our team

Nicole Gooding obtained an M.A. degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Regina and is currently enrolled in the doctoral program at University of Toronto for Counselling and School Psychology. She brings a holistic approach to client care, believing each person is best understood from a biopsychosocial lens. 

Instead of viewing mental health as something that exists only in the mind, a biopsychosocial approach recognizes that our experiences are shaped by biological, psychological, and social factors. All three areas are interconnected and when one part of the system is out of balance, it will affect the other parts. 

Understanding each person from a biopsychosocial lens honours your story, your strengths, and the many layers that shape how you feel. This allows Nicole to understand your needs more fully and create a path toward growth and healing that feels integrative, compassionate, and tailored to your unique life.

Shannyn brings extensive experience working with children, youth, and families across a wide range of developmental and mental health needs. With a background in childcare, youth mental health, and family crisis support, she approaches her work with empathy, clarity, and a strong commitment to equipping young people with the skills they need to thrive.

Her professional journey includes roles in inpatient youth mental health, live-in treatment programs, and family crisis intervention, giving her a deep understanding of the challenges many children and families face. She also has substantial experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as those navigating mental health concerns, substance use, or homelessness.

As a homeschooling mom, she brings both personal and professional insight into creating safe, nurturing environments where children can grow with confidence. Passionate about prevention, education, and empowerment, Shannyn is dedicated to helping the next generation build essential safety, social, and life skills.

Nicole provides therapy services under the supervision of Dr. Wands who is a Clinical Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario.  

In a career spanning decades, Dr. Wands has provided a private practice and also worked with organizations such as the Owen Sound Family Health Team – Keystone Division, the Lincoln Medical Education Foundation, Lincoln Psychiatric Center, St. Luke’s Medical Center, and more.  She has presented papers at professional meetings across North America and taught graduate-level courses at universities. 

On committees and in workshops and research groups, Dr. Wands has dealt in topics of alcohol and drug abuse, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, geriatric neuropsychology, dementia, healing racism, art therapy, and caregiver stress, among others. 

Assessment services are provided under the supervision of Leslie Hastie, a Psychologist that has been registered with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario since 1999. Leslie brings a vast amount of experience, knowledge, and expertise to this domain. Her career in psychology has spanned children’s mental health centres and, for the past 25 years, the education system. Leslie has worked extensively with children and adolescents presenting with a wide range of learning, developmental, behavioural, and social‑emotional needs.

Leslie’s deep background in comprehensive psychological assessment supports effective educational planning, mental health intervention, and family understanding. Her clinical approach reflects a commitment to high‑quality, evidence‑based, and individualized services ensuring that every assessment is meaningful, accessible, and tailored to the unique needs of each young person.

Driven by compassion and professionalism, Leslie has devoted her multi-decade career to helping children and adolescents thrive by providing assessments that truly make a difference.

As our most senior four legged Therapy Companion, Lilly brings a wealth of experience to each session. She specializes in the snuggles-and-snacks therapeutic approach. In her free time, Lilly enjoys relaxing in the sun and joining Therapy Companion Marty on walks around the property.

Specializing in play and exercise therapeutic methods, Marty is the most active member of the Therapy Companion team. If you enjoy throwing a ball or a stick or going for a nice walk, Marty - as he is affectionately known - is always happy to participate.