Find the therapist that best suits your needs.
Our team
Therapist, Registered Clinical Counsellor
Melanie Bennett, RCC
Melanie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts Degree focused in Anthropology and Indigenous Studies. Melanie has experience and a passion for working with youth and adults who struggle with addictions, anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma, neurodivergence, self-esteem, and self-worth. Knowing the path to healing can lead to incredible outcomes, Melanie is committed to meeting clients where they are at while supporting them on their journey to mental health wellness and resilience.
Melanie employs a socially just and culturally sensitive perspective in working with clients, especially those who are socially disadvantaged, LGBTQ2SIA+, First Nations and Indigenous. Melanie is client-centered, which involves utilizing curiosity, feedback, and unconditional positive regard to honor the unique experiences of each client and create a therapeutic space of non-judgment and acceptance. In addition, Melanie’s holistic approach encompasses emotional, mental, relational and spiritual aspects of your life to understand the experiences that shape how you view your triumphs and struggles. Melanie’s journey to being a mental health professional was a personal one. The experience of working with her own counsellors through pain, loss, and healing has shaped her own empathetic, non-judgmental, and warm approach. Melanie understands that reaching out for help can feel vulnerable or uncomfortable. She wants you to know that she sees your struggle and you are not alone.
Melanie’s eclectic approach to counselling includes utilizing different treatment modalities, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Solutions-Focused Therapy (SFT), Trauma-Informed systems approach, Neuropsychology, and Strengths-based treatment. When not working, Melanie loves spending time with her immediate and extended family. Her passions include gardening, going for nature walks, reading, and exploring the ocean and beaches of the west coast.
Core Areas of Focus:
anxiety/depression
addiction
grief and loss
parenting
trauma
Contact: 587-578-6352
Email: Melanie@lakesideclinical.ca
Therapist, Registered Clinical Counsellor
Krista Giilck, RCC
Krista is a registered clinical counsellor with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. Krista has specialized training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a therapeutic approach that helps individuals process and heal from traumatic memories by using guided eye movements.
Krista is passionate about helping individuals break free from negative patterns and develop a deeper sense of self. She specializes in trauma, PTSD, addictions, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, but works with a wide range of mental health concerns. Her approach is warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative, aiming to create a safe space where clients feel heard and validated. Krista believes that healing happens not just in therapy, but through the practice of new skills and insights in daily life.
Her training includes EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT). By tailoring her approach to each client’s unique needs, Krista empowers individuals to develop resilience and navigate life's challenges with confidence and clarity.
Core Areas of Focus:
Trauma
Identity/Sense of Self
Depression and Anxiety
Substance Use
Major Life Changes
Email: Krista@lakesideclinical.ca
Phone: 250-826-5377
Therapist, Registered Social Worker
Jessica Alderliesten, MSW, RSW
Jessica holds a master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of British Columbia, Okanagan, and is a Registered Social Worker. She has completed extensive post degree coursework in Family Mediation and Divorce/Separation through the Justice Institute of BC. Jessica works with both children and adults dealing with a wide range of emotional difficulties including depression, anxiety, personal and work-related stress, parenting, and relationship challenges. She is especially passionate about helping families through difficult life transitions such as divorce and separation. She can help parents to act in the best interests of the children as they navigate conflict, restructure the family system, and implement co-parenting plans.
Jessica strives to ensure you feel heard, supported, and empowered to heal and grow in the ways that matter most to you. Her aim is to provide a safe relationship where clients can explore options, gain insight, and obtain strategies to move forward in a positive way. She is gentle, empathetic, and client-centered. Jessica applies a variety of
approaches including the Gottman Method, Family Systems Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Motivational Interviewing techniques.
Core Areas of Focus
separation, divorce, and co-parenting
children and teens
anxiety
depression
conflict and communication
Phone: 250-826-5377
Email: Jessica@lakesideclinical.ca
Indigenous Advocate
Sadie Bedard
Sadie Bedard is an Indigenous advocate with a diverse background in addressing social issues and promoting well-being. Sadie's journey is marked by her commitment to serving marginalized communities, particularly individuals experiencing homelessness and those impacted by substance use. With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in Indigenous Studies from the University of British Columbia, Sadie has cultivated a deep understanding of the intersecting factors influencing human behavior and societal structures.
Throughout her career, Sadie has been actively involved in harm reduction initiatives, mental health support, and health education. Her experience extends beyond academic knowledge, as she has dedicated herself to practical engagement and community empowerment. Sadie has worked in various roles, teaching harm reduction strategies, providing case management, and providing essential support to vulnerable populations.
Sadie brings her dedication to amplifying Indigenous voices and advocating for their rights to her consultation role at Lakeside Clinical Counselling. With her expertise in working with Indigenous communities and her adept navigation of complex support systems, Sadie provides invaluable guidance to both the clinic and its clients, collaborating with the clinic's team to ensure culturally sensitive and effective practices.
Contact: 250-826-5377
Email: info@lakesideclinical.ca