Haylie Shumka
Registered Social Worker
Here is what Haylie had to say:
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Science and Psychology and a Bachelor of Social Work (Honours), and I am currently completing my Master of Social Work.
My background in psychology, forensic science, and social work has given me a unique perspective on the connection between our experiences, relationships, environments, choices, and behaviours.
I have training in Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behaviour therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), Trauma focused therapy, Solution focused brief therapy, Narrative therapy and Interpersonal therapy. I always implement a client centred and trauma informed approach.
My approach to counselling is grounded in the belief that we are not defined by the choices we’ve made or the consequences we’ve experienced. What matters is what we can learn from those experiences and how we choose to move forward. I aim to provide a space where you can talk openly about the things that may be difficult to say elsewhere, without feeling judged, lectured, or defined by your past.
I work with individuals aged 16 and older who may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, unsure of what comes next, or struggling with grief, guilt or shame about things that have happened in their lives. Counselling with me can include navigating relationships and family dynamics, working through difficult life experiences, substance use concerns, building healthier coping skills, understanding patterns in your life, setting goals, or simply figuring out where to go from here.
My professional background has given me the opportunity to work with people from many different walks of life, including youth and adults experiencing mental health and substance use concerns, involvement with the justice system, relationship difficulties, trauma, and major life transitions. These experiences have shaped my belief that people are much more than the hardest moments of their lives, and that meaningful change can happen when people feel heard, respected, and supported rather than judged.
You don’t need to have everything figured out before coming to counselling. In fact, you don’t even need to know exactly what you want to talk about. We can start with where you are.
Haylie will be operating out of our Dryden clinic, virtually and potentially can be accessed in person in Thunder Bay for those 16++
Please reach out to hshumka@dearborntherapy.ca
