Counselling Team (RCCs)
Our Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) have completed Master’s or PhD level counselling programs having gained hands-on experience in providing support, guidance and compassion to a variety of clientele.
Our RCCs utilize evidence-based treatment methods, standard interventions and counselling modalities. They work alongside our many clinicians and staff to gain and provide expertise, tools and knowledge to further their professional development in the vast world of counselling psychology.
Counsellors offer online and in-person appointments at our Parkside, Sidney and Westshore locations*.
*In-person availability varies amongst counsellors and locations.
Interested in booking in? Contact our Counselling Manager to book a free initial consultation with the counsellor who suits you best!
Stephen Roberts
Chief Operating Officer
MA, RCC, CCC
Stephen Roberts is the co-owner and, as of January 1, 2025, the Chief Operating Officer of MindKey Health.
A Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), Stephen blends a wealth of diverse life experiences with his leadership at MindKey Health. His broad background enhances both his clinical practice and his ability to guide the organization in its forward momentum.
Stephen holds a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counselling from Liberty University, along with both a Doctorate and Master’s degree in environmental fields from the University of British Columbia, and a Bachelor of Arts from Queen’s University.
Married to Dr. Jillian Roberts since 1989, Stephen is a proud father of three—one of his children was adopted at birth. As an Elder of the Métis Nation of BC, he brings invaluable Indigenous knowledge and perspective to MindKey Health, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to supporting Indigenous communities.
Cristina Martin
Counsellor
MA, RCC, CCC
Cristina has her Master of Counselling Psychology degree from Yorkville University. Cristina has always been drawn to work and volunteering opportunities helping others. She grew up in Switzerland where she later returned to work as a primary and special education teacher. Cristina is well travelled and has lived and work abroad in many countries. Cristina previously lived in Victoria for five years working with adults in mental health and addiction programs. She then left for five years to travel and further her studies, before returning to the beautiful West Coast. Cristina has extensive experience working with individuals struggling with persistent mental health challenges and she works within a bio-psychosocial spiritual framework. Cristina is bilingual - she speaks French and English.
Cristina's approach to counselling is gentle, informal, and is a mutual and collaborative alliance based on safety, trust, and unconditional positive regard. Cristina believes that everyone has a unique story and will help you work towards your preferred story. Cristina's goals in counselling are to support client goals and help them become the best version of themselves. Cristina enjoys working with children, youth, families and adults from all walks of life including the LGBTQ+ community. She would be honoured to help you along on this journey.
On her time off, you can find Cristina adventuring on the island, swimming in lakes, hiking in nature, cycling or enjoying some good Netflix.
Fun Fact: Cristina attended after school Circus club and can juggle!
Susanna Longridge
Counsellor
MACP, RCC
Types of therapy offered: A blend of mindfulness-based cognitive behavioural therapy (MCBT), strengths-based, person-centred, and schema-focused.
Ages or specific groups of clients: Adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Assisting with: Anxiety, depression, grief and loss, partnering and parenting.
Integrating: Bio-psycho-social-spiritual frameworks, mindful presence, deep rest, transmutative and Judea-Christian frames of reference.
Susanna has an MA in Counselling Psychology and a BA in Secondary Education. Her professional and personal experience motivate her in assisting others to successfully process and manage the transitions life holds. Susanna’s time working with teens and adults has informed her philosophy that Life is fascinating, challenging, funny, and precious—from it we learn to skillfully engage with new experiences and savor them as a valuable part of living on the earth.
Hayley Rennalls
Counsellor
MA, RCC
Types of therapy offered: Person-centered, solution-focused, growth-mindset, behavioural intervention, and Christian Therapeutic approaches.
Ages or specific groups of clients: Children and adolescents
Group, family, couple or individuals: Individuals and families
Specializations: Working with clients who have disabilities (physical, mental, or learning) and/or have family members with disabilities. Clients who are experiencing anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, depression, social difficulties, and behavioural challenges. Motivational challenges as well as challenges pertaining to healthy relationships.
Treatment to alleviate what problems: Anxiety, depression, stress, interpersonal relationship challenges, attentional issues, and challenges pertaining to behaviour and executive functioning. As well as the problems that one encounters when living with a disability.
