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.

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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. 🙂

Starting Counselling – What Should I Expect in My First Therapy Session?
Starting Counselling or Therapy for the First Time

Thinking about starting mental health therapy or counselling, but not sure what to expect? You’re not alone. Many people feel nervous before their first session. That’s totally normal. The unknown can feel intimidating—but taking this first step is a big act of self-care.

What Happens in the First Therapy Session?

In your first therapy session, the goal is for your therapist to get to know you. Most sessions start with a quick review of the consent and confidentiality forms you signed when booking.

After that, your therapist will ask questions to better understand:

• Why you’re seeking therapy or counselling
• What your goals are
• A bit about your background and current challenges

It’s a conversation—not an interrogation. There’s no pressure to “get it right.” Your therapist will help guide the process.

Do I Need to Prepare?

No. You don’t need to bring anything or do anything special to prepare. Just come as you are.

That said, it can help to:

• Think about what’s been bothering you
• Be open and honest about your feelings
• Consider what you might want to get out of therapy

But it’s also okay if you’re unsure. Many people don’t know exactly what they need at first. That’s something you and your therapist can explore together.

What If I Feel Nervous?

Feeling nervous is normal. Starting counselling means opening up—and that takes courage. Just know your therapist is trained to support you through this process. You’re not expected to have all the answers.

Final Thoughts

Counselling and therapy are personal journeys. Everyone’s experience is different. What matters most is that you show up. Your therapist will meet you where you are and help you take the next step toward healing, growth, and change.

Julia Slaunwhite, M.A., has proven to be an effective counsellor, bringing empathy, understanding, and a wealth of knowledge to her approach. Her training and experience allow her to connect with individuals on a meaningful level, tailoring her therapeutic techniques to meet the unique needs of those she serves. Julia works with individuals and couples. She is currently accepting new clients.

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Ready to Start Therapy?
Booking your first counselling session is a brave step—and we’re here to support you. Contact us today. 

Couples therapy isn’t just for crisis—it’s for any couple who wants to improve communication, rebuild trust, or feel more connected. Many couples come to therapy feeling stuck. Maybe you’re having the same argument over and over. Maybe things just feel “off,” and you can’t explain why.

You might be avoiding each other, walking on eggshells, or feeling more like roommates than partners. Some couples are healing from betrayal. Others are struggling with parenting, finances, or in-laws. Whatever the challenge, couples therapy offers tools and support to move forward—together.

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Why Couples Counselling Works

A common pattern I see in relationships is the pursuer–withdrawer dynamic. One partner wants to talk and connect. The other pulls away to avoid conflict. The more one pushes, the more the other retreats. Both feel hurt, misunderstood, and alone.

This cycle creates emotional distance—but it can be broken. Couples counselling helps each partner understand their role in the pattern and begin to change it. Watch this short video to see this dynamic explained clearly and compassionately.

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The Heart of Couples Therapy

Everyone wants to feel loved, safe, and valued. But past experiences, fear of rejection, or old habits can block those needs. Couples therapy gently uncovers what’s really going on beneath the surface.

I use two proven approaches:

• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Focuses on emotional safety, vulnerability, and connection.
• The Gottman Method: Offers practical tools to improve communication and reduce conflict.

Together, these methods help couples grow—not just manage conflict, but heal and reconnect.

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What You’ll Learn in Couples Counselling

• How to break the cycle of conflict
• How to truly listen and feel heard
• How to repair after arguments
• How to build a stronger friendship
• How to reconnect emotionally and physically

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Is Couples Therapy for You?

If you feel distant, misunderstood, or stuck in the same argument, couples therapy can help. You don’t need to wait until things are “bad enough.” Taking the first step shows strength, not failure.

Let’s work together to rebuild your connection with empathy, trust, and clarity.

