Welcome to Thrive Counselling and Consulting
Mental Health Therapy Services for children, teens, adults, couples, families in Sydney Nova Scotia
Phone: 902-577-5853 Fax: 902-270-5556
About Thrive
Meet the Team
Deanne Matheson, MSW, RSW
Hello! My name is Deanne Matheson. I am a Registered Social Worker with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW) and I have been a social worker for over 20 years. I am originally from Cape Breton but I have lived in Ontario and the US for most of my adult life. I have been back in Cape Breton for a few years and I feel incredibly lucky to be able to do what I love in a place that has always been in my heart. I am passionate about experiences and initiatives that contribute to a healthy community. Building Thrive has been fueled by that passion. I spend my time with my kids and my pets, and being active and out in nature as much as I can.
Educational Background and Professional Training
I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages as well as couples, families and groups in a variety of settings. I have training in a variety of therapies, including Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Family Therapy, Mindfulness, Emotion Focused Therapy, and DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) skills. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Law and Psychology as well as a Bachelor of Social Work from Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario. Between those two degrees I completed the Social Service Worker diploma at Algonquin College. I have a Master of Social Work, Clinical Concentration, from University of Maryland, Baltimore. As you can see, I love to learn! I am a trauma informed therapist and I am knowledgeable about the effects of trauma, as well as the most effective ways of healing from trauma. My clinical work is informed by attachment theory, which works from the perspective that our early experiences in many ways shape our current life experiences. I believe there are many pathways to healing and I meet people where they are, working together to explore, understand and heal.
Deanne is not currently accepting new clients
Rebecca Walker, RCT
Welcome! My name is Rebecca Walker and I am a Registered Counselling Therapist with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. I’ve spent a number of years working within the non-profit sector of Cape Breton, and have a great appreciation for the beauty, hospitality, and community connection that is found in our backyard. I am grateful for life’s simple but precious moments, and love spending most of my time in nature-even during our Cape Breton winters. I believe in healing, and that the small steps really matter.
Educational Background and Professional Training
I have a Bachelor of Science from Cape Breton University and a Masters in Counselling from Yorkville University. My preference is to work from a compassionate and supportive framework. I recognize that everyone must heal in their own way and at their own pace. I prefer to practice using experiential styles of therapy, which focus on the innate healing resources that we all possess. Some of the therapies that I use, include Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Somatic Experiencing (SE). Oftentimes, this will involve working with emotion and the nervous system, to support healing. I believe that we are born with, and possess internal resources to move toward wellness, but that these are sometimes misplaced by chronic stress (e.g. “survival mode”).
I practice as a trauma-informed therapist, and my approach is attachment based and informed by interpersonal neurobiology. This approach emphasizes the need that all individuals have for connection while considering the impact of our past experiences with our ability to continuously adapt.
Rebecca is accepting clients to her waitlist. Please reach out to Lauren at intake and she will arrange services, info@thrivecapebreton.com
Chelsea McQueen, RCT-C
Hello! My name is Chelsea McQueen, and I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (Candidate) with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. I strive on setting and meeting goals, building trusting and healthy relationships, and I construct this based on my ability to practice unconditional positive regard. I continue to use this mentality as a therapist and believe that everyone can benefit from discussing many life stressors that can shape roadblocks in our everyday lives. I enjoy spending lots of time with family, exercising, and playing basketball. I love sports and art! I also look forward to early mornings with my two golden retrievers, Duke and Tucker, and my extra-large hot coffee!
Educational Background
I have a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, and two undergrad degrees, a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education from Mount Saint Vincent University, where I played five years on Women’s Basketball Team. I spent several years working within the education system; specifically with school aged children. I travelled to Northern Quebec where I taught English as a second language and broadened my cultural competence. Although I appreciate my time as an educator, my true passion is in counselling psychology. After two years of teaching in the North, I travelled back to Cape Breton to substitute as an elementary school teacher. I realized my passion for psychology was outweighing my passion for education, so I made the decision to complete my master’s degree in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. My counselling philosophy is based off the connections and attachments we make in the first five years of our lives, and how this can influence how we think, feel, and act. I have training in EFIT (Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy) and I use other modalities such as CBT and somatic based practices in my clinical work.
Chelsea can be reached directly at chelsea@thrivecapebreton.com
Chelsea is accepting new clients to her waitlist only
Julienne Cordy, RCT-C
Hello! I’m glad you’re here. My name is Julienne, but you can call me Julie! I’m a Registered Counselling Therapist (Candidate) (RCT-C) with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. Funny story, I started out as a Marine Biologist and then followed my family’s footsteps into the financial industry; but my heart brought me back to my first great interest of psychology and helping people.
