Family Therapy in Halifax, NS
Do you feel anxious, depressed, overwhelmed by trauma, or worn down by life changes or parenting stress? Many people come to me looking for clarity or relief. Through grounded, honest dialogue, we slow things down and explore what’s really driving your distress. With curiosity and courage, you may find yourself becoming stronger, clearer, and more resilient than you expected—better able to face life’s challenges with confidence.
Do you feel anxious, depressed, overwhelmed by trauma, or worn down by life changes or parenting stress? Many people come to me looking for clarity or relief. Through grounded, honest dialogue, we slow things down and explore what’s really driving your distress. With curiosity and courage, you may find yourself becoming stronger, clearer, and more resilient than you expected—better able to face life’s challenges with confidence.
With training in Internal Family Systems (IFSCA), I often help clients work through internal conflicts by learning to listen to parts of themselves (that might initially seem "bad" or "unhelpful") with curiosity and compassion.
My work is grounded by respect for the dignity of all people, reverence for the wisdom of our bodies, and trust in our capacity to heal. I often work with people who share these values, but struggle to find hope after experiences of trauma or distress. I have seen how therapy can help us move through the world with more ease, presence, and compassion (for self and others). As a queer and non-binary therapist, I aim to offer a respectful counselling experience that does not require you to justify your identity. I often work with queer and trans folks, as well as clients who appreciate a perspective from outside the binary.
With training in Internal Family Systems (IFSCA), I often help clients work through internal conflicts by learning to listen to parts of themselves (that might initially seem "bad" or "unhelpful") with curiosity and compassion.
My work is grounded by respect for the dignity of all people, reverence for the wisdom of our bodies, and trust in our capacity to heal. I often work with people who share these values, but struggle to find hope after experiences of trauma or distress. I have seen how therapy can help us move through the world with more ease, presence, and compassion (for self and others). As a queer and non-binary therapist, I aim to offer a respectful counselling experience that does not require you to justify your identity. I often work with queer and trans folks, as well as clients who appreciate a perspective from outside the binary.
I have over two decades of experience supporting youth and families in the education system.
I offer both in-person and virtual appointments for counselling therapy at Aura Women's Wellness in the Hydrostone area of Halifax. I provide a safe and inclusive space where you can begin to process challenging emotions and get your bearings when navigating a tough time. My intention is to provide a time and space where you can fully express yourself openly and honestly without fear of judgement. I welcome the opportunity to support you with whatever you are going through and hope to provide you with additional insights, tools, and strategies to move you forward in your healing.
I have over two decades of experience supporting youth and families in the education system.
I offer both in-person and virtual appointments for counselling therapy at Aura Women's Wellness in the Hydrostone area of Halifax. I provide a safe and inclusive space where you can begin to process challenging emotions and get your bearings when navigating a tough time. My intention is to provide a time and space where you can fully express yourself openly and honestly without fear of judgement. I welcome the opportunity to support you with whatever you are going through and hope to provide you with additional insights, tools, and strategies to move you forward in your healing.
I have education and training specific to social services, SFBT, mental health, family studies, Queer studies, and psychology.
I offer coaching services for life transitions, working towards goals, and supporting organization, planning, and strategizing. I also provide mental health and wellness support services for those looking to maintain wellness but who do not require building new strategies. Please see pinkopalcounselling.com/services for more information.
I have education and training specific to social services, SFBT, mental health, family studies, Queer studies, and psychology.
I offer coaching services for life transitions, working towards goals, and supporting organization, planning, and strategizing. I also provide mental health and wellness support services for those looking to maintain wellness but who do not require building new strategies. Please see pinkopalcounselling.com/services for more information.
I have extensive training in trauma therapy (Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Interpersonal Neurobiology) and am a certified EFT couple therapist.
Relationship heals. When we are able to befriend, that is, take up a relationship with parts of ourselves that need our attention, understanding and compassion, this Self to part relationship fosters integration rather than fragmentation, association rather than dissociation. Befriending allows healing, growth and new patterns to emerge.
I have extensive training in trauma therapy (Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Interpersonal Neurobiology) and am a certified EFT couple therapist.
Relationship heals. When we are able to befriend, that is, take up a relationship with parts of ourselves that need our attention, understanding and compassion, this Self to part relationship fosters integration rather than fragmentation, association rather than dissociation. Befriending allows healing, growth and new patterns to emerge.
