What we believe
Our team believes that every child has unique strengths and challenges to explore. As children grow and develop, their skills and abilities change too. You may have questions about how to help your child achieve his or her potential and if he or she needs help to do so.
Whether you are a parent of young children or of teenagers, our team has professionally qualified and experienced members who can help you when you need it. Our goal is to support each child’s growth and development.
Dr. Jillian Roberts
Dr. Jillian Roberts is a registered psychologist, author, associate professor and mother. She is passionate about helping children and families unlock their true potential. In 2020, Dr. Jillian was awarded the University of Toronto at OISE’s Leaders and Legends Award for Distinguished Service and in 2021 she was awarded as an Honorary Citizen of the City of Victoria.
Our Clinicians
Our counsellors are here to support you. Click on their pictures to learn more information about them and their areas of expertise. Book a free initial consult today.
Our learning strategists will help you better understand how you learn. They will also teach you how to approach assignments with efficiency, organization, and with a positive attitude. Book a free initial consult today.
Our psychometrists work as part of our clinical team to administer assessments and assist with the psycho-educational assessment process. They all have degrees in psychology and are trained in assessment and intervention. Many of our psychometrists are also teachers and all are passionate about helping students reach their potential.
Treena Huxley
Registered Psychologist
Treena Huxley
Registered Psychologist
“Life is a journey and not a destination” ~Barry Marcus
Treena views the destinations in her life as stops she is making on her journey. In 1993 she began with the work of literacy spearheading a street literacy program and prison literacy program on Vancouver Island. In this capacity Treena worked on the frontlines with inmates and street youth facilitating learner-driven functional literacy skills. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Victoria in 1995, she decided to take her degree and work in Japan teaching English as a second language for several years.
Upon arriving back in Canada, and prior to starting a Master’s degree in Counselling, Treena worked directly with children who were diagnosed with physical, emotional and behavioural disorders in the school, home, and community settings. She began to recognize the serious need to further support not only the child with the disability but the entire family. This experience motivated Treena in furthering her educational and professional development so that she had a greater expertise to offer the children and family members.
In 2008, Treena graduated from Campus Alberta with a Master’s of Counselling. Her final research project was titled “Self Regulation in Children with Autism”. This project examined the way that engagement with a child diagnosed with autism may have an impact on the child’s ability to regulate their physical and emotional states and the therapeutic implications of these interactions. Treena has expanded upon her studies and included more assessment to her repertoire of intervention and continues to work with families and individuals impacted by neurodiversity.
Treena was keenly interested in different ways to provide optimal support to families in their home and community settings while enriching the relationships between family members, in particular, child-parent relationships. Her learning was enriched by a more in-depth study of Attachment Theory and the applications of this theory on interpersonal relationships.
The opportunity to have lived in different cultures, travel, and work with a multitude of families in their home settings has allowed Treena to gain further insight into the unique needs of a family and it’s members and gaining the respect of each family environment as a unique culture within itself.
Please note, Treena is a private contractor through our office specifically for autism assessments. She sees counselling clients privately outside of our office.
Jenn Gauthier and Petra d’Entremont
Clinical Director and Office Manager
Jenn Gauthier and Petra d’Entremont
Clinical Director and Office Manager
Jenn (on the left) is the clinical director and has been involved with Dr. Jillian since 2017. She oversees operations and clinical products. She has a teaching degree, a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology, and is also a Registered Clinical Counsellor. When out of office she enjoys travelling and being in the outdoors. Jenn also shamelessly enjoys reality tv competition shows.
Petra (on the right) is the office manager and is a scheduling and invoicing wizard. She is multilingual and can seamlessly switch between English, French, and Dutch. She taught for 18 years and has a Master’s Degree in Education. When out of office she enjoys listening to opera and reggae music, but not at the same time.
Emily d’Entremont and Jorina Overhoff
Psychological Assistants
Emily d’Entremont and Jorina Overhoff
Psychological Assistants
Emily (on the left) has a B.Sc in Psychology and is in the process of applying for Doctor of Psychology programs. At our clinic she assists with psychometry and the assessment process.When Emily is not working at Dr. Robert’s office, she volunteers her time with seniors in Oak Bay, enjoys exploring new beaches, doing crossword puzzles and cozying up with her cats.
