Celebrating a Milestone: Joanna Lockhart Completes Her RCT Candidacy

We’re pleased to share an important professional milestone for one of our valued team members at Crossroads Counselling & Psychological Services.

Congratulations to Joanna Lockhart, M.A., on successfully completing the Candidacy period for her Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) designation with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. This achievement marks the successful transition from RCT-C (Candidate) to full Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) status—an accomplishment that reflects her consistent dedication, clinical competence, and commitment to providing ethical, client-centred care.

Throughout her Candidacy, Joanna has demonstrated professionalism, curiosity, and compassion. She’s continually invested in her growth while thoughtfully supporting clients through life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, grief, boundary work, and personal self-understanding. Her collaborative and grounding approach has made her a valued therapist to clients and a respected colleague within our team.

Achieving full RCT status is an intensive, multi-step process. It requires advanced academic training, thousands of hours of supervised clinical experience, and meeting the established professional standards set by the NSCCT. Joanna has navigated each of these steps thoughtfully, and we’re very happy to celebrate this well-deserved success with her.

We’re grateful for the thoughtful, steady support she provides to individuals in our community, and we look forward to seeing her continue to grow and make a meaningful impact.

You can learn more about Joanna’s work and therapeutic approach. 

Contact us to book an appointment with Joanna.

Please join us in congratulating Joanna on this well-earned professional achievement!

Joanna Lockhart Completes Her RCT Candidacy

Finding the right psychologist or psychotherapist in Halifax can feel overwhelming. You’re not just searching for credentials — you’re looking for someone you can trust, someone who listens, and someone who helps you move forward.

At Crossroads Counselling & Psychological Services, that’s what we’re all about. Our team of experienced psychologists, psychotherapists, and counsellors offers a warm, professional space where you can feel heard and supported while working toward real change.

Why Crossroads Counselling Feels Different

When people describe their experience with us, they often say the same thing: “I finally feel like someone gets it.”

That’s because we take the time to understand you — not just your symptoms, but your story. Our therapists are trained in a range of evidence-based approaches, but what matters most to us is helping you find practical tools and genuine insight that make a difference in your life.

Here’s what makes Crossroads a trusted choice for mental health care in Halifax:

• Experienced Team: Our clinicians include Registered Psychologists, Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC), and Registered Counselling Therapists (RCT-C).
• Personalized Fit: We match you with a therapist who best fits your goals and personality.
• Evidence-Based Care: We use proven methods like CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and trauma-informed therapy.
• Comfortable Environment: Our Halifax office is welcoming and confidential — a space where you can just breathe.

What We Help With

Our team works with individuals, couples, and families on a wide range of issues, including:

• Anxiety and depression
• Stress and burnout
• Relationship and communication challenges
• Trauma and PTSD
• Grief and loss
• Self-esteem and personal growth
• ADHD assessments

Whether you’re looking for personal counselling, couples therapy, or help navigating a specific challenge, we’re here to guide you with empathy and professionalism.

In-Person or Online — Support That Fits Your Life

While we’re proudly based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, we also offer secure online therapy for anyone across the province. So whether you’re near our office in Hammonds Plains or anywhere around the HRM, you can still connect with one of our trusted therapists.

Take the Next Step

If you’re searching for the best psychologist or psychotherapist in Halifax, we’d love to help you take the next step in your mental health journey.

Contact us book your first appointment. You don’t have to figure everything out alone — we’re here to help.

We’re excited to share some wonderful news — starting in January 2026, Paige Carvery will be joining the Crossroads team as a Practicum Student!

Paige is in the final stages of completing her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and holds a B.A. (Honours) in Psychology from Saint Mary’s University. Her strong academic background and hands-on experience have shaped her into a thoughtful, compassionate emerging therapist who’s eager to support clients on their wellness journey.

Before joining Crossroads, Paige worked as a Research Assistant with the IWK Health Centre, Saint Mary’s University, and Dalhousie University. Through this work, she developed a deep understanding of evidence-based practice, which now informs her warm, client-centred approach to therapy.

