Each month we catch up with a Winterberry team member in order to help our patients get to know our team better. This month we are happy to introduce you to Alexa, one of our mental health counsellors. We hope you enjoy getting to know Alexa through our quick Q+A:
Alexa, tell us about your work at Winterberry — what’s your role as a Mental Health Counsellor?
Serving as a Mental Health Counsellor at Winterberry, I offer dedicated support to patients and their families while helping to bridge the gap in primary care. I am committed to strengthening the ability of physician teams to recognize and address mental health needs proactively.
What led you to become a Mental Health Counsellor?
I have a deep professional commitment to the field of mental health, driven by a desire to understand the complexities of the human experience and a dedication to serving diverse communities. I believe that timely access to skilled clinical intervention is transformative. My goal is to be a catalyst for change, providing the specialized support necessary to help individuals navigate their challenges and improve their quality of life.
What is your educational and professional background? Where did you study and train?
My professional foundation is built on a comprehensive academic background, including a Social Service Worker diploma from Georgian College and a Bachelor of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. I began my clinical career as a Counselling Therapist, dedicating four years to supporting a diverse population of youth aged 4–18. Seeking to broaden my clinical scope and impact, I transitioned to the Winterberry Family Medicine team, where I now apply my expertise within a primary care setting.
What made you want to be part of the Winterberry team?
Working as a mental health clinician within a medical setting has long been a primary career objective of mine. Upon discovering this opportunity, I was eager to apply, as the role aligns closely with my professional aspirations. Joining the Winterberry Family Medicine team has provided an ideal opportunity to expand my clinical scope and contribute to a multidisciplinary, well-established medical practice.
Is there an average day in the clinic for you? What does your work typically look like?
In the dynamic environment of the clinic, my daily responsibilities are diverse and ever-evolving. My clinical hours are balanced between conducting initial assessments for new patients and providing ongoing follow-up care. Outside of direct patient interaction, I prioritize thorough clinical documentation and engage in continuous professional development to ensure my therapeutic techniques remain current and evidence-based.
What are some of the ways you support patients in your role?
My approach to patient support is highly individualized, adapting to the unique clinical needs of each person. As a Mental Health Clinician, I facilitate a secure and confidential environment where patients can explore complex emotions, develop sustainable coping strategies, and build deeper self-awareness to navigate life’s challenges.
What do you enjoy most about working in mental health counselling?
Mental health counselling is a dynamic and rewarding field where no two days are alike. The most fulfilling aspect of my practice is witnessing the progress of my clients as they work toward their clinical goals. I am dedicated to supporting these positive changes and helping individuals build tools for long-term success.
What do you wish more people knew about reaching out for mental health support?
One of the most important aspects of my work is helping to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. I strongly believe that seeking support is a sign of resilience, not weakness. It’s important to recognize that everyone experiences periods of struggle, and my goal is to ensure individuals are aware of—and have access to—the supports available to help them navigate these challenges.
When you’re not at Winterberry helping patients, what will we find you doing?
Outside of my work at Winterberry, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and finding balance through personal interests. You can often find me curled up with a good book and a coffee, exploring local vintage and antique shops, or traveling whenever the opportunity arises.
