MOVE BEYOND COPING AND TOWARDS HEALING
COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY PRACTICE IN NORTH BAY
Welcome to Healing Connections Psychotherapy! Located in North Bay, Ontario, our trauma-informed counselling and psychotherapy clinic is here to support you and your loved ones with care and compassion. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself, your family, or your organization, we offer both in-person and virtual services tailored to your needs.
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We believe in a holistic, non-pathological approach to therapy and work closely with medical professionals and community groups to promote healing and growth. If you’re ready to start your journey toward well-being, book a free 15-minute consultation to find out how we can support you.
We treat a wide range of mental health and relationship issues with a team of highly trained clinicians ready to support your unique needs. Some of the conditions we address include:
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PTSD
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Trauma (including Childhood Trauma and Birth Trauma)
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Eating Disorders
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Anxiety Disorders
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Panic Attacks
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Complicated Grief
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Phobias
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Performance Anxiety
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Insomnia
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Stress
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Performance Enhancement
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Attachment Injuries
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Pre-verbal Trauma
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Somatic Disorders
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Adjustment Disorders
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Life Transitions
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Depression
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Disturbing Memories
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Pain Disorders
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Social Anxiety
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Sexual/Physical Abuse
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Parenting Challenges
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Relationship Challenges
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Affairs
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Addictions in Couples
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Low Self-Esteem
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Body Image
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Sex Therapy
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Divorce Support
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Women’s Issues (Pregnancy, Birth, Motherhood, Fertility, Reproductive Trauma)
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First Responders
“Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change.”
Brené Brown
Meet the Team
Miranda Arellano, Clinic Owner
Registered Psychotherapist, Master of Counselling,
Certified EMDR Therapist, EMDRIA approved Consultant-In-Training
After a transformative therapy experience in my youth, I was inspired to help others, leading me to study Psychology and pursue a Master of Counselling Psychology. As a Registered Psychotherapist in North Bay, Ontario, I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, addiction, and more.
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My personal experience with trauma fuels my passion for EMDR Therapy, for which I have advanced training and certification. I work with individuals, couples, and children, and also offer EMDR consultation for other therapists.
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While I’m not accepting new clients at this time, I am available for EMDR consultation with fellow therapists. I lead a team of compassionate and dedicated therapists who are ready to support you on your healing journey. We look forward to walking with you on your path to well-being.
Miranda Arellano, B.A.(Psych), M.C., Registered Psychotherapist, Certified EMDR Therapist, EMDR Consultant-In-Training & Healing Connections Owner
Janet Fournier
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Janet is available virtually.
As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I hold a degree in Sociology from the University of Toronto, I am a graduate of the Toronto Centre for Psychotherapy and Counselling Education, and have obtained the Advanced Certificate in Couple and Family Therapy from the University of Guelph. With extensive experience and advanced training, I bring a blend of mindfulness and various therapeutic approaches to my practice.
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I focus on working with couples and individuals, specializing in anxiety, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, trauma, and women's issues, including support for pregnancy, birth, and reproductive challenges.
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My warm, supportive presence ensures a safe space where you can be heard and understood. I’m here to guide you toward resilience, growth, and healing. Feel free to book a free 15-minute consultation with me today!
Janet's Specialties:
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Individuals Ages 18+
Couples (Gottman Method Level 1)
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Grief
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Trauma
Women's Issues
Pregnancy
Birth
Motherhood
Fertility Issues
Reproductive Trauma
Anna's Specialties: ​
Individuals
Couples
Sex Therapy
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
Stress
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Career Guidance
Codependency
Life Transitions
Anna Leppinen
BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I offer a warm and compassionate approach, creating a safe space for individuals and couples to explore their values and beliefs. I believe the therapeutic relationship is key to a meaningful experience.
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Originally from Renfrew County and now based in North Bay, Ontario, I hold an Honours degree in Sociology from McMaster University and a diploma in Social Service Work from Canadore College. My experience includes co-facilitating a Mental Health Toolkit program and a strong background in social services.
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Outside of work, I enjoy outdoor adventures, running, and exploring new places. You can book your free consultation with me today and start your journey toward healing and growth. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions.
