Vanessa Nicholson, BIPOC Psychotherapist, in-person therapy in Mississauga and virtual therapy

Vanessa Nicholson

She/Her

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

In Person Therapy MississaugaVirtual Therapy

Session Fees:

170

Supporting Ages:

Adults 18+Children Under 12Teens 12-17

Languages Spoken:

English

Service Type:

Couple/Relationship TherapyFamily TherapyIndividual TherapyPerinatal TherapyTherapy for ChildrenTherapy for ParentsTherapy for Teens

Vanessa Nicholson

She/Her

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

In Person Therapy MississaugaVirtual Therapy

Within the therapy space, I strive to offer a safe, respectful, and judgment-free space where you can show up just as you are. Reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and I want to recognize the courage it takes to begin.

I work with individuals, couples, and families, and I aim to create a space where everyone feels heard, understood, and supported. Whether you’re going through something personally, working through challenges in a relationship, or navigating family dynamics, we’ll move at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

In our sessions, you can expect open, honest conversations where you’re invited to share what’s been on your mind without pressure or judgment. We might explore your experiences, patterns, and relationships, while also finding practical ways to cope, communicate, and move toward the changes you’re hoping for. My role is to walk alongside you, offering guidance, support, and curiosity, while respecting that you are the expert in your own life.

My approach is grounded in inclusivity, trust, and empowerment, and I work through a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressive lens. I also take a holistic view of well-being, recognizing the connection between mind, body, and spirit.

Together, we may explore how different parts of your identity, such as gender, race, sexuality, religion, and ethnicity, shape your experiences and relationships. I strive to create a space where all voices are valued, especially when working with couples and families, where understanding and communication are so important.

I draw from a range of approaches, including narrative therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based practices, and I tailor our work to what feels most helpful for you.

Wherever you are in your journey, as an individual, in a relationship, or within your family, you don’t have to go through it alone. I would be honoured to walk alongside you.

Particular Areas of Focus:

Anxiety, Depression, Self-Worth, Self-Confidence and Self-Growth, Relationship Challenges, Parenting Support, Child and Teen Experiences

Hello and welcome! My name is Vanessa Nicholson, and I am an Indigenous Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying). Before stepping into private practice, I spent the past five years working as an Indigenous Child and Youth Counsellor in a school setting, supporting the emotional and social growth of young people. That experience continues to shape how I show up in my work, with patience, curiosity, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story.

Outside of my role as a therapist, I’m also a daughter, an auntie, and a mother; relationships that ground me and continue to teach me about care, connection, and resilience. I also have a love for reading and often find comfort and inspiration in books. When I’m not curled up with a good story, you can usually find me outdoors. I love being active and spending time in nature, especially in my converted school bus camper, often parked near the water.

I believe in caring for ourselves in a holistic way; nurturing our mind, body, and spirit. I also believe deeply in the power of community, connection, and meaningful relationships as important parts of healing and growth

Experience


  • 5+ years of experience working as a Child and Youth Counsellor both in the education and correctional systems
  • 3+ years of experience as a Mental Health Program Coordinator for an Indigenous-based mental health organization- Finding Our Power Together

 

Education


  • Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University
  • Masters of Arts in Child and Youth Care
  • Bachelors of Arts in Forensic Psychology
  • Trauma Informed & Healing Centered Engagement from An Equity,
  • Anti-Oppression & Anti-Racist Lens (Part 1 & 2) / October 2022
  • Standard First Aid and CPR Training / June 2022
  • Restorative Practices with Peacebuilders Canada (2-Day) / May 2022
  • River of Life: Indigenous Youth Suicide Prevention / April 2022
  • 2 Day Intensive Trauma Treatment: EMDR, CBT and Somatic-Based
  • Interventions to Move Clients from Surviving to Thriving / March 2022
  • 2-Day Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Training / April 2021
  • Mental Health First Aid / June 2021
Academic Stress & School Challenges, ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behaviour Challenges, Body Image Concerns, Break Ups, Bullying, Child Development, Codependency, Communication & Boundaries, Cultural Identity, Depression, Emotion Regulation, Family Relationships, Friend Relationships, Grief & Loss, Infidelity/Trust Issues, Life Transitions, Marriage and Romantic Relationship Challenges, Parenting, Religion & Spirutality, Self Esteem/Self Worth, Stress Management, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma, Work-Life Balance & Career Challenges
Anti-Oppressive, Attachment Based Therapy, Brief Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Dialogic/Collaborative Therapy, Eclectic, Inner Child Theory, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused Therapy, Strengths Based, Trauma Focused, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
error: Content is protected !!