David McCallum

Registered Social Worker

I have worked for many years in front-line mental health roles and gathered a deeper understanding of the social determinants of wellness for the folks that I supported. I became interested in their life stories and how they had been shaped along the way by a wide variety of experiences, some marked by sorrow and pain and others marked by a sense of joy and hope. These emotions often occurred alongside, or in quick succession to each other. I was inspired to practice psychotherapy to support clients in recognizing the inherent power within their stories and find joy and hope alongside of the sorrow and pain they may have experienced.

I maintain a very calm, welcoming and compassionate approach with all clients. It is my ongoing goal to call out the values, strengths and skills in the lives of the clients I serve.

Clients can expect creativity within sessions supported by a foundation of authenticity and vulnerability. Above all, sessions are a safe place to come as you are and share where you are at in the present moment. We will always be sure to attune to the present moment.

Q & A with David

What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about mental health?

" I think one of the biggest misconceptions about mental health is that it can be treated as physical health often is (i.e. within a medical model). Too often I have encountered situations where curative measures are attached to hope. If there is no cure, there is no hope for the individual. I believe mental health exists along a continuum and must be treated holistically. Hope is cultivated along a journey of recovery vs. being attached purely to arriving at a destination. Hope expands as we connect more deeply with our true self and share this true self with those we trust and love. ”

What do like most about what you do?

"  I love the opportunity to get creative in sessions with clients. I believe that it is important to remain flexible and adapt to clients evolving needs vs. adopting a "one size fits all" approach.”

What would you like a client to say about you?

" I would like a client to say that I was honest and real with them and actively supported in better understanding their internal experiences. ”

What’s the best piece of advice that you ever received?

" Maintain a soft heart and a firm backbone.”

What is your favourite place to find inspiration?

" My background is in art history and I love taking a few hours to myself in an art gallery to spark my inspiration. You'll often find me at the Art Gallery of Hamilton wandering around on the weekends. ”

What are the top 3 things you do to keep healthy?

“ - Time in nature (Running, hiking/walking, mountain biking)

- Writing (poetry/prose)

- Mindfulness self-compassion practice “

What do you value most in a client?

“ I value the bravery and courage that it takes to show up for a counselling session as well as the strength to share with honesty and vulnerability. These are no small things and I believe that they create a space for hope along the journey.”

Why should a potential client come to everwell?

“ I resonate strongly with the everwell value of treating mental health in a holistic manner. Human beings are multifaceted, and it is important that all of these internal parts are acknowledged and welcomed with kindness in therapy sessions. “

What is your personal mantra or favourite quote?:

Approach

• Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

• Narrative Therapy

• Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)

• Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT)

Education / Accomplishments /Awards

• BA, Art History and Literature, St. Stephen’s University, New Brunswick

• Bachelors of Social Work, McMaster University

• Masters of Social Work, University of Windsor

• Internal Family Systems (IFS)-Level 1 & 2

• Certificate in Trauma Counselling for Mental Health Professionals-Level 1

• DBT-4 Day Intensive Training Course

• Basic Certification in Grief Therapy, Portland Institute for Loss and Transition

Professional Memberships

• Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Services Workers (OCSWSSW)

• Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW)

Average Cost 

• $160 ( per session )

• Check with your insurance provider for coverage opportunities

What personal qualities are important for the job that you do?

I often reflect on the importance of the "8C's of Self" from Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS), which are:

Confidence
Curiousity
Calmness
Courage
Creativity
Compassion
Clarity
Connectedness

Just for fun

What’s your favourite thing to do on the weekend?

" I love going for walks on the weekend and grabbing a tea or coffee at a local cafe and wandering throughout the city.“

What’s your favourite book?

“ The Earthsea Trilogy by Ursula Le Guin (fiction-fantasy) and Consolations by David Whyte (fiction-poetry).”

Do you know any other languages?

“ I have a language certificate in German as part of my Bachelor of Arts studies - I continue to study and practice German in my leisure time “

Do you have a favourite season?

“ My favourite season is Spring. I find that my expectation for Spring builds throughout the winter and things that have lied dormant both within and without me are awakened with the onset of Spring. It is a very hopeful and joy filled season for me.”

Coffee or Tea?

" When I drink coffee I prefer Americanos taken black and I enjoy most herbal teas, but my favourite is Bengal Spice. ”