Jorina (on the right) has joined us from Germany and has an M.Sc in Psychology. She previously worked as a child psychologist at a children’s neurological centre in Germany where she worked with a team assessing and diagnosing developmental disorders. At our clinic she assists with psychometry and the assessment process. When out of office Jorina enjoys yoga, photography, and making pizza from scratch.
Stephen Roberts
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Stephen Roberts
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Types of therapy offered: A blend of person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioural and Christian therapeutic approaches.
Ages or specific groups of clients: Children, adolescents, adults and families.
Group, family, couple or individuals: Individuals and groups
Specializations: Working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, bereavement, motivational challenges and building emotionally fulfilling relationships.
Treatment to alleviate what problems: Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Depression, Addictions
Stephen Roberts, MA, RCC is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. Stephen brings a diverse history of lived experience to his counselling practice. Stephen approaches each client with the belief that with the right support and encouragement we all have the ability to lead more productive and fulfilled lives. Starting from a place of empathy and compassion, Stephen guides his patients through a respectful examination of their life choices with the goal of providing them with the practical tools they need to meet their true potential.
Stephen received his Master of Arts from Liberty University, with a specialty in Marriage and Family Counselling. Prior to becoming a counsellor, Stephen earned a Doctorate and Master’s degree from the University of British Columbia, and a BA from Queen’s University.
Stephen has been married to Dr. Jillian Roberts since 1989 and is the father of three children. He is a proud and active citizen of the Métis Nation of British Columbia.
Lisa Norden-Infante
Counsellor, Psychometrist, MEd, RCC
Lisa Norden-Infante
Counsellor, Psychometrist, MEd, RCC
Types of therapy offered: Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-focused, EMDR therapy, and Mindfulness based therapy.
Ages or Specific groups of clients: Children, youth, families, and individuals
Group, Family, couple or individuals: Individuals, families and couples.
Specializations: Anxiety, depression, trauma, social-emotional and behavioral difficulties, parenting skills and peer and family relationships
Treatment to alleviate what Problems: Anxiety, School Challenges, Behavioral challenges, Family Challenges, Relationship Difficulties
“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” – Helen Keller
It is Lisa’s genuine, caring and compassionate approach, along with her lighthearted sense of humor that is instrumental in establishing an empowering and safe relationship with her clients. This approach allows her to become part of the team that helps support her clients in their journey to reach their true potential.
Lisa graduated with a Masters in Education with emphasis in Psychology from Pepperdine University and is currently working towards a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) through California Southern University. Lisa is Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors.
Lisa is a wife and mother to five children. She enjoys time with her family, long walks, and loves reading. One day she will walk the ancient pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome.
Hayley Rennalls
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Hayley Rennalls
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Types of therapy offered: Person-centered, solution-focused, growth-mindset, behavioural intervention, and Christian Therapeutic approaches.
Ages or specific groups of clients: Children and adolescents
Group, family, couple or individuals: Individuals and families
Specializations: Working with clients who have disabilities (physical, mental, or learning) and/or have family members with disabilities. Clients who are experiencing anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, depression, social difficulties, and behavioural challenges. Motivational challenges as well as challenges pertaining to healthy relationships.
Treatment to alleviate what problems: Anxiety, depression, stress, interpersonal relationship challenges, attentional issues, and challenges pertaining to behaviour and executive functioning. As well as the problems that one encounters when living with a disability.
Hayley received a Bachelor of Arts in Counselling and Theology from William Jessup University, Rocklin, California and completed a Master of Arts in Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies (with a specialization in Special Education) from the University of Victoria.
Hayley has worked with children and teens since 2003 in various capacities including in schools and homes as a behavioural interventionist and a learning support teacher. She has worked with a range of students who have mental, physical or learning disabilities such as: Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Dyslexia, Cerebral Palsy.
Through her experiences, Hayley believes that a client can be best supported when a team of people (families, schools, counsellors, etc.) collaborate and act jointly to support the client. She encourages families to work together to support their family member through building strong interpersonal relationships. Hayley spent five years living and working in China and can speak Mandarin.
