Southwest Counselling Services
Southwest Counselling Services is a multidisciplinary collective of qualified counsellors in Sarnia-Lambton offering trauma-informed, evidence-based counselling for children, youth, adults, athletes, and families. Services include individual and group therapy, Play Therapy, EMDR, the Safe and Sound Protocol, mind-body approaches such as yoga and breathwork, and community workshops, with an emphasis on nervous-system regulation and accessible, mentorship-driven care. The team also runs community programs and events, including a Polar Bear Dip fundraiser and specialty group series, to support local resilience and wellbeing.
🕰️ Organization Hours:
Last updated on Feb 3rd, 2026
Recent Activity
Social Work Me Episode 48 Release
Social Work Me Episode 48, released on 2026-03-12, features Australian social worker and rehabilitation case manager Yasmine Loupis discussing support for people with long term movement, thinking, and emotional challenges after injury or illness. Listen on Spotify or your preferred podcast app for practitioner focused insights and practical reflections from an international guest.
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Thank-you for Business of Wellness participation
Southwest Counselling Services thanks Hashtag Local for hosting the Business of Wellness event and recognizes Michele, Mindfully Michele, for sharing the stage with local wellness leaders on March 10, 2026. This short postevent note highlights community collaboration while offering no additional logistics.
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Social Work Week recognition
Social Work Week runs March 2 to March 8, 2026, and Southwest Counselling Services is inviting the community to recognize social workers across schools, healthcare, government services, non profits, and private practice. Tag a social worker who has made a difference to show appreciation and share how they have strengthened community wellbeing.
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Episode 47 of Social Work Me Podcast
In Episode 47 of the Social Work Me Podcast, Michele interviews Reilly, who shares his journey through foster care and the importance of mentorship and resilience.
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Holiday Gratitude Message
Southwest Counselling Services expresses heartfelt gratitude to the community for their trust and support, wishing everyone warmth and care during the holiday season.
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10-Year Anniversary and Founders' Contributions
Celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Southwest Counselling Services, honoring founders Dawn Whalls, Matt Barnes, and Taryn Barnes for their impactful contributions to mental health care in Southwestern Ontario.
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Basics of Breathwork
Join the Basics of Breathwork series starting January 7, 2026, led by Michele McPherson, focusing on techniques to manage stress and enhance emotional wellbeing.
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Celebrating Carlyn McNally's Contributions
Join us in celebrating Carlyn McNally's impactful contributions as a clinician at Southwest Counselling Services, where she fosters growth and healing through her compassionate approach.
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Annual Polar Bear Dip Fundraiser
Join the Annual Polar Bear Dip Fundraiser on January 1, 2026, in Sarnia, Ontario, to support mental health and wellness, with last year's event raising $2,250 for local addiction services!
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Celebrating Cami Sinclair's Contributions
Celebrate the contributions of Cami Sinclair at Southwest Counselling Services during their 10-year anniversary, recognizing her impact and dedication to the community.
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Rachael Fowler's Professional Contributions
Rachael Fowler, a dedicated professional at Southwest Counselling Services, offers compassionate counselling to youth and adults, specializing in support for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and those facing various mental health challenges.
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Support for Athletes' Mental Health
Southwest Counselling Services has dedicated the past decade to supporting athletes' mental health, particularly through their work with the Sarnia Sting, helping young athletes navigate emotional challenges.
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Holiday Harmony Within Workshop
Join us for the Holiday Harmony Within Workshop on December 14, 2025, at Southwest Counselling Services, focusing on self-care and balance during the holiday season.
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Taylor Dunlop's Profile and Contributions
Taylor Dunlop is a vital part of Southwest Counselling Services, specializing in addiction recovery and trauma-focused therapy, dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate life's challenges.
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EMDR Therapy at Southwest Counselling Services
Southwest Counselling Services offers EMDR Therapy, an evidence-based approach to help individuals heal from trauma and distressing experiences.
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Profile of Erin Lyon
Erin Lyon, MSW, RSW, has been a valued member of Southwest Counselling Services since May 2021, specializing in therapy for children and youth with a compassionate and creative approach.
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Social Work Me Podcast
The Social Work Me Podcast, launched in late 2019, offers expert interviews and discussions on wellness and social work topics, hosted by Matt Barnes, Michele McPherson, and Rachael Fowler.
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Staff Spotlight: Lauren Markos
Lauren Markos, a dedicated clinician at Southwest Counselling Services, celebrates 10 years of providing trauma-informed therapy to individuals, couples, and families.
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Mental Skills Toolkit Mentoring
The Mental Skills Toolkit Mentoring program by Southwest Counselling Services focuses on enhancing athletes' mental performance, featuring mentorship from an MSW student.
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Walking With Grief Program
The Walking With Grief Program by Southwest Counselling Services offers a supportive space for individuals to heal and connect through shared experiences.
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Michele McPherson's Contributions to Southwest Counselling Services
Michele McPherson is celebrated for her 10 years of impactful contributions to Southwest Counselling Services, where she has championed a mind-body approach to therapy.
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Spin It Out Initiative
The Spin It Out Initiative, launched in 2017 by Southwest Counselling Services, provides local youth with a free cycling program that promotes physical strength and mental resilience.
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Celebrating 10 Years of Southwest Counselling Services
Join Southwest Counselling Services in celebrating 10 years of service in Sarnia-Lambton with 10 weeks of stories reflecting on their impactful journey.
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10th Anniversary Celebration
Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Southwest Counselling Services on October 24, 2025, with free yoga sessions, door prizes, and more at 704 Mara Street, Point Edward!
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Open House Celebration
Join us for an Open House Celebration on October 24, 2025, at Southwest Counselling Services, featuring free yoga sessions, door prizes, and more to celebrate 10 years of community service.
