Gita Ward, BA, MSW, RCSW Registered Clinical Social Worker
Video about Gita Ward helping an ex-soldier with PTSD. Please see full article at the bottom of the page. “Gita gave a damn. My life was saved. My life was spared. ‘Thank you,’ is very small in words, but the meaning in my world is vast.”
About Gita
I am the founder of True Living Counselling & Coaching Inc. I enjoy working in an empathetic and collaborative manner in order to provide you with individualistic service that best suits your needs. I am honoured to be a part of many peoples' journeys to personal growth and wellness. My work energizes me as I see the potential for achieving a life worth living and goals worth achieving. My clients tell me that I am very understanding and non-judgmental and surprised by how fast they feel better by attending therapy.
I work with adults and teens who are presenting with a variety of issues and concerns such as addictions, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationships, anger management, life stress, self-harm, trauma and suicidal ideation. I am also available for general concerns where you may need someone to talk things out with.
I look forward to meeting you and developing goals together in a collaborative manner to achieve what you want in life. When you are ready for a change or to explore the possibility of change please contact Gita Ward.
My Professional Experience
I have been working in a variety of mental health, addiction and social settings for over 15 years and have a passion for the field. I have extensive experience providing counselling services to various populations in mental health and addictions. I have worked in inpatient, outpatient and community settings with Alberta Health Services and other agencies.
Education and Training
I graduated from the University of Prince Edward with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and I have a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. I strive for ongoing professional development and have completed the following training:
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)- Calgary, AB. OSI Clinic
Attachment Focused Advanced EMDR- Emdria approved- Calgary, AB. with Dr. Laurel Parnel
Certificate in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)- Calgary, AB. with Sue Genest
Advanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) for Anxiety, Depression and Trauma- Banff, AB. with David Burns
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Training- Online with PESI
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Anxiety Disorders- Beck Institute
Certificate in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)- University of Calgary
I am registered with the Alberta College of Social Workers as a Clinical Social Worker and authorized to Perform Restricted Activities- As a clinical social worker I completed 1600 supervised hours post Masters and passed a clinical social work exam - RSW # 10830
Fun Facts
I love to travel the world to meet new people and learn about all of the amazing cultures the world has to offer. I am a proud mother of an amazing son whom loves to travel as well. I love to spend time with my family and my dog, Walter. I strongly believe in giving back to the community and building stronger communities through education, so I started an ongoing bi-yearly scholarship for GED graduates to pursue higher education. I am also part of the 100 Women Who Care in Foothills who donate to Local Charities four times a year. I am originally from the East Coast and do enjoy going home to Prince Edward Island to visit the ocean, red sands, family, and eating delicious PEI potatoes, mussels and lobster.
Sheena Reichert, BSW, MSW, RSW Registered Social Worker
About Sheena
I have always had an interest in connecting with people. I believe that everyone is truly unique in their lives and experience, and I feel so blessed and passionate to be able to become a part of that journey.
I work with adults and teens who are presenting with a variety of issues and concerns such as addictions, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationships, anger management, life stress, self-harm, trauma and suicidal ideation. I am also available for general concerns where you may need someone to talk things out with.
I have advanced specialized training and a specialized interest in Complex Trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)and general Trauma.
I look forward to meeting you and developing goals together in a collaborative manner to achieve what you want in life. Connect with me and share your story. I look forward to offering support to you while you are on your road to healing. Contact me; Sheena Reichert, for more information or directly book online for your first appointment.
My Professional Experience
I have been working in a variety of mental health, addiction and social settings for over 10 years and have a passion for the field. I have extensive experience providing counselling services to various populations in mental health and addictions. I have worked with Alberta Health Services and other agencies. Currently, I only work in private practice.
