Sue MacDonald

I believe an individualized approach in the counselling process is vital. In my practice, I strive to meet my clients where they are at emotionally and work alongside them in their journey, helping them make the changes and move in their desired direction.

In both my personal and professional work, l have always valued the power of human connection and also believe strongly how nature, animals and physical movement positively impact our mental health and overall wellness. These values are reflected in my practice as unique options for my clients.

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and a certified teacher and have been immersed in the field since graduating from St Francis Xavier University in 1988 with a dual degree in Physical Education and Education. I have worked with individuals from ages 5 and up in the public and private school system, community organizations, colleges and universities, fitness facilities and group homes, bringing a sense of fun, optimism, professionalism and dedication to all those I work with.

My first Masters degree in Education (2007) was followed by a Masters Degree in Counselling (2017) and several post graduate courses and hands-on intensive courses in animal assisted psychotherapy, all which have helped me form a well rounded experiential approach in my practice.

Click on the following links to find out more about the various counselling services I offer.

I also offer:

Facilitation and consultation services
Speaking services
Workshops
Small therapeutic group sessions
Team building opportunities for groups and organizations

To inquire more about these services please contact me by:

email at
by phone at (250) 564-9892

Additional Training

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Certification - Russ Harris
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy Certification - EMDRIA Canada
Specialized Understanding of Emergency Worker Trauma (First Responders) - Level 2
Occupational Awareness Training for Therapists (First Responders) - Level 1
Psychological First Aid - Red Cross
San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training - First Nations Health Authority
Mindfulness in Schools Teacher Training - Halifax
Canadian Mindfulness Conference - Halifax - Breathe Yoga studio
Trauma Informed Yoga Teacher Core Training - Yoga Outreach
Trauma Informed Education Training – Linda ONeil - Centre for Learning Alternatives
Level 1 - Mindfulness Based Somatic Therapy - Vancouver
Palliative Care Training - Prince George Hospice Society
Rainbows / Spectrum Grief and Loss Facilitator Training

Animal Specific Courses

Animal Assisted Psychotherapy post graduate level courses

Human Animal Bond - Animal Assisted Therapy of Colorado
Law and Ethics - Animal Assisted Therapy of Colorado
Animal Behavior and Training - Animal Assisted Therapy of Colorado
AAP Theory - Animal Assisted Therapy of Colorado

Internships

Dreamcatcher Nature Assisted Academy - Ardrossen Alberta
Animal Assisted Therapy Association of Colorado

Additional Animal Certifications

Pro-EFW certification candidate through Healing Hooves - www.equinefacilitatedwellness.org/certification-overview/
Courses completed: Explorations, Foundations, Focus.
Professional Therapy Dog Training Certification - Level One and Two - Caring K’9s - Prince George, BC
St. John Ambulance Pet First Aid – St. John Ambulance
St. John Ambulance Best Friends Pet Visitation - St. John Ambulance