Michaela Pries-Klassen

• You’re longing for healing from past hurts
• You want to have a better relationship with yourself and with others
• You would like to understand your emotions in a warm and accepting space
• You would like a gentle yet constructive approach to your sessions where you are met with new concepts and tools to discover what positive change looks like for your unique life

Session Types: Individual Therapy, Virtual Therapy

Specialties: Addiction, Anxiety, Challenges in Executive Functioning and Neurodivergence, Communication & Conflict Resolution, Depression, Emotion Regulation, Motivation, Romantic & Interpersonal Relationships, Self Acceptance & Compassion, Shame, Stress Management, Trauma & PTSD, Values-Guided Living.

Approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Person-Centred & Strengths-Based Counselling, Trauma-Informed Therapy.

Favourite Resources:

• ACT Made Simple by Russ Harris (Book)
• The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook by Kristen Neff & Christopher Germer Between Us: A Psychotherapy Podcast
• The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van der Kolk (Book)

Michaela holds a Master of Social Work degree from Wilfrid Laurier University, as well as an undergraduate degree in Global Studies and Gender Studies. She has a breadth of experience working in the caring sector, including in adult psychiatric care, newcomer settlement, shelter and substance use services, adolescent care, and mediation services.

Michaela believes in seeing each person as more than their problems, recognizing that we all belong to complex systems that impact our daily lives. She is culturally sensitive and trauma-informed in her approach, celebrating the uniqueness of each client she supports. With a strong therapeutic toolbox, a desire to understand who you are, and a touch of humour, she is well-equipped to partner with you to tackle life’s challenges and help you achieve your goals.

Michaela believes that the therapeutic relationship that she develops with clients is a powerful source of healing, and endeavours to provide an inviting, non-judgemental, and caring environment that is sensitive to the needs of those who come to her for support. Her therapeutic approach values authenticity, respect, hope, and radical acceptance.

Michaela is sex and kink positive, spiritually open, and culturally sensitive. With her eclectic blend of therapeutic modalities, including Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and more, she is committed to empowering you on your healing journey.

Her specialties encompass a wide range of areas, including shame and self-compassion, emotion regulation, complex trauma, neurodivergence, sexual dysfunction & expression, anxiety, and relationship challenges. She is available to provide you with guidance and support, no matter the challenges you’re facing.

Michaela is described as fun, energetic, insightful, and compassionate by her loved ones and clients. She enjoys making connections with others and is eternally amazed at the resiliency of people, be it client or friend. When she is not at work, she enjoys cooking with her partner, spending time with her family, painting, and snuggling up with her dog, Bruno and her cat, Remy.

Many Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and extended health care plans will cover services rendered by a Registered Social Worker.