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, Clinical Specialist, 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 Unama'ki/ Cape Breton, but I have lived in Ontario and the US for much of my adult life. I have been back in Cape Breton for several 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 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. 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. My formal education consists of 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. 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
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 plan 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
Ethan Usher, RCT-C
Hello! My name is Ethan Usher, and I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (Candidate) with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. I came to this profession out of a desire to help people overcome their pain and make meaningful, positive changes in their lives. I try to accomplish this by offering an environment of empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard.
Whenever I'm not working or studying, I enjoy getting out in nature, playing guitar, and spending time with my family. Although I am very much an introvert, I love engaging in deep conversations with others. I also love getting absorbed into a good story whether it be a book, film, or even a game.
Educational Background
I have a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. My undergraduate degree was a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Cape Breton University. This allowed me to learn the scientific method and how to conduct research, while also studying philosophy, art, and literature. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is based on humanistic and existential psychology as well as a blend of Eastern and Western philosophy. I use an integrative approach that includes tools and ideas from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT). I also like to incorporate my experience with mindfulness practices and meditation into therapy.
I am always eager to look for new ways to learn and improve. With each client, I aim to create a therapy that is tailored to the individual. As such, I'm always open to feedback and working collaboratively to make therapy as enjoyable and beneficial as possible.
Ethan is accepting new clients -please reach out to intake at info@thrivecapebreton.com if you are interested in booking an appointment with Ethan
Robyn Shibinette, RCT-C BScN, MACP
Hi! My name is Robyn Shibinette. I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (Candidate) with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. I take pride in being able to provide a space where individuals feel comfortable to heal and get to know themselves on a deeper level. As a nurse, my passion has always been connecting and walking with patients through some of their toughest times. This passion for connection and willingness to support individuals and their families through grief, loss, sickness and struggle, is what lead me to a career in counselling. I feel incredibly grateful to do what I love, here in Cape Breton, alongside my loved ones and sweet pups, Louie and Duke.
Educational Background and Professional Interests
Prior to pursing the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology program at Yorkville, I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree with an Advanced Major in research on nursing student burnout from Cape Breton University. Since graduating, I have worked as a Registered Nurse for 4 years mainly in acute care units throughout the healthcare field. More recently, my nursing focus has led me to inpatient Mental Health and crisis work. This foundational experience allows me to blend an understanding of the medical model, with my passion and curiousity for experiential therapy work.
My hope is that clients can find comfort and acceptance while receiving therapy. During sessions, I invite my clients on a journey of self-discovery and reflection, as they begin to uncover parts of themselves which we can understand and meet with less judgement. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and flexible in nature so you feel you will get what you need most out of therapy. With that, I tend to lean toward an elective, trauma-informed approach with an interest in Emotion-Focused Therapy, Attachment Theory and, Internal Family Systems techniques. I am also committed to acquiring post-graduation education in these areas. Nonetheless, the foundation of all these modalities is building a relationship where individuals feel listened to, supported and understood. Throughout sessions, you can expect to be met with professionalism, humility and humor.
Let’s meet you where you are, and we will go from there.
Robyn is accepting new clients -please reach out to intake at info@thrivecapebreton.com if you are interested in booking an appointment with Robyn
Lauren Ripley, MSW, RSW - Intake Coordinator and Therapist
Hello all - I am Lauren Ripley. I am a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW). I was born and raised on Cape Breton Island/Unama’ki, briefly living in Fredericton NB for four years during my undergraduate degree. I have a passion for working with people and contributing to my community, which started as a teenager working for local small businesses! I find joy in my garden, crafting, by the ocean and/or trees, and spending time with my family and loved ones.
I hold a strong commitment to advocacy, social justice, and accessibility in health care. I strive to create inclusive, affirming spaces that honour the diverse ways people move through the world. I believe healing begins when we feel seen, respected, and supported just as we are.
My academic path began at St. Thomas University in Fredericton, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts (2019) with honours in interdisciplinary studies, a major in psychology, and minors in sociology and criminology. My honours thesis explored identity through narrative methods and built on research I conducted with Dr. Clive Baldwin in the area of new religious movements. I later completed a Bachelor of Social Work at St. Thomas (2022) and a Master of Social Work at the University of Waterloo (2025).
I currently serve as the Intake Coordinator at Thrive, where I support individuals in beginning their path of healing and growth.
Student Clinic at Thrive Counselling and Consulting
Steph MacNamara, MACP practicum student, Yorkville University
Hi folks! My name is Steph McNamara and I am a Counseling Psychology student at Yorkville University, currently ready to take on clients for my practicum! I am looking forward to my time here at Thrive. I chose this profession after a lot of lived experience as an artist and a school teacher, and I feel that all that I have done so far in life has called me to this place. For me, it’s an honour to walk alongside people as they navigate the complexities of life. My approach is very much person-centered— I believe that everyone is the expert in their own lives. I also draw a lot from mindfulness practices, art therapy practices, and emotion focused therapy.
