Marleen Dorrestijn

About the Counsellor:

Marleen Dorrestijn (she/her) is a Registered Social Worker with 10 years of experience in the field of mental health and addictions. Known for her dedication, advocacy, and willingness to face challenges head-on, she is dedicated to fostering a supportive and healing space for clients.

Philosophy:

Marleen believes in relational, client-centered, trauma-informed care, believing in the importance of systems theory to support each client in their unique environment. She is committed to honouring client’s lived experience and fostering client empowerment.

Therapeutic Approach:

Known for a non-judgmental and kind, yet practical, approach, Marleen focuses on incorporating aspects of various treatment approaches to meet the unique needs of each client. She believes in utilizing a supportive relationship and elements of psychoeducation to increase client’s self-awareness and acceptance, with the goal of increasing client resilience and agency.

• Cognitive Behavioural (CBT)
• Person-Centred Therapy
• Integrative
• Trauma
• Trauma-Informed

Focus Areas:

In her practice, Marleen specializes in offering counselling support and treatment services to individuals in various areas, such as trauma, substance use and addictions, ADHD, and life changes, amongst others. As a former first-responder and long time front-line worker, Marleen’s counselling expertise lies in the challenges that face these unique groups. She also has interest in working with folks navigating challenges with cultural identity. She works towards helping clients incorporate their experiences and challenges in a way that empowers them to move forward with confidence and agency.