As I watched mental health crises start to rise in our communities, in combination with my own healing journey and experience with therapy, there was no question about pursuing a career in the counselling field. My other passions include the performing arts (e.g. acting, theatre, film, music), and when I’m not in the office you would likely find me goofing off on the set of a film somewhere, or home with my cat either writing, painting, singing, or playing music. Oh, and drinking A LOT of tea. I am an all-round Art enthusiast and deeply believe in the power of creativity and human connection.
Background & Education
I graduated from Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and Co-op Marine Biology and obtained my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) degree from Yorkville University. I spent the last 10 years getting to know people on Cape Breton Island through my business and have over 300 hours of volunteer experience with the Crisis Textline, where I guided texters of all ages in crisis to a cool calm.
My priority here, is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to be seen, heard, and understood, as well as offer emotional support and tools to help you work through your challenges and achieve your goals. I use an integrative approach that includes emotion-focused and solution-focused therapies with a heavy emphasis on person-centered philosophies and psychodynamic/experiential treatments. My practice is always through a trauma-informed, attachment-based, and culturally sensitive lens. I have experience working with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), Sensory Processing Disorders, CPTSD, PTSD, ADHD, and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), in addition to adolescents over 12 years and adults. I offer Individual and couples therapy.
Julie can be reached directly at julie@thrivecapebreton.com
Julie is accepting new clients to her waitlist only
Miranda Hall, MSW, RSW
Hello! I'm Miranda Hall, a Registered Social Worker affiliated with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers. Having spent most of my life in Cape Breton, I have been practicing social work in this community for the past seven years. My utmost passion lies in assisting children, adults, couples, and families who call this place home. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space where individuals and families can heal from past negative experiences and explore effective strategies to achieve their goals. In my downtime, I enjoy walking my dog Luna, staying active through exercise, and reading books that enhance my ability to support individuals and families impacted by trauma.
My educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies from Cape Breton University, a Bachelor of Social Work from St. Thomas University, and a Master of Social Work from Dalhousie University. Throughout my career, I have held diverse social work positions, including clinical therapist in healthcare, intensive home-based family social worker in the non-profit sector, and most recently, counselling manager at Kids Help Phone. Taking a relational standpoint, I employ strengths-based and narrative approaches to help individuals and families make sense of and give voice to their lived experiences.
Working primarily with children and youth, I am particularly enthusiastic about incorporating play into therapy sessions. By providing a flexible and enjoyable environment, I strive to support the healing process for children and youth, while also assisting parents in exploring ways to strengthen their relationships with their children. In my practice, I adhere to principles of trauma-informed care, attachment theory, strengths-based approaches, a social justice orientation, and an intersectional lens. Embracing an intersectional lens ensures that I maintain reflexivity and continuously challenge myself to understand and appreciate diverse perspectives and experiences, both my own and those of the individuals I work with.
In addition to my primary therapeutic approaches, such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), and Feminist-Narrative therapy, I integrate various other modalities to suit the unique needs of each individual or family.
My dedication to social work stems from a deep-rooted belief in the inherent resilience and potential for growth within individuals and families. I am committed to facilitating positive change, fostering healing, and promoting social justice within our community.
Miranda can be reached at miranda@thrivecapebreton.com
Miranda is accepting clients to her waitlist only
Katrina Paruch, RCT-C
Hello! My name is Katrina Paruch and I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (Candidate) with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. I believe that every individual is unique and there is no cookie cutter, one-size-fits-all method to therapy, so I take a person-centered approach that positions you as the expert on yourself and me as your guide and support. You and I will work together collaboratively to gain clarity on the problem, explore factors that are contributing to the difficulties or challenges you are facing, create long-term goals, and develop a plan to help you get to where you want to be. Currently I work virtually with youth 16+, individual adults, and couples, using approaches that include IFS, EFT, and CBT. As a former pastor, I am able to provide Christian counselling at client request but do not operate exclusively through a faith lens. I am committed to providing a safe, respectful, inclusive place for everyone, regardless of their faith or worldview. My goal is to support you on your journey towards healing and personal growth in a way that is meaningful and comfortable for you.
Education and Training
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Religion from Summit Pacific College in BC and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in New Brunswick. I am Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT/EFCT) trained, and am in the process of completing Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist training.
Katrina is currently accepting new clients for virtual appointments only. Please email info@thrivecapebreton.com if you are a new client wanting to book with Katrina.
