Jessica Gardner, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

I’ve always loved learning, about the world, others and myself. This probably began when I was a peer counsellor in high school. Building my skills at listening empathically back then taught me a valuable lesson, that people do as they do for reasons. Trying to understand those reasons gradually developed into a passion for psychology. Travelling around the world as a young adult further expanded my perspective and also taught me that we are all more alike than different, but it is our differences that make us, us. I gained what was, perhaps the greatest lesson from helping to build a school in Kenya and working directly with people from all around the world, including members of a Masai tribe: That the real point of life is connecting with others because connection makes us stronger together and makes anything possible. Those understandings, of authentic, non-judgemental, caring and connection, have been central to my role as an elementary school teacher, and to the success I’ve had collaborating with children, families, and coworkers over the past 20 years.

I’ve now decided to change careers and become a psychotherapist because I believe my experiences and lessons learned have given me valuable tools I can use to help others better understand themselves. I view psychotherapy like taking a ‘course’ on yourself; with an understanding of the ‘Why’s?” that guide our behaviour, we can gain the power to move in any direction we want. As your registered psychotherapist I will work with you to help you explore the issues that matter most to you, always helping you move towards better health and wellness.

I have a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in English and a minor in Psychology from Wilfrid Laurier University, a Master of Teaching degree from Griffith University in Australia, and I am currently completing a Master of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and a member of Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.