worker and holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Laurentian University and a Master of Social Work from the University of Windsor. With over a decade of experience, Gabrielle has supported individuals and families through crises and some of life's most challenging situations. She has extensive experience working with marginalized communities and in remote or rural areas, giving her unique insight into the uncertainties and misconceptions surrounding access to counseling. Her practice is grounded in compassion, empathy, and the belief that everyone deserves a positive, supportive environment to explore their emotions and experiences.

Gabrielle is a firm believer in holistic well-being, with mental health playing a crucial role. She incorporates various therapeutic techniques, including CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based approaches. Her experience spans working with trauma (including cultural trauma), anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and crisis situations. Gabrielle is committed to creating a safe space for her clients, regardless of where they are in their journey or whether they have clear goals. She is especially passionate about supporting those who have historically felt unsafe, unseen, or underrepresented in traditional therapeutic settings, and who may have struggled to express their true selves.

Bryanne Noel, MSW, RSW

Counsellor

Bryanne is a Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of Calgary. Since 2017, she has been actively engaged in the field of social work, gaining extensive experience across various settings, including mental health, public healthcare, shelters, and crisis support.

Bryanne approaches her practice with a person-centered, non-judgmental perspective, emphasizing collaboration with her clients. Her primary goal is to ensure that every individual leaves therapy feeling genuinely seen and heard.

With a deep passion for supporting individuals through mental health crises, Bryanne has extensive experience working on crisis lines and in urgent mental health care settings. She has a particular focus on helping those dealing with depression and ongoing suicidal ideation. Additionally, she is committed to supporting youth and families, especially 2SLGBTQ+ youth, in navigating mental health challenges and family conflicts. Through her work in healthcare and community settings, Bryanne has developed a keen understanding of the barriers to accessing resources and the impact of oppression on service availability. She adopts a "not-knowing" stance regarding experiences of inequality, creating space for clients to share their unique stories.

Bryanne also has a special interest in supporting individuals struggling with body image concerns and disordered eating. Drawing from both her professional and lived experience, she is passionate about promoting body liberation, firmly believing that all bodies are good bodies.

Her therapeutic approach is relational and compassionate, aiming to build strong connections and create a safe, supportive space within therapy. Bryanne integrates various evidence-based therapies into her practice, including Emotion-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, while also being informed by Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Motivational Interviewing. She tailors each therapy session to meet the specific needs of her clients.

Recognizing the importance of continuous learning, Bryanne regularly participates in professional training to expand her knowledge of different therapeutic practices. She is currently advancing her expertise through training in Internal Family Systems and Accelerated Resolution Therapy.

Melody Manuel, MSW, RSW

Counsellor

Melody is a Registered Social Worker and holds a Master of Social Work Degree from University of the Fraser Valley. She has over 20 years of counselling experience supporting individuals and families through trauma, grief, loss, and addiction. Her approach is client-centered, strength based, and solution focused. Melody has found her niche in being a lifeline of support for those finding themselves struggling to navigate through difficult times. Melody has personally experienced and over come many difficulties in her own life and is extremely grateful for the professional counselling support she received during her most difficult times. She states that the professionals that supported her were truly beacons of light through her darkest hours and she feels blessed to now be that beacon of compassion, hope, and light for others. Connecting with and supporting her clients, absolutely fuels her soul and fills her heart with a deep sense of gratitude.

Melody considers herself a lifelong learner and is constantly expanding her skills and educational knowledge through ongoing professional training. She is currently advancing her expertise through training in the Bowen Family System's Theory and Therapy. Melody combines her life experience and educational knowledge with her 25 plus years of various energetic modalities such as Reiki, EFT and Chinese Energetics. She is passionate about the work she does with her clients and is absolutely honored to be a part of the solution and healing in her client's lives.

'Life can be challenging but you don't have to face it alone. I'm here to support you on your journey.’