Katrina can be reached directly at katrina@thrivecapebreton.com
Starla Brown , RCT-C
Hello! My name is Starla Brown, and I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (Candidate) with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. For as long as I can remember I always had an interest in psychology, and with this interest became the goal to become a therapist.
In my personal time you can find me with my family, going to an exercise class, or just simply enjoying what life has to offer.
Educational Background
I have a Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies undergrad degree from Cape Breton University and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology degree from Yorkville University. I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT/EFT), and plans to acquire more training.
As a therapist, I follow a humanistic approach where I ensure a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space for you and your healing journey. My objective as a therapist is to meet you where you are, and to work with you empathetically and respectively.
I genuinely enjoy being a supportive person to another and it is a great honour to be a part of this healing journey with you.
Starla is currently accepting new clients. Please email info@thrivecapebreton.com if you are a new client wanting to book with Starla.
Starla can be reached directly at starla@thrivecapebreton.com
Jess Gallagher, RCT-C
As a Registered Counseling Therapist Candidate with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists, I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you can explore your feelings, challenge limiting beliefs, and make meaningful changes in your life. I hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and have studied education and psychology at Memorial University of Newfoundland and Université Sainte-Anne. I have worked with a wide range of populations—from preschool to geriatric clients with mental health, neurodevelopmental, and trauma experiences; in diverse public service settings, including education, healthcare, and private practice across multiple provinces throughout northern and southern Canada. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that understanding and processing emotions, alongside challenging unhelpful thoughts, are key to overcoming life’s challenges. I use an integrative approach to therapy, which allows me to consider a variety of therapy types to ensure you receive an individualized experience tailored to your needs. I’m here to support your journey toward healing and personal growth.
Jess is accepting new clients -please reach out to intake at info@thrivecapebreton.com if you are interested in booking an appointment with Jess
Lauren Ripley, RSW, Therapist and Intake Coordinator for Thrive
Hello! I'm Lauren Ripley, a Social Worker registered with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers. Holding a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Interdisciplinary Studies with majors in psychology and criminology, accompanied by a minor in sociology, I further pursued my education with a Bachelor of Social Work Degree from St. Thomas University. Presently, I am completing my Master of Social Work at the University of Waterloo.
My professional journey includes prior work as a researcher delving into narrative, spirituality, and identity, significantly influencing my therapeutic approach. Informed by humanistic, narrative, and structural theories, my practice underscores the significance of context, individual experiences, and the frameworks shaping our worldviews. I have recently completed training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. My primary aim is to cultivate a safe, non-judgmental environment for collaborative and supportive therapeutic conversations, enabling the exploration of personal goals, challenges, and strengths.
When I am not at work, I find joy in activities like gardening, spending quality time with family, crafting, and repurposing old furniture. I look forward to meeting you and starting our therapeutic journey together!
Lauren is accepting new clients for therapy services. She can be reached at info@thrivecapebreton.com for intake services.
Student Clinic at Thrive Counselling and Consulting
Jim McGeragle - Counselling Psychology Practicum Student, Athabasca University
**** Jim is able to provide VIRTUAL SERVICES ONLY****
My aim is to bring compassionate understanding, hope, and positive change to the lives of my clients. I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard and to have a space where they can be their most honest, aut
Jim McGeragle - Counselling Psychology Practicum Student, Athabasca University
**** Jim is able to provide VIRTUAL SERVICES ONLY****
My aim is to bring compassionate understanding, hope, and positive change to the lives of my clients. I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard and to have a space where they can be their most honest, authentic selves. In therapy, I work with clients to help them reconnect with themselves, clear blockages, and find creative ways to establish new patterns.
I am from a small mill-town on Vancouver Island, BC and live in St. John’s, NL. I started a Geophysics undergraduate degree at UVIC, then switched to Philosophy. I worked in construction to pay for my education. Upon moving to The Yukon in 2012, I found that a helping role was a much better fit for me. I have been working in mental health and addiction support positions ever since. I have two new children: one two years, and the other two months (as of August 2024). I derive an inordinate amount of joy from playing ultimate frisbee and love getting outside with my family
I am trained in Brainspotting Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, counselling hypnotherapy, and in working with complex trauma. Someone once described me as “somber with a hint of glee”. A description I try to live up to by respectfully holding space and leaning into the heavy stuff, while still maintaining a nimble sense of humour. I tend to have a pretty relaxed style and calming presence. I lean towards person-centered and experiential approaches in-session.
Therapy Passions: life transitions, early life (career, school, etc), resolving complex and developmental trauma, and helping new parents do the deep work to promote responsive and flexible parenting.
Please contact info@thrivecapebreton.com to be added to Jim's waitlist - he will begin seeing clients in early September