We are excited to welcome Ryan, our new counselling intern, to the Magnolia Health and Wellness Team. Ryan is deeply passionate about working with individuals who face unique challenges, particularly those with exceptionalities and their support networks. His blend of professional expertise and lived experience makes him a valuable addition to our team.

Ryan’s journey from trades and business into the field of supporting individuals with exceptionalities reflects his dedication to following his passion for helping others. With a calm, empathetic nature, Ryan creates a safe, supportive space for clients to navigate challenges such as emotionally processing diagnoses, self-advocacy, learning styles, work-life balance, and career development. He takes a holistic approach to counselling, addressing the emotional, mental, and practical aspects of each individual’s journey.

Ryan’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Bachelor of Education with a focus on resource teaching, as well as certifications in Inclusive Education and Personal Training. He is currently pursuing a master’s in counselling, which further strengthens his ability to provide compassionate and effective support.

With over twelve years of professional experience in roles such as resource teacher, behaviour interventionist, university accessibility researcher, career teacher, and personal trainer, Ryan has consistently demonstrated his commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and empowering individuals. As an intern counsellor, Ryan now extends his expertise to support individuals and their families, working collaboratively towards a more inclusive and fulfilling future.

We are excited to welcome Ryan, our new counselling intern, to the Magnolia Health and Wellness T... Read More

Shelley Gougeon holds a Master’s degree in counselling psychology from UBC and is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 35 years of experience in the field. Throughout her extensive career, she has worked with clients of all ages, offering support for a diverse range of challenges. With a steadfast commitment to a client-centred approach, Shelley finds great fulfilment in her work.

Her professional journey, coupled with a wealth of workshops, has honed her expertise in both short-term crisis intervention and long-term therapy. For more than 24 years, she has been dedicated to Employee and Family Assistance Program work, demonstrating her dedication to the well-being of individuals and families.

Shelley’s areas of specialization encompass relationship issues, family dynamics, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem enhancement. She firmly believes in fostering a counselling environment grounded in respect, trust, and encouragement, providing clients with a safe space to explore their thoughts and emotions, develop coping strategies, and cultivate emotional resilience.

Drawing from a strengths-based perspective, Shelley highlights and nurtures her clients’ existing competencies, fostering optimism for positive change and growth. She views life’s challenges as opportunities for personal development, guiding clients to tap into their inner resources and find effective solutions.

Emphasizing the interconnectedness of mental and physical well-being, Shelley champions the mind-body connection, recognizing the importance of holistic healing and wellness practices. Her clinical expertise is enriched by her own family life, characterized by a long-term marriage, adult children, and the joys of being a grandma.

In summary, Shelley Gougeon is a seasoned professional who brings compassion, insight, and a deep understanding of human nature to her counselling practice, empowering individuals to navigate life’s complexities and thrive.

Shelley Gougeon holds a Master’s degree in counselling psychology from UBC and is a Registered Cl... Read More

Meet Suyun, a dynamic and motivated counselling intern at Magnolia. With a relentless drive and a genuine passion for assisting others, Suyun is eager to take the next step in her professional journey. With an extensive background in education, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role.

Suyun’s experience includes serving as a resource teacher in a Lower mainland School District, specializing in Math 10/11 and Korean 11/12. Her commitment to providing exceptional education and support extends beyond the classroom, as she has also worked as a substitute teacher and casual EA, providing invaluable assistance to students across various grade levels.

As the former Director of Gosoo Academy, Suyun demonstrated exceptional leadership skills by founding the academy, developing ESL curriculums, and providing guidance to over 500 students annually. With her keen eye for management, she oversaw legal and financial operations, as well as supervised a dedicated team of teachers and staff.

Suyun’s educational background is equally impressive, with a Continuing Teacher Education program at Queens University focusing on special education. She holds a Bachelor of Education from Crandall University, along with a Bachelor of Art in Interdisciplinary Studies. Suyun’s commitment to professional development is evident through her diverse credentials, including Credentialed Numeracy Assessment, POPARD Supporting Students with ASD in your Classroom, and BC and NB Teacher’s Certificates, among others.

Equipped with a wide range of skills, Suyun is well-versed in special education, technology integration, K-12 instruction, and EAL instruction. She has a proven ability to create and implement effective lesson plans, manage student records, and provide resource support to ensure the success of at-risk and special needs students. Suyun’s expertise extends to formal and informal learner assessment, classroom management, discipline, and fostering effective communication between parents and teachers.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Suyun actively engages in extracurricular activities. She coaches the school’s Golf Club, providing guidance and mentorship to young athletes. Suyun also leads a group of aspiring leaders, empowering them to make a positive impact within their community. Additionally, she is involved in the K-Pop club and the Leo Club, where she contributes her time and energy to various initiatives.