Education and Training
I graduated from the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Social Work and I have a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Calgary. I strive for ongoing professional development and have completed the following training:
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)- Calgary, AB. OSI Clinic
Certificate in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)- Change Ways, Calgary, AB
Feedback Informed Treatment- Calgary, AB. with Scott Miller
I am registered with the Alberta College of Social Workers as a Social Worker and authorized to Perform Restricted Activities- RSW# 12537
Fun Facts
I am a mom of two wild little boys, and love to come up with creative ways to have fun together as a family. Our new little puppy has been keeping us busy and entertained these days. I love creating art and I am always trying to find new projects to work on. I have recently written and published a book while on my maternity leave with my second son! I enjoy spending time in nature and keeping my boys active. I love travelling and have lived in several different countries. This has allowed me to admire and appreciate the vast differences that so many cultures and individuals hold. And yes I lived and worked on a yacht!
I believe that people have the ability to grow and heal. I will work alongside you on your journey to fulfil your hopes and dreams for a brighter future.I provide a safe and understanding environment to explore your hopes, fears, and concerns. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to best fit your needs.
I work with adults and teens who are presenting with a variety of issues and concerns such as emotional dysregulation, self-harm, suicide ideation, anxiety, trauma, CPTSD, relationships, identity, grief and loss, depression, transition into adulthood, life transitions, burnout and stress. I am also available for general concerns where you may need someone to talk things out with.
I have specialized training and a specialized interest in working with people who have borderline personality disorder and concerns with emotional regulation.
I look forward to hearing your story and connecting with you!
My Professional Experience
I have been working in a variety of mental health, addiction and social settings for over 10 years and have a passion for the field. I have extensive experience providing counselling services to various populations in mental health and addictions. I currently work with Alberta Health Services as a Registered Psychologist providing counselling/psychological services to the adult population. Education and Training
I graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Psychology and I have a Master's of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I strive for ongoing professional development and have completed the following training:
ACT & Mindfulness for Trauma, Russ Harris
Recovery Oriented Cognitive Therapy,Beck Institute
CBT for Suicidality,the Association for Psychological Therapies
Using DBT to Treat Emotional Dysregulation Disorders, Jack Hirose
Two-Day Grief Workshop, Pepsi
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Denver Centre for SFBT
Mindfulness Meditation, University of Calgary
Traumatic Dissociation, Emotional Dysregulation and the Loss of Self,University of Calgary Centre for Social Work Research
I am registered with the College of Alberta Psychologists as a Psychologist # 4651
Fun Facts
I was born and raised in Alberta. I enjoy spending time with my friends, family, dog and cat. I enjoy anything food related such as cooking, baking, and trying out new food.
Gail Janjua, BA, MSW, RSW Registered Social Worker
About Gail
I have a strong passion in working with individuals looking for guidance and support in finding connection with others and within themselves. I value hearing your story and appreciate the opportunity to walk alongside you. Life situations and changes can be complicated and disruptive, and one of the most difficult steps can be reaching out for support. I am here to create a safe and trusting environment for you, full of authenticity, respect, understanding, acceptance, empathy, humour and no judgement. I look forward to utilizing effective therapeutic approaches and working together in creating a plan tailored to your individual needs.
I work with adults and teens who are struggling with a broad range of concerns, such as addictions, anxiety, burnout, depression, grief and loss, relationships, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, stress & trauma. I am also available for general concerns to talk things out with.
I have advanced specialized training and passion working with adults and teens struggling with substance use and addictions- including alcohol, drugs, food, gambling, pornography and sex addictions. Together we can work to ensure that problems are being addressed and plans are put in place to get you back on the path of healing. I look forward to connecting with you and having the opportunity to support you in your journey!
My Professional Experience
I have been working in this field for over 10 yearsand have a strong passion for Social Work, specializing in addictions and mental health. I also have extensive experience providing counselling services, one-on-one as well as groups, to various populations struggling with mental health and addictions. I currently work with Alberta Health Services as a Social Work on an addiction and mental health in-patient unit providing group therapy, one-on-one guidance and resource support to the youth and adult population.
