Melissa works with 18+ clients Melissa brings a warm, compassionate, and client-centered approach to therapy, focusing on creating a safe space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered. Melissa supports clients who struggle with anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, relationship challenges, and attachment concerns.

Melissa is deeply committed to helping clients navigate life’s challenges and transitions. She has a strong interest in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Gestalt therapy for couples. Melissa is continuing to build her expertise in EFT by pursuing ICEEFT certification

In addition to her work with adults and couples, Melissa is eager to explore Narrative Therapy techniques

Whether working with individuals or couples, Melissa is dedicated to creating a supportive, empathetic space where clients can grow, heal, and build resilience as they navigate life’s challenges.

Melissa works with 18+ clients Melissa brings a warm, compassionate, and client-centered approach... Read More

Alyssa Bracco is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who works with children and teens, providing a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment where young clients can feel safe to express themselves. She is passionate about meeting children where they are at, tailoring her approach to suit each child’s developmental stage and unique needs.

Alyssa incorporates play therapy skills into her work, recognizing that play is a natural and effective way for children to communicate, process emotions, and build coping strategies. She also offers parent sessions, understanding the importance of collaboration and guidance to support children both inside and outside of therapy.

Alyssa is committed to fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust, empathy, and consistency. She strives to create a positive and engaging environment where children and teens feel heard, understood, and empowered as they navigate challenges and build emotional resilience.

Alyssa Bracco is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who works with children and teens, pro... Read More

Dawn, a Registered Psychotherapist who brings a diverse and comprehensive approach to helping her clients navigate various challenges. She welcomes the opportunity to help clients discover new ways of approaching issues and struggles.

These may include trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, low self esteem, job burnout and other concerns.

Dawn aims to help clients break free from unhealthy patterns by exploring the root causes of their responses to life’s challenges. She facilitates self-awareness and personal growth, guiding clients on a path towards fulfillment.

Dawn utilizes narrative therapy, DBT, ACT, age regression hypnotherapy, and polyvagal theory. She focuses on a strengths-based approach, which helps clients identify and utilize the strengths and resources within each client. Her structured and goal-oriented framework guides the therapeutic process.

Dawn offers counselling services for individuals, couples, and families, recognizing the importance of addressing issues within various relationship dynamics.

Dawn’s inclusive and integrated approach demonstrates a commitment to helping clients achieve lasting positive change by combining various therapeutic modalities with a focus on personal strengths and self-discovery.

Dawn, a Registered Psychotherapist who brings a diverse and comprehensive approach to helping her... Read More

Meet the heart behind Arms Open Counselling, Angela Kingma. Angela holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Gerontology. She has also completed her Masters in Counselling Psychology. Angela is registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). Angela consistently spends time upgrading her skills by taking part in professional development seminars, courses and workshops. She is currently pursuing training to become a sex therapist.

Angela enjoys spending time with her big family of children, her husband, and their dog. Juggling a large family boasts talents all on its own, which makes their household a busy yet fun one to be a part of!

When Angela has moments to herself, she likes to read, binge-watch Coronation street, walking outdoors, catching a movie with girlfriends and go camping with the family.

Meet the heart behind Arms Open Counselling, Angela Kingma. Angela holds a Bachelor of Arts in Ps... Read More

Read More

Do you ever feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from the life you want to live? You’re not alone—and you do not have to navigate this by yourself. Life’s challenges, whether they stem from daily stressors or deeper experiences from the past, can feel heavy. My goal is to walk alongside you as you work toward clarity, healing, and a more meaningful life.

I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered. My approach is rooted in empathy, drawing from a strengths-based perspective while incorporating cognitive-behavioral principles, emotion-focused strategies, and solution-focused techniques that are personalized to fit your unique needs.

With a strong background in teaching, I understand how pressure, expectations, and life transitions can impact your well-being. Whether you’re a student trying to find your way, a parent balancing it all, or someone simply trying to reconnect with themselves—I’m here to support you.

I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to grow, heal, and thrive. If you’re ready to take the first step, I invite you to connect with me. Let’s explore whether we’re a good fit through a free 15-minute consultation.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from the life you want to live? You’re not a... Read More