With her extensive experience, strong educational foundation, and dedication to student well-being, Suyun is a valuable asset to the counselling team at Magnolia. Her ability to foster personal growth, support individuals through their challenges, and create a positive and inclusive environment makes her an exceptional counselling intern.

Meet Suyun, a dynamic and motivated counselling intern at Magnolia. With a relentless drive and a... Read More

Nav Lalli is a compassionate and dedicated registered clinical counsellor who holds a Master’s degree in Counselling from Yorkville University, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Child and Youth Care from the University of Victoria. With a wealth of knowledge and expertise from diverse perspectives, Nav firmly believes that each person possesses a compelling and valuable story that deserves to be heard and understood. Creating a safe and nurturing space for her clients to share their experiences, thoughts, and emotions is of utmost importance to her.

Nav’s therapeutic approach centres around empowerment, vulnerability, and growth. Recognizing the impact of cultural and social factors on her clients’ well-being, she incorporates culturally sensitive techniques and interventions to support their healing and self-discovery journeys.

To guide her clients, Nav draws upon modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. While she acknowledges that the past cannot be changed, she collaboratively works with her clients to gain insights into their challenges, helping them develop practical strategies to overcome obstacles and lead fulfilling lives.

Nav is passionate about assisting her clients in uprooting long-standing behaviour patterns and negative perceptions that hinder personal growth. She integrates complementary therapy approaches and techniques tailored to meet her clients’ specific needs and goals, ensuring a holistic approach to their well-being.

As a counsellor, Nav is deeply committed to creating an inclusive environment that fosters healing and growth. She recognizes the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect in therapy, appreciating the unique experiences and perspectives of her clients. Nav provides a supportive space where clients can explore and process their emotions, navigating the complexities of their lives and making positive changes.

Nav feels grateful for the opportunity to work with clients, aiding them in achieving their goals. Her extensive experience and understanding of various cultural backgrounds enable her to provide personalized support and guidance that is sensitive to their specific needs. Nav is dedicated to supporting her clients on their journey toward a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.

Nav Lalli is a compassionate and dedicated registered clinical counsellor who holds a Master’s de... Read More

Austin (he/they) is a student psychotherapist deeply committed to creating safe, inclusive spaces where individuals can explore their identities, work through life’s challenges, and build self-confidence. They are passionate about meeting clients where they are and offering support that honours each person’s unique experiences and journey.

Currently completing their Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Austin has embarked on their practicum, focusing on working with both adolescents and adults. Their areas of interest include gender, identity, neurodivergence, life transitions, and trauma. Austin draws on therapeutic approaches such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help clients uncover their strengths, build resilience, and form meaningful connections.

Austin is dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging for individuals who may feel marginalized or misunderstood, offering affirming care to diverse populations, including 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and neurodivergent communities. They also have experience supporting clients in processing religious trauma and rebuilding trust in themselves and their beliefs.

Outside of psychotherapy, Austin enjoys hobbies that help them stay grounded and creative, including collecting plants and rocks, exploring nature, baking, gaming, and writing poetry. These passions enrich their perspective and deepen their connection to the world around them.

Whether someone is seeking support with life’s challenges or simply looking for a compassionate ear, Austin would be honoured to walk alongside them on their journey of growth and healing.

Austin (he/they) is a student psychotherapist deeply committed to creating safe, inclusive spaces... Read More

Shellee MacKay, RCC, is a compassionate and experienced counsellor with nearly two decades of experience in the field. With a person-centered approach, she brings vibrant energy to her practice, blending humor and empathy to create a welcoming environment for her clients.

Throughout her career, Shellee has worked with a diverse range of individuals, gaining a deep understanding of the unique challenges many face. She recognizes the vital need for a safe space where people can find support and understanding.

Shellee is excited to partner with Magnolia Health & Wellness to offer tailored care that promotes healing, growth, and overall wellness. Her goal is to empower individuals to navigate their challenges, find balance, and thrive in their lives. With her expertise and commitment to well-being, Shellee is dedicated to fostering personal and professional growth for those she works with.

Shellee MacKay, RCC, is a compassionate and experienced counsellor with nearly two decades of exp... Read More

Kara brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of mental health and wellness to her role as a counsellor. With a background in education and advocacy, she is passionate about supporting individuals facing stress, burnout, and other challenges that impact their well-being. Having worked extensively with people navigating high-pressure environments, Kara is particularly attuned to the toll that stress can take on overall mental health.

As a counsellor, Kara is committed to building strong, authentic relationships with her clients. She believes that creating a safe, supportive space for clients to explore their experiences and work through their challenges is key to healing and growth. Kara tailors her therapeutic approach to each client’s unique needs, incorporating techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and narrative therapy.

