ABOUT
About Kelsey
Kelsey has been a registered member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers since 2016. With over a decade of experience in social services and a specific focus on Psychotherapy since 2016, she brings a wealth of expertise to her practice. Kelsey earned her Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Lakehead University and her Master of Social Work from Dalhousie University.
Kelsey's dedication is deeply rooted in her home community of Haliburton County, where she strives to make a positive impact at various levels, from communities to families and individuals. Kelsey's recent nomination for the 'Young Professional of the Year' award at the Haliburton Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala serves as additional motivation, fueling her commitment to making a meaningful impact within the community.
Guiding Values
At Kelsey Sharpless Counselling, everyone is not just welcome, but encouraged to explore their unique self. I believe in creating a non-judgmental and inclusive space where all are embraced, regardless of their background, experiences, or circumstances. Mutual respect and collaboration are the cornerstones of our work together.
I firmly hold the belief that you are the expert on your own life. My role is that of a facilitator, guiding our conversation with insightful questions, while you come to your own realizations, conclusions, and ideas. We can engage in open and honest dialogues about a wide range of topics, and I genuinely welcome all of your thoughts and perspectives.
You will find Kelsey’s approach to be warm, welcoming and non-judgemental. Kelsey prides herself on her collaborative style of therapy where clients are truly the expert on their own lived experience and storytelling, and as the therapist it is her role to help with processing, reflecting and making meaning of client experiences; which often leads to change, growth or new understandings.
Kelsey’s therapeutic style is a solid mix of the art and science of therapy. You will find her to be professional yet casual where she uses client-friendly language while weaving in higher-level concepts from the various therapeutic models that she is trained in. Clients find Kelsey to be fiercely empathetic and validating, while also holding them accountable to their goals.
Attachment theory is a core foundation of Kelsey’s therapeutic approach. Her work supports clients in deepening their understanding of how early childhood experiences shape the way they view the world, themselves, and their relationships. Through this lens, Kelsey helps clients build insight, safety, and emotional connection in their healing process.
Kelsey practices as an eclectic, trauma-informed therapist who integrates multiple evidence-based modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, and Play Therapy. EMDR is offered as a specialized trauma treatment to support the processing and resolution of distressing experiences. Her work is grounded in anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and LGBTQ+-informed practice, which remains central to the values and care provided at Kelsey Sharpless Counselling.