Meet Alison
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Alison Thompson
Student Therapist
Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies; Concentration in Psychology (BACS), Therapeutic Recreation; Open Studies (TR), Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology; Pending Conferral December 2024 (MACP)
Alison is an aspiring Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate in the Province of Nova Scotia, completing the final stretch of her skills-based counselling masters at Yorkville University. She has experience working in residential group homes, a local nursing home, the public school system, applied behavior therapy with Autism Nova Scotia, and for a non-profit working with homeless individuals and families in Nova Scotia. Most of these roles have involved programming with a focus on nurturing the social-emotional wellbeing of vulnerable persons, such as the mental, environmental, spiritual, intellectual, and physical realms of wellness. Much of Alison’s research and energy delves into the complexity and individuality required to provide adequate care for those with diverse needs, of whom often go under-recognized and ineffectively supported. Her experience working with Indigenous youth and families reinforces the need to provide culturally responsive and socially just counselling. She cultivates a commitment to lifelong learning that honours and appropriately integrates differing cultural practices and values. Alison has a budding interest in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy for individuals, families, and couples (NT, NFT, NCT), and Adlerian therapy focused on relational attachments (Psychodynamic). She has experience providing Advanced Level 1 training in the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) by Dr. Sally Rogers & co. in her time with Autism Nova Scotia, designated as a holistic play-based therapy for toddlers who have a suspected, provisional, or diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She also trained under a Registered Horticulture Therapist to provide nature-based alternative therapy in long term care.
Alison’s approach to mental health and wellbeing has been grounded by connection to nature, holistic and mindful activities to restore harmony and mind-body awareness. She sees therapy as a journey that looks different for everyone, that naturally ebbs and flows as the needs of people evolve and they experience significant life changes. Alison derives excitement from opportunities for clients to understand themselves in new ways as they continue to grow and process their unique experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Her passion lies in working with youth and adults who have disabilities, families with a child who has a disability, individuals suffering from workplace burnout, and existential questions such as “what is my purpose in life?”, or “what am I meant to do in life?”. Alison seeks to mobilize supports for parents and caregivers who often prioritize the needs of loved ones over their own, and values addressing barriers to everyday activities, vicarious trauma, caregiver and workplace burn out, and diminished life satisfaction.
Alison’s hobbies include gardening and caring for her house plants, spending time with her two loud, rambunctious beagles, and meditating or reading. Her favourite maritime band is The East Pointers, and she loves all music from country, rock, indie, to pop. She enjoys being active, whether it is walking her dogs, yoga, or Pilates. Alison enjoys learning and has a keen interest to participate in more local workshops such as pottery, art, and basket weaving.
“I will be a gentle, present witness as you explore and unravel intricately woven pieces of you. It is a privilege to learn from you as the truest expert of your life. My practice is characterized by flexibility, genuine interest in others, and attending to the social-contextual factors that impact wellbeing.”
~Alison
Alison’s approach to mental health and wellbeing has been grounded by connection to nature, holistic and mindful activities to restore harmony and mind-body awareness. She sees therapy as a journey that looks different for everyone, that naturally ebbs and flows as the needs of people evolve and they experience significant life changes. Alison derives excitement from opportunities for clients to understand themselves in new ways as they continue to grow and process their unique experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Her passion lies in working with youth and adults who have disabilities, families with a child who has a disability, individuals suffering from workplace burnout, and existential questions such as “what is my purpose in life?”, or “what am I meant to do in life?”. Alison seeks to mobilize supports for parents and caregivers who often prioritize the needs of loved ones over their own, and values addressing barriers to everyday activities, vicarious trauma, caregiver and workplace burn out, and diminished life satisfaction.
Alison’s hobbies include gardening and caring for her house plants, spending time with her two loud, rambunctious beagles, and meditating or reading. Her favourite maritime band is The East Pointers, and she loves all music from country, rock, indie, to pop. She enjoys being active, whether it is walking her dogs, yoga, or Pilates. Alison enjoys learning and has a keen interest to participate in more local workshops such as pottery, art, and basket weaving.
“I will be a gentle, present witness as you explore and unravel intricately woven pieces of you. It is a privilege to learn from you as the truest expert of your life. My practice is characterized by flexibility, genuine interest in others, and attending to the social-contextual factors that impact wellbeing.”
~Alison