Kristy Jones, MSW, RSW

Counsellor

Kristy brings over two decades of frontline and leadership experience in social work, with a deep well of knowledge and diverse clinical expertise. Her extensive work in rural settings has afforded her the privilege of leading and contributing to a wide range of areas, including mental health and addictions, child and family services, adoption, adolescent and family treatment, early childhood prevention and family preservation programs, on-the-land healing initiatives, family violence shelters, medical settings, and crisis leadership.

Kristy is a Registered Social Worker, holding a Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Social Work, and a Master of Social Work, complemented by various professional certifications, including Prosci/ADKAR, MBTI, and Critical Incident Stress Debriefing. She has spent much of her career working with diverse Indigenous populations in Northern Canada, which has profoundly influenced her practice. Kristy is committed to meeting clients as equals, empowering them, and supporting their journey to resilience, growth, and change.

In her practice, Kristy is empathetic, genuine, and transparent, operating from a strength-based, culturally safe, anti-racist, and trauma-informed perspective. She employs various therapeutic modalities, including motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy tools, and play therapy, all while maintaining a commitment to ongoing professional development. Kristy honours the uniqueness of each client's journey and is dedicated to creating a safe, trusting therapeutic space where healing is driven by the client’s needs.

Carol Brazeau, MSW, RSW

Counsellor

Carolanne, known as Carol, is a Registered Social Worker who has earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from McGill University, following a technical degree in Youth and Correctional Intervention from John Abbott College. Born and raised in Quebec, Carol is a bilingual clinician, adept at serving both French and English-speaking clients. She provides support for a broad range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, complex trauma, self-esteem issues, interpersonal conflicts, addictions, and criminal behaviors.

Carol's extensive experience includes roles in Youth Protection, Community Social Services, Addictions Services, and both Youth and Adult Correctional Organizations. This diverse background has enriched her private practice, allowing her to connect with a wide variety of clients facing different issues. Understanding that each client is unique, Carol customizes her interventions, drawing from an array of therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Interventions.

Central to her practice is the belief that clients are the true experts of their own lives. Carol values this expertise, using it as the foundation for a strong therapeutic alliance built on mutual respect and understanding. She also incorporates humor and a relaxed atmosphere to create a safe and comfortable environment, ensuring that therapy is both a positive experience and a pathway to lasting change.

Carol is deeply committed to her growth as a clinician. She continually pursues professional development, embraces new challenges, and adapts to the evolving landscape of mental health care. With this dedication, she welcomes new clients to embark on a therapeutic journey with her, fostering healing and growth together.

Bruce Jensen, MACP, CCC

Counsellor

Bruce is a Canadian Certified Counsellor, registered with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. He holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and an undergraduate degree in Addiction Counselling from the University of Lethbridge. His passionate journey into mental health and addiction is rooted in life experiences that profoundly shape his approach to working with others.

Skilled in addressing a diverse array of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, fears, and mood disorders, Bruce helps individuals navigate turbulent life transitions, including grief and loss. He fosters personal growth throughout the healing process and works with complex PTSD, attachment issues, and borderline personality disorder (BPD). With a rich professional background, he assists people in managing addictions—whether behavioural or substance-related—focusing on each person’s goals, from harm reduction to complete abstinence. Bruce is also experienced in supporting individuals facing challenges related to criminality, anti-authoritarian issues, and relationship dynamics.

Bruce takes a client-centred and non-judgmental approach, prioritizing the creation of a safe environment for individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions. He fosters a strong therapeutic relationship, collaborating with clients to develop personalized interventions that meet their unique needs. Bruce employs a range of methodologies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Narrative Therapy, alongside Existential, Transpersonal, and Non-dual Psychotherapies.

Bruce’s worldview and approach encourage exploration of extraordinary human experiences, such as near-death, transcendent, and mystical experiences. He addresses spiritual and religious issues, whether related to abuse, cult experiences, or paths to personal transformation. With specialized training in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapies, Bruce excels in guiding clients through both preparation and integration phases. With a compassionate heart, he is dedicated to helping individuals enhance self-awareness, heal, and transform their lives.

