About Me,​

My name is Jody Van Dooren and I am a Registered Social Worker with over 15 years of experience providing direct counselling services to families and individuals in a wide variety of settings.  

As a second generation social worker I developed an early respect and passion for this profession and the values it adheres to - including a commitment to social justice, the inherent worth of all individuals and a desire to walk alongside people as they overcome significant challenges and barriers in their lives.  

I obtained my BA/BSW (History and Social Work) from McMaster University in Hamilton in 2002.  After working for several years in Child Welfare I returned to school and obtained my Masters of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo.  Since then I have worked in a variety of sectors including hospital, residential and community agencies providing direct counselling to individuals, families and groups.  I developed particular expertise working with mental health, addictions, trauma and major life transitions.  

It is a tremendous honour and privilege to do this work.  Witnessing the strength and resilience of people continues to fuel my belief that  change is possible and achievable. Providing accessible, secure and professional counselling has been a ongoing priority that I am now excited to apply to the world of in person and online therapy!

When not working I am a busy, married mom of three.  I am fortunate to live in a beautiful natural setting north of Toronto which gives me lots of access to great hiking trails and local community culture.  I am also an avid reader, music lover and animal enthusiast.  Most of all I enjoy connecting with others in a meaningful way in both my personal and professional life.  

Professional Credentials
  • Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Social Work:  McMaster University, Hamilton ON   2002
  • Masters of Social Work:  Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo ON, 2004
  • Fundamentals of Cyber Counselling, Factor-Intewash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto ON June 2015
  • EMDR Basic Training Levels 1 & 2 August 2019.
  • Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
  • Member of the Canadian Association of Social Workers

My Approach
My clients routinely comment that I provide a warm, authentic and calming presence for self-reflection.  It is important that I work in a collaborative manner that respects your goals, strengths and resources.  I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches including EMDR, Solution Focussed Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Family Systems Theory and Mindfulness based interventions.

Areas of experience and expertise include:
  • anxiety (including OCD, Panic Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorders)
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • depression
  • mood regulation
  • substance misuse and addiction
  • grief and loss
  • coping with significant life changes
  • stress management