Hayley received a Bachelor of Arts in Counselling and Theology from William Jessup University, Rocklin, Californiaand completed a Master of Arts in Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies (with a specialization in Special Education) from the University of Victoria.
Hayley has worked with children and teens since 2003 in various capacities including in schools and homes as a behavioural interventionist and a learning support teacher. She has worked with a range of students who have mental, physical or learning disabilities such as: Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Dyslexia, Cerebral Palsy.
Through her experiences, Hayley believes that a client can be best supported when a team of people (families, schools, counsellors, etc.) collaborate and act jointly to support the client. She encourages families to work together to support their family member through building strong interpersonal relationships. Hayley spent five years living and working in China and can speak Mandarin.
Lisa Norden-Infante
Pre-Doctoral Resident
MEd, PsyD (in progress), RCC
Lisa is only seeing current and former clients at this time and is not accepting new clients.
Types of therapy offered: Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-focused, EMDR therapy, and Mindfulness based therapy.
Ages or Specific groups of clients: Children, youth, families, and individuals
Group, Family, couple or individuals: Individuals, families and couples.
Specializations: Anxiety, depression, trauma, social-emotional and behavioral difficulties, parenting skills and peer and family relationships
Treatment to alleviate what Problems: Anxiety, School Challenges, Behavioral challenges, Family Challenges, Relationship Difficulties
“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” – Helen Keller
It is Lisa’s genuine, caring and compassionate approach, along with her lighthearted sense of humor that is instrumental in establishing an empowering and safe relationship with her clients. This approach allows her to become part of the team that helps support her clients in their journey to reach their true potential.
Lisa graduated with a Masters in Education with emphasis in Psychology from Pepperdine University and is currently working towards a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) through California Southern University. Lisa is Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors. Lisa works under the supervision of Dr. Jillian Roberts.
Lisa is a wife and mother to five children. She enjoys time with her family, long walks, and loves reading. One day she will walk the ancient pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome.
Andrea Bennington
Counsellor
MA, RCC, CCC
Andrea completed her Master of Counselling Psychology Degree from Yorkville University in 2021. She is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with The British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC), and a Certified Canadian Counsellor with The Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). She has also completed the San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training. She works with children (including those dealing with ADD, ADHD and those on the Autism spectrum), Adults (single & couples) and their families. Andrea also works with LGBTQIA2S+ individuals providing gender and sexuality affirming and inclusive counselling care.
Since moving to Victoria in 2013 she has been involved with several organizations including Stigma-Free Society (Formerly, The Bipolar Disorder Society of British Columbia) as a Mental Health group facilitator and Mental Health Recovery Partners, South Vancouver Island (Previously, The British Columbia Schizophrenia Society, Victoria Branch) as a peer support worker.
She supports solution-focused, client-centred, and recovery-oriented philosophies rooted in strength, growth, and resiliency. She believes that with the right support individuals have a boundless ability to mobilize change and growth in their lives. She builds therapeutic relationships based on trust, unconditional positive regard, and on-going rapport. She has worked with a diverse group of individuals with varying mental health.challenges including anxiety, depression, mood and/ or thought disorders and relationship concerns while they overcome barriers, build autonomy and improve their quality of their lives on their own terms.
Jennifer Bracke
Counsellor
MACP, RCC
Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Victoria and is currently pursuing her Master's in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. With a background encompassing seven years of experience in complex and long-term care, Jennifer has assisted individuals and their families through many significant life transitions. Having a deep understanding of the challenges and complexities involved in navigating such changes, she firmly believes that these transitions present valuable opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery.
Jennifer places great emphasis on fostering self-compassion as a means to well-being. Through non-judgmental and inclusive care, she aims to help her clients challenge self-limiting beliefs, cultivate self-acceptance, and foster more compassionate relationships with themselves. Drawing from her extensive experience, Jennifer brings an empathetic and understanding approach to her practice, ensuring that her clients feel safe and supported as they explore their emotions, thoughts, and concerns.
In her therapeutic approach, Jennifer draws upon a range of evidence-based modalities tailored to meet each client's specific needs. Incorporating techniques from mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and strengths-based approaches, Jennifer creates a holistic and personalized therapeutic environment for each individual she works with.
