We are here to serve you

Every therapist at Paramount Psychology & Counselling shares a genuine interest in helping people live their best life.

MEET OUR TEAM

Cassandra Alexopoulos

MSc, Registered Provisional Psychologist

Hello there! I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist here at Paramount Psychology & Counselling. I hold a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Capella University and I am a passionate advocate for mental health and wellness.

Since 2019, I have held multiple positions in the addictions and mental health field where I worked primarily with adult populations.

At Paramount Psychology, I work with youth, adults, and couples to address a variety of concerns including addiction, stress, grief and loss, self-perception, mindfulness, interpersonal relationships, emotion regulation, depression, and anxiety.

I actively implement a Person-Centred approach in all of my work with the objective of having you feel seen, heard, and empowered to find your innate skills that will help move you toward your own unique goals. I also utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) techniques in my practice. In addition, I am Gottman trained (Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1 and 2).

My ultimate goal as a therapist is to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment that cultivates self-compassion and self-understanding throughout the healing process. I aim to help each client I see find meaning in their experiences, no matter how difficult. I am here to help you evolve into the version of yourself you hope to become.

Melissa Boyle-White

MC, Registered Provisional Psychologist

Hello! I have worked with adults, children, teens and families since 2017 and offer various play, expressive arts and creative interventions for any age.

I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists and a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. I have extensive training and supervision in Play Therapy and am working towards a certification and designation as a Certified Play Therapist with the Canadian Association for Play Therapy.

Using a trauma informed, body/nervous system aware, and a humanistic relational lens, I offer clients various choice for creative interventions that may assist their therapeutic goals. Mindfulness based stress reduction, DBT approaches and understanding and working with our various parts of self are some of the additional ways I offer helpful supports to clients.

I would love to connect and see if I am a good fit for you or your child.

Amber Chenard

MSc, Registered Provisional Psychologist

Being in autopilot can be the only thing you know when life is feeling so stressful and unbalanced. This could be from past or ongoing abuse and trauma and the way you learned how to cope with it. Maybe you get so caught up in autopilot you forget to slow down, feel, and unpack what just happened. There’s poor communication with your friends, family, and loved ones. Stuck in a rut of communication and not knowing how to adjust. Walls up so high that people aren’t let in, or maybe you are avoiding conflict so much that you have the tendency to people-please and don’t prioritize your own needs. Whatever it might be, you recognize change is needed.

Having built my foundation in the not-for-profit domestic violence and homelessness sector in Grande Prairie, I have a main priority with supporting those who have experienced abuse from those close to them. I have participating and led multiple initiatives for inclusivity and collaboration in our community, now a dedicated member of the Grande Prairie Pride Society board of directors. I value everyone’s story and journey. I enjoy working with individuals and couples. Trauma and relationship conflicts can be complex and difficult to know where to start. I believe that therapy can be a start to explore when feeling stuck. I will support you in exploring with curiosity in a safe and affirming setting. My approach is an inclusive and safe space for all of those looking for support, no matter the background, gender or sexual identity, or intersectionality; your mental health journey matters.

We will set goals together and collaborate on your needs and therapy journey. I will encourage empowerment in your awareness of yourself, ability to be curious, and knowledge of your body and experiences. We will explore the past and the present, unpacking it in a safe space. I will guide you to be more in the here and now with your mind and body and out of autopilot. Finding ways to improve communication and connection with yourself and those in your life.

Deciding to come into therapy is often a decision that comes after contemplation for awhile or a big life event. If you have read this far into my bio, I assume something has resonated with you. Life doesn’t have to be in survival mode or autopilot and I hope together we can find a path forward with hope.

Kourtney Commandeur

Counselling Intern

My name is Kourtney and I was born and raised right here in GP. I ventured off to Lethbridge to obtain my bachelor’s degree in Psychology, then returned home and jumped right into the field. My experience includes working at Odyssey House supporting women and children fleeing domestic abuse; the Centre for Suicide Prevention as a Youth Mental Health Facilitator; with Catholic Family Services working within schools across the city supporting youth of all ages to improve their mental health, work on their socio-emotional needs and skills, as well as support their families. Outside of my internship with Paramount I work with youth and families in a intensive service. In my current role, I support youth and their families within their homes, communities, schools, and within a clinic. In the spring of 2022, I enrolled with Yorkville University to obtain my Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology and became a student member of the Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association.