Compassionate Support at a Low Cost

As part of her practicum placement, Paige will be offering counselling sessions at a reduced rate of $25/hour at Crossroads. This is a great opportunity for individuals, teens, and adults to access affordable, high-quality counselling in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Paige’s Approach

Paige’s style is collaborative, compassionate, and inclusive. She believes therapy should be a safe space where every person feels seen, heard, and valued. Her clinical interests include:

• Anxiety and stress
• Life transitions
• Grief and loss
• Relationship challenges
• Self-esteem and self-worth

Whether you’re navigating change, facing uncertainty, or simply looking to better understand yourself, Paige is here to help you move forward with care and confidence.

Book a Session

We’re pleased to welcome Paige to the Crossroads community and can’t wait for our clients to meet her.

If you’re looking for low-cost therapy in Halifax or want to learn more about working with Paige, please contact us to book a session.

We’re pleased to celebrate an exciting professional milestone for Crossroads Counselling & Psychological Services Associate, Kelsey Chiasson!

Kelsey has officially earned her Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) designation through the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). This certification recognizes counsellors who have met rigorous national standards for education, training, and ethical practice in the field of counselling and psychotherapy across Canada.

In addition to her CCC designation, Kelsey also holds her Registered Counselling Therapist – Candidate (RCT-C) credential through the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists, which is specific to practice within Nova Scotia.

Together, these designations represent a significant professional achievement — reflecting Kelsey’s commitment to excellence, ongoing education, and ethical, evidence-based mental health care.

At Crossroads Counselling & Psychological Services, we’re proud to celebrate our Associates as they continue advancing their professional development. Kelsey’s accomplishment not only enhances her ability to serve clients but also strengthens the quality of care we provide to individuals, couples, and families across Nova Scotia.

Please join us in congratulating Kelsey on becoming a Canadian Certified Counsellor — a well-deserved recognition of her dedication and compassion in supporting mental health and wellness.

Kelsey offers sessions in both English and French. Please Contact Us to book a session with Kelsey.

Celebrating Mental Health Wins

At Crossroads Counselling & Psychological Services, we believe that progress in therapy isn’t only measured by big breakthroughs — it’s also found in the small, steady steps that move you toward emotional wellness and personal growth.

This September, Crossroads Associate, Kirsten Spasyouti, highlighted some of the meaningful wins her clients experienced — from developing self-compassion and improving parenting skills, to strengthening boundaries, self-awareness, and self-care. Each of these moments represents courage, growth, and a deep commitment to mental health.

Taking time to celebrate your wins, no matter how small, is an important part of building resilience and motivation. When we pause to acknowledge the effort behind our progress — whether that’s speaking up for yourself, setting a healthy boundary, or simply showing up for therapy — we reinforce positive change and empower ourselves to keep moving forward.

Every step counts. Every moment of self-reflection matters.

So, take a moment today to recognize something you’ve accomplished — big or small — in your own mental health journey. Each win is a building block toward the future you’re creating for yourself.

✨ What wins are you celebrating this month?

Celebrating mental health wins

Building Stronger Relationships with Sydney Walker

We’re excited to share that our very own Sydney Walker, Registered Counselling Therapist – Candidate at Crossroads Counselling & Psychological Services, recently appeared as a special guest on the Global Podcast Network in their Health and Wellness series.

In her interview, Sydney offered valuable insights into her work with couples, sharing how she helps partners strengthen their connection, improve communication, and navigate challenges together.

Helping Couples Reconnect

In the interview Sydney provided context that her main focus is couples counselling, and she draws on research-based, practical approaches to guide her work — including training in both the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).

For couples who are interested, Sydney also offers the Gottman Relationship Checkup, an in-depth online assessment that helps identify relationship strengths, challenges, and recurring patterns. The results become a clear roadmap for therapy — helping couples understand where they are and where they want to go.

