MEET JANELLE

Counselling grounded in connection, curiosity and care.

I am a Registered Social Worker with the Manitoba College of Social Workers and bring over a decade of experience supporting children, youth, adults, and families across mental health, crisis intervention, corrections, and community-based settings.

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Hi, I’m Janelle

SUPPORT THAT BEGINS WITH FEELING UNDERSTOOD.

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I’m a social worker and counsellor supporting people through life’s complicated, emotional and overwhelming moments.

My approach is warm and collaborative, grounded in the belief that you are the expert on your own experiences. Together, we’ll explore what’s happening, build on your strengths and find strategies that feel realistic for your life.

MY BACKGROUND

My background includes work in youth mental health, adult mental health, the criminal legal system and perinatal mental health.

I’m committed to continued learning and incorporating evidence-informed practices into my work, while recognizing that every person and family brings their own needs and experiences to counselling.

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My journey into this work has been shaped by both professional and personal experiences. As a young person and later as a parent, I experienced what it felt like to seek support and not always feel heard, understood, or validated. Those experiences deepened my appreciation for the power of a strong therapeutic relationship and inspired my commitment to authenticity and creating a space where people feel genuinely seen, respected, and supported. 

In my work at Cedar Mountain Counselling, I specialize in perinatal mental health, meaning I support individuals through pregnancy and postpartum. I work with people who may be experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, infertility, pregnancy and infant loss and well as adjustment and identity struggles. I understand that parenthood can look very different from what we expected, and that it can bring both joy and challenges that feel difficult to navigate alone.

At Red River North, I am expanding my work with infants, children, youth, and families while completing my Master’s in Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health. I am particularly drawn to the community-based nature of this work and the importance of prevention and early support. I believe that building strong relationships with young people and families, creating opportunities for connection, and offering support early can make an important difference in mental health and wellbeing. I also value being part of the Selkirk community and the opportunities that community partnerships create to support families in ways that extend beyond individual counselling.

Areas of Focus:

Throughout my career, I have developed particular interest and experience in supporting:

  • Perinatal Mental Health including pregnancy, postpartum adjustment, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, infertility, pregnancy and infant loss, and identity changes associated with parenthood.

  • Children,  Youth, and their Families navigating a wide range of mental health, relationship, and life concerns.

  • Individuals Involved in the Criminal Legal System and those impacted by justice-related experiences.

  • First Responder Families-  partners, and children navigating the unique demands and stressors associated with this lifestyle.

  • Identity Exploration and Life Transitions, including major changes in relationships, parenthood, career, personal growth, and sense of self.

  • FASD and Neurodevelopmental Differences, using a strengths-based and developmentally informed approach.

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RELATIONSHIP FIRST

I take the time to understand you as a whole person—not only the concern that brought you here. Your experiences, relationships and environment are all part of the picture.

Our work will move at a pace that feels comfortable, with space for honesty, reflection and even humour when it fits.

You’re more than the reason you came to counselling.


EXPLORE MY APPROACH

My Style

People often describe me as approachable, genuine, honest, and easy to talk to. I strive to create a relaxed, non-judgmental space where you can show up as you are and talk openly about what's on your mind.

I recognize that people come to therapy looking for different things. Some want a space to process frustrations, and hear themselves think out loud. Others are looking for practical tools, coping strategies, and a more structured approach. Some people want a deeper exploration of who they are, their relationships, and the patterns that continue to show up in their lives. Most often, it's a combination of all three.

Our work together might involve noticing patterns, understanding emotions, exploring why certain situations feel particularly triggering, examining how past experiences continue to shape the present, or identifying unhelpful ways of coping that no longer serve you. We may also focus on building practical skills, trying new approaches, and finding ways to respond more effectively to life's challenges.

I don't believe therapy is about fixing people because I don't think people are broken. Rather, I see therapy as an opportunity, and providing the space to develop a deeper understanding of yourself, build on your existing strengths, and create meaningful change in the areas of life that matter most to you.

While therapy can provide insight, support, and guidance, I believe that much of the healing and growth happens outside of the therapy room. It happens through reflection, practicing new skills, trying things differently, being kinder to yourself, and showing up for the work of change in everyday life. My role is to support you in that process and help you discover what works best for you.

Beyond the Therapy Room

Outside of my work as a therapist, I am a wife, a mom to two boys, and someone who deeply values connection, curiosity, and growth.

Whether through books, podcasts, professional development, travel, or everyday experiences, I am always looking for opportunities to learn and grow. I've been fortunate to visit 27 countries and love experiencing different cultures, foods, and ways of life. One of my biggest challenges is reminding myself that I don't need to sign up for every course or opportunity that catches my interest!

Much of my time is spent with my husband, children, extended family, and friends. When I'm not working, you'll often find me spending time outdoors, trying new recipes, listening to music, making lists or planning my next adventure. 

Like many people, I am a work in progress. As a recovering perfectionist, one of my greatest lessons has been learning to embrace "good enough" and focus on what truly matters. While I don't always get it right, I strive to live a life rooted in connection, gratitude, growth, and balance.

GETTING STARTED

Let’s find the support that feels right for you.

Explore my counselling services and find the clinic that best matches the support you’re looking for.

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GET IN TOUCH