Natalie Padron-Alarcon
Counsellor
MA, RCC
Natalie is the office manager at our Sidney location and is looking forward to a bright future in the world of mental health and counselling. She currently holds a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology and has years of experience in administrative roles. She is happy to help our clients move through their journeys with us here at MindKey Health. Coming from a Latinx bilingual background, Natalie enjoys spending her personal time cooking traditional foods for her family and dancing to Salsa. You might even catch her dancing in the office.
Tasha Liberatore
Counsellor
MEd, RCC
Tasha has a Masters of Education Psychology in Special Education and is a Registered Clinical Counsellor. She has 20 years experience in direct counselling and/or acting as a case manager for elementary, middle, and high school students. Tasha also works with adults. Tasha's preferred counselling style is a mix of Narrative, Solution Focused, and Strength Based Therapies. Her specialization is working with people with ADHD, learning disabilities and/or have family members with disabilities, as well as individuals struggling with a multitude of concerns; some of which include anxiety, stress, motivation, attention, depression, trauma, grief, difficulty with transitions, healthy relationships or self-esteem. Tasha is an active volunteer in her community with a variety of sports associations as well as the Victoria Sexual Assault Centre.
Kieran Lowe
Counsellor
MACP, RCC
In our counselling office, Kieran embodies empathy and understanding, seamlessly integrating into our team with a background in psychology. His Bachelor of Science Honours in Biology from the University of Victoria enriches his counselling approach, drawing from diverse disciplines to support clients.
Kieran has completed his Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology with Yorkville University, and is dedicated to expanding his knowledge and honing his skills to better serve those in need. He employs an integrative person-centred approach, utilizing techniques from various evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
As a counsellor, Kieran excels in connecting with clients on a personal level, creating a safe non-judgemental space through active listening and genuine empathy for them to feel seen, heard, and understood. He navigates complex emotional landscapes with grace and sensitivity, inspiring hope and resilience in those he serves.
Kieran's dedication extends beyond his clinical expertise. He inspires hope and resilience in those he serves, approaching each interaction with unwavering compassion and optimism. His belief in the inherent strength of every individual serves as a guiding light, empowering others towards self-discovery. Through his unwavering compassion and boundless empathy, he leaves an indelible mark on our counselling office and the lives of those he touches.
Allie Szwender
Counsellor
MACP, RCC
Allie Szwender holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy from Dalhousie University and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. Allie has a background of mental health and addictions work, as well as an extensive background of 10 years working in the educational system. She has worked with individuals with a variety of mental health issues including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, and phobias. Having a deep understanding of the complexity and developmental stages that children and their families endure, she is a strong believer in providing support throughout the transitional phases of life as they present strong opportunities for growth and self-exploration. Her background in recreation also makes Allie a strong believer in health and wellness as a means to improve everyone’s lifestyle and mental health. Allie is a strong believer in fostering an inclusive and non-judgemental environment to increase one’s well-being. She aims to help her clients introspectively self-discover their own abilities, cultivate independence in their own thinking, create stronger relationships with others and themselves, as well as understand that emotional work and learning is a life-long journey. Allie brings a fun and personable approach to her practice to ensure that her clients feel comfortable, safe, and supported as they explore their emotions, thoughts, and concerns. Allie derives her therapeutic approach from several evidence-based modalities that are best suited to meet her client’s needs. Incorporating techniques from mindfulness-based behavioural therapy, person-centered therapy, solutions-focused therapy, emotion focused therapy and strengths based approached, Allie creates a unique and personalized therapeutic environment for each individual.
Claudia Donald
Counsellor
MACP, RCC
Claudia is a calm, compassionate, and hard-working individual who is passionate about mental health. She holds both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Victoria and has completed her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology through Yorkville University. Claudia has been working with youth for the past 15 years as a support worker, out of school care leader, summer camp leader, and preschool teacher. Over the past 7 years, she has been working as a high school teacher teaching French immersion, Spanish, and Psychology as well as coaching the school's girls volleyball team. Her experience has led her to advocate for those who cannot or do not have access to affordable mental health care. In addition to working with youth, Claudia's areas of interest are anxiety, (step) parenting, separation/divorce, motherhood, relationships, and life transitions. Her approach brings together elements of Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), and Person-Centered Therapy. She meets her clients where they are in their journey and strives to tailor the sessions to her client's needs.
