Caitlin is a counselling psychology student pursuing a Master’s degree at City University of Seattle in Calgary. With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Minor in Sociology from Mount Royal University, she brings a solid academic foundation to her current studies. Caitlin’s commitment to the field is reflected in her previous professional roles she held while working at The Mustard Seed including Addictions Recovery Program Supervisor, Wellness Advocate, and Clinic Coordinator.

Caitlin’s work with vulnerable populations at The Mustard Seed has driven her desire to support individuals in need. Through her work, she has gained valuable experience in addressing complex mental health challenges. As well as developing skills in risk assessment, collaboration and mental health advocacy, her approach is anchored in empathy and validation, aiming to create a space where every person’s unique journey is honoured. With a deep commitment to fostering healing and growth, Caitlin hopes to guide individuals on their path of self-discovery and recognize the importance of embracing one’s individuality. Through compassionate and empathetic support, she strives to empower individuals to navigate challenges, find resilience, and embark on a transformative journey. Caitlin’s dedication lies in providing a safe and inclusive environment where everyone, can thrive and find a sense of belonging.

Beyond her academic and professional pursuits, Caitlin actively engages in extracurricular activities. Inspired by her commitment to mental health advocacy, she balances her time with recreational interests like coaching soccer and playing soccer with her women’s team. In her free time, Caitlin enjoys tennis, skiing, walking her dog, playing Nintendo Switch, baking, and nurturing her growing plant collection. She also enjoys hanging out with her friends and playing board games. Caitlin’s extracurricular activities reflect her commitment to holistic well-being.​

Caitlin will be working under the supervision of Dr. Gillian McKirdy and Sydney McKenzie-Hougestol, Registered Psychologists.

Caitlin is a counselling psychology student pursuing a Master’s degree at City University of Seat... Read More

I know that life can be a struggle. But being supported and understood can make it feel a little easier. I try to offer a balance between compassionate understanding, helpful insight, and practical strategies to help my clients get the most out of their lives and relationships while navigating the challenges life brings. Shame, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, the pressures and expectations can wear us all down. I hope to offer the understanding and tools you might need to carry that weight with more ease, peace and contentment.

I specialize in depression, anxiety, adolescent mental health, young adult mental health, couples and relationship counselling, trauma, self-esteem, shame, grief, and masculinity/men’s counselling.

When I’m not at Solasta I enjoy the outdoors, music and either playing or watching sports. That said, a quiet night at home is often at the top of my list of activities.

I know that life can be a struggle. But being supported and understood can make it feel a little ... Read More

There are seasons in life where gleaning perspective and insight are necessary to navigate diverse circumstances, pivot in the midst of challenges, or find a safe space to process. It is my belief that all are worthy of support to facilitate the change they desire with acceptance, non-judgment, and genuine care. These exceptional times have heightened awareness of the benefits of pursuing holistic wellness. I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist under the supervision of Dr. Gina Ko, Registered Psychologist at Ko Psychology. My counselling experience has predominantly been with children and youth within the school system, supporting them within their family and school contexts. I have worked with adults of varied ages as well. Challenges related to anxiety, grief, depression, neurodiversity, personal growth, stress management, parenting, emotion regulation, conflict management, communication, and goal setting are some of the areas I have provided support to clients. I invite you to pause and acknowledge that you are worthy to take this time on your journey towards holistic wellness and envisioning new possibilities.

I offer a collaborative, creative, compassionate, strengths-based therapeutic approach. I am delighted to work with all of my clients in understanding their core values, identifying goals, and building a genuine therapeutic connection. Using narrative therapy, I work from a biopsychosocial lens, considering biological, psychological, and social factors that may be impacting the current narrative of the client. We then work to look at unique outcomes or alternate narratives from a strengths-based perspective to build resources and capacity toward client goals. I am trained in basic and parent/child attachment EMDR. I draw from other approaches, including acceptance and commitment therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I maintain a culturally responsive lens with an openness to incorporating creative expression in a client-centered way. With counselling support, we will work together to illuminate a path through your preferred future. I believe counselling provides new and renewed insight. I work from a holistic approach using the biopsychosocial framework to consider biology, psychology, and social factors that impact health and well-being. I am passionate about working with clients to explore challenges, strengths, and resources in order to support them to thrive. I have experience in the single-session model of therapy, brief therapy, and longer-term therapy. I draw from Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Systemic Therapies and work from a culturally responsive and socially just stance. Find renewed insight from a holistic approach. We work together to co-create a thriving life.

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As a Registered Provisional Psychologist, I am dedicated to my journey toward obtaining a (Psy.D) Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Being more than halfway through my program has kept me motivated and committed to achieving my goals.