Hi there, I'm Tanya. I enjoy supporting youth to Millennials who are facing stress, anxiety, depression and ADHD, amongst a variety of other emotional difficulties. Life has been difficult, especially throughout these unprecedented times, and can result in troubles with worrying, focus and attention, low self-esteem, feelings of isolation, and overwhelming negative thoughts. It's not easy. The good news is that despite these difficulties, counselling can help turn the tide around; it offers a safe space to gain new insights, coping skills, and confidence to overcome challenges and start feeling better.
Hi there, I'm Tanya. I enjoy supporting youth to Millennials who are facing stress, anxiety, depression and ADHD, amongst a variety of other emotional difficulties. Life has been difficult, especially throughout these unprecedented times, and can result in troubles with worrying, focus and attention, low self-esteem, feelings of isolation, and overwhelming negative thoughts. It's not easy. The good news is that despite these difficulties, counselling can help turn the tide around; it offers a safe space to gain new insights, coping skills, and confidence to overcome challenges and start feeling better.
We are a team of social work therapists who support individuals seeking tools to self-regulate, find calm or reduce anxiety, to build safety in their lives and relationships, or to understand and process the impact of relational trauma in their lives. We work to help reduce triggers and impacts of trauma while developing tools and skills to maintain a more balanced life. We work from a gentle process of trust-building without pressure on their journey. We recognize the importance of a therapeutic relationship built on a strong foundation of trust, honesty, non-judgement, respect, and transparency.
We are a team of social work therapists who support individuals seeking tools to self-regulate, find calm or reduce anxiety, to build safety in their lives and relationships, or to understand and process the impact of relational trauma in their lives. We work to help reduce triggers and impacts of trauma while developing tools and skills to maintain a more balanced life. We work from a gentle process of trust-building without pressure on their journey. We recognize the importance of a therapeutic relationship built on a strong foundation of trust, honesty, non-judgement, respect, and transparency.
Hi! I am presently accepting new clients for online/virtual therapy. I have worked with predominantly with teens and adults with a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, anger, stress, substance use, emotion regulation, communication, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. I have worked with many different kinds of people around the world and in Canada, which has shown me the importance of integrating every part of a person in therapy, and has taught me to remain open-minded.
Hi! I am presently accepting new clients for online/virtual therapy. I have worked with predominantly with teens and adults with a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, anger, stress, substance use, emotion regulation, communication, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. I have worked with many different kinds of people around the world and in Canada, which has shown me the importance of integrating every part of a person in therapy, and has taught me to remain open-minded.
I also offer parent-focused therapy for parents of children ages 4 to 17 to navigate big emotions, challenging behaviour, co-sleeping, bedtime battles, morning routines, and family dynamics.
Struggling in your relationships or at home doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means something important needs attention. I work with couples navigating communication issues, conflict, and patterns that keep repeating. I support parents who want a calmer home and a stronger connection with their kids, including big emotions, bedtime challenges, anxiety-driven behaviours, and ongoing power struggles. I also help adults with people-pleasing, boundary challenges, and relationship difficulties at home or at work.
I also offer parent-focused therapy for parents of children ages 4 to 17 to navigate big emotions, challenging behaviour, co-sleeping, bedtime battles, morning routines, and family dynamics.
Struggling in your relationships or at home doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means something important needs attention. I work with couples navigating communication issues, conflict, and patterns that keep repeating. I support parents who want a calmer home and a stronger connection with their kids, including big emotions, bedtime challenges, anxiety-driven behaviours, and ongoing power struggles. I also help adults with people-pleasing, boundary challenges, and relationship difficulties at home or at work.
Hello, I’m Allison Wood, a Registered Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience supporting women through life’s most pivotal moments. At Nest Therapy, I offer a warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings—and find ways forward that feel manageable and authentically you.
Hello, I’m Allison Wood, a Registered Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience supporting women through life’s most pivotal moments. At Nest Therapy, I offer a warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings—and find ways forward that feel manageable and authentically you.
My understanding and compassion around this area has only grown along with my own family.
You deserve to live your best, most authentic and fulfilling life! I get that, unfortunately, this isn’t always your current reality. I truly believe that we are all doing the best that we can with what is available to us in this very moment. Sometimes, that will look different, based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, our environment, support, nervous system health, past experiences, and limiting beliefs. Life transitions can be particularly challenging, such as the fertility journey and, if fortunate enough, becoming a parent. It can feel hard, but it doesn’t have to be. We were never meant to do this alone!
My understanding and compassion around this area has only grown along with my own family.
You deserve to live your best, most authentic and fulfilling life! I get that, unfortunately, this isn’t always your current reality. I truly believe that we are all doing the best that we can with what is available to us in this very moment. Sometimes, that will look different, based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, our environment, support, nervous system health, past experiences, and limiting beliefs. Life transitions can be particularly challenging, such as the fertility journey and, if fortunate enough, becoming a parent. It can feel hard, but it doesn’t have to be. We were never meant to do this alone!
