About us

In our busy lives, finding the time and space to talk about our feelings and experiences can feel challenging. Opening up may feel risky—especially if we have been hurt or let down in the past. Over time, emotions we push aside can begin to surface in unexpected ways, leaving us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward. If keeping our feelings to ourselves has been a form of protection, reaching out for support can feel especially difficult.

I am passionate about providing a safe and supportive space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace. Building trust is a central part of therapy, and I understand that this takes time. Therapy is a deeply personal process, and our work together will be collaborative, guided by goals that feel meaningful and relevant to you.

I am currently accepting new clients who are experiencing stress, anxiety, low mood, grief, self-esteem concerns, and relationship challenges. If you are feeling torn between wanting to move forward and wanting to hold back, therapy can offer a space to gently explore that tension and find a way forward that feels right for you.

Qualifications:Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology

Registration:CRPO# 12516

Location:Sudbury and Virtual (Phone and Video)

My name is Anick Labonté and I am a bilingual (French and English) Registered Psychotherapist at HeadWay Clinic.

In 2013, I graduated with an Honors Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Laurentian University and in 2019, I later graduated with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University.

Growing up in a smaller Northern community, I quickly noticed that mental health supports were limited. I became increasingly aware of the impact that positive mental health has on an individual and their community. From there, my passion for promoting mental health and well-being began. I have always wanted to help others by bringing positivity to their lives and in my role as a Registered Psychotherapist, I am able to just that. I am a great listener and enjoy hearing about others’ unique journeys.

At HeadWay Clinic, I provide individual and couples counselling. I mostly work with adults and teens, and will occasionally work with children and youth. Some of the modalities that I apply during therapy are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. I strongly believe that there is always room to grow and am continuously learning new modalities in order to provide the best-tailored service to each of my clients. I have experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, grief, stress and other mental health-related concerns.

Outside of the clinic, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I am someone who enjoys outdoor activities including fishing, four wheeling, canoeing, camping and snowshoeing. When the weather does not permit outdoor activities, you can find me in my kitchen trying new recipes, listening to music or watching movies.

Qualifications:Masters in Counselling Psychology

Registration:CRPO #008828

Location:Sudbury and Virtual (Video or Phone)

Hey folks, salut tout le monde, My name is David Gagnon (lui/he/him), and I am currently working towards completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology with Yorkville University. I also hold a Cum Laude Bachelor of Architectural Studies and a Master of Architecture degree from the McEwen School of Architecture in downtown Sudbury.

I am deeply invested in offering the highest degree of care for my clients as we work collaboratively to develop the tools they need to take hold of their lives. Helping people has always been my goal, and supporting clients through meaningfully fostered connections is my utmost priority! The opportunity to work with clients with dedication, authenticity, and compassion is an honour and one I cherish greatly.

I believe that mental health care is best fostered in a space where comfort and trust can flourish, and I make it my goal in life to provide this environment. Reaching out is an important first step in seeking care. If you feel that our practice might be for you, please reach out and contact us!