I spent the last seven years of my life primarily as a photographer and a yoga teacher, and I truly know the value of listening to others, and holding space for people in a way that they feel seen, safe and heard. That is my goal with every client I see. I am an extremely empathetic person and I recognize the courage required to even take that first step, to begin therapy.
Along with my passion for my new career, I am also passionate about being a mom, unearthing creativity in myself and others, and living here in Cape Breton with my family (which includes five chickens!)
Steph will start her practicum with us in early September 2025 - please contact Lauren at info@thrivecapebreton.com to be added to her waitlist
Chris MacEachern, MACP practicum student, Yorkville University
Hello! My name is Chris MacEachern. I’m a Counselling Psychology student at Yorkville University, and I’m grateful and excited to be completing my practicum at Thrive.
I was born and raised in Cape Breton - Unama’ki, and although I’ve lived and worked across Canada, the United States, and in England, my favourite place remains along the Mira River, with my partner and our dog, Lilly.
Background and Education
After graduating from Cape Breton University with a Bachelor of Science, I completed my education degree at the University of Maine and went on to teach in New Brunswick, Alberta, and England. I also hold a Red Seal certification as a Pipefitter/Steamfitter and have worked in industrial settings throughout Canada and the U.S.
In addition, I’ve supported individuals with disabilities and neurodiversities in both educational and healthcare environments. These diverse life experiences have deepened my appreciation for the range of challenges and life experiences people face and sparked my commitment to the field of mental health.
I take an integrative, collaborative, and flexible approach to therapy. My work is informed by person-centred, emotionally focused, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioural therapies. Above all, I aim to create a safe, welcoming, and relaxed space where clients feel genuinely supported and heard.
Chris will start his practicum with us in early September 2025 - please contact Lauren at info@thrivecapebreton.com to be added to his waitlist
Heather Keagan, MACP practicum student, Memorial University
Hi! I’m Heather Keagan, a Counselling Psychology student in my final year at Memorial University of Newfoundland. Becoming a counsellor has been a long-held dream of mine, and I’m excited to soon begin working alongside others to support people in meaningful and compassionate ways.
My academic background started with a degree in Literature and Languages at Mount Allison University, which helped shape how I think about stories — especially the ones we tell ourselves. I’m fascinated by the way our internal narratives influence our mental health, and how language impacts how we see ourselves and the world around us.
Before moving into counselling, I spent 12 years teaching English as a Second Language in places like Scotland, Ukraine, Sri Lanka, South Korea, and Hungary. These experiences were deeply enriching and taught me a lot about cultural identity, belonging, and the feeling of being out of place — both in new environments and in places that feel like home.
I approach mental health through a critical cultural and feminist lens, and I’m especially passionate about creating affirming, inclusive spaces. I’m neurodivergent and a proud member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, and those aspects of my identity deeply inform how I show up as a counsellor. I understand how vital it is to feel seen, heard, and safe, and I’m committed to creating inclusive, affirming support for people of all ages, identities, and lived experiences.
My counselling style is still evolving, but it’s currently grounded in emotional understanding, early life experiences, family dynamics, and the powerful influence of the stories we carry with us.
When I’m not studying or working, you’ll usually find me listening to podcasts, watching true-crime documentaries, crocheting (somewhat chaotically), or cooking up something comforting in the kitchen.
Heather will start her practicum with us in early September 2025 - please contact Lauren at info@thrivecapebreton.com to be added to her waitlist
Sam Libbus, MSW practicum student, Dalhousie University
Hi all! My name is Sam Libbus (she/her). I am a Registered Social Worker with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW) and currently a Master of Social Work student at Dalhousie University. I was born and raised in Unama’ki (Cape Breton), and over the past decade have lived in Halifax, NS, Ottawa, ON and Fredericton, NB. I recently returned to Cape Breton with my partner to be closer to our family, and we have since welcomed our beautiful son.
Education and Background
I have a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Psychology from Cape Breton University, a Bachelor of Social Work from Dalhousie University, and am currently enrolled in the Master of Social Work program through Dalhousie University. I have trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and crisis intervention. Over the past several years, I have worked across a range of community and clinical settings, supporting individuals from adolescence through to older adulthood. My previous roles have included working alongside people navigating housing instability, mental health and substance use challenges, and experiences of systemic marginalization.
Following a person-centred and trauma-informed approach, I strive to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space for individuals and families. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process – grounded in respect, trust and the unique strengths each person brings.
Through my placement here at Thrive, I hope to continue developing my clinical skills, learn from the community, and support individuals and families in their healing and growth. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Thrive team and look forward to continuing to learn and grow within the social work profession!