Tasha Liberatore
Counselling Intern, MEd
Tasha Liberatore
Counselling Intern, MEd
Tasha has a Masters of Education Psychology (2010) and is currently enrolled at City University taking courses in their Masters of Counselling Program as she works towards her RCC designation. She has 18 years experience in direct counselling and/or acting as a case manager. Her specialization is working with people with disabilities and/or have family members with disabilities, as well as individuals struggling with a multitude of issues. Some of which include anxiety, stress, motivation, attention, depression, trauma, grief, difficulty with transitions, healthy relationships or self-esteem.
Keana Schmidt-Waselenchuk
Learning Strategist
Keana Schmidt-Waselenchuk
Learning Strategist
Keana is a current third-year Psychology student at the University of Victoria and hopes to complete her Honours Thesis in September. With a passion for research, reading, writing, and helping others, Keana holds many roles in her community. She is a Research Assistant in two labs investigating relationships and brain health, and the Research Coordinator for a new project investigating the levels of social isolation in dementia patients and their caregivers. Keana has had the opportunity to co-author an upcoming publication regarding mental health stigma in the media and is looking forward to completing her current papers to be submitted for review. As a mentor, Keana supports students struggling with their mental health through her involvement with UVic’s Mental Health Leadership Program, and helps children of stroke survivors adapt to changes and challenges through the University of Victoria Stroke Awareness Association. She has worked with children, young adults, and older adults and recognizes everyone’s unique strengths and weaknesses.
Keana aims to help individuals improve their educational experience by offering strategies that allow students to further engage with course concepts. Her strengths lay in goal-setting and motivation, notetaking and organization, and reading and writing. Alongside her other specialities, Keana can provide help to individuals who worry for their upcoming exam by suggesting test preparation and anxiety reduction strategies.
In her free time Keana enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are your counsellors certified?
Our counsellors, apart from interns who are getting supervised, are registered clinical counsellors (RCCs).
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
For counselling appointments, if you need to cancel an appointment please provide at least 24 hours notice. Our policy is the following: first time is forgiven, second time is a 50% charge, third missed appointment is charged at full price.
For psycho-educational assessments, there is a charge of $500 if cancelled within two weeks of the scheduled start date. If cancelled with ample time there is no charge.
It is difficult to fill appointments when late cancellations happen. Please be mindful of your scheduling and respectful of our staffs time.
What do your counsellors specialize in?
Please click on counsellor profiles to view types of therapy offered, specific clientele, specializations, and specific focus areas of treatment.
What is the difference between a psychologist, a psychiatrist, and a counsellor?
Good question!
A psychologist has studied psychology (typically) at the masters or doctoral level and has completed supervised placements, written exams, and are registered with a college. They are able to administer psychological assessments and provide diagnoses. They also can provide therapy.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental illness. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication. Although in the past, and in other parts of the world they provide therapy, psychiatrists in BC do not typically provide counselling.
A counsellor has a masters degree, and unlike a psychologist, does not conduct assessments or provide diagnoses. They focus on mental wellness and providing treatment.
Do your counsellors help with court situations?
Unfortunately, our counsellors do not engage in court dealings.
If you are looking for a counsellor who can help with a “hear the child” interview you can find a roster of available professionals here: https://hearthechild.ca/roster/
Are your counsellors doing online or in person sessions?
Our counsellors are seeing clients in both formats and it is your preference.
How young is too young for counselling?
We typically serve school-aged children and above.
Do you direct bill?
Unfortunately, no we do not direct bill insurance companies at this time. We will provide you with an invoice that you can submit to your insurance provider.
Are any of your counsellors approved FNHA service providers?
Yes, Stephen Roberts can take clients who are being funded by FNHA.
Can I book online?
For returning clients you are able to book online with your counsellor. For new clients please call the office (250-370-0358) and we will connect you directly with a counsellor via email to set up an initial consult session.
Do you do family counselling? Can my whole family come to counselling?
Yes, we offer family counselling. Our counselling spaces are limited for size so it depends on how many members would be joining. Family counselling can be offered digitally if space might be an issue.
Do your counsellors use CBT? Do they treat anxiety? Depression? OCD?
Our counsellors often use a range of therapeutic styles best tailored to each individual client and their needs and goals. They all have experience treating various challenges. Please review their counsellor profiles for more information.