Joe-Ann Watkins-Registered Psychotherapist
MACP, RP, BScN, RN (non practising), DSW
My Story
I’ve always had a feeling I’d end up here. People used to tell me I should become a therapist, and deep down, I hoped they were right. But like many meaningful journeys, the path wasn’t a straight line.
I began my career in developmental services, supporting individuals with diverse needs, and later became a Registered Nurse after earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Over the years, I worked across medical, mental health, and forensic settings. What stayed with me most weren’t the charts or procedures, it was the quiet moments of connection, truly listening and sitting with someone in their pain, their hope, and their humanity.
That calling grew louder, and I followed it. I returned to school to complete my Master’s in Counselling Psychology and am now a Registered Psychotherapist. Today, I offer compassionate, trauma-informed therapy grounded in both clinical knowledge and genuine human connection.
Beyond techniques and models, I bring warmth, humour, and a deep belief in people’s capacity to grow and heal. I see therapy as a collaborative space where you’re not just supported, you’re truly seen.
I’m also a proud mom to two grown sons. Being their mother has taught me so much about love, vulnerability, and resilience, qualities that show up in my work every day.
This work feels like home to me. It’s not just what I do, it’s who I’ve always been.
About Joe-Ann:
I work with teens, individuals, couples, and families, offering a compassionate, evidence-informed approach to healing and growth. I support clients navigating relationship challenges, attachment injuries, infidelity, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief and loss, trauma, stress, and major life transitions.
I also work with neurodiverse individuals (including Autism and ADHD), and offer inclusive, affirming care for LGBTQ+ clients, blended families, and caregivers. My approach is collaborative, relational, and grounded in safety, curiosity, and respect for each person’s unique experience.
My Specialized Trainings
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) — EMDRIA-approved
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFIT, EFCT, EFFT) — ICEEFT-approved
Gottman Method Couples Therapy — Levels 1 & 2 (The Gottman Institute)
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) — Level 2 Accreditation (APT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) — Essentials (APT)
Mindfulness Certification Training — PESI
Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Repairing Internal Attachment — PESI
Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) — Columbia Lighthouse Project
Neurodiversity-informed approaches — PESI & Evergreen certifications