Amanda MacDonald – BA, MA, RP (Q)

Amanda MacDonald is a registered Psychotherapist (qualifying) in Bracebridge, Ontario. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminology with a minor in Psychology and is currently completing a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University.

Pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Criminology gave Amanda a profound understanding of how our past and current experiences influence our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. During her studies, she realized that her passion was rooted in listening to and understanding people’s experiences and helping them grow and improve their mental wellbeing. This inspired her to pursue a career in psychotherapy.

She strongly believes in creating a safe environment and working towards building a trusting therapeutic relationship. Where she will work collaboratively with you throughout your journey to achieve your goals. Amanda utilizes a client-centred, humanistic, and solution-focused approach and will pull from different modalities to create a unique treatment plan geared to your needs and abilities.

Amanda is interested in working with a diverse clientele, including children, youth, individuals, couples, and families. Amanda is always working towards expanding her knowledge and experience to provide everyone with the supports and services they deserve.

Amanda MacDonald – BA, MA, RP (Q) Amanda MacDonald is a registered Psychotherapist (qualifying) ... Read More

Emily Carty – BA, MA, RP

Please note Emily is not currently accepting new clients

Emily is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Bracebridge, ON. She moved to Bracebridge in 2017, but grew up in Toronto, ON.

Emily holds a Master of Arts degree in Child and Youth Care from the University of Victoria, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Acadia University. She is currently completing a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, and is completing her placement component under the supervision of Vanessa Lewis.

Emily has experience supporting children, youth, and their families in various settings, such as schools, family homes, hospitals, group homes, and their communities. She has provided support to individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, behavioural concerns, and high-conflict separations. Emily has extensive experience supporting teenagers and has a passion for supporting the family unit when possible.

When not in the office, Emily enjoys hiking, canoeing, cross-country skiing, and camping with her husband, children, and dog.

Emily Carty – BA, MA, RP Please note Emily is not currently accepting new clients Emily is a Re... Read More

Terri Fox - BASc in Human Nutrition, Holistic Nutritionist

Terri Fox holds a Bachelor of Applied Science for Human Nutrition degree from the University of Guelph and completed her Dietetic Internship at Hamilton General Hospital. She actively practiced as a Registered Dietitian for over 24 years; both within community and hospital settings. Clinical Dietitian, now turned Holistic Nutritionist, Terri is a passionate practitioner with extensive knowledge and experience to assist and empower clients in optimizing their nutritional health, and improving their overall well being.

Terri understands the importance of addressing individuals and groups from a more integrative approach to encompass mind, body and spirit. She is passionate about continuous education in the field of nutrition and is pursuing Naturopathic certification. She believes attaining nutritional wellness is unique for everyone, and tailors nutrition recommendations to the needs of every individual using a variety of resources and techniques.

Employed primarily as a Home Care Dietitian over the years, Terri has experience working with individuals of all ages in various settings from hospitals, schools, at home and long term care. She has experience in assisting individuals with a variety of nutritional concerns including: weight management, digestive issues, cancer, autoimmune diseases, heart health, diabetes,menopause, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, eczema, dysphagia, childhood feeding and progression, ADHD, Autism spectrum, and eating disorders.

When Terri is not working, you will find her hiking with her dog, spending time with her family and friends, practising yoga, reading, learning to SCUBA dive, kayaking, or hitting the dance floor to perfect some new latin dance moves.

Terri Fox - BASc in Human Nutrition, Holistic Nutritionist Terri Fox holds a Bachelor of Applied... Read More

Tessa Davidson, Aesthetician

Tessa brings her passion for health, wellbeing and aesthetics to the office. Tess is now thrilled to be offering services from personalized skin care, to relaxing treatments which help balance the mind and body.

Tessa brings over 12 years of experience in the industry. She has a passion for beauty, relaxation, mind, body and holistic wellness.

Relaxation is the stepping stone to tranquility and it is the perfect way to unwind and eliminate tension + stress along with many benefits to overall health.

Take some time to decompress with some of the services she will be offering:

1- Indian Head massage - Focuses on massage acupressure points along the head, neck and shoulders

2- Reflexology - Uses gentle pressure points along the feet. This helps you feel less stressed, relaxed and boosting a feeling of well being

3- Hot stone therapy - Promoting deep relaxing, the warmth of hot stones helps relax tense muscle, increase circulation and soothe the nervous system.

4- Happy Light therapy - promoting acupressure and exposure light therapy - perfect to help with the winter blues.

5- Facials - Achieve radiant looking skin and relax at the same time. Using organic skin care products specialized to each individuals needs.

Tessa Davidson, Aesthetician Tessa brings her passion for health, wellbeing and aesthetics to th... Read More

Grace is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) working out of Bracebridge, Ontario, only a short distance from her hometown of Huntsville. Grace is familiar with the Muskoka area and is passionate about serving her community.

Grace holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a minor in Psychology from the University of Ottawa and a Social Service Worker Diploma from Fanshawe College. She is currently finishing a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and is completing her placement component under the supervision of Vanessa Lewis.

