Tamara McKay
Registered Clinical Counsellor
Accepting New Clients
Areas of Focus: Sexuality, relationships, life transitions, JDRF certification in diabetes counselling, pregnancy loss, infertility, postpartum adjustment
Individual and Relationship Counselling
Works with: Adults and Youth
Availability: After 6 on Wednesday, Saturday mornings and other times upon request
Currently Virtual Only
2017 Options for Sexual Health Education Award with Mareel Counselling’s founder, Lisa Shopland-Black
Welcome!
I understand the thought of counselling can feel overwhelming, indulgent, or possibly invasive. At the suggestion of counselling, I have heard people say, “I don’t want anyone messing with my head”.
I would not want any of that either.
I see counselling as an opportunity to help people find their strengths and resources. Counselling can help people navigate through their emotions, problematic thoughts, and the events that are having a negative impact on their lives, leading to self-discovery, and resolution.
Together, we can discover what brings meaning in your life, what obstacles are getting in your way, and set a course to get there.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with a Masters in Counselling, a Bachelor of Education, a Diploma of Counselling Psychology in Guidance Studies and a Bachelor of Fine Arts Specialization. I have more than 20 years’ experience in the fields of counselling and education. I recognize the uniqueness of my clients and respect personal choice while working collaboratively to strengthen one’s self-awareness, communication, and relationship skills.
I have worked with adults, adolescents, families and couples, facing issues within their relationships, sexuality, and societal/cultural expectations.
I can help you navigate the unique challenges and pressures in your life while improving your mental strength and well-being. I work to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and mutual respect, with the recognition that you are not a problem to be solved, but a person to be understood.
Outside of my professional life, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love being outdoors, hiking, and travelling when I can. Down time includes finding new recipes to cook and indulging in movies nights on the couch.
Tamara McKay (she/her)
Registered Clinical Counsellor
Working with Tamara
I use integrative, attachment-based approaches, combining various theories including narrative, person-centered, solution-focused, family systems and cognitive-behavioural theories.
I am JDRF certified in diabetes counselling.
I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is essential in helping clients feel heard, understood, and valued.
I value creating a non-judgmental, empathetic atmosphere where you can feel safe, where you are able to express yourself freely and feel empowered to make healthy decisions for yourself.
I will tailor my approach to meet your unique needs, in a way that challenges and empowers you to move forward.
Trauma knowledgable practice, with an anti-oppressive lens is primary throughout my practice.
While some people only need a few sessions to get back on track, for others it can take longer. The choice is always yours.