Nancy Forgrave (she/her)
MA
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Independent Contractor

(905) 527 - 6337
nancy.forgrave@everwellcounselling.ca

Nancy Forgrave

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

My lived experience with grief completely transformed who I am today. It was a journey I was truly unprepared for, however, grief led me on a path of self-discovery. I learned about anxiety, life transitions, spiritual growth and, I like where I am now.

I have experience caring for people with dementia and understand deeply the stress, grief and guilt experienced by caregivers. My career in the hospice palliative care field has taught me about living well, experiencing serious illness, and sharing important conversations with those close to you about your wishes for your future care.

As I have gotten older I have been travelling more inward and it has been a rewarding journey to discover "my soul". I hope to help my clients find the ways of caring for themselves and discovering themselves in ways that resonate most with them at this time in their journey.

We all have beauty and light within us no matter how dark it may feel sometimes. Sometimes it is alright to travel alone, and sometimes, it is nice to have a caring presence along with you on the journey and to know you are not alone.

Q & A with Nancy

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

“I have always wanted to be a counsellor. I remember even at a young age feeling honoured when friends would share their deepest confidences and life issues. I connect best when having a one to one meaningful conversation. I value privacy and confidentiality, especially when one is feeling at their most vulnerable. I have always believed life is about growing and evolving and to journey with someone on a path of self awareness, reflection and discovery is a gift.”

 

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

“Everyone can benefit from focusing on their emotional, spiritual and cognitive well-being. We pursue physical fitness and physical health and yet the words "mental-health" have less positive connotation. However, the health of our mind is so connected to our total well-being and it is not uncommon for us to feel less than well in our mind and in our emotional state and to want to feel healthy there as we wish to feel healthy physically.”

 

What do you like most about what you do?

"When insight occurs, with the client or with myself, and of course being honoured to be able to hear someone's story.”

What would you like a client to say about working with you?

“I care, I am kind, and I hope you will find working with me both enjoyable and rewarding.” 

What is your biggest achievement to date?

“Getting my Masters degree was a huge accomplishment and I am still not sure how I did it?!?- driving two and half hours in snow storms and doing essays and course work while working full-time. Whew! Developing a meditation practice has been the single best thing I have ever done for myself personally. I am still trying to learn how to skate ski...stay tuned, one of these years!” 

What is your personal mantra or favourite quote?

“This too shall pass”
 

Areas of Practice

  • Grief and Bereavement

  • Serious illness

  • Stress

  • Anxiety

  • Caregiving

  • Coping and Life Transitions

 

Education / Accomplishments /Awards

  • Master of Arts in Theology: Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy, Wilfred Laurier University

  • San'yas: Indigenous Cultural Safety Training and From Bystander to Ally, Provincial Health Services Authority, B.C.

  • Fundamentals of Hospice Palliative Care, St. Joseph's Health Care

  • Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (Member)

  • College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying)

Average Cost 

  • $130.00 ( per session)

  • Check with your insurance provider for coverage opportunities

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

Compassion Integrity
Warmth
Kindness
Gentleness
Life experience

Just for fun

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

“Reading fluffy novels, kayaking, skiing, hiking, being in nature generally.”

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

“ A teacher shared this wise phrase and it stuck with me...that which we keep in the dark, grows.”

What is your favourite place to find inspiration?

“In the forest, wherever I am fully present and all my senses are involved, and when I am travelling.”