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Book Your Couples Therapy Session Today

If you’re ready to create change, I’d be honoured to support you.
👉 Click here to learn more or schedule a session

Sydney Walker, RCT-C, is a Crossroads associate who holds a B.A. in Psychology and a Master’s in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She supports individuals 16+ dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, and body image concerns. Sydney is also passionate about helping couples. She has advanced training in the Gottman Method (Levels 1 & 2)—an evidence-based approach for building stronger relationships.

Want to learn more or book a session with Sydney?
Contact us today.

Stress-Reducing Conversations: A Daily Practice for Stronger Relationships

Couples often come to therapy feeling overwhelmed. Each partner may carry their own stress. This can spill into the relationship. It’s natural to want to help. But sometimes, even well-meaning advice can do harm.

Phrases like “Have you tried this?” or “But what about…?” often come from care. Still, they can leave your partner feeling dismissed. When advice replaces empathy, your partner may feel unseen. Their emotions can be overlooked in favor of problem-solving.

This is where stress-reducing conversations make a difference.

Why Stress-Reducing Conversations Matter

When someone’s emotions are dismissed, their emotional brain takes over. That’s why your partner might get upset, even if you’re trying to help. Their brain is protecting them. In that state, they can’t hear advice. They need to feel safe first.

When you validate feelings, the emotional brain calms down. Then the logical brain can re-engage. Only then are they ready to think clearly and solve problems.

What Is a Stress-Reducing Conversation?

Stress-reducing conversations come from the Gottman Method. They are designed to help couples connect emotionally. These talks are not about solving problems. They are about listening and supporting each other.

When practiced regularly, stress-reducing conversations build:

• Trust
• Empathy
• Emotional safety

This helps couples face stress together—without shutting each other down.

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How to Practice Stress-Reducing Conversations

The Speaker’s Role

Talk about something stressful outside the relationship. Be honest. Share your emotions fully. The goal is to help your partner understand your stress—not to filter or edit.

The Listener’s Role

Your job is to listen, not to fix.

Here’s how:

• Listen actively. Put distractions away. Nod, say “I get that,” or “Tell me more.”
• Ask open-ended questions. Try “What was that like for you?” or “How did that feel?”
• Avoid jumping into solutions. Problem-solving too soon can feel dismissive.
• Show empathy. Say things like “I’d be upset too” or “That sounds so hard.”
• Check in. Ask, “Do you feel understood?” or “What do you need right now?”
• Take their side. Even if you see things differently, validate their feelings. Avoid defending others in the story.
• Offer comfort. A hug or kind gesture can show your support without words.

Remember the motto:
Understand before giving advice.

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Make It a Habit

When couples practice stress-reducing conversations regularly, their connection grows. Communication becomes stronger. Emotional intimacy deepens. Most importantly, both partners feel seen and supported.

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Sydney Walker, RCT-C, is a Crossroads associate who holds a B.A. in Psychology and a Master’s in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She supports individuals 16+ dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, and body image concerns. Sydney is also passionate about helping couples. She has advanced training in the Gottman Method (Levels 1 & 2)—an evidence-based approach for building stronger relationships.

Want to learn more or book a session with Sydney?
Contact us today.

Come in. Relax. Get comfortable.

That might not be the first feeling you expect when you walk into a commercial building—but at Crossroads Counselling & Psychological Services, it’s exactly the experience we aim to create.

When you visit us, it’s not just another appointment on your calendar. It’s a moment to step away from the noise, and step toward peace of mind.

That kind of work doesn’t happen by accident. It requires intention—especially in how a space looks, feels, and functions. In other words: thoughtful design.

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Why Design Matters in Mental Health

A growing amount of research (The Impact of Design on Mental Health; Designing for Wellbeing: The Role of Interior Architecture in Mental Health) shows a powerful connection between our environment and our mental well-being. A common prescription is spending time in nature because of its proven benefits. But indoor spaces matter in different ways, given how much of our time is spent indoors. The way a room is designed can impact how we feel—sometimes in ways we don’t even realize. 

With that in mind, the design of our new home at 128 Appaloosa Run was no afterthought—it was an extension of our therapeutic mission.