Andrea Driedger
Psychotherapist in Training and Registered Holistic Nutritionist,
Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT), Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education
Andrea is available virtually
Andrea's Specialties:
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Individuals Ages 16+
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Disordered Eating
Health At Every Size® (HAES®)
Relationship with Food and Body
Body Image
Grief and Loss
Teaching/Education
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Andrea believes healing is accessible to everyone. Her personal therapeutic journey revealed the importance of a safe space to explore emotions, fostering inner peace and self-connection.
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After a 23-year career in education, Andrea pursued psychotherapy training and is currently enrolled at the Toronto Centre for Psychotherapy and Counselling Education. She holds a B.A. in Education, is an Ontario Certified Teacher, and a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, guiding clients with intuitive eating and the HAES philosophy. Andrea is also trained in the Flash Technique (FT), an evidence-based intervention that helps process traumatic memories without direct engagement, making therapy less distressing.
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Her approach is rooted in building warm, empathic relationships, ensuring clients feel seen, heard, and safe. As a student, Andrea works under clinical supervision and is a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). Sessions are covered by insurance for those with Registered Psychotherapy benefits and offered at a reduced rate of $150.
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In her free time, she enjoys nature walks with her dog, Spike. Contact us for a free 15-minute consultation.
Therapy Modalities We Offer
The Gottman Method is an approach to couples therapy that includes a thorough assessment of the couple’s relationship and integrates research-based interventions based on the Sound Relationship House Theory. Learn more about the Gottman Method here.
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Treating trauma and addressing affairs using the Gottman Method involves a structured therapeutic approach focused on rebuilding trust, enhancing communication, and fostering emotional connection within relationships.
Treating couples in addiction recovery with the Gottman Method involves addressing underlying relationship issues, rebuilding trust, and developing healthier communication patterns to support lasting sobriety and relationship stability.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma and many other mental health problems. Learn more here.
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An EMDR intensive is a more immersive and therapeutic experience than traditional EMDR sessions. It typically involves several hours of therapy per day, over a period of several days, with the goal of achieving rapid trauma resolution. Learn more here.
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Most of us have different aspects, “parts,” or “ego states” of ourselves. “Ego state therapy” refers to a powerful, flexible therapy that helps clients integrate and reconcile these distinct aspects of themselves. Learn more about Ego State Therapy here.
7 Principles for Making Marriage Work Workshop Leader
The "Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work" workshop by the Gottman Method offers couples practical tools and insights based on research-backed principles to strengthen their relationship and enhance marital satisfaction.
Acute Stress Syndrome Stabilization for Individual and Groups (ASSYST-I) & (ASSYST-G)
ASSYST-I focuses on nervous system regulation and is used in rapid response settings, providing immediate support within hours to weeks after trauma. ASSYST-G is a group procedure bridging the gap between Psychological First Aid and high-intensity psychotherapy for individuals showing severe distress after a critical incident.
DeTUR - Desensitization of Triggers and Urge Reprocessing
An Urge Reduction Protocol for addictions and dysfunctional behaviors and the underlying causing traumas, based on the AIP EMDR model.
EMDR can be useful for treating very early trauma and neglect in the attachment period. "When There are No Words" integrates several treatment strategies in a comprehensive and resonant approach that is attuned to the client's unspoken early experience.
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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a cognitive-behavioral treatment that emphasizes balancing acceptance and change to help individuals manage emotions, reduce harmful behaviors, and improve relationships.
Internal Family Systems
Using Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy involves exploring and understanding the different parts of oneself to promote healing, integration, and self-awareness. It is helpful for people experience trauma or other challenge including addiction.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, short-term therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It helps individuals develop practical skills to manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges by promoting healthier thinking and coping strategies.
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Golf Psychology
Enhance your mental golf game with golf psychology and EMDR therapy. We can support you to master the mental game to achieve peak performance on the course.
Developmental Needs Meeting Strategy
DNMS was developed for use in the treatment of trauma and attachment-related issues. A noninvasive and multidimensional approach to treating complex trauma resulting from abuse or neglect-related attachment concerns.