Grace has experience supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and behavioural concerns, pulling from her knowledge of addiction counselling and dementia care partner support. Grace is interested in working with diverse clientele, and as a proud member of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, Grace hopes to expand her knowledge to better serve the needs of sexual and gender minorities.

Outside the office, Grace enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, walking with her dog, and being close to nature.

Grace is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) working out of Bracebridge, Ontario, only a sh... Read More

My passion is helping others. I am here to support you and your family on your journey to improved mental health wellness and spirit. I offer a safe, empathic, strength-based, client-centered approach. The coping strategies you learn, and implement can improve your relationships, self-acceptance, and self-confidence.

I began my professional career as a microbiologist and transitioned into HR which lead me to psychotherapy. I bring to my practice the understanding and knowledge of biology and social norms that can impact the manifestation of mental illness. Using a holistic approach, together we will find solutions that will work for you.

The scope of my practice includes couples/relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, workplace stress, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, victims of narcissism, suicidal ideation, trauma, PTSD, life transitions, and academic stress-related concerns. If needed I am comfortable supporting the client using their spiritual lens. You are the expert in your life so collaboratively we will build a treatment plan with tangible goals that lead to improving your well-being. We’re in this together!

My passion is helping others. I am here to support you and your family on your journey to improve... Read More

Jennifer is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and resides in Port Sydney. Jennifer has lived in the Muskoka area for 20+ years and is an active community member who serves and volunteers with several local charities.

Fourteen years ago, Jennifer helped bring the first pregnancy support centre to the Muskoka area and now sits as Board Chair for the Huntsville and Gravenhurst centres. Jennifer holds an undergraduate degree from Western University and is finishing the final course of her Master’s in Counselling Psychology degree from Yorkville University. Jennifer began working in the field of Human Resources after graduating from University in 2001 and spent 7 years working as an HR Manager in both the high tech as well as manufacturing fields. After getting married in 2006, Jennifer stayed at home to raise her two beautiful children who are now 13 and 17.

Jennifer is passionate about continuous education in the mental health field and is pursuing further education in the field of Nutritional Psychology.

With a keen interest and passion for trauma-informed therapies and CBT, Jennifer is excited to work with individuals who want to dig deeper to achieve greater self-awareness. She sees the mind and body as being interconnected and seeks to assist her clients in understanding how powerful our minds are when it comes to our physical and mental well-being.

When Jennifer isn’t reading textbooks, journal articles and writing papers you can find her at the gym where she loves to lift weights. Her greatest joy in life are being a mom to her two amazing kids

Jennifer is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and resides in Port Sydney. Jennifer has l... Read More

Amirabbas Rostami, FNP-BC, Ph.D., APRN, IMD

Amir Rostami is a medical professional with expertise in Internal Medicine, Cardiology and psychiatry. He has an illustrious career that spans various countries, including the United Kingdom, Russia, Armenia, and several Eastern European nations. Throughout his journey, He has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to humanitarian efforts and has affiliated himself with esteemed organizations such as the Red Cross, WHO, UNICEF, and Doctors Without Borders.

Amir provides clinical diagnosis assessments, psychological, psychoeducational assessments, pharmacology, and medication management.

Amir can also provide acute care for any physical or mental concern or condition. Amir works with people of all ages, he has experience in all areas of patient care, with an emphasis in psychiatric conditions.

He has dedicated his career to serving vulnerable populations in crisis zones, underscoring his compassion and altruism. His passion lies in preventative medicine and primary care, aligning closely with the vision the World Health Organization (WHO) championed. He firmly believes in the power of early intervention and holistic healthcare approaches to enhance overall well-being and mitigate disease burden.

Dr. Rostami’s exemplary career is a fusion of medical expertise, humanitarianism, and advocacy for accessible healthcare for all, a combination that inspires hope for the future of healthcare.

Amirabbas Rostami, FNP-BC, Ph.D., APRN, IMD Amir Rostami is a medical professional with expertis... Read More

With over 25 years of clinical excellence, Dr. Caroline Bearss ND stands out as a leading Naturopathic Doctor, revered for her ability to tackle the most complex health challenges. Her impressive track record in naturopathic medicine is bolstered by an unwavering commitment to integrating the latest scientific advancements with time-honored healing traditions.

Dr. Bearss ND is not only a seasoned clinician but also an innovator in natural health, using her deep knowledge to craft personalized, highly effective care plans for each patient. What sets Dr. Bearss ND apart is her unique expertise in environmental health and her dedication to addressing the root causes of illness. Her background as a certified Building Biologist and Environmental Consultant allows her to provide patients with insights that few practitioners can offer.

In addition, her ongoing studies in advanced functional medicine for mental health, Clinical Counselling and Psychotherapy enhance her ability to support both the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of her patients’ well-being, ensuring comprehensive care that truly transforms lives. Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Bearss ND is a respected thought leader in the naturopathic community. She shares her wealth of knowledge through contributions to professional publications and by speaking at major conferences. Her dedication to ongoing education and patient care makes her a sought-after practitioner, trusted by patients and peers alike.