In addition to her counselling work, Kara has spent the past seven years as a union table officer, advocating for employees within a large organization. This role has given her valuable insight into the complexities of navigating workplace dynamics, health and wellness challenges, and professional boundaries. Her experience equips her to support clients through a wide range of life and work-related stressors, helping them develop strategies for maintaining their mental health and well-being.

Kara’s goal as a counsellor is to help clients build the skills and resilience needed to live more fulfilling, balanced lives. She believes that therapy is a powerful tool for personal transformation, and is dedicated to guiding her clients in exploring their strengths, identifying their goals, and making positive changes.

At Magnolia Health and Wellness, Kara is excited to collaborate with a team of professionals who share her commitment to holistic health. She looks forward to learning from her colleagues and contributing her knowledge and experience to make a meaningful difference in the lives of her clients.

Kara brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of mental health and wellness to her ... Read More

As the founder and director of Magnolia Health and Wellness, Dr. Janine Orlando, Ph.D., RCC, stands at the forefront of guiding individuals toward holistic well-being. Additionally, she holds pivotal roles as a member of the Board of Directors of the BCACC and as the founder and director of the Canadian Therapist Network Inc. With over 26 years of experience in education and counselling, encompassing roles as both a school counsellor and teacher across various Lower Mainland school districts, Dr. Orlando brings a wealth of expertise to her practice. As a trained EMDR therapist and currently undergoing training in somatic attachment psychotherapy, Dr. Orlando’s understanding of how to approach trauma and mental health challenges is unparalleled.

Since establishing her private practice in 2004, Dr. Orlando has been supporting clients navigate diverse personal and mental health issues. Her dedication to advancing the field of counselling is evident through her role as a sessional professor of the School Counselling course for the Masters of Education program at Simon Fraser University (SFU), where she shares her extensive knowledge of school counselling theory and techniques.

For the past few years, Dr. Orlando has served as the Vice President of a Lower Mainland Teachers Association. This dual role not only allows her to provide essential counselling services but also empowers her to advocate for policies that prioritize educator well-being and foster positive learning environments.

Dr. Orlando’s specialization in holistic well-being, particularly in empowering women to achieve fulfillment across mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions, underscores her dedication to her clients’ holistic wellness. With her wealth of experience, diverse skill set, and commitment, Dr. Janine Orlando is poised to continue making a profound and positive impact in the lives of those she serves.

As the founder and director of Magnolia Health and Wellness, Dr. Janine Orlando, Ph.D., RCC, stan... Read More

Jenna has just wrapped up her practicum and is now focusing on completing her Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) certification. As a newly appointed high school counsellor with the Magnolia Health and Wellness team, she is eager to apply her skills and knowledge in supporting the mental health and well-being of educators.

Jenna holds a Master’s degree in School Counselling from City University, building on her Bachelor’s degree in Arts and Education from Simon Fraser University. Her educational background, combined with her previous experience as a teaching assistant, has given her valuable insights into the challenges educators face in their professional and personal lives. Jenna understands the unique pressures and stressors that come with the role of an educator and is dedicated to providing empathetic and effective support.

In her role as a high school counsellor, Jenna is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where educators can explore their thoughts and feelings. She believes that quality mental health care should be accessible to everyone and aims to contribute to this vision by offering compassionate and personalized counselling. Jenna strives to foster a welcoming space where educators feel comfortable and empowered to address their challenges.

Guided by a collaborative, strength-based, and holistic approach to counselling, Jenna tailors her strategies to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual. By emphasizing the strengths and resources within educators, she helps them navigate the complexities of their professional lives while promoting their overall well-being.

Though she is in the early stages of her career, Jenna considers it an honor and privilege to be part of the Magnolia Health and Wellness team. She is deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to her clients’ wellness journeys and to gain valuable experience in her field. Through her dedication, passion, and commitment to growth, Jenna aims to make a positive impact on the lives of educators, supporting their resilience and well-being.

Jenna has just wrapped up her practicum and is now focusing on completing her Registered Clinica... Read More

Prab Samra is a dedicated professional with a diverse background in counselling psychology, education, and administrative roles. Holding a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and being a Registered Clinical Counsellor, Prab possesses extensive expertise in providing mental health support and therapy to individuals and families. Prab’s experience spans various settings, including schools, community organizations, and crisis intervention services, where she has demonstrated proficiency in conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and facilitating interventions. With additional training in play therapy and motivational interviewing, Prab brings a holistic approach to her counselling practice. Prab’s commitment to helping others is evident through her volunteer work on crisis lines and facilitating discussions on topics such as self-esteem and mental health. Overall, Prab Samra is a compassionate and versatile professional dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Prab Samra is a dedicated professional with a diverse background in counselling psychology, educa... Read More