Co-Founder · Registered Social Worker (RSW)
Anita Thompson
Accepting new clients
Behaviour is a form of communication, and my role is to help uncover what lies beneath it.
A bit about my path
My path into the helping profession began at a very young age. From early childhood, I gravitated toward helping roles: babysitting, walking children to school, and supporting peers, often working closely with children with exceptional needs. This early passion continued through high school and ultimately led me into a helping profession.
I have always been deeply interested in how children think, behave, and communicate, an interest that naturally expanded to include teens and adults. At the core of my work is the belief that the therapeutic relationship matters most. Whether working with individuals, couples, families, groups, or supervisees, I prioritize creating a safe, trusting, and supportive connection as the foundation for meaningful change.
Background and experience
My background
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Western Ontario, an Early Childhood Education diploma, and a Master of Clinical Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University.
My career has included work with children in schools and daycares, adults in rehabilitation and forensic settings, and my current role at Clarity in Connection Counselling. These experiences inform my holistic, developmentally informed, and relational approach.
I also provide clinical supervision to students and clinicians. With over 20 years in the field and five years of supervision experience, I offer a supportive, reflective, and non-judgmental space that emphasizes ethical practice, confidence-building, and professional growth.
My therapeutic approach
Therapeutic Connection
The foundation of my work is a strong therapeutic relationship where clients feel safe, supported, and understood. I take an authentic, compassionate, and client-centred approach, working at a pace that feels right for each individual.
Specialized techniques
- Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
- Mindfulness-based approaches
- Behaviour Therapy, including Exposure Response Therapy (ERP)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Who I support
Children & youth (ages 4+)
- Anxiety, including exposure-based approaches
- Emotional regulation difficulties
- OCD
- Behavioural challenges
- Depression
- Day-to-day stressors
- Family transitions, including divorce
Adults
- Anxiety and depression
- Self-harm behaviours and suicidal ideation
- Acute or complex emotional symptoms
- Ongoing stress and emotional overwhelm
Families
- Family therapy from a systems perspective, focusing on relationships, interaction patterns, and communication to support healthier family functioning
Couples
- Couples therapy, viewing the relationship as the client, focused on improving communication, resolving conflict, strengthening emotional connection, and enhancing intimacy
What to expect in our first session
Our first meeting is a relaxed, conversational, get-to-know-you session.
It is an open, two-way discussion focused on building comfort, understanding your needs, and identifying goals moving forward.
Fees and availability
Currently accepting new clients
- Individual session$18050 minutes
- Child / parent session$18050 minutes
- Family and couples session$18050 minutes
- Clinical supervision$18050 minutes
Many extended health benefit plans provide coverage for Registered Social Workers (RSW). I encourage you to check with your provider to see if my services are covered. Receipts are provided after each session for you to submit for reimbursement. I may also be able to direct bill through select insurance providers. Please feel free to reach out to inquire about direct billing options and whether your plan is eligible.
Outside the therapy room
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my three children; family connection is important to me. I also enjoy camping, kayaking, hiking with my dog, and travelling. I believe movement and connection to nature support overall well-being.
Ready when you are
Take a gentle first step toward healing.
Finding a therapist can feel intimidating. My hope is to make this process feel like a supportive and empowering first step, one that we walk together.
You can reach out to me at anita@clarityinconnectioncounselling.com with any questions.