Hi there, 

I’m Brenda Deaves.

As a therapist I specialize in the areas of loss and grief, trauma, self-sabotaging behaviours, and difficult life transitions, along with anxiety and depression. 

I work with clients from a person-centered approach, where my main priority is to create a safe environment for the two of us to work from collaboratively, and at a pace that works for you. 

Raised among a family of immigrants in rural Ontario, the values of resilience, perseverance, and community mindedness were instilled in me from a very young age. I have carried these values with me throughout my life and career, and into my practice as a psychotherapist. 

My passion for counselling comes from what I have lived, studied and learned, in part through my own direct experiences with loss, addiction, anger and perfectionism. These lived experiences are what help me to show up for my clients authentically and compassionately. 

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Thanatology from the University of Western Ontario, and a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I am a member in good standing with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.

Prior to joining the practice at Authentic Living London I worked previously in long term care, and I continue to facilitate a bereavement support group. These experiences have further developed my deep capacity for compassion, and my ability to be truly present with clients while sharing in their painful feelings. ​

Although the neuroscience geek in me recognizes that change can be very hard, I firmly believe that it is possible for each and every one of us, regardless of our age or our life circumstance. I am here to walk beside you in these difficult times of transition. 

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Hi there,  I’m Brenda Deaves. As a therapist I specialize in the areas of loss and grief, traum... Read More

Hi, I’m Sandra Graham.

I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) here in London, Ontario, with a special focus on supporting individuals and families navigating mood disorders, personality disorders, and the emotional challenges that come with them. I hold a Bachelor of Science, a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, and certification in Neuropsychology for Counselling. I’m also a proud member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.

In my work, I combine talk therapy with body-based approaches—because healing doesn’t just happen in the mind. I believe in the deep connection between our thoughts, our bodies, and our emotions, and I use that lens to help clients move toward greater balance and self-understanding.

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My space is warm, nonjudgmental, and safe. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relational struggles, or something that feels hard to put into words, you’re welcome here. I’ll walk beside you, at your pace, with curiosity, respect, and compassion.

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I’m currently accepting new clients, and I’d be honoured to support you on your journey toward healing and wholeness.

Hi, I’m Sandra Graham. I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) here in London, Ontario, wi... Read More

ACCEPTING VIRTUAL CLIENTS ONLY

​Hi, I’m Gabrielle Ferguson.

I’m a Registered Psychotherapist with a deep passion for grief support, as well as my work that extends to the challenges of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and identity struggles. So many of us learn to put others first, silence our own needs, or strive for an impossible standard of “good enough.” Over time, this can lead to exhaustion, shame, and a feeling of being disconnected from who we really are. I help people untangle these patterns with compassion and curiosity, so they can begin to live in a way that feels true and free.

Grief is another area close to my heart. I’ve lived through profound, life-altering losses that brought deep pain, rage, isolation, and anxiety. Those experiences changed me and ultimately led me to this work. I know what it’s like to feel lost in grief and unseen by the world around you. Together, we can explore your grief in a way that honours not just your loss but your whole being.

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My role isn’t to tell you what to do; it’s to offer a safe, supportive space where we can make sense of your experience, honour your pain, and reconnect you with your inner wisdom so you can make the choices that feel right for you.

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I hold a degree in Psychology from the University of Western Ontario, a Master of Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, and I was also certified as a grief counsellor through the American Institute of Health Care Practitioners. I’m also a member in good standing with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. My additional training includes suicide intervention (ASIST), crisis prevention and intervention (CPIT), trauma-informed care, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

I’d be truly honoured to walk alongside you.

ACCEPTING VIRTUAL CLIENTS ONLY ​Hi, I’m Gabrielle Ferguson. I’m a Registered Psychotherapist wi... Read More

Hi, I’m Jeanette Leroux. I’m a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with a Master of Social Work from King’s University College and a Minor in Thanatology—the study of death, dying, and grief. I specialize in grief counselling and psychotherapy in London, Ontario, offering support to individuals navigating loss, transition, and the emotional weight that comes with it.

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Grief isn’t always about death. It can come from a breakup, a lost dream, a job change, or simply the life you thought you’d have. Whether your loss was expected or sudden, quiet or earth-shattering, I’m here to hold space for your unique story. Together, we’ll explore your experience through tears, reflection, or even moments of laughter—whatever your grief needs.

I have a deep passion for supporting clients through complex grief, including losses to suicide, unexpected death, and Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). I also provide MAID-related counselling for individuals and families, both before and after the process, with care and respect at every step.

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Grief takes many shapes. Whatever yours looks like, you don’t have to

carry it alone. I’m here to walk with you—gently, compassionately, and at your pace.

In addition to grief work, I also offer trauma therapy, including EMDR, which can help 

with processing memories and experiences in a way traditional talk therapy isn’t always

able to do. We move at a pace that feels right for you.

Hi, I’m Jeanette Leroux. I’m a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with a Master of Social Work from K... Read More

Hi, I’m Karissa Paterson.

I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) based in London, Ontario. My passion lies in supporting youth, young adults, and adults as they navigate life transitions, relationships, boundaries, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem challenges. My approach is trauma informed, strengths based, and rooted in authenticity and connection.

My educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts (2017), followed by a Social Service Worker Diploma, , and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I’m also a proud member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.

Before entering private practice, I spent several years working in the not-for-profit sector, supporting individuals aged 16 to 30 through life’s many ups and downs. Through my work as a Case Manager and System Navigator, I developed a deep understanding of the barriers people face and the importance of holistic, community-based support. These roles reinforced my belief that healing happens not only within ourselves but also through connection to others, our environment, and our sense of purpose.

In my work, I strive to create a warm, accepting, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel seen and supported. I welcome individuals from all backgrounds, faiths, genders, and identities, and I’m proud to be a 2SLGBTQIA+ ally. My practice is guided by compassion, curiosity, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story.

Whether you’re feeling stuck, navigating change, or exploring who you are, I’ll meet you where you are with empathy, collaboration, and care. Together, we can work toward greater self-understanding, confidence, and balance.

I’m currently accepting new clients ages 12 and up, and I would be honoured to support you on your path toward healing and growth.

Hi, I’m Karissa Paterson. I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) based in London, Ontario... Read More