Lori Wang, MEd, RCC

Counsellor

Lori is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a robust academic background in mental health. She completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Philosophy at the University of Victoria in 2022 and went on to earn a Master of Education in Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology from the University of Toronto in 2024. Guided by a commitment to evidence-based practices and a compassionate, client-centered approach, Lori provides counselling services to children, youth, adults, and couples.

Lori’s practice is enriched by her expertise in a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Art Therapy, and Sand-play Therapy. She carefully tailors each session to address the unique needs of her clients, fostering a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel understood and valued. Lori supports clients in navigating challenges such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, autism, phobias, relationship issues, trauma, grief, family dynamics, academic and career stress, life transitions, and addiction. Her work empowers clients to build resilience and achieve personal growth.

As a bilingual counsellor fluent in English and Mandarin, Lori brings a deep understanding of cultural diversity to her practice, enabling her to effectively support individuals from various cultural backgrounds, gender identities, orientations, and abilities. Her extensive experience in global mental health equips her to provide culturally sensitive care that resonates with clients’ unique experiences and perspectives.

Lori views the counselling relationship as a collaborative journey. She partners with her clients to navigate life’s complexities, explore challenges, and embrace questions along the way. Through an atmosphere of openness, trust, and empathy, Lori helps clients uncover their inner strengths and foster meaningful change, guiding them toward healing, resilience, and a more fulfilling life.

Micky Capra

Social Media Assistant

Micky joins the team with a Diploma in Marketing and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Event Planning. After working in the automotive industry for many years, Micky had the desire to branch out and explore other industries. She is excited to be a part of a team that is dedicated to assisting individuals in their mental health and recovery journey.

Micky Capra

Social Media Content Manager

Micky brings a wealth of experience to our team, holding a Diploma in Marketing and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Event Planning. With a strong background in social media marketing and content management, Micky is excited to contribute to a team dedicated to supporting individuals on their mental health and recovery journeys.

Micky Capra

Social Media Assistant

Micky joins the team with a Diploma in Marketing and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Event Planning. After working in the automotive industry for many years, Micky had the desire to branch out and explore other industries. She is excited to be a part of a team that is dedicated to assisting individuals in their mental health and recovery journey.

Alyssa Dunlop

Intake Coordinator & Social Media Video Content Manager

Alyssa joins the team with 8 years in content creation and media experience in Film & Television.

After having her son in 2022 she knew she wanted to change her long hours on set for more family time at home. She has been a vocal mental health advocate in her local community and online presence and she is excited to be apart of a team that has a positive impact on peoples lives.

Here at Strength Counselling Services, Alyssa is responsible for managing all incoming communication from new and inquiring clients and managing all video content on all Social Media channels.

Micky Capra

Social Media Assistant

Micky joins the team with a Diploma in Marketing and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Event Planning. After working in the automotive industry for many years, Micky had the desire to branch out and explore other industries. She is excited to be a part of a team that is dedicated to assisting individuals in their mental health and recovery journey.

Andrea Patenaude

Master- Level Student

Andrea comes to the counselling profession with an open heart and open ears, drawing on a rich personal and professional background in connecting with her clients. Passionate about supporting others’ quest for greater fulfillment in their lives, Andrea integrates the compassionate presence of a strong mindfulness background with a focus on interconnection and resilience cultivated over 15 years as a wildlife ecologist.

Andrea is currently completing her Master of Counselling through City Univeristy and has been companioning individuals and groups through trying times as a hospice volunteer, end-of-life doula and certified grief educator. Andrea is building her skills through additional training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Existential Theory, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and Grief Counselling. She is committed to providing tailored care to clients experiencing a range of issues.

As an emerging clinician, Andrea approaches her work from a place of empathy and curiosity, a desire to serve, and a deep respect for the unique journey of every individual. Andrea believes that it is not only your experiences that matter, but your relationship to those experiences. She is committed to being a witness and resource for you as you navigate life’s challenges and strengthen your relationship to self and others. Taking a non-pathologizing, trauma-informed and holistic approach, Andrea is devoted to creating a culturally humble and brave space for all, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, body size or ability.

