Richard Lindo

Registered Social Worker

In over 16 years within the social work field, I have supported clients of all age-ranges and backgrounds with a wide variety of concerns from relationship issues to complex trauma, mental health, and substance use issues.

Over this span I have learned that no person is too broken to heal. I enjoy the challenge of working collaboratively with my clients to map out a pathway to wellness that fits well for them. In doing so I draw upon a variety of evidence-based therapeutic tools and techniques.

I specialize in providing culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed support and my approach is compassionate, non-judgmental and strengths-based.

Q & A with Richard

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

“Going back to childhood I often showed compassion toward my peers. My friends would tell me I was easy to talk to and that they felt safe confiding in me. I cared about others and wanted to see those around me succeed and generally do well. It wasn't until young adulthood that I realized that those traits would make me a natural fit to become a counsellor/therapist.”

What do you want your potential clients to know about you and what it will be like working with you?

“I want my potential client's to know that I truly believe everyone has the ability to overcome their challenges and realize their potential. I look forward to collaborating with my client's to figure out the route to achieving their goals that works best for them.”

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

“That people who struggle with mental health issues are weak or flawed in some way. Not enough respect is paid to the contextual circumstances and personal story that is connected to one's wellness.”

What do you like most about what you do?

“I love the moments where it becomes apparent that an interaction I am having with a client instills hope and energizes them to push forward toward their goals. I love seeing my clients progress and transition toward living happier, more fulfilled lives.”

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

“Take advice if it's constructive and learn from it, but don't build your life around the opinion of others.”

What is your biggest achievement to date - personal or professional?

“My biggest achievement to date is teaching English overseas in Korea for a year. It took quite the leap of faith to get on a plane and take off to the other side of the world where I didn't know the language or any of the people, but it was well worth it! Besides connecting with all the youth and meeting so many interesting people, it also definitely quenched my thirst for adventure. The experience instilled confidence in me that I have what it takes to face and overcome any fears or obstacles in my path, and I believe the same is true of all of my clients!”

Why should a potential client come to everwell?

"everwell works hard to be accessible and approachable for clients. There’s flexibility and variety in counselling approaches and fees and it is made up of a great team of inclusive and supportive therapists.”

Approach

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Narrative Therapy

• BIPOC/Culturally sensitive

• Client-centred

• Trauma-informed

• Strengths-based

• Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy

• “Parts” work / IFS

Education / Accomplishments /Awards

• Masters of Social Work, Laurier University

• Certified Trauma Integration Practitioner (CTIP)

• Certified Narrative Therapist, Hincks-Dellcrest Centre

• Certified ASIST Trainer (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training)

• Trauma Therapy Certification (Level I & II), Hincks-Dellcrest Centre

• Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy Certification, International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT)

• The Treatment of Complex Trauma with Internal Family Systems, Professional Education Systems Institute (PESI)

Professional Memberships

• Registered Social Worker - Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW)

• Member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW)

Average Cost 

• $145.00 ( individual counselling )

• $165.00 ( couples counselling)

• Check with your insurance provider for coverage opportunities

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

Compassion
Patience
Kindness
Curiosity
Humility

What is your personal mantra or favourite quote?

Just for fun

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

"As part of my work life balance goals, weekends to me are a time primarily for friends and family. Whether it's a fun car ride listening to music while heading to the beach in the summer, or a cozy movie night at home during the winter I look to these experience to help me recharge for the week ahead!”

Do you have a favourite season?

"Summertime hands down! When the sun is shining and the weather is warm is when I feel most alive!”

What are the top things you do to stay healthy?

“1. Healthy eating
2. Exercise regularly
3. Prioritize work/life balance ”