Suzi Friesen – B.A., B.Ed., M.A. (cand.)- Psychotherapist
We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to. - Brené Brown
Hi! My name is Suzi Friesen, and I’m excited to be completing my practicum with Oak Tree Therapy as I work towards my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. I hold both a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Kinesiology and Applied Health and a Bachelor of Education degree, which has shaped my passion for supporting others on their mental wellness journey. I’m also a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends or exploring new places through travel. I like to stay active by exercising, but I also make time to unwind, whether in nature or with a good book.
My Practice:
I believe in creating a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients can feel safe to explore any obstacles that may surface in their life. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, or navigating life transitions, I am here to walk alongside you. My goal is to help you tap into your inner strength and resilience, one step at a time. As Brené Brown said, “We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” This philosophy drives my practice, where I work to empower clients by recognizing that growth is a shared journey, not a solo one.
Alongside my work as a student psychotherapist, I have years of experience teaching, and developing mental health programming for K-12 students, helping young people build healthy coping strategies and fostering emotional resilience. This background in education and mental wellness fuels my commitment to empowering clients of all ages to overcome life’s challenges with confidence. I believe in the idea that we don’t just go through life, we grow through it.
Other Team Members
Dr. Christine Fedora MSW, RSW, PsyD – Social Worker/Psychotherapist
I am fortunate to have completed a Master's degree in Social Work and a Doctorate in Psychology. I help children, youth and families who want to feel satisfied within their daily lives.
Kristen Wright B.A. (Honours), M.S.W., RSW – Managing Director/Psychotherapist
I have been honoured with the privilege of walking along with individuals, couples, children, and families in their healing journeys.
Bruce Coombs, MEd, CCPA – Psychotherapist
I am a licensed psychotherapist (with the Canadian Counselors and Psychotherapist). I have been studying psychology and philosophy for over thirty years now.
Andrea Mandzuk, O.T. Reg. (MB) – Clinical Manager
I am an Occupational Therapist (C.O.T.M.). I am a member of the College of Occupational Therapists of Manitoba.
Crystal Rogasky – Office Manager/Administration
I began my journey with Oak Tree Therapy in July of 2020. I have 6 years of experience in providing administrative and management support to businesses.
Courtney Shwetz, MSW (cand.), BSW, RSW, B.H.Ecol. – Social Worker/Psychotherapist
I believe that both positive and negative childhood experiences help to shape an individuals’ perspective of the world around them including current feelings, behaviours, and thought processes.
Diane Ramsay – Administrator
accommodating the growth of Oak Tree Therapy while working with the administrative team since April, 2022.
Harmanjot Kaur – Administrator
Giselle Bernado MSW, RSW – Social Worker/Psychotherapist
Human connection is the utmost foundation of the therapy process! I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental space, and would be more than honored to work with you alongside your journey!
Bailey Southall – Intake Specialist
I'm currently an intake specialist at Oak Tree Therapy, where I strive to provide warm and compassionate support from a trauma-informed perspective.
Joyce Kurnell – B.A., B. Ed., M. Ed. – Psychotherapist
I find such joy in being invited into a child’s world of play, by creating a nurturing healing space where children and families can grow together.
Michael McCallum BSW, RSW – Social Worker/Psychotherapist
I use a holistic, anti-oppressive, decolonizing, trauma-informed approach to practice, and tailor my style to meet the unique needs and preferences of each person that allows me to join them in their healing.
Rachel McCallum BSW – Psychotherapist
I have been in social services and social justice work for 23 years: my experiences have allowed me to walk beside children, parents, and families as they navigate their journey.
Amanda Devigne B.A., M.M.F.T., – Marriage and Family Therapist/Psychotherapist
There are many reasons people come to therapy such as seeking support while going through a particular hardship, or desiring to make a change in the patterns one sees playing out in their life or relationship(s).
Brycie Klassen B.A., M.A. – Psychotherapist
Alyssa Asueimen B.A., M.A. – Psychotherapist
I believe that every person is the expert of their own life and are capable of crafting a life which aligns with their personal goals and values. It is my goal to assist in helping my clients achieve their vision of wellness by creating a safe space to share their stories.
