Opening Up About Psychotherapy

Before becoming a registered psychotherapist, I was someone who people from all walks of life opened up to, even in grocery store line ups! I think that came from a natural empathy that helped others feel safe. While I was a compassionate listener, I did not always have the tools to help in the ways I wanted to, and that curiosity about human behaviour led me down the path of psychotherapy.

Spending my early years in Northern Ireland and moving to Canada without many family connections also shaped me, especially experiencing how meaningful it was when neighbours and new friends offered support. That gratitude directly impacted my commitment to help others through community involvement. I run a small donation centre for people and animals in need, offer peer support to students, coach soccer, and host a teen youth group where we prepare and distribute care packages. 

I returned to school in my 30s while raising my two daughters, now ages 10 and 14, alongside my supportive husband and life as a dog person. During the pandemic, I navigated homeschooling while completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, a time that brought growth, perspective and learning.

At this point in life, I bring together my professional and personal roles by offering grounded, evidence-informed support to people experiencing significant stress and overwhelm, and collaborate with agencies in London to offer low cost and free therapy, when they may not otherwise have access to support. At the root of it all, I find people are often just doing their best, and sometimes need a little help along the way, something I have experienced over the years.

Disclaimer: this information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute psychotherapy or a therapeutic relationship.

 

Jen Wall is a Registered Psychotherapist with Talk With Jen Counselling and Psychotherapy, a virtual practice based in London, Ontario, supporting caregivers and professionals in high-stress roles experiencing burnout and emotional overload. Learn more at TalkWithJen.ca.