Life is understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards. - Soren Kierkegaard
MY STORY
Welcome, I’m Jenelle! Originally from just outside of Vancouver, BC, I made the move to Thompson, in 2023. This move has been full of unexpected twists, but it has also been a deeply rewarding journey of reconnecting with myself, nature and gathering new experiences. While I miss my family, friends and the endless variety of food from all over the world, I do not miss the relentless pace of the big-city life — the traffic, long and slow commutes, or the RAIN! It was not until I made this move that I realized the toll this pressure had taken on my own mental health. Here, I have found a sense of peace and serenity, a life-balance unlike what I have ever had before.
OUTSIDE OF WORK
There’s a good chance I’m snuggled up with my little donut, Timbit! I may have rescued her, but in so many ways, she’s the one who has saved me. Together, we’re still discovering our relatively new home, often seeking out new places to get our steps in or finding tranquility near the water. I’ve come to love the expansive prairie skies, and I find pleasure in sending sunny, clear-blue sky photos to my family back in BC, especially when I know they’re stuck under the dark clouds and rain—again. Travel is one of my greatest passions, and I love immersing myself in the architecture, culture, and ever-changing landscapes of the world. Next on my list? Experiencing the European Summer in Croatia!
PROFESSIONAL AND CLINICAL BACKGROUND
I hold a Master of Counselling degree from City University and am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with certification from the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). I offer virtual counselling services to clients across Canada, in addition to in-person and teletherapy sessions in Thompson, MB.
Throughout my career in the social services and mental health fields, I have gained extensive experience across various sectors, including the criminal justice system, in both community and correctional settings, the court system, as well as working alongside diverse populations, including in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. These experiences have expanded my understanding of the intersectionality between social issues such as homelessness, poverty, and substance use, and the complex relationship between criminal justice, mental health, and the intergenerational effects of colonization on our communities.
Through my Bachelor of Arts with Honours, I had the opportunity to delve into restorative processes of justice, particularly focusing on the impact of victim-offender mediation. This work allowed me to take a victim-centered and trauma-informed approach to understanding the lasting impact of harm in our communities and the complex needs of those involved to find healing.
Since relocating to Manitoba, I completed my clinical internship for my Master's degree with The Link – Youth and Family Supports, working with clients in Winnipeg and Thompson, MB. This experience furthered my ability to navigate the unique complexities of rural and northern Canada, where I continue to specialize in mental health and addictions counselling, bringing a trauma-informed, client-centered approach to the work I do.
WHY CHOOSE COUNSELLING?
Through my personal journey, I’ve come to recognize that grief is often an inherent part of many of life’s challenges and transitions. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, job insecurity, traumatic experiences, exploration of future goals or dreams, or the complexities of personal growth, grief can manifest in various forms. How we respond to these experiences is deeply shaped by our past and the ways in which we've learned to connect with ourselves and others over time.
I am deeply passionate about helping my clients navigate the messy, unpredictable nature of life, and I strive to normalize the struggles that come with it. I believe healing occurs within relationships, and my mission is to provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space where we can work together to uncover clarity, foster a deeper understanding of yourself, build confidence, and develop the tools necessary to face life’s challenges. Together, we’ll reconnect with your authentic self and empower you to live fulfilling and purposeful life!
MY APPROACH
I believe that therapy can be effective in a casual and relaxed environment where both the therapist and client can show up authentically, just as we are. It's a collaborative, honest, and deeply human process, and I place great value on bringing my whole self into this work—just as I encourage you to do the same.
I take an integrative approach to therapy, grounded in trauma-informed and person-centered principles, while drawing on techniques from Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Narrative and Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Viewing each client through a holistic lens, I honour the profound connection between the mind and body and also work to incorporate psychosomatic theories to explore how our mental and emotional states are reflected in our physical well-being.
Focus
Areas
+ Anxiety
+Depression
+Grief & Loss
+Life Transitions
+Divorce/Separation
+Relationship Conflict
+Coping Skills
+Self-Care
+ Life Balance
+Trauma Processing
+Stress
+Self-Esteem
Even Counsellors, Need a Counsellor
Counsellors need therapy too! I firmly believe that as part of my ethical responsibility to my clients, it’s important for me to engage in therapy myself. Like anyone else, I too face challenges and need a confidential space to talk. I understand firsthand how difficult it can be to ask for help. I’ve often fallen into the pattern of thinking I can handle things on my own or telling myself that it’s not "bad enough" to seek support. But I also know the value of having someone to talk to—someone with the skills to guide me in growing, reflecting, and healing.
Recently, I’ve been focusing on the importance of setting healthy boundaries, communicating more effectively, and staying present and grounded during difficult conversations.