“In my work with couples, I often see how easy it is to fall into cycles of miscommunication,” Sydney shared. “Both partners may want the same things — like love and reassurance — but the way they go about asking for it gets lost or misunderstood. My role is to create a safe, structured space where both partners can slow down, really hear each other, and start to recognize what’s underneath the surface of the conflict.”

Sydney elaborated that she believes that underneath most relationship conflict are unmet needs — for connection, understanding, and closeness. Her goal is to help couples uncover these needs, communicate them clearly, and learn how to support each other in more meaningful ways.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to witness couples move from feeling stuck and disconnected to feeling closer and more hopeful about their future together.”

Sydney’s Journey

Sydney shared that her story with Crossroads began long before her role as a therapist. She first joined the team in an administrative position, where she witnessed firsthand the positive impact of counselling in people’s lives. Inspired by the difference therapy made — especially for couples — Sydney decided to pursue her Master’s degree and specialized training in couples work.

Now, as a therapist, she’s passionate about helping partners rebuild trust, improve communication, and feel connected again.

When to Consider Couples Counselling

Sydney wrapped up her appearance discussing how many couples wait until their relationship feels like it’s at a breaking point before reaching out for support. She highlighted that counselling can be helpful at any stage of a relationship — not just in crisis. Some common situations where couples counselling can make a big difference include:

• Premarital counselling – preparing for marriage with tools to strengthen communication and shared understanding
• Life transitions – adjusting to new stages such as parenthood, relocation, or career changes
• Recurring arguments – breaking the cycle of repeated conflicts that leave both partners feeling unheard

Relationships are at the heart of our mental health and overall wellbeing. Seeking support early is a meaningful way to invest in your relationship and your family’s emotional health.

Contact us if you’d like to learn more about Sydney’s approach to building stronger relationships or to book a session.

Your relationship matters — and with the right support, it can thrive.

We were proud to support the Nova Village NS Family Hub Backpack Initiative this year! 🎒✨

Thanks to the leadership of our Associate, Kirsten Spasyouti, Crossroads contributed 5 backpacks toward their goal of helping 100 families start September with school supplies and healthy snacks for their kids.

A small step that makes a big difference for local families. 💙

Are you a passionate psychologist seeking a professional home where your expertise is valued and supported? Crossroads Counselling & Psychological Services is excited to welcome a skilled Associate Psychologist with a focus on couples counselling.

Why Crossroads Stands Out

• A new, inviting facility: Our wellness centre in Hammonds Plains offers ample free parking, private and well-appointed offices, and easy access from Bedford, Sackville, Dartmouth, and throughout Halifax / HRM. 
• Collaborative and values-driven team: Founded by Amy Wiens, M.A., Crossroads has grown into a community of dedicated, evidence-based practitioners. Our team includes Registered Psychologists and RCT-Cs with expertise across individual, child, adolescent, family, and couples therapy.
• Flexible, supportive structure: Enjoy flexible scheduling, strong administrative support, and effective marketing, allowing you to focus on meaningful client work rather than admin burdens.

What We Offer Our Associate Psychologists

• Industry-leading revenue share
• Supportive environment tailored to your professional goals
• Lightweight onboarding process designed to feel collaborative, relaxed, and respectful of your time
• Team environment – Work alongside a team of dedicated clinicians in a supportive and engaging setting

What We’re Looking For

• A registered psychologist with a strong interest in couples therapy (married, premarital, and/or relationship counselling)
• Experience or passion for approaches that foster trust, connection, and healing, such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman, or other relational frameworks
• A desire to build your practice in a well-resourced environment within a team that values growth, integrity, and collaboration

Join a Place That’s More Than Just a Clinic

At Crossroads, you’re not just a therapist — you’re part of a mission-driven team. We are committed to client well-being and positively impacting our community. If this sounds like a place where you could thrive, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now by completing the form. We will follow up to explore how you could become part of our community.

Associate Psychologist (Couples Counselling)

As a mental health practice, you might think our most frequently asked question would be a deep one. But, in fact, we found people asking if we have washrooms. Yes, we do! Two washrooms, now with signage, one of which is fully accessible. Important for everyone’s peace of mind. 🙂