Meet our Team
We are a group of highly skilled professionals who each come with our own unique gifts and experiences. We have all come together because we share the common goal of supporting individuals and families. Please contact us if you would like support in choosing the right fit for you or your family member or click the link to book directly.
Jamie Gazlay
Registered Social Worker
Things are complicated, life is hard, parenting is hard, relationships are hard and I have wrinkles and grey hair to prove it. Most days I try my best and some days I can say it all works! Other days it’s a win if everyone gets out the door in one piece and back at the end of the day without any major crises.
All to say that during our time together you just get to be you; however that looks and feels in that moment. I accept you and have zero judgment to offer. I do have a lot of experience and helpful tools and strategies that should make things a little easier while offering the space to just be real about how hard things can be.
Many clients come looking for specific models of therapy such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, or family counselling. Please reach out if you are looking for something specific and we can discuss the best course of treatment for you. I also have wonderful colleagues who work with me here at Quintessence and one of them could be a great fit for you.
Follow the link to book online.
https://quintessencecounselling.janeapp.com/#/staff_member/1
Jennifer Ortman
Registered Social Worker
I’m a compassionate mental health professional here to help you navigate life’s challenges. I have a strong foundation in social work and a diverse background working in primary care, mental health, and substance use settings and am dedicated to creating a safe and compassionate space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to heal.
Together, we’ll explore your unique needs and develop a treatment plan that works for you. Through our sessions, you’ll learn to challenge negative thoughts and beliefs that hold you back, develop healthy coping skills to manage stress and anxiety, cultivate self-compassion to embrace your strengths and vulnerabilities, and build resilience to face life’s challenges with confidence.
I believe in creating a warm and supportive environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to heal. Let’s connect and start your journey of healing and growth.
Follow the link to book online.
https://quintessencecounselling.janeapp.com/embed/book_online/5
Cassandra Ladyka
Registered Clinical Counsellor
I specialize in supporting youth with anxiety and depression, helping them develop self-compassion, establish healthy boundaries, and enhance their communication skills. I incorporate practical self-regulation tools and mindfulness practices into the sessions, equipping youth with skills to manage their emotions and navigate daily challenges.
I am also passionate about working with adults to help them navigate life’s challenges and achieve personal growth. Having experienced the complexities of divorce, single parenting, and co-parenting I deeply connect with youth and families facing similar challenges. I am committed to fostering a non-judgmental, caring, and empathetic environment. Adopting a person-centered approach, I tailor counseling to meet the unique needs of each individual and my dedication to holistic development ensures that every person feels seen, heard, and valued.
Follow the link to book online.
https://quintessencecounselling.janeapp.com/embed/book_online/8
Jennifer Hockney
Family Support worker
Hi, I am a Behavior Interventionist and an Educational Assistant. I have been working with neurodivergent children and adults for more than fourteen years. I am passionate about supporting people and I believe that building authentic connections is key to helping people feel safe enough to grow and learn to their best ability.My hope is that we can walk together, learn, and grow towards meeting your goals.
I offer individual and small group visits with children and youth to work on regulating their nervous system, learning coping strategies, social skills, and more. I also offer support, alongside Jamie, in providing the Integrated Listening System. Check out our Services page for more information.
For those struggling with executive functioning I can offer, what we like to call, body doubling. I can be there to support you in completing certain tasks, filling out forms, accessing supports and more.
Follow the link to book online.
https://quintessencecounselling.janeapp.com/embed/book_online/7
Amanda Meggait
Registered Therapeutic Counsellor-c
I’m a trauma-informed counsellor, and I offer a warm, collaborative space for individuals seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a deeper connection to themselves. My approach is rooted in person-centered, somatics and narrative therapy, and I work with you to explore your experiences with curiosity, compassion, and respect for your unique story.
I take a bottom-up, body-aware approach, recognizing that thoughts and emotions are often connected to what’s held in the body and nervous system. I integrate parts work to support you in understanding and relating to different aspects of yourself with greater awareness and self-trust.
I also draw from CBT and DBT where it feels supportive, offering practical tools to help you navigate thoughts, emotions, and patterns in daily life. My approach is flexible and intuitive, and I meet you where you are. My intention is to support you in reconnecting with your own inner clarity and sense of direction, at a pace that feels right for you. Feel free to reach out or book a discovery call if you would like to connect to see if working together feels right for you.
Follow the link to book online.
Book with Amanda – Quintessence Counselling and Supportive Services