With over 25 years of clinical excellence, Dr. Caroline Bearss ND stands out as a leading Naturop... Read More

Jason Prichard - BEd, MACP, RP(Q)

Jason is a registered Psychotherapist (qualifying ) in Bracebridge, Ontario and currently holds a bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, is a certified teacher in Ontario and is currently completing a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University.

Over the years, Jason has worked as a special education teacher, school board behaviour consultant and an outdoor guide/manager at a residential treatment program for adolescents. Jason has experience supporting a range of client profiles including children and adolescents and their families. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, ADHD, school-based challenges, relationship/familial conflict, substance use, trauma, and more.

Jason utilizes a client-centered and motivational interviewing based approach and pulls from various modalities including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, ACT, and Narrative Therapy. Jason believes strongly in the power of the therapeutic relationship and adapts his therapeutic approach to the needs of clients.

In his spare time, Jason enjoys a range of outdoor activities including camping, hiking, climbing, and fishing with his wife and dog. Jason is an avid traveler and is constantly seeking ways to expand his skills as a therapist.

Jason Prichard - BEd, MACP, RP(Q) Jason is a registered Psychotherapist (qualifying ) in Bracebr... Read More

PLEASE NOTE VANESSA IS NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Vanessa is a Registered Psychotherapist in Bracebridge, ON. She is very familiar with Muskoka, as she has lived here most of her life. In January 2011, she opened her own private practice, after working in the local school system for many years.

Vanessa believes that the counselling process is one that is very individual based, and uses different therapies depending on the needs of her clients. Vanessa holds a Master’s degree in Professional Counselling from Liberty University. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Studies from Nipissing University. Vanessa is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), and in good standing. In 2019, Vanessa trained in clinical counselling supervision, and is now an approved supervisor by the CRPO. Since completing her clinical supervision training, she has dedicated time to train upcoming therapists in the private practice field.

Vanessa has experience working with a variety of issues some include: at-risk youth, marriage/couple counselling, victims counselling, trauma counselling, PTSD, C-PTSD, personality disorders counselling, anxiety, depression, youth counselling, OCD, general counselling, emotion regulation, grief counselling, and behavioral pre-teens and teens, using various therapeutic techniques. Vanessa is certified in Trauma I (CCPT-I), Trauma 2 (CCTP-II), and has studied many other trauma courses. Vanessa has been practicing in the counselling field for over 11 years. She volunteers for Hospice Muskoka, and other local organizations providing volunteer services to her community. When Vanessa is not at the office, you can often find her spending time with her two boys, enjoying time outdoors, at the hockey arena, or spending time with her family.

PLEASE NOTE VANESSA IS NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS Vanessa is a Registered Psychotherapi... Read More

Leslie is a Registered Member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, Psychotherapist in good standing and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Laurentian University. She has devoted her life to supporting and advocating for her community through schools, mental health services, community outreach programs and recovery centres as a Case Manager, Primary Therapist and Mental Health Lead in the Muskoka, Parry Sound area. She was an in-service trainer and representative with Tourette Canada and served as a committee member with the Trillium Lakeland District School Board, Special Education Advisory Committee.

Leslie has experience working with all ages and stages of life, moving through many different areas including though not limited to learning disabilities, developmental delay, autism, movement disorder, anxiety, depression, relationship and family dynamics, bereavement, mood disorders, PTSD, addiction, neurodiversity and dementia. Leslie completed her clinical practicum through Greenestone Centre for Recovery where she obtained her Registration to Perform the Controlled Act of Psychotherapy. Leslie is certified through CAMH in Addiction Medicine and Psychotherapy Interventions Module 3:Concurrent Disorders and Complexity, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Fundamentals for Primary Care Providers, as well as MoCA Certified, and holds an IFS Certificate, Introductory Theraplay - CACPT Play Therapy Certificate Program Intermediate Level 11.

Leslie has been practicing in this field for over 25 years and considers herself a lifelong learner staying attune with the latest evidence based approaches in the field and following traditional modalities. Leslie enjoys meeting her clients where they are at and developing a treatment plan that will work for them, offering support and guidance along their journey.

Leslie is a Registered Member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers... Read More

Shannon Stuart RYT 200

With over 12 years of experience as a dedicated yoga instructor, Shannon is passionate about supporting individuals through their journey of grief and emotional healing. Her own path led her to expand her expertise by completing a personal nutrition course, a natural products advisory course, and a culinary course. Additionally, she is a certified food handler.

Shannon believes in the powerful connection between body and mind and is committed to promoting holistic health through nourishing practices. She specializes in creating delicious salad jars that not only delight the palate but also support overall well-being. By combining her knowledge of yoga, nutrition, and culinary arts, Shannon empowers others to embrace healthier lifestyles and foster a deeper sense of self-love and acceptance.

Join Shannon on her journey to cultivate wellness, one delicious bite at a time.

Shannon Stuart RYT 200 With over 12 years of experience as a dedicated yoga instructor, Shannon ... Read More