I believe we all carry the strength to heal within us—but we do not have to walk that path alone. I specialize in supporting youth and have a strong track record of building meaningful connections that foster trust and growth. Young people often need a space beyond their immediate circle of parents, teachers, or coaches—a space where they can express themselves freely. I offer a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment where healing can begin. My client-centered approach is flexible and tailored to individual needs. I also support clients of all ages navigating anxiety, depression, workplace stress, grief, and trauma.
I believe we all carry the strength to heal within us—but we do not have to walk that path alone. I specialize in supporting youth and have a strong track record of building meaningful connections that foster trust and growth. Young people often need a space beyond their immediate circle of parents, teachers, or coaches—a space where they can express themselves freely. I offer a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment where healing can begin. My client-centered approach is flexible and tailored to individual needs. I also support clients of all ages navigating anxiety, depression, workplace stress, grief, and trauma.
My specialized area includes working with children/adolescents and adults struggling with mental health, stress/anger management, family violence and co-parenting support.
I am glad you found me here. How can I provide a relationship to you that may be used for your personal growth? Many therapists urge clients to change themselves when circumstances cannot change. Our therapeutic relationship will encourage you to focus on controlling your inner life when your outer lives and circumstances are out of control, due to trauma, mental health, intrusive thoughts, cognitive distortions, and flashbacks/nightmares, which can lead to depression, anxiety, avoidance/maladaptive coping strategies such as addiction. If this sounds like you, I want to work with you to heal past wounds and regain control.
My specialized area includes working with children/adolescents and adults struggling with mental health, stress/anger management, family violence and co-parenting support.
I am glad you found me here. How can I provide a relationship to you that may be used for your personal growth? Many therapists urge clients to change themselves when circumstances cannot change. Our therapeutic relationship will encourage you to focus on controlling your inner life when your outer lives and circumstances are out of control, due to trauma, mental health, intrusive thoughts, cognitive distortions, and flashbacks/nightmares, which can lead to depression, anxiety, avoidance/maladaptive coping strategies such as addiction. If this sounds like you, I want to work with you to heal past wounds and regain control.
I collaborate with clients who may be experiencing challenges related to depression or trauma associated with their relationships or family dynamics.
You’re stuck in patterns you can’t seem to change. Maybe you're feeling anxious, disconnected, or overwhelmed by the demands of life or your relationship. You’re trying to keep it together, but inside, something feels off - misaligned. Conversations turn into conflicts. Emotions feel too big or numb. You’re caught between wanting things to change and not knowing how to begin. Maybe you’ve done therapy before or this is your first time. Either way, you’re craving clarity, connection, and something more sustainable than “just coping.” You’re ready for real change, not quick fixes.
I collaborate with clients who may be experiencing challenges related to depression or trauma associated with their relationships or family dynamics.
You’re stuck in patterns you can’t seem to change. Maybe you're feeling anxious, disconnected, or overwhelmed by the demands of life or your relationship. You’re trying to keep it together, but inside, something feels off - misaligned. Conversations turn into conflicts. Emotions feel too big or numb. You’re caught between wanting things to change and not knowing how to begin. Maybe you’ve done therapy before or this is your first time. Either way, you’re craving clarity, connection, and something more sustainable than “just coping.” You’re ready for real change, not quick fixes.
My focus is on helping clients face difficult life challenges and the emotions, worries and fears that come with them. Stress, anxiety, and depression are more familiar to us than we would like. Our goal in therapy is to improve your coping skills and overall well-being. With that, I am a firm believer in the need for an individualized journey in therapy as opposed to a one-size fits all cookbook approach. This is about you and your life. It's deeper than some technique or strategy. And so therapy has to be founded on our relationship we build and the dynamics of it. Finding a therapist right for you is important also.
My focus is on helping clients face difficult life challenges and the emotions, worries and fears that come with them. Stress, anxiety, and depression are more familiar to us than we would like. Our goal in therapy is to improve your coping skills and overall well-being. With that, I am a firm believer in the need for an individualized journey in therapy as opposed to a one-size fits all cookbook approach. This is about you and your life. It's deeper than some technique or strategy. And so therapy has to be founded on our relationship we build and the dynamics of it. Finding a therapist right for you is important also.