Outside of my work as a psychologist, I’ve always loved interior design. Maybe it’s my creative right brain at work—or maybe it’s my belief that the spaces we inhabit help shape our emotions. Either way, I leaned into this passion while designing Crossroads’ new space. I drew inspiration from nature, my favourite places, and the knowledge that healing starts with how a space makes you feel.

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Intentional Choices for a Better Experience

Designed for Visual Appeal
Lighting sets the tone. We chose warm, unique fixtures to create a welcoming, calming atmosphere—visually signalling that this is not just another office, but a place designed for mental wellness.

Colour plays its part too. Inspired by nature, our palette evokes the outdoors: deep forest greens and calming ocean blues—colours that ground us and bring a sense of calm. These are personal to me; few things are more centring than being surrounded by evergreens or standing beside the sea.

Texture adds another layer of warmth. We added custom trim and moulding to show attention to detail—because just like our clients, the space is anything but generic.

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Designed for Everyone
Accessibility isn’t optional—it’s foundational. From the parking lot to each therapy room, our space is fully accessible for those with mobility needs. Everyone deserves to feel seen, valued, and welcomed from the moment they arrive.

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Designed for Confidentiality
We took confidentiality seriously during renovations. Every soundproofing option our contractors offered—we said yes. Offices feature solid-core, cork-filled doors with sound strips, insulation, resilient sound channels, 5/8″ drywall, and SonoPan on all walls. The office features a white noise machine. The result: a space where your privacy is protected, and outside noise fades away.

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Designed for Convenience

Our location strikes a balance: close to major roads but tucked away from the busiest streets. That means easy access and a smooth arrival—plus nearby amenities like coffee shops and grocery stores.

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Designed for People
Each therapy room is tailored for specific needs: some for kids, others for couples or families, and some for quiet one-on-one work. Each is thoughtfully appointed to feel personal, welcoming, and calming.

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The Bottom Line
Therapy is deeply personal. It’s hard work. The environment shouldn’t make it harder—it should make it easier. When you walk into Crossroads, we want you to feel safe. At home. Appreciated. And ready.

Because when a space is designed with care, it doesn’t just hold your story—it helps you heal.

Therapy by Design: The Gallery:

Amy Wiens, psychologist, is the founder and Principal of Crossroads Counselling & Psychological Services. She holds an Honours degree in Psychology from Saint Mary’s University and a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology with a focus in Marriage and Family Therapy from Trinity Western University. With her educational background and passion for helping individuals, couples, and families live more congruent, authentic, and meaningful lives, Amy is dedicated to supporting clients in navigating their personal challenges.

Welcome Back, Sydney! A Familiar Face Joins Us as Our Newest Associate

We’re thrilled to officially welcome Sydney Walker, M.A., to the Crossroads team in her new role as an Associate and Registered Counselling Therapist – Candidate (RCT-C)!

Many of you may already recognize Sydney—she first joined Crossroads as our Administrative Assistant, later stepped into the role of Practicum Student, and now returns as a fully qualified clinician after completing her Master’s in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. We’re incredibly proud to see her growth and honoured to have her continue her professional journey with us.

Sydney is already making waves in the field of mental health. She recently co-authored a published academic paper titled Factors related to post-traumatic stress disorder in parents of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities: A systematic review and narrative synthesis. Her dedication to both clinical practice and research speaks to the passion and depth she brings to her work.

In her therapeutic practice, Sydney draws on a variety of evidence-based approaches, including:

• Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Attachment-Based Therapies
• Mindfulness-Based Practices
• The Gottman Method

This integrative approach allows her to tailor sessions to meet the unique needs of each client, supporting them with care, insight, and professionalism.

Whether you’re looking to improve your emotional well-being, navigate a life transition, or work through relationship challenges, Sydney offers a compassionate, skilled presence to walk alongside you.

Ready to book a session with Sydney?
We’d love to connect you— contact us today to get started.

Welcome Back, Sydney! A Familiar Face Joins Us as Our Newest Associate