Anchor & Thrive Mental Health
Counselling, Psychotherapy and Social Work Advocacy
Serving Adults in Newfoundland & Labrador and in Nova Scotia; in-person in St. John’s or online across NL & NS
I am an experienced Registered Social Worker and Certified EMDR therapist, with advanced training in integrative trauma approaches, including Developmental Needs Meeting Strategy (DNMS).
My work emphasizes careful preparation and stabilization before trauma processing—strengthening internal resources, addressing attachment-based needs, and building a foundation for safe, effective trauma work that supports deeper, lasting healing.
If Something Feels Stuck, Heavy, or Unresolved — You Don’t Have to Carry It Alone
You may not have the exact words for what’s going on.
You might just know that:
- something doesn’t sit right
- certain experiences still affect you more than they should
- you feel stuck in patterns you don’t fully understand
- or you’re carrying more than you can keep managing on your own
Some people come to therapy knowing exactly what they want to work on.
Others come with a sense that “something isn’t right,” even if they can’t yet explain why.
Both are welcome here.
A Depth-Oriented Approach to Healing
At Anchor & Thrive Mental Health, my approach is depth-oriented and integrative, emphasizing careful preparation and stabilization before trauma processing, and supporting meaningful, lasting change.
This may include:
- attachment wounds from childhood
- trauma and overwhelming experiences
- moral injury or experiences that feel deeply wrong, unjust, or unresolved
- grief and loss
- anxiety or emotional overwhelm
- relational struggles
- longstanding patterns that continue to repeat
- reactions that feel stronger than the situation itself
Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all method, I tailor therapy to you—your history, your pace, and your goals.
Whole-Person Care: Mind, Body, and Meaning
Healing involves more than symptom relief.
My work is grounded in a holistic understanding of the person—integrating emotional, psychological, relational, and meaning-based dimensions of care.
For those who desire it, this can also include space for exploring faith, purpose, and deeper questions about life and identity.
A Faith-Informed Perspective (Optional and Respectful)
My approach is grounded in a Catholic Christian understanding of the human person, including dignity, meaning, and the capacity for growth and healing.
At the same time, I welcome individuals of all backgrounds who are open to a depth-oriented approach to therapy.
You do not need to share my beliefs to benefit from this work.
Who This Work Is For
This approach tends to be a good fit for individuals who:
- are open to being curious about what's beneath the surface and engaging in the process of change
- want to understand why they feel or react the way they do
- value a thoughtful, personalized approach
Social Work Advocacy
I provide advocacy support for individuals navigating complex systems, including healthcare, workplace, and legal contexts. This may include consultation, documentation, and communication with other professionals to help ensure your needs, rights, and voice are clearly represented.
Booking a Consultation
Finding the right therapist matters.
Book a free 15-minute consultation to see if this approach feels like the right fit for you.
📞 Call or ✉️ email to book your consultation.
Cell: 709-770-1794 Email: marlene@anchorandthrivementalhealth.ca
Together we will find your healing pathways to Anchor Deep, Soar High, and Thrive Into a New Life
Galerie