Throughout my years of formal education and work experience, I have taken numerous trainings and courses in the areas of child & youth mental health and development, suicide prevention and awareness, as well as trainings and courses in various psychological and counselling modalities.

As an intern at Paramount Psychology & Counselling, I am excited to work with children, youth, families as well as adults applying the skills and theory I have been learning for the past 6 years. In my work, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, narrative therapy, emotion focused therapy, solution focused therapy, and other frameworks to support my clients in achieving their goals. I look forward to welcoming you into my space!

Jamie Crozier

MSW, RSW

Hello! I’m a Registered Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Individual Mental Health. My clinical background is trauma-based with over 20 years of experience working with victims and perpetrators of both sexual and physical violence. During this time not only did I provide therapy to adults, couples, and youth, but I also presented numerous workshops and keynotes, and testified at the House of Commons in Ottawa on the topic of Domestic Violence in rural and remote communities.

I’m committed to best practices and have sought out specialized training in many areas. This includes being Gottman trained (all 3 levels), certification in EMDR, and extensive training in expressive play and sand play therapy as well as Somatic Resolution.

I believe that healing, getting unstuck, moving forward, or gaining new insight and perspective is a process that I’m privileged to be a part of. It’s an honour to have the opportunity to support clients through their journey. So, whether that’s big “T” trauma or little “t” trauma, grief and loss, or finding your best self, I’m here for you.

Robin Goertzen

BA, MSc., Registered Provisional Psychologist

I have always been passionate about the needs of others, our community, and the helping profession. I obtained my Degree in Psychology from Athabasca University, focusing on Cultural Diversity, Indigenous Studies, and Adolescent Development. I hold a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, with a specialization in Forensic Psychology, graduating with distinction from Capella University.

I have been an advocate at the Victims Services Unit for the last six years, supporting victims and their families while working closely with the judicial system. I am also a trained community support worker, and have 6 years of experience working in various professional, organizational, political and community settings, advising on and supporting the mental health needs of others.

I work as a client support worker at the Odyssey House Women’s Shelter where I have the privilege of working with diverse populations that have faced many traumatic life outcomes. Concurrently I also maintain a position as a Mental Health Therapist with the Integrated Crisis Access Team for Alberta Health Services. This position has given me an opportunity to assist with community members in crisis suffering from a variety of mental health issues.

At Paramount Psychology & Counselling, I work with youth, adults, and couples to address the many concerns you or your loved one’s maybe facing. I utilize a client centered approach. I am trained in Gottman Couples Therapy Level 1 and Level 2, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Informed Therapy, Restorative Justice Practice, Neurodevelopment, Attachment-Based Approaches and trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). My practice is focused on building connection with mind, body, and spirit through trauma informed methodologies. Whether you are facing struggles from the past or, you just need a place to feel accepted, understood and validated – we will work together to create the goals that will guide you towards the outcomes you want to reach.

Dawn Jaravata

MSW, RSW

Hi there! My name is Dawn Jaravata, I am a Registered Social Worker here at Paramount Psychology & Counselling. For the past 13 years, I have held multiple positions in the field of addictions and mental health, working with adults, couples, children, and families doing both individual and group therapy. I have 6 years’ experience working with mandated clients.

Whether your presenting concern is trauma, addiction(s), emotional dysregulation, behavioral instability, disordered eating, relationship conflict, self-perception, I am confident that working together, you will progress into your authentic self.

I hold a Master of Social Work degree from University of Calgary. I’m committed to learning and have completed the following specialized trainings: Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Basic Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Gottman Therapy (all 3 levels), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).

My plan as your therapist is to create a safe, caring, non-judgmental environment where your self-judgment and uncertainties will vanish as you gain personal insights through the therapeutic process. I am excited to see where our therapeutic relationship, your hard work and your determination will take you.

Cynthia Matthews

M.Ed., CCC

My name is Cynthia and I hold a Master of Counselling Psychology from Memorial University. I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association and am excited to have the opportunity to work collaboratively with you in a non-judgmental learning environment where we will explore your goals and uncover your resources, skills, and passion.

I have extensive experience working with individuals who are struggling with social emotional communication, anxiety, anger, stress, and low self-esteem. I have particular interest in empowering people in finding their life’s purpose, developing a better work/life balance; maintaining healthy relationships; navigating life transitions; family changes/dynamics including separation/divorce and blended families. I also have expertise in how to interpret and support children’s behaviour as well as experience working with developmental milestones, learning challenges due to diagnosis such as Autism, ADHD, Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and others.

