Kathryn Kerns

Kathryn attended Lakehead University where she graduated with an Honours degree in Social Work with a focus in Indigenous Learning. She has a variety of work experience primarily working with Indigenous children and families. She enjoys using approaches like Emotionally Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy. She also utilizes play and art therapy with children and youth, including the Coping Cat Program.

Kathryn’s areas of expertise focus on issues such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, intimate partner violence, lateral violence, relationship issues and self-efficacy. She enjoys working with individuals, families and communities and utilizes the Systems Theory in order to see sustainable change. She believes that the healing process includes every part that makes up a person, a family, and a community.

Kathryn has run groups for those who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, and victims of crimes. She believes it is a privilege to work with people struggling with suicide and self-harm ideations. Kathryn has a passion to see those who have been abused display resiliency and help them move beyond the hurt and pain to live a life beyond their past. Kathryn believes that the best thing about being a counsellor is the opportunity to be there for people and to listen. Its simple, but it can empower a person to be heard and feel valued.

Kathryn enjoys reading, traveling and being with family and friends. She firmly believes there is much to be thankful for and to learn in this life. She says, “You can overcome challenges so don’t ever let your story end!”