Jennifer Nelson, MACP
More About Jennifer
Formal Education + Life Experience =
I Get It
My interest in human behavior has always been with me. Psychology 11 sparked the realization I could turn this curiosity into a meaningful career. My journey to becoming a psychotherapist took a winding path – while working as a teacher and raising children I began a Masters in Counselling Psychology. After stepping away from teaching (and a brief, not-so-glamorous stint as a flight attendant!), I completed my Masters degree and found my way into the work I truly love.
I was born in New Zealand and came to Canada at age four where I have lived ever since. Having faced my own challenges, I bring a personal depth of understanding to my work, connecting with clients on a genuine and human level. I have so much respect for lived experience as it can provide a depth of wisdom that no formal education alone can offer. I look forward to hearing about and learning from yours.
Qualifications
Education
MACP - Masters in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University, 2024
PBD (Comm.) - Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Communication, Simon Fraser University, 2012
B.Ed. - Bachelor of Education, University of Victoria, 1998
B.A. - Bachelor of Arts (Psychology Major), University of Victoria, 1994
Certificates
Gottman - Treating Affairs and Trauma - 2025
Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 3 - 2025
Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 2 - 2024
Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1 - 2024
Several Teaching-related Certificates
I would be remiss to leave out Lived Experience, which provides a depth of wisdom that no formal education alone can offer.
Approaches
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors;
Humanistic Therapy, which emphasizes self-actualization, personal growth, and the importance of empathy and authenticity; and
Psychodynamic Therapy, which delves into unconscious processes and how past experiences shape present behaviors.
Alongside my Master’s education, I have pursued additional training in The Gottman Method Couples Therapy, starting during my program and continuing afterward. This training has enhanced my ability to offer couples effective tools for strengthening their relationships. Some of the techniques and insights from this approach are also applicable in Individual Therapy, enhancing my ability to offer clients valuable tools for personal growth and relationship-building.
By blending these and other approaches, including Narrative, Acceptance and Commitment, Existential, etc. I can offer a personalized treatment plan that empowers clients to work through their challenges and move toward healing and growth in a way that feels right for them.
More About Me
Supporting You Personally
I have three children—two daughters and a son—who are now teens and young adults, as well as two wonderful grandchildren. I’m also the proud owner of a German Shepherd, and together, we love going for walks in sunlit forests. Meeting friends for meals over invigorating conversation is also something I really enjoy, as well as reading and keeping up with research and current events.
Whether you’re looking for practical solutions, deeper self-exploration, couples therapy, or just really need to talk to someone, I am committed to supporting you in a way that resonates with you personally, helping you move toward healing and growth.
“I also welcome couples and individuals whose relationships have become strained or ruptured due to differing views on politics, health policy, etc. I understand the divisiveness that has materialized over the past few years, and you are free to be your authentic self with me.”