Education and Training
I graduated from the University of Lethbridge with a Bachelor of Sociologyand I have a Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Calgary. I continue to pursue ongoing professional development and have completed the following training:
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
Certificate in Mastering Internal Family Systems (IFS) for Clinical Challenges: Resolving Trauma, Anxiety, Attachment Injuries, & Addictions
Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health professional (CAIMHP)
Certificate for Trauma Informed Motivational Interviewing
Certificate for Integrate Motivational Interviewing with Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) & Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Certificate for Motivational Interview Skills for Macro-Trauma: Help Clients Overcome the Impact of Collective, Racial & Systemic Trauma
Certificate for Walking With Grief Helping Others Deal With Loss
I am registered with the Alberta College of Social Workers #12918
Fun Facts
I was born and raised in British Columbia but have spent years living and exploring different cities in Alberta. My family continues to live in BC so I enjoy taking holidays home to enjoy the beautiful weather, ethnic foods and of course my family. When I have free time, I love to travel all over the world meeting amazing people, some life-long friends and trying unique cultural foods. I also love taking hobby classes, dancing and spending time with friends.
Celine Olsen, BA, MSW, RSW Registered Social Worker
About Celine
Helping and connecting with others has always been a passion of mine. I believe everyone has the innate wisdom and capacity to heal. As your counsellor, we will work collaboratively to reconnect you with your wisdom.
I work with adults and teens who may be experiencing a wide variety of trauma or stress related symptoms including anxiety, depression, emotional overwhelm, relationship issues, self- harm, suicide ideation, vicarious trauma, or family issues. Your symptoms may be minimal, or may be overwhelming, regardless of where you are at, I invite you to work with me. I hope to bring more joy and positive experiences into your life. You deserve to move forward, you deserve to feel joy, and you deserve to experience life in the moment.
The reality is, there’s pain and suffering in this world, and it touches every person at some point in life. Many of us aren’t given the tools or opportunity to learn how to process or hold space for our pain. This may lead to suppression or avoidance, or for us to shut our hearts off to the world in order to protect ourselves.
Therapy offers us the opportunity to learn tools to hold space for painful emotions, and to also learn how to intentionally create joyful experiences for ourselves. My goal as a therapist is to walk alongside individuals who are ready to (re)connect with themselves.
I look forward to hearing your story and connecting with you!
My Professional Experience
I have six+ years of experience in the mental health field working with families, youth, and individuals. My specialization and experience are focused on working with individuals impacted by trauma and sexual abuse.
Through our work together, we can discover the best tool to support your healing, whether it be Cognitive, Somatic, or Emotional processing. All of these techniques will lead you towards better understanding yourself, and wholeness. I am Metis and integrate the emotional, physical, spiritual, and emotional domains of wellness into my practice.
My practice is informed by somatic trauma informed therapeutic modalities such as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Compassionate Inquiry, and Sensorimotor. Education and Training
I graduated from Mount Royal University with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice (Honours) and I have a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work with a specialization of Trauma-Informed Practice from the University of Calgary. I appreciate that holding a career as a therapist means becoming a lifelong learner, therefore I strive for ongoing professional development have completed or are currently enrolled in the following trainings:
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) – Calgary, Alberta
Working with the Neurobiological Legacy of Trauma- PESI
Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics- Calgary, Alberta
Brain Story Certification- Calgary, Alberta
Mindfulness & the Body; an Introduction to the Hakomi Method- Calgary, Alberta
Compassionate Inquiry with Dr. Gabor Mate (Ongoing) – Online
Clinical Social Work Designation (In Progress)
I am registered with the Alberta College of Social Workers as a Social Worker – RSW # 17896
Fun Facts
I have always been an avid animal lover, outside of practice you might find me at the dog park with one or more of my four dogs. I grew up on a farm and hope to move to an acreage one day where my partner and I can create a sanctuary for animals in need. I believe we are all deeply connected to nature and spend much of my free time outdoors hiking or enjoying nature walks. Recently, my own healing journey has led me to reconnect with activities that brought me joy as a child. This includes singing, dancing, baking, painting, and spending quality time with loved ones.
Andrea Thrift, BCR, MSW, RSW Registered Social Worker Child & Family Therapist
About Andrea
I am passionate about working with children age 6+ and families. I believe that engaging in a collaborative therapeutic process helps individuals live happier, healthier, and more rewarding lives.
In my work with individuals, families, and schools, I apply a collaborative, trauma-informed, solution-focused, and strength-based perspective that informs my approach.
