Michaela DeSimone
Student Therapist - MACP (IN PROGRESS) Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Hey! I am Michaela. From a very young age I knew I wanted to be a helper. I’ve always had a natural curiosity and passion for listening to others and offering support no matter the problem. Ironically, reflecting back now, my five years old soccer card stated I wanted to be a “mental health worker” when I grew up– and I’ve never looked back since! I knew no matter what, I was going to end up helping people in whatever shape or form that may have been.
Throughout my education, I contemplated a career in mental health research, soon realizing how important human connection, and hands on work really was to me. This led me to pursue my masters, and now my placement here at Rebound! Like anyone, I have faced my own trials and tribulations. These experiences have shaped who I am, how I see the world, and most importantly what it is like to be a human being navigating the highs and lows of life.
I am a big believer in always being authentically you. Throughout every session together I promise to always be who I am, and I hope you will do the same!! My goal is to make every session better than the last, building upon skills, and working together to begin healing, whatever that may look like for you!
I look so forward to getting to know you, and supporting you!
My goal is to help you find strength and clarity on your journey to well-being and bouncing back!
We can connect virtually or in person
Whether you’re near or far, I can help you bounce back. We can meet in-person in a calming, quiet environment in our newly renovated office space in Dundas, Ontario. We can also meet conveniently online or via telephone, giving you more flexibility to choose a time and place that works for you and your busy schedule.
If you’re ready to start, book a free consultation with me below.
What Can I Help you with?
I have experience working with teens, adults and young adults . Do you need help with any of the struggles listed below? I can help!
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Coping skills/self care
- Self esteem
- Life stressors
- Disordered eating
- Burnout
- School issues
- Life transition
- Peer relationships/relationships in general
- Women’s issues
- Sports performance
- Confidence
- Perfectionism
Don’t see your struggle on the list above?
Let’s chat in a free consultation to see if I can help you or if someone on the Rebound team would be a better fit.
Working with me
I am a big believer in progress, and the beauty in believing that great things take time. My main goal is to create an environment that fosters trust, safety, comfortability and authenticity, a space where you feel comfortable and confident in not only sharing your story, but being who you authentically are. Closing each session, my hope is for you to feel empowered, supported and lighter, as if a weight has been lifted off your shoulder.
Worth mentioning
As clients decide who they want to work with for counselling, there’s lots to take into consideration! Here are some additional perks you should know of!
I will always welcome you with a smile and friendly face, bringing the best version of myself to each session. As an extroverted person, I love meeting and getting to know new people (think of a golden retriever’s energy!), creating an inclusive, easy going, and supportive environment. When therapy feels enjoyable and comfortable, clients look forward to future sessions, and the process!
Life happens, and sometimes it may get so crazy that you think to yourself “omg when am i going to have time for therapy”. I know that feeling all too well…. With that in mind, I offer flexible scheduling options, whether you may need an in person or virtual appointment, morning or evening options, and even weekends. The goal is to make therapy as easy and accessible as possible.
Therapy is not a one size fit all approach! Each client comes in with their own unique wants and needs. Together we will find what works best for you.
What does a session with me look like?
No two clients are the same, thus every session may look a little different! I like to ease into my sessions, beginning with a very relaxed check in (how was your week, anything specific you would like to discuss, anything exciting you would like to share etc.) From here, we will usually develop a plan for our session, and get into it! I will always meet you where you are at, if you don’t feel like talking, don’t worry I will do the talking, OR if you need the space to vent or rant, i can also sit back and silently listen. No matter who you are, or what you may need, you will always receive support, a non-judgmental listener, and a safe, relaxed and supportive environment. I am on your team, and will be your biggest supporter.
Q&A just for fun
Q: Dogs or Cats?
A: ABSOLUTELY DOGS! I have a dog myself and she is my favourite thing ever. Sadly I’m allergic to cats!
Q: Guilty Pleasure?
A: Pilsbury cookies– specifically the fun seasonal ones.
Q: Favourite Season?
A: Ouuu that’s so hard!! To my core I am a summer girl, I love spending all my time outside!
Q: Favourite Saying?
A: Just because it’s taking time doesn’t mean it’s not happening. Enjoy being in the process of becoming.
Q: Biggest Pet Peeve
A: When the person before you doesn’t change the toilet paper roll…
Q: Ideal Vacation?
A: If it has a beach and an ocean my bags are packed! Italy has definitely been on the top of my must visit places!
Q: Hobbies?
A: Pilates, hot girl walks, reading, and spending time with my friends and family! I’m always in need of a good new book recommendation 🙂
Q: Big Dreams?
A: So many!! Number one would definitely have to be becoming a professor at a university, while also continuing clinical work 🙂
My Approach
My approach is holistic by nature, in which I am influenced by mindfulness based cognitive therapy and strength based, client centered approaches. I’m a firm believer in the client’s inner abilities to make meaningful change in their lives. I am fascinated by the mind body connection, and the impacts our brain has on our body and the body has on our brain. Together we will figure out what works best for you, and of course what does not. This is a collaborative process, and I am very open to hearing your feedback as we go! Ultimately, my approach is grounded in passion and curiosity to better understand who you are, why, and what we can do to help you navigate life’s stressors. We all have been there, where we may have overscheduled, overworked, over-thunk, and over worried about anything and everything. No problem is too big or too small, whether that be a disagreement with your significant other, school has you feeling overwhelmed, you’re anxious, sad, stressed or simply just need an outlet to vent, I am your girl!
Strength-Based Therapy
Strength-based therapy is rooted in the belief that every individual possesses unique strengths. I would collaborate with you to identify these inherent strengths and utilize them as tools for achieving your therapeutic goals. I will encourage you to draw upon your strengths to navigate difficulties, build self-esteem, and create meaningful change
Client-Centered Therapy
This humanistic approach centers around the client’s inherent capacity for growth and self-healing. The therapist provides a supportive, empathetic, and non-directive environment, allowing clients to explore their feelings and thoughts openly, ultimately leading to self-discovery and personal growth.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
CBT is an approach that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. CBT operates on the principle that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and by altering distorted or unhelpful thinking, individuals can change their emotional responses and behaviors. In therapy, clients learn to recognize and challenge cognitive distortions, develop healthier thinking patterns, and practice new behaviors through various techniques.
Mindfulness (MBCT)
MBCT is a modified version of Cognitive Behavioural therapy that incorporates mindful activities and practices. This includes awareness, meditation, mindful movement breathing exercises etc… The main goal of MBCT is to help the client become present in the here and now, and address any negative thought patterns that have previously impacted their overall mood and day to day life. Essentially, MCBT replaces negative overwhelming thoughts or feelings with a state of calmness and anchors the client to the present moment.
Credentials
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University (in progress)
Honours Bachelors of Applied Science (Psychology Neuroscience and Behaviour- Human Behaviour)–McMaster University
CCPA Student Number #
CRPO Registration #
Fees & Session Costs
Individual 50-Minute Session $90
Couples’ 50-Minute Session $110
Training Highlights
Violence, Evidence, Guidance, Action (VEGA) Family Violence Education Resources- 2022
"We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” — Maya Angelou
Interested in working with me?
As your counsellor I provide a comfortable, judgement-free space for help and healing.
When you’re ready, I invite individuals from all walks of life to reach out for a free consultation to see if we’re the right fit.