Thomas Saretsky BA, BEd, GDRE, MRE, RPC
Individual & Family Therapist

Have you ever noticed how much of life is spent waiting? Waiting for the right time, the right moment, or the right feeling to finally take a step toward change.

Henri Nouwen once wrote that much of our lives can be spent waiting for something else to happen to us. It is a thought that stays with me. So often, we wait for clarity, for things to feel easier, or for life to shift on its own. But when it comes to our mental health, waiting can quietly keep us from the care, understanding, and peace for which we are longing.

I see counselling as a place where your story can begin to be spoken out loud, just as it is.

At the heart of my work is a deep love for story. Every person carries one, and every story matters. Some are shaped by heartache, loss, or uncertainty. Others hold courage, resilience, and hope. Most are a mixture of both. It is a privilege to sit with people as they share the unfolding story of their lives. You do not have to carry your story alone and I would be honoured to listen, to sit with you, and to have you read me yours.

You do not need to have the right words or a clear direction to begin. We can start right where you are, with what you are feeling today, and gently make sense of it together.

My hope is to create a space where you feel truly seen, heard, and accepted, just as you are. Whether you come as an individual, a couple, or a family, our work will focus on helping you understand your experiences, reconnect with your strengths, and move toward meaningful, lasting change.

My background as an educator in both elementary and high school settings has given me a deep appreciation for the challenges young people and families face. I am especially passionate about supporting youth and young adults as they navigate transitions, relationships, identity, and mental health. At the same time, I welcome people at all stages of life and strive to create a space where everyone feels supported and understood.

In our work together, I draw from a range of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Emotional Freedom Technique (tapping), as well as mindfulness and spiritually integrated practices when they feel meaningful to you. I always tailor my approach to fit who you are and what you need.

I am a Registered Professional Counsellor with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association and hold a Master of Education, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education, and a Diploma in Applied Psychology and Counselling. I have also completed training in ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training), De-escalating Potentially Violent Situations, Critical Incident Group Debriefing and Advanced FLASH technique.

If something here resonates with you, maybe this is your moment. You do not have to wait. And you do not have to do it alone.

Qualifications:

• BEd - University of Saskatchewan (1989)
• BA - University of Saskatchewan (1995)
• GDRE - University of Saskatchewan (2009)
• MRE - Newman Theological College (2014)
• KPCP - Kelowna College of Professional Counselling (2023)

Additional Credentials:

Canadian Professional Counsellors Association
Membership #4422