Our Story: Our Journey to Creating a Safe Space

Starting a private counselling practice wasn’t just a career move—it was a calling. My journey in the mental health field began over five years ago, before the world was turned upside down by the pandemic. Back then, I was working in a post-secondary institution, supporting students as they navigated the pressures of academia, personal struggles, and the growing demands of life. It was meaningful work, and I valued every conversation, every breakthrough, and every moment of connection.

But over time, I realized something was missing.

Feeling Stuck in the System

Before starting my own practice, I spent years working in agency settings. While I was passionate about helping people, I often felt stuck—trapped within the limits of the system. I had little control over my schedule, my approach, or even how deeply I could support clients. The constraints made it difficult to provide the type of care I knew people truly needed.

I kept asking myself: Is this it? Is this what my career—and my life—will always feel like? I wanted to offer more, but institutional policies, funding limitations, and rigid structures made that nearly impossible.

I knew I needed a change.

The Vision: A Purpose-Built Safe Space

I wanted to create a space where people could come and feel truly seen, heard, and understood—without the bureaucracy, the rushed sessions, or the feeling of being just another number. I imagined a place where mental health support was deeply personal, where both clients and therapists had the freedom to engage in meaningful, transformative work.

And so, I started North Pine.

Finding Freedom in North Pine

The name North Pine wasn’t chosen at random—it reflects both my environment and my personal journey. Living on the north side, surrounded by mountains, pines, and endless greenery, I found a deep sense of peace and clarity in nature. The stillness of the trees, the grounding presence of the mountains—these things reminded me of what I was missing: freedom.

Starting North Pine was my way of getting that unstuck feeling back. It was about reclaiming control over my career, my time, and most importantly, the way I support others. It became a place where I could practice counselling in a way that aligns with my values—authentic, compassionate, and centred around each person’s unique needs.

What This Means for You

If you’re here, reading this, know that North Pine was built with you in mind. Whether you’re seeking support for anxiety, stress, life transitions, or simply a space to process your thoughts, my goal is to walk alongside you in a way that feels supportive, not clinical. I strive to make every session a space where you can breathe, reflect, and move forward at your own pace.

Mental health is deeply personal, and so is this practice. It’s more than just a business—it’s a space where people can show up as they are and feel valued.

I’m excited to continue this journey, and I’m even more excited to walk with you on yours.