Laura Whynot

My name is Laura Whynot (She/Her) and I’m so excited to introduce myself as a counselling intern at the Couch of H.O.P.E. organization. I am currently a Masters level MA in Counselling Psychology practicum student at Yorkville University who is qualified to practice onsite under the clinical supervision of an approved Supervisor.

I started my journey into this field in my undergraduate degree where I had the opportunity to study both Psychology and Sociology alongside some fantastic professors at StFX University. One unique experience that shaped me greatly was being a member of the Forensic Psychology cohort during my senior year. This opened my eyes to the many systemic barriers that individuals face and ignited my passion for finding a profession in which I could be of service to those in my community. Keeping in line with this passion, I later chose to pursue my Bachelor of Education at MSVU and have been working with children in a variety of settings since 2017. I found myself gravitating toward the role of guidance counselor as I spent more time in the classroom and as the years have passed, my passion has remained focused in the mental health field. My love for teaching my students about the importance of self-care, positive self-talk and treating ourselves with kindness are philosophies that will transfer to my toolbox as a counsellor and practices that I try to maintain in my own daily life as well.

My approach is focused on building a therapeutic relationship with the client that has a foundation of trust, respect and authenticity from day one. My hope is that I am able to cultivate a space for my clients in which they feel safe and heard. I believe that the client is the expert of their own experience and operate from a client-centered lens.

I look forward to working with you soon.