Practicing from Chief Drygeese Territory, the unceded traditional lands of the Yellowknives Dene and homeland of the North Slave Métis in the Northwest Territories, Andrea gratefully embraces the ethic of mutual learning and respect these lands call forth from their caretakers and infuses it into her work.

Andrea looks forward to working with clients seeking an open, compassionate and committed professional in their healing journey.

Leadership Team

Amanda Dewar
MEd, RCC

Dr. Bekayla Dewar
MA, PsyD, RCC

Meena Bolla Singh,
MSW, RSW

Clinical Team

Jake Sombrutzki,
MACP, RCC

Rosa Toste,
CCAC

Janet Nielsen,
MEd, CCC, CHyp

Kayla Koster,
MA, Mpsy, RP(Qualifying), PsyD (Student)

Dr. Danelle Kabush,
PhD, RCC, CMPC

Shari Block,
MSW, RSW

Julianna Servello,
MSW, RSW

Gabrielle Richard,
MSW, RSW

Bryanne Noel,
MSW, RSW

Melody Manuel,
MSW, RSW

Kristy Jones,
MSW, RSW

Carol Brazeau,
MSW, RSW

Bruce Jensen,
MACP, CCC

Lori Wang,
MEd, RCC

Administration & Marketing Team

Micky Capra

Alyssa Dunlop

Students

Andrea Patenaude

Our Crew

Leadership Team

Amanda DewarMEd, RCC

Dr. Bekayla DewarMA, PsyD, RCC

Meena Bolla Singh,MSW, RSW

Clinical Team

Jake Sombrutzki,MACP, RCC

Rosa Toste,CCAC

Janet Nielsen,MEd, CCC, CHyp

Kayla Koster,MA, Mpsy, RP(Qualifying), PsyD (Student)

Dr. Danelle Kabush,PhD, RCC, CMPC

Shari Block,MSW, RSW

Julianna Servello,MSW, RSW

Gabrielle Richard,MSW, RSW

Bryanne Noel,MSW, RSW

Melody Manuel,MSW, RSW

Kristy Jones,MSW, RSW

Carol Brazeau,MSW, RSW

Bruce Jensen,MACP, CCC

Lori Wang,MEd, RCC

Administration & Marketing Team

Micky Capra

Alyssa Dunlop

Students

Andrea Patenaude

Amanda Dewar, MEd, RCC

Dr. Bekayla Dewar, MA, PsyD, RCC

Meena Bolla Singh, MSW, BSW, RSW

Jake Sombrutzki, MACP, RCC

Rosa Toste, CCAC

Janet Nielsen, MEd, CCC, CHyp

Kayla Koster, MA, Mpsy, RP(Qualifying), PsyD(Student)

Dr. Danelle Kabush, PhD, RCC, CMPC

Shari Block, MSW, RSW

Julianna Servello, MSW, RSW

Gabrielle Richard, MSW, RSW

Bryanne Noel, MSW, RSW

Melody Manuel, MSW, RSW

Kristy Jones, MSW, RSW

Carol Brazeau, MSW, RSW

Bruce Jensen, MACP, CCC

Lori Wang, MEd, RCC

Micky Capra

Micky Capra

Micky Capra

Alyssa Dunlop

Micky Capra

Andrea Patenaude

Amanda Dewar
MEd, RCC

Dr. Bekayla Dewar
MA, PsyD, RCC

Meena Bolla Singh,
MSW, RSW

Jake Sombrutzki,
MACP, RCC

Rosa Toste,
CCAC

Janet Nielsen,
MEd, CCC, CHyp

Kayla Koster,
MA, Mpsy, RP(Qualifying), PsyD (Student)

Dr. Danelle Kabush,
PhD, RCC, CMPC

Shari Block,
MSW, RSW

Julianna Servello,
MSW, RSW

Gabrielle Richard,
MSW, RSW

Bryanne Noel,
MSW, RSW

Melody Manuel,
MSW, RSW

Kristy Jones,
MSW, RSW

Carol Brazeau,
MSW, RSW

Bruce Jensen,
MACP, CCC

Lori Wang,
MEd, RCC