Nik Novak (he/him/his)
Masters of Counselling Psychology Student.
Nik will be supervised under Amanda Brennan, RP.
I believe that each of us has a greater capacity for growth than we sometimes realize. Often, the solutions we seek are already within us. My role is to help you uncover your strengths, insights, and inner resources so that you can move toward the life you want to live.
We all experience periods where we feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or uncertain about our next steps. In those moments, having a space to speak openly and honestly with another person can make a meaningful difference.
My approach is primarily person-centred and draws from mindfulness-based, strengths-based, and cognitive-behavioural approaches when helpful.
I am especially passionate about working with adolescent and adult men. Many men are taught to carry their struggles alone, and as a result can find it difficult to talk openly about stress, relationships, identity, purpose, or emotional well-being. I strive to create an environment where clients can speak candidly, feel understood, and develop practical ways of creating meaningful change in their lives.
Before pursuing a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology degree from Yorkville University, I spent five years supporting adults experiencing addiction, homelessness, and other significant life challenges. My experience includes working in supportive housing in Victoria, British Columbia, as well as at the Detox Centre and Managed Alcohol Program in Kenora, Ontario. These experiences reinforced my belief that meaningful change is most likely to occur when people feel understood rather than judged, and when they are given the opportunity to build on the strengths they already possess.
I believe that lasting change often grows from small actions practiced consistently over time. Together, we may explore habits and routines that support well-being, including physical activity, mindfulness, meaningful relationships, and connection to personal values.
Outside of the therapy room, I work as an Educational Assistant at St. Thomas Aquinas High School and founded the Saints Birding Club. Through the club, I encourage young people to slow down, pay closer attention to the living world, and spend meaningful time outdoors with others. I am passionate about helping young people reconnect with themselves, their communities, and the natural world through practices that cultivate attention, curiosity, and well-being.
I am also a member of the Plum Village tradition founded by Thich Nhat Hanh and help facilitate online mindfulness gatherings. The teachings of mindfulness and compassion continue to influence both my personal life and my work with clients.
Nik will be beginning with us in September and can be reached at nnovak@dearborntherapy.ca beginning then.
For now, reach out to admin@dearborntherapy.ca to get on his waitlist.