My counseling approach is client-centered, educational, strengths-based and draws on a variety of therapeutic tools to best meet your needs and goals. I integrate Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, trauma informed self-care, and existential principles (a spiritual view) into this framework.

My philosophy of counselling can be summed up as follows: (1) The counselor’s role is to act as a guide. (2) Clients must have access to hands-on activities. (3) Clients should be able to have choices and let their curiosity direct their learning. (4) Clients need the opportunity to practice skills in a safe environment.

When you work with me, I see you for who you are and, in doing so, help you to get to know and accept all your contradictions and complexities. I will support you to see beyond the surface layers and to give you permission to be the amazingly complex being you really are. Together, we will work on strategies to empower you to build meaningful, purposeful, intentional connections with life.
I work with Families and Individuals – children and youth 10 years plus, adults, seniors.

Ruth Proulx

Registered Psychologist, BSW, RSW, MSc, RPsych

Hello! I’m a Registered Psychologist, Social Worker, and noteworthy leader in the fields of psychology and counselling. As the owner and operator of Mountain View Psychological and co-owner of Paramount Psychology and Counselling in Grande Prairie, Alberta I spend my days working as a therapist, educator, facilitator, consultant, clinical supervisor and director. In addition, I’m a sessional Instructor of Psychology at Grande Prairie Regional College, and Grande Prairie’s Sexual Assault and Trauma Centre.

After being born and raised in the Northwest Territories, I moved to Alberta on a volleyball and soccer scholarship where I studied social work and psychology. Having a passion for both fields, I graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Calgary and a Master’s of Science in Psychology from Walden University.

A distinguished traumatologist, I specialize in sexual and relational violence, relationships, addictions, attachment, as well as rural, remote, and Indigenous practice and healing modalities.

I’ve dedicated my career to trauma-informed best practice and education. It’s an honour to be an awarded Canadian humanitarian, a Duke of Edinburgh award recipient, and a Witness to the House of Commons Special Committee on Violence Against Indigenous Women.

Along with my professional pursuits, you’ll find me volunteering my time with many non-profit groups, athletics programs, and philanthropy clubs.

Kalua Rhody

Registered Psychologist, BA, MA, RPsych

Hello and welcome! My name is Kalua Rhody and I am the co-owner of Paramount Psychology & Counselling, where I offer therapy and clinical supervision services. I have been a registered psychologist since 2008. Over the years, I have offered counselling, education and facilitation in non-profit and educational settings on the topics of self-care, student success strategies, trauma-informed practice, sexual abuse, self-esteem, and women’s wellness. In 2012, I launched my private practice, Healing Horizons Inc., offering individual and couples’ therapy services to adolescents and adults with a wide range concerns and goals. Among other outcomes, I help my clients learn how to:

  • Discover and break free from limiting beliefs and self-sabotaging behavioral patterns
  • Communicate effectively and resolve conflict for healthier and more fulfilling relationships
  • Manage stress and anxiety
  • Let go of fears, anger or sadness that keep depression entrenched
  • Set boundaries and be assertive
  • Navigate and adjust to life transitions & changes
  • Move through grief and loss
  • Heal from trauma, abuse and childhood wounds
  • Develop inner strength and courage
  • Achieve work-life balance
  • Cultivate self-compassion, self-forgiveness and self-love

As a lifelong learner, I have trained in many cutting-edge and traditional counselling approaches. I integrate cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused and positive psychology along with several mind-body strategies including Emotion Freedom Techniques (EFT Tapping) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I draw from neuroscience and attachment theory, and have trained in Terry Real’s Relational Life Therapy, the Developmental Model for couple’s therapy and the Gottman Method for couple’s therapy.

At the core of how I practice is the belief that relationship is paramount. Research shows that more important than any technique is the quality of therapeutic relationship. My primary intention as a therapist is to create a safe space where you feel seen and understood, while gently inviting you to take action in ways that will improve the quality of your life.

Amanda Rosset

Counselling Intern

Hello there! I’m thrilled to share that I’m beginning an internship with Paramount Psychology & Counselling. I offer counselling to children, teens, and adults from all walks of life, and am also co-facilitating an attachment-based parenting program called Circle of Security.