Throughout this process, I have embraced the potential for personal growth and self-discovery. The inspiration I’ve gained has profoundly influenced my path and fueled my passion for helping others, particularly women as they navigate unique challenges such as low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and stress management related to life transitions like fertility issues (IVF), pregnancy, motherhood, postpartum depression, job changes, caregiver burnout, relationship dynamics, and single parenting. I am also open to working with individuals of any culture, background, or gender, recognizing that each person faces distinct challenges and societal pressures. My aim is to create a safe and supportive environment for open dialogue and exploration.

By addressing these diverse areas, I seek to empower individuals to develop healthy relationships, improve self-worth, and cultivate emotional resilience. My goal is to provide tailored support that meets each client’s specific needs, helping them thrive both personally and professionally.

In addition to my work with women, I find fulfillment in assisting men with their mental health needs, believing that everyone deserves support, and enhancing their life circumstances. I strive to create an empathetic space for all individuals to explore their feelings and develop coping strategies that promote healing and resilience.

I am trained in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Trauma-Informed Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Multicultural Counseling. My therapeutic approach is centered on helping clients cultivate a more meaningful life filled with purpose, empowering them to develop faith in themselves and to embrace flow.

I aim to guide clients toward joy and fulfillment, helping them view setbacks as opportunities for growth that bring them closer to their goals. I aspire to facilitate their journey toward becoming the best version of themselves while alleviating tension and stress.

I am passionate about working with young adults (ages 20+) and conducting future formal assessments for both children and adults. In addition to my professional interests, I recently published my first book, Who Am I in the Universe? This inspirational affirmation book encourages readers to connect with their inner selves and reprogram their subconscious minds through positive thoughts. By fostering inner peace and unwavering faith, my goal is to inspire readers to embrace their limitless potential. It is available on Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, Chapters, and Book Baby.

Currently, I am publishing my second book, We Are Like the Rainbow, which is designed for children. It focuses on the themes of diversity and acceptance. I feel this book will make a meaningful contribution to my new venture as the owner of a Montessori school that I will be opening soon.

I also draw immense inspiration from motivational speakers and their unwavering commitment to empowering others. Their passion fuels my creativity and encourages me to trust in my own contributions and path to success.

At my core, I believe my purpose in life is to help others, a calling expressed through the compassion I extend without expectation. I enter each interaction with an open heart, understanding that while I often find fulfillment from within, true self-awareness and affirming one’s own truth are essential.

I look forward to the opportunity of connecting with you!

As a Registered Provisional Psychologist, I am dedicated to my journey toward obtaining a (Psy.D)... Read More

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Sydney is a Registered Psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists. Sydney holds a Master of Counselling from City University of Seattle in Canada. Sydney is deeply committed to helping every person she has the honour of doing counselling with. She believes deeply in people and wants to connect each person to their truest self. In her psychoeducational assessments, Sydney is passionate about assessments and appropriate diagnoses and the access to resources, accommodations, and the deeper self-understanding they can provide.

Sydney is a Registered Psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists. S... Read More

Scott brings a steady presence to therapy to help anchor wherever you need to go. He specializes in helping with work/life balance struggles, life transitions, parenting, attachment, adoption and fostering (He is an adoptive parent), ADHD, and grief and loss. He sees human struggles mostly from an attachment/early-life and developmental process perspective, but utilizes a variety of therapeutic tools and techniques. He enjoys creating a collaborative environment and sharing the path to wellness for individuals and parents and families

Scott is a Registered Psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists and a Canadian Certified Counsellor in good standing with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Scott holds a Master of Counselling from City University of Seattle in Canada and a postgraduate diploma in Journalism from Edinburgh Napier University in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Scott has experience in supporting individuals through grief and loss, suicide bereavement, couple relationships, family therapy, parenting support, adoption and fostering family counselling, anxiety, and depression. He has held positions at Canadian Mental Health Association, St. Mary’s University, Amaris Adoption and Family Support Services (where he also served as a board member), and Norum Psychological Services. Scott has given workshop presentations at Woods Homes, Amaris Adoption and Family Support Services, Adoption Options, and The Mustard Seed Calgary.

He is trained in EMDR, EMDR with children, and relationship support. Scott also has extensive experience in facilitating both psychoeducational and counselling support groups.​

When not at Solasta (or sometimes when he is!), Scott enjoys hanging out with his children, searching for the best Chinese food in Calgary, and getting up in the dark early on Saturday mornings to watch Scottish football.

Scott brings a steady presence to therapy to help anchor wherever you need to go. He specializes ... Read More

Current and prior clients only. New clients - please email gillian@solastacounselling.ca to enquire.

Current and prior clients only. New clients - please email gillian@solastacounselling.ca to enqui... Read More