Amanda Williams
Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate, MA, RCT-C, BEd
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, or a loss of a sense of self, that affects your ability to positively regard who you are and your purpose? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, alone or stressed by life's responsibilities, like responding to emails, transitions either from work to home or school? Do you wonder if your sense of self could be better fostered through your ability to deal with these challenges? Now more than ever, all people, are feeling a heightened sense of anxiousness, fatigue and pressure to make ends meet while maintaining healthy relationships and meeting society's expectations.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, or a loss of a sense of self, that affects your ability to positively regard who you are and your purpose? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, alone or stressed by life's responsibilities, like responding to emails, transitions either from work to home or school? Do you wonder if your sense of self could be better fostered through your ability to deal with these challenges? Now more than ever, all people, are feeling a heightened sense of anxiousness, fatigue and pressure to make ends meet while maintaining healthy relationships and meeting society's expectations.
These manifestations can lead to further challenges such as job loss, family conflict, isolation, and addiction.
In order to live a flourishing life, it is important to recognize our strengths and identify our assets. Too much time spent focusing on personal deficits can impede progress. Instead, by recognizing and shifting away from negative thoughts, feelings and behaviors, we can cultivate positive emotions, healthy relationships and a sense of purpose.
These manifestations can lead to further challenges such as job loss, family conflict, isolation, and addiction.
In order to live a flourishing life, it is important to recognize our strengths and identify our assets. Too much time spent focusing on personal deficits can impede progress. Instead, by recognizing and shifting away from negative thoughts, feelings and behaviors, we can cultivate positive emotions, healthy relationships and a sense of purpose.
Heather McPherson
Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, MA, MACP, RCT-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My clients often grew up walking on eggshells—around addiction, anger, emotional chaos, or invalidating environments. Now they find they are struggling in their own adult relationships or with their own emotional challenges. They may struggle with overthinking, people-pleasing, emotional shutdown, or conflict. They want to understand their reactions, manage strong emotions, and feel more secure and connected in their relationships and within themselves. They enjoy my down-to-earth, practical, and compassionate approach that balances insight with action.
My clients often grew up walking on eggshells—around addiction, anger, emotional chaos, or invalidating environments. Now they find they are struggling in their own adult relationships or with their own emotional challenges. They may struggle with overthinking, people-pleasing, emotional shutdown, or conflict. They want to understand their reactions, manage strong emotions, and feel more secure and connected in their relationships and within themselves. They enjoy my down-to-earth, practical, and compassionate approach that balances insight with action.
Life can feel overwhelming when depression, anxiety, or a lack of purpose takes hold. You might feel stuck, disconnected from yourself, or unsure how to move forward in your relationships, work, or personal growth. If you’ve been struggling to find joy or meaning, I’m here to help you explore where this may be stemming from. My goal is to help you reconnect with your sense of self, build healthier relationships, and create a life that feels authentic to you.
Life can feel overwhelming when depression, anxiety, or a lack of purpose takes hold. You might feel stuck, disconnected from yourself, or unsure how to move forward in your relationships, work, or personal growth. If you’ve been struggling to find joy or meaning, I’m here to help you explore where this may be stemming from. My goal is to help you reconnect with your sense of self, build healthier relationships, and create a life that feels authentic to you.
I have experience in a variety of issues, including MVA, PTSD, anxiety, depression, family relationship, couples therapy, parenting issues, anger management, LGBTQ+ community, abuse and trauma.
I thrive on navigating my clients through times of emotional distress, depression, anxiety, searching for meaning and purpose, need of connectedness, questioning of identity, values, looking for hope and peace. I feel confident in helping people find inner peace, mental tranquility and emotional calm through counselling and psychotherapy. I believe that a human being who is in search of reducing stress levels, boosting the quality of life, and achieving spiritual and mental sophistication and emotional stability would appreciate guidance and companionship. I would be glad to be at the service of my clients who feel this way.
I have experience in a variety of issues, including MVA, PTSD, anxiety, depression, family relationship, couples therapy, parenting issues, anger management, LGBTQ+ community, abuse and trauma.
I thrive on navigating my clients through times of emotional distress, depression, anxiety, searching for meaning and purpose, need of connectedness, questioning of identity, values, looking for hope and peace. I feel confident in helping people find inner peace, mental tranquility and emotional calm through counselling and psychotherapy. I believe that a human being who is in search of reducing stress levels, boosting the quality of life, and achieving spiritual and mental sophistication and emotional stability would appreciate guidance and companionship. I would be glad to be at the service of my clients who feel this way.
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Family Therapy Counsellors
What do family therapists do?
A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.
How long does therapy for families take to work?
Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.
How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?
You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.
Is therapy for families effective?
Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.