Elsie Hartnett, B.Ed., MA, CCPA, CCC

I love hearing people’s stories and learning about their lives and am passionate about psychology and mental health research. I am dedicated to fostering healing and growth in individuals, couples, and families. With a background in education and a master’s degree in counselling psychology, I bring a unique blend of educational insight and therapeutic expertise to my practice.

After completing my Master’s practicum at Aspire Too in April 2024, I continued to expand my knowledge and training in various therapeutic modalities, including Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Play Therapy, Accelerated Resolution therapy, Sand tray therapy, and Gottman’s Couples Therapy. I am particularly passionate about working with both adults and children who are neurodiverse and have pursued additional training in this area. I believe in a strengths-based view of neurodiversity and am committed to creating affirming and inclusive spaces. My first career was completely child-focused and I have carried that on by taking many hours of Play Therapy training, and I am working toward certification as a play therapist with the Canadian Association of Play Therapy. I love working with children and find connecting with them easy and natural.

Reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and neurodiversity is a personal mission of mine, as I strongly believe in the crucial role mental health plays in overall well-being. As a mother of three, I understand the complexities of family dynamics and the importance of nurturing mental health throughout every stage of life.

I believe that seeking help is a powerful step in developing the skills needed to thrive. I have deep respect for anyone who takes this courageous path toward becoming their best selves, and I recognize the importance of community and professional support in this process. It’s never too late to focus on self-improvement, and I encourage others to prioritize mental healthcare without shame. Struggles are a natural part of life, and seeking help is a sign of strength and resilience.

I work with individual clients of all ages, couples, and families. I can provide support in the following areas:

• Anxiety and stress management
• Depression
• Emotional regulation difficulties
• Behavioural challenges in children
• Family conflict and dynamics
• Parenting support and education
• Relationship issues and couples counselling
• Grief and loss
• Trauma and PTSD
• Self-esteem and identity issues
• Life transitions (e.g., school, career, family changes)
• Social skills development
• Communication difficulties
• Managing neurodiversity (including ADHD and other conditions)
• Anger management
• Boundaries and assertiveness training
• Healing the inner child
• Divorce or separation adjustment
• Coping with change or uncertainty

In my personal time, I love spending time outdoors camping with my family and our community of friends, enjoying live music, and engaging in various arts and crafts projects. With empathy, dedication, and a belief in the strength of seeking help, I am here to support individuals and families in taking that first step toward a brighter future.