In her spare time you can find her playing volleyball, taking hikes with her dog, painting, or indulging in some Netflix-watching with her family. She is also fluent in English, French, and Spanish.
Mayuko Helwer
Counsellor
MACP, RCC
Mayu is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (#22826) and Registered Psychiatric Nurse (#7708895) practicing in Victoria B.C. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of Victoria, and Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. With over 15 years of working closely with individuals with mental health challenges, she brings in vast experience, knowledge, and evidence-based practices to your counselling sessions. She is a trauma-, neuro-, and polyvagal-informed therapist who believes in creating safety and connection as the most important foundation in therapy. She views mental health challenges as opportunities to explore one’s adoptive patterns and thrive with appropriate skills. She offers a variety of evidence based modalities to fit your therapy needs. She has formal trainings in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindful Based-Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (MB-CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR).
Michael Oakes
Counsellor
MACP, RCC
Michael received his Master of Counselling Psychology degree from Yorkville University. He is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC).
Michael has worked with youth and adults in a number of roles within the field of mental health. In his role at Dr. Jillian Roberts Psychology Corporation, Michael provides clinical counselling to address a variety of issues from evidence-based, and insight-oriented approaches. He has worked in residential and outpatient mental health settings across British Columbia and continues to provide collaborative care, teamed with psychologists, psychiatrists, physicians, health consultants, nurses, social workers, and counselor/clinicians at the health authority.
Michael views the therapeutic relationship as a mutual and collaborative alliance based on safety, trust, congruence, unconditional positive regard, and ongoing rapport. He is experienced in several therapeutic orientations including Solution-Focused, Client-Centred, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioural, Attachment-based, Humanistic and Psychodynamic based modalities. Michael believes that people, like all living things, are inherently driven to thrive and grow, and when given the right conditions, people are capable of making meaningful changes.
Alex Roberts
Counsellor
MA, RCC, CCC
Alex has a Master's in Counselling Psychology through The University of Victoria. She enjoys a collaborative approach to counselling, in which clients can explore and develop new ways of thinking, feeling, and relating in a supportive and empowering therapeutic relationship. Specializing in clients who identify as LGBTQ+ or are exploring new gender and sexual identities, she is available for in-person sessions as well as telephone and video sessions.
When not working, she can usually be found enjoying leisurely nature walks, reading fantasy novels, or playing video games.
Types of therapy offered: A blend of solution-focused, experiential, narrative, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Ages or Specific groups of clients: Adult clients, particularly those who are LGBTQ+ or are exploring gender and sexual orientation.
Group, Family, couple or individuals: Individuals
Specializations: Anxiety, stress management, identity challenges, major life transitions, interpersonal challenges
Alexis Petrunia
Counsellor
MACP (in progress)
Alexis is a passionate and dedicated counselling intern committed to helping her clients address mental health and neurodevelopmental challenges. With a profound appreciation for the importance of access to quality support, Alexis is pursuing a career in counselling and is currently completing a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology through Yorkville University.
Having previously worked as a CBT Practitioner, Alexis has supported individuals in addressing mental health and ADHD-related issues by applying evidence-based techniques like cognitive restructuring, behavioural activation, and mindfulness in a goal-oriented and collaborative manner.
Offering a calm, empathetic, and personalized approach to mental health care, Alexis prioritizes the development of strong working relationships with her Mindkey Health clientele and aims to honour the lived experiences of all individuals and families through carefully tailored interventions. While considering each person’s unique needs, Alexis draws from frameworks such as Person-Centred Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Structural Family Therapy (SFT).
In her spare time, Alexis loves to venture out with her dog and explore the beaches and parks of southern Vancouver Island — the traditional territories of the Lkwungen (Esquimalt and Songhees), Malahat, Pacheedaht, Scia’new, T’Sou-ke and W̱SÁNEĆ (Pauquachin, Tsartlip, Tsawout, Tseycum) peoples.