Lauren Bennett, MSW RSW

Clinical Director, Therapist

My ethos: You are the expert of your own life. I have the tools, strategies and opportunity to help you navigate the obstacles currently preventing you from transformative change.

I believe that people are most able to develop insight and engage in a change process within an environment that is safe and validating.  As a Therapist, one of my main roles is to cultivate this atmosphere and help you to calm your busy mind so that you can access your own inner wisdom, and consider different perspectives and strategies.

I am well-versed in several evidence-based approaches, and am passionate about ongoing professional development.  You can rest assured that I will provide service that is grounded in research and customized to fit your needs.

While my style is professional and boundaried, I bring my authentic self to the room, collaborating in a truly meaningful way. Therapy is a relationship between equals, so I create an informal environment where there’s a place for warmth, humour and honest conversation. Staying flexible, fresh and responsive allows for client-centric guidance designed to meet your needs – in the moment.

Whether you feel stuck in old patterns, are experiencing challenges such as depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, stress or low self-esteem, or have a genuine desire to deepen connection, I tailor my expertise to your unique situation.

Karima Habibali, RP

Therapist

Throughout my 24 years practicing as a Registered Psychotherapist, I have experienced the power of the therapist-client partnership in achieving personal growth and healing. 

My training is in Transpersonal Therapy, and I also work within evidenced-based practices including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT). I have specific skills and training in working with addictions and their intersection with trauma and other mental health struggles. I also specialize in grief and bereavement, welcoming those who have experienced recent or historic loss, as well as those who are approaching death and dying.

I always approach my work with a compassionate, trauma-informed lens, and consider it a privilege to work with the individuals who allow me to sit with them.

Olivia Fabiani, MSW RSW

Therapist

Using the principles of trauma-informed care including empowerment, choice, trust, and safety, I work collaboratively with clients to achieve goals and improve well-being. 

I bring a decade of experience providing psychotherapy to children, youth and their families, using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Collaborative Problem Solving, Emotion Focused Family Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.

I believe in the importance of a strengths-based approach, helping clients to leverage their own power and resilience as we work toward change.

Alyssa Kramer, MSW RSW

Therapist

I joined the team at Niagara on the Lake Counselling after gaining extensive experience working in community-based Child and Youth Mental Health programs. Specializing in working with children, teens, and young adults, I bring a professional but lighthearted style to my work.

From the initial session, (during which you might find me using get-to-know-you Jenga to ease the nerves) I focus on creating a safe and comfortable space, using a tailored approach to meet each client where they are at. I have training and experience using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Emotion Focused Family Therapy.

I value ongoing professional development and am always working to increase my own skills and expertise.

Jessica Stanley, RP

Therapist

With over 10 years of experience as a Registered Psychotherapist, I have come to believe in each client’s ability to access their own inner healer when provided with a supportive and safe space. My passion is to help clients to become more aligned with their authentic core values with courage and clarity.

I work to help clients overcome self-destructive patterns and release limiting beliefs to achieve a robust sense of self-worth, empowerment, and more fulfilling relationships.  Throughout the therapy process I bring humour and humility, and style of transparency and collaboration.  I encourage my clients to explore universal concepts such as authenticity, embracing uncertainty, attachment styles, boundaries, stress management, overcoming fear of rejection and abandonment, self-compassion, locus of control, belonging, integrity, and purposefulness.  

I am experienced in working with clients who are struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment style issues, low self-worth, over-functioning, codependency, caregiver burnout, post-partum anxiety/depression and women’s issues. I am well-versed in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion Focused Therapy and Compassionate Inquiry, and I am flexible and holistic in meeting the unique needs of each client.