Southwest Counselling Services
Southwest Counselling Services is a collective of qualified counsellors in Sarnia-Lambton providing trauma-informed, evidence-based mental health supports for children, youth, adults, athletes, and families. They offer individual and group therapy, specialty services such as Play Therapy, EMDR, mind-body approaches including yoga and breathwork, and the Safe and Sound Protocol. The team also runs community workshops, training, and events aimed at nervous-system regulation, resilience, and accessible care.
🕰️ Organization Hours:
Last updated on Feb 3rd, 2026
Recent Activity
Men's Mental Health Month awareness - Vision Nursing & Rest Home talk
Southwest Counselling Services commemorated Men's Mental Health Month with a conversation at Vision Nursing and Rest Home featuring Matt and Brian Knowles. The talk examined generational ideas about masculinity, emotional expression, and seeking support, and included Brian's reflections on policing and PTSD; Vision Nursing and Rest Home donated $500 to Project Mental Wellness in support.
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Episode 49 — Social Work Me
Social Work Me Episode 49, released June 18 2026, features Michele in conversation with illustrator and author Brittany Sciolla about simple ways parents and caregivers can notice and enjoy connective moments with kids. Listen on Spotify or your preferred podcast app for a warm, practical episode focused on presence rather than doing more.
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Visit at Vision Nursing Home
Southwest Counselling Services announced a community visit at Vision Nursing Home today, starting at 2:00 PM on 2026-06-12. The brief afternoon gathering invites people to join for a supportive visit and friendly time with residents.
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Matt begins PhD in Social Work at University of Windsor and shifts duties for academic year
Southwest Counselling Services announced that Matt will begin a PhD in Social Work at the University of Windsor this fall and will step away from clinical counselling for the academic year. He will continue supporting sports and corporate teams with mental health, resilience, leadership, and performance work.
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Roads to Recovery series
Southwest Counselling Services shared a new series titled Roads to Recovery by Cathy Dobson and Glenn Ogilvie, published with the Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton on 2026-05-21. The reporting centers on stories of addiction and local paths to recovery in Sarnia-Lambton, and the organization points readers to the full series via the link in their stories.
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A story of hope and optimism from Cathy Dobson and Glen Ogilvie
Southwest Counselling Services published a brief, uplifting piece titled "A story of hope and optimism from Cathy Dobson and Glen Ogilvie" on 2026-05-16. The story highlights community voices and offers a warm, encouraging perspective for readers seeking reassurance and inspiration.
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Skills Ontario Competition recap
The Skills Ontario Competition in Toronto drew over 2,400 competitors across 70 plus contests and more than 20,000 spectators, serving as a qualifier for the national stage. Southwest Counselling Services notes the event spotlighted the importance of mental preparation, offering visualization and routine based strategies to help competitors perform under pressure.
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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.