My career started with a focus on working with children and youth, where I discovered a deep passion for their well-being. I have worked in home visitation, which allowed me to support families with parenting, capacity building and overall well-being. This role was dynamic and provided me with opportunities to grow my skillset while working with families navigating family violence, financial challenges, relational issues, parenting struggles and overall well-being. In my current role , I oversee prevention and early intervention contracts that support children and families with social-emotional skills and development and support adults to feel heard and supported. I have a passion for supporting families in navigating challenging behaviours, and my dedication to fostering healthy environments, strong attachments, and the well-being of others has been at the forefront of my work.

As an advocate for children’s rights and individual growth, I’ve always strived to support others in becoming the best versions of themselves. This led me to pursue a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at Yorkville University, where I’ve delved deeper into the tools and skills needed to make a positive impact. With additional training in Family Violence Protocol, Motivational Interviewing, attachment theory, suicide prevention and counselling skills, I am eager to find an approach that works best for you.

I believe strongly in the power of building trusting therapeutic relationships to create a safe and supportive space for growth. I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity to connect with you and accompany you on your journey. Let’s take this step together!

Cathy Underhill

M.Ed, Ph.D, Registered Psychologist

Hello and a warm welcome! I am a Registered Psychologist, with a Master’s in Educational Counselling from the University of Ottawa, a Bachelor’s and Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of New Brunswick, and a Certificate in Addictions Studies from Mount Royal University. I have specialized training in Mindfulness through the Ottawa Mindfulness Clinic and am a trained Mindful Self-Compassion teacher. Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege to work in counselling agencies as well as a sexual assault centre, providing direct one-on-one support to individuals from many different walks of life. My experiences have taught me that most of us struggle with self kindness and being present, and that developing these skills can be life changing.

At Paramount Psychology, I work with individuals 18+ as well as couples, to address a variety of concerns including (but not limited to) managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress management, grief and loss, emotion regulation, relationship challenges, personal growth. I also have specialized training in working with trauma, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and Somatic Experiencing. Depending on your concern(s), I may incorporate elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). Additional training: Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1 and 2.

My primary focus is that each person feels accepted and respected within a caring, supportive environment. I understand and appreciate that your situation is unique and there is no “one size fits all” approach, which is why I draw upon a variety of therapeutic approaches in my work with clients. My intention is to leave you feeling that your concerns have been heard and that you are valued. My view that is you are an expert on your own life and I am privileged to come alongside to provide support and facilitate your journey towards healing and growth.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to connect; I provide free 15 minute consultations.

Lindsay Bueckert

Accounts Manager

Hi! My name is Lindsay Bueckert and I work as the accounts manager for Paramount Psychology and Counselling Inc. My husband and I, along with our two teenage children, run our hobby farm. My favourite farm chores include milking my Jersey cow or snuggling with baby calves (can you really call that a chore?). In my spare time, you can catch me at my son’s football games or at my daughter’s volleyball games. Our family loves family game night and camping trips.

What a wonderful team of extraordinary people I get to work alongside.

Madison Hallock

Reception/Client Care

Hi, my name is Maddie. I am one of the welcoming faces when you come in our doors. I am really enjoying my part-time role here at Paramount Psychology and Counselling.

I’m a post-secondary student working toward being a therapist! I just finished my first 2 years of psychology at NWP and I am planning to do the rest of my degree through an online university.

In my spare time I enjoy hanging out with my nieces, playing video games and reading books. I also enjoy listening to my records.

I look forward to getting to know you all better.

April Tranter

Office Manager/Client Care

Welcome!

I truly have a passion for working with people and am glad I get to let that passion shine!

Along with customer relations roles I have held, my years of experience guiding, facilitating and working with children and families, as well, my work with at-risk youth have really solidified that the human services field is where I belong.

When I am not at work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our adult children, our grandbaby and my dogs!

I have life experiences that are definitely on my celebration highlights list! These include the great opportunity to summit a number of mountains with the Triple Terrain Trekkers, as well, going skydiving from 18,000 feet(aka; falling out of a plane on purpose) over the Kennedy Space station! Talk about a free fall!

I have proudly volunteered as stage manager for the performances of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Grease the Musical, as well, for the opening ceremonies of our Summer Games. I even got invited to have fun as one of the back stage wranglers for our local Mighty Peace Day!

One of my heart’s favorites is our local GP Pride Teen dance – Free Mom Hugs event!

Thank you for allowing me to play a part in your journey with us. I eagerly await the opportunity to welcome you to our Paramount Psychology and Counselling space.

“Communication, Collaboration, Celebration and Connection”