I help children with a variety of needs to better comprehend and deal with oppositional behaviour, anxiety, ADHD, school avoidance, and problems with challenging situations. I also work with neurodivergent children, youths and their families. I offer young people with a supportive space to explore their strengths and challenges. I also provide a warm, safe, accepting and free-of-judgement setting.
I look forward to connecting with you and your children.
My Professional Experience
I have had the honour of spending more than 15 years working with families and young people. During this time, I have helped these young people’s meet their behavioural, social-emotional, and academic goals in school.
I worked in partnership, with families, guardians, outside organizations, and school staff, providing social-emotional support and instruction. Along with assistance in locating and utilizing local agencies and resources, I also provided advocacy and one-on-one counselling.
I put a lot of value in collaborating with a diverse range of experts including; social workers, psychologists, nurses, occupational therapists, job coaches, and physicians. I have experience working with the community of non-profits, schools, and rural communities. Education and Training
I graduated from the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Community Rehabilitation (BCR) Degree and I have a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work with a clinical specialization in Community-informed practice for health & well-being from the University of Calgary. I continue to seek ongoing professional development and have completed or am currently enrolled in the following trainings:
Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics- Calgary, Alberta
Brain Story Certification- Calgary, Alberta
Triple-P Parenting Program Practitioner - Standard and Enhanced – Calgary, Alberta
Collaborative Problem-Solving Tier 1 - Calgary, Alberta
Response Based Therapy Training - Calgary, Alberta
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Training – Calgary, Alberta
Ethics Training - Calgary, Alberta
Green Stream Certificate (Therapeutic Play Accreditation) – Calgary, Alberta
Solution Focused Therapy – Calgary, Alberta
The Unified Protocol (Ongoing) – Online
As a social worker, I am registered with the Alberta College of Social Workers under RSW # 18041
Fun Facts
I am a wife and mom to two amazing children. I enjoy running, camping and spending time at a lake with my family. In my free time, my husband and I like going to our kids' sporting activities to support our favourite athletes. Over the years, I have learned how important it is to spend time with loved ones.
Craig Ward, BA, Certified IAPO Coach
About Craig Ward
My passion is to help others overcome the mental blocks stopping them from reaching their desired potential. By unlocking the inner strengths, wisdom, and knowledge you never thought you had, I will help you overcome hurdles to making your dreams a reality.
I work with teens and adult men who are struggling to find a purpose, or put a plan in place to achieve personal or professional excellence. I am here to help you define and develop your personal dreams and couple them with the goals necessary to make those dreams a reality.
Working in an empathetic and collaborative manner, I will provide you with individualistic service that best suits your needs. I am honoured to be a part of this journey to personal growth, wellness or any other dream you might have. This mission energizes me as I see the potential for achieving a life worth living and goals worth achieving.
My Professional Experience
Over my professional life, I have cultivated and attained leadership roles working for corporations, in non-profit, and independent business. These roles have afforded me the opportunity to spend time mentoring and coaching workers and clients from many different walks of life on not only how to achieve their desires, but also how to uncover what it is that they truly desire from this life. I also have had the privilege of program development and implementation, creating plans, and putting them into action.
Education and Training
I graduated from the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of History and a Bachelor of Political Science. I am currently completing a Bachelor or Psychology from Athabasca University. Throughout life I have had the benefit of ongoing professional development and have completed the following training specific to coaching:
Emerging Leaders Certificate (University of Calgary) - Calgary AB.
Skills for Effective Mentoring
Becoming Empowered Through Coaching
Coach to Lead
Coaching for Quality Performance
Skills for Effective Mentoring
Cultivating a Growth Mindset
Facilitation Skills
Dealing with Difficult Conversations
International Association of Career College Professional Association
Fun Facts
I have had the immense pleasure and fortune to have grown-up on and continue to work on a local grain farm. I enjoy the scientific nature of figuring out how to grow the best crop with the conditions provided. All the aspects from marketing to the product to fixing equipment lends to constant novelty from month-to-month and year-to-year. My hobbies range from woodworking to cooking and I enjoy adding additional skills and challenges gradually over time. Finally, I enjoy spending time with my son teaching and learning.