Brianne Anderson B.A., M.S.W., (cand.) – Psychotherapist
Adepeju Oluwabukola Aina MSW, RSW – Clinical Manager
Dedicated social worker, with a passion for empowering individuals and communities to thrive.
Janelle David MSW, RSW – Social Worker/Psychotherapist
I am truly passionate about connecting with people and holding a safe space. I will always meet you where you are, in each moment, with kindness and grace.
Kyra Shaver, BSW – Intake and Psychotherapy Assistant
As an intake specialist, my role is to be the face of Oak Tree Therapy, as I am one of the first people you will encounter here! I aim to provide you with a safe, non-judgemental, and compassionate first impression which will continue through your journey with us.
Robert Plese, M.A., C.C.C., B.A. (Hons.) – Clinical Manager
I offer parent-child interaction play therapy, dyadic work using A.E.D.P., Narrative, and Compassionate Focused Therapy, trauma and memory reprocessing using M-CBT, E.M.D.R., A.R.T., and I.T.A.T.M. I am also trained as a Voice of the Child Reporter. My hope and goal for you is that I might also create a space that respects your capacity to heal, grow, trust, and learn to validate yourself within the presence of little old me.
Amie Omichinski, B.A., MACP (cand.) – Psychotherapist
I recognize the courage and vulnerability it takes to seek support. That's why I'm here to provide you with a compassionate space when you need it most. Your decision to reach out is a brave one, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
Bailey Gilmore, B.A. (hons.), MACP (cand.) – Psychotherapist
I work with clients facing a variety of concerns, from everyday stress and anxiety to loss and grief, and the many things in between. I want to emphasize that I believe no concern is too small; if it is bothering you, I want to hear about it.
Alissa Miller, B.A., MACP (cand.) – Psychotherapist
I offer support to those living with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, suicidality, ADHD and relationship issues. Life brings on many challenges and one can only do so much alone and that is why I am here to be your guide and support person. I look forward to walking along side you in your healing journey.
Carina Sager, BSW, RSW, MSW (cand.) – Social Worker/Psychotherapist
I have helped treat those living with depression, anxiety, PTSD and those feeling overwhelmed by their emotions and relationship difficulties. I use an approach that is unique to you and your specific needs and preferences. I demonstrate this by believing and treating you as the expert of your experiences and walking alongside you in your healing journey.
Zach Fedora – Administrator
I enjoy interacting with clients supporting them with a friendly smile as I meet and greet them.
Julia Sulymka – B.A. (hons.), MSW (cand.) – Psychotherapist
If you are reading this, you have already taken a big step! I would be honoured to join you in your healing journey today!
Suzi Friesen – B.A., B.Ed., M.A. (cand.)- Psychotherapist
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, or navigating life transitions, I am here to walk alongside you.
Madison Hillis, B.A., MACP (cand.) – Psychotherapist
I believe everyone has the proper tools in their belt to overcome an obstacle, it’s just about learning how to effectively use those tools.
Rikki Buck, BSW (cand.) – Practicum Student
I am committed to developing a genuine and trusting relationship with you. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment where you can feel open to sharing anything. You deserve to feel seen and heard and know you are not alone. Your well-being is my priority.
Sarah Reader, B.A., B. Ed., MACP (cand.) – Psychotherapist
I believe in tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of each client, recognizing that everyone’s experience is different.
Keegan Vergara, BSW (cand.) – Practicum Student
My work as a student centers on the belief that our relationships profoundly influence our behaviours and perceptions of the world around us. In therapy, I aim to create a safe space where we can explore your experiences with curiosity, examining how they shape your sense of self and influence your interactions with others.Together, we can explore the complex interplay between your past and present, enriching your understanding of yourself and how you engage with others.
Nadiya Patskan – Receptionist
I thrive on creating a welcoming environment and ensuring smooth daily operations.
Amanda Ayres – Receptionist
I take pride in being the go-to person for client support and enjoy creating an upbeat and welcoming environment.
Tessa Leclerc – Receptionist/Administrator
I’m grateful to be part of an organization that prioritizes care and comfort, and I look forward to making each visitor’s experience a memorable one.