Currently accepting new clients

Jennifer Keith (she/her)
BAH, MACP
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Independent Contractor

(905) 527 - 6337
jennifer.keith@everwellcounselling.ca

Jennifer Keith

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

I have a deep appreciation for the courage it takes to make the first - or any - step in our therapeutic journey and I begin every session with an expression of acknowledgment and gratitude – both for the client choosing to be present and for allowing me to be present with them. I am a celebrator and would love to throw confetti every time a client has an aha moment or reaches a new goal; I settle for frequent moments of reflection to highlight strengths and successes my clients may have neglected to acknowledge or even notice.

I am a cheerleader and nurturer, but I am also an empath and understand and respect the need for space and mindful pacing. Sometimes clients are feeling so hopeless on rock bottom that the only healing they can do is allowing someone to sit down there with them. I am humbled and honoured to sit in those heavy moments working through the thoughts and feelings that precede climbing up and those that follow – it’s amazing how much easier that climb can feel when there are two people collaborating to navigate the best route to the top.

In working collaboratively, we find fuel for strengths-based therapy approaches and create a plan and timeline that suits personal needs. Wherever possible I incorporate my experience with music therapy into my work with clients.

Q & A with Jennifer

What made you decide to choose your role as a therapist?

My eclectic collections of experiences are what drives my passion to help others find peace and beauty in their own… most importantly my three beautiful children who both humble me and fill me with conceited pride at the same time. In becoming a parent, I met my favourite version of myself, the one that connects so deeply with another human, staying present with only the purest of intentions, unconditional empathy, and sincerest commitment to whatever part I can have in their positive development and personal success. I love people, I love to celebrate with them, and I am honoured to grieve with them. Being a psychotherapist allows me to wrap so many parts of myself and spirit into my career – I cannot wait to see what the future holds!

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

There are SO many misconceptions about mental health, but one that impacts people's willingness to come to therapy is the idea that it is reserved only for those with diagnoses or "bigger problems". Our brains are parts of our body that need to be stretched and developed just like our muscles. Participating in therapy is a form of self care that does not need to wait for trauma - our mental health can always be improved and our lives enriched by better understanding the way we think, feel, and act.

What do you like most about what you do?

I learn something new in every single session. I am constantly learning and expanding my cultural intelligence and feel more excited about this direction every time someone offers me a new outlook or shares their story. Being present in someone else's healing is the most humbling form of enlightenment because we are graced with the intimate details of that process . And there is no greater gift than to be trusted with one's safety in such sensitive space.

What is your biggest achievement to date?

I have mastered the art of victorious resilience; which is a strain of the resilience family that emphasizes the ability to overcome challenges without leaving your crown behind with them. At 43 years old, I have experienced many hardships and, if I internalized each one as a reflection of my likelihood to fall vs my ability to get back up, I can only imagine how expensive that rental space would have become. Somewhere along the line, I started to take more pride in my recovery than embarrassment for falling. And that became a theme that has changed my life – recognizing and celebrating recovery.

What is your personal mantra or favourite quote?

“ You can’t die from awkwardness. ”
— This is a quote from me, from my future best-selling autobiography
 

Areas of Practice

  • Parenting and Caregiver Support

  • Parenting Special Needs Children

  • Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorders

  • Women’s Issues

  • Pregnancy and Postpartum Support

  • Oncology

  • Life Transitions

  • Grief

 

Education / Accomplishments /Awards

  • Honours Bachelor of Arts, Queen’s University

  • Master’s in Counselling Psychology

Average Cost 

  • $140 (per session) - sliding scale available

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

Empathy
Self awareness
Self regulation
Flexibility
Creativity
Patience

Just for fun

What’s your favourite thing to do in your off time?

I adore my children and long walks along the scooter-infested paths while sipping on my "tea", praying that we avoid the ER that day... also I love karaoke and anything that involves being up on stage!!

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Advice is best served when it is ordered.