I offer services in English or in French.

~~~~~ (French version below)

Salut tout le monde, Je m’appelle David Gagnon (lui/he/him), et je travaille actuellement à l’obtention d’une maîtrise ès arts en psychologie du counselling à l’Université Yorkville. Je suis également titulaire d’un baccalauréat en études architecturales (Cum Laude) et d’une maîtrise en architecture de l’École d’architecture McEwen, située au centre-ville de Sudbury.

J’ai à cœur d’offrir le plus haut degré de soins à mes clients, car nous travaillons en collaboration pour développer les outils dont ils ont besoin pour prendre leur vie en main. Aider les gens a toujours été mon but, et soutenir les clients par le développement de liens enrichissants est ma priorité absolue! L’opportunité de travailler avec des clients avec dévouement, authenticité et compassion est un honneur que je chéris énormément.

Je crois que les soins de santé mentale sont mieux encouragés dans un espace où le confort et la confiance peuvent s’épanouir, et je me suis fixé comme but dans la vie d’offrir cet environnement. Tendre la main est une première étape importante dans la recherche de soins. Si vous pensez que notre pratique pourrait vous convenir, n’hésitez pas à nous contacter!

J’offre mes services en anglais ou en français.

Hello and welcome!

As a social worker, my frontline and community work have given me a great appreciation for compassionate mental health supports. Working in the fields of housing, education, mental health, Indigenous services, and youth services have shown me that even when someone may be seeking assistance in a seemingly unrelated situation, mental health considerations are important and inform that individual’s experiences.

I am passionate about supporting the mental wellness of others in a kind, considerate, and respectful way that creates safe spaces and empowers those I am working with. In my counselling practice, I am informed by kind sharing, lived experiences, holistic understandings of self, and learning through connecting with others. I also utilize narrative therapy and DBT (dialectical behavioural therapy) practices in my work.

In 2020, I graduated with a Bachelors of Social Work from the University of Windsor, and I completed my Masters of Social Work (Wholistic & Indigenous-Informed Field of Study), through Wilfrid Laurier University, in 2021.

As someone of white European ancestry (Irish, Scottish, English, Italian, and Hungarian), I am constantly reflecting on what my roles & responsibilities are as a guest on Indigenous lands, as well as how I can support decolonization efforts and foster respectful inter-cultural community relationships.

Outside of work, I love reading, thrifting, mystery shows, and trying out new recipes; I also enjoy knitting, weaving, cross-stitching, and beading. I hope to spend some time this winter learning how to ski and exploring the beautiful north.

Qualifications:MSW-IFS

Registration:OCSWSSW: #841467

Location:North Bay and Virtual (Video or Phone)

Having personally experienced anxiety throughout my life, I can appreciate the difficulties that every day can bring. This appreciation is also what inspired me to help others. Support and understanding can go a long way to help individuals cope with life’s uncertainties.

I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have always been passionate about mental health. I returned to my studies later in life, once my daily mom duties were lessened, to complete a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (with honours), at Laurentian University. Inspired to help others, I went on to complete a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology, through Yorkville University.

I am grateful for the opportunity to work with such an amazing group of professionals, here at HeadWay Clinic. I offer client-centred counselling services to individuals of all ages, as well as couples. I treat a range of issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Posttraumatic Stress Injury, Anger Management, Phobias, Family-Related issues and more. I work with clients to help them find effective strategies and coping mechanisms that fit their personalities and lifestyles.

When I am away from the office, I like to spend time outdoors with my family and our dogs. I enjoy travelling, meeting new people and exploring different cultures. I find balance in my life through self-care measures, such as yoga, meditation, physical activities, reading and cooking.

Being a lover of all things Pooh Bear, this is one of my favourite quotes:

Promise me you’ll always remember: You’re braver than you believe and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.

-A. A. Milne

Qualifications:Masters in Counselling Psychology

Registration:CRPO #009140

Location:Sudbury and Virtual (Video or Phone)

Paula Ross is a Registered Dietitian at Headway Clinic. In her role, Paula helps her clients improve their quality of life using a down to earth and evidence-based approach. She aims to promote health and wellbeing by empowering her clients to make healthy lifestyle choices. Paula has a wealth of experience providing education and skill-building opportunities to diverse populations in a variety of settings. Some of her workshops and presentations have focused on general healthy eating concepts such as eating on a budget, label reading and meal planning, as well as how to achieve a healthy weight. Over the years Paula has been featured on CBC Radio and CTV Northern Ontario News discussing several different topics related to nutrition and lifestyle. Paula can assist with weight loss, special diet planning and digestive issues. She is a Certified Craving Change Facilitator™ and can help clients to explore their unique relationship with food and combat problematic eating behaviours. Paula graduated from Ryerson University with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Nutrition and Food, and a minor degree in Family Supports and Community Practice in 2011. In 2013 she completed her Masters of Applied Nutrition at the University of Guelph. She is a member of the College of Dietitians of Ontario and Dietitians of Canada. When she isn’t working, Paula enjoys spending time with her family and friends, practicing yoga, and preparing special recipes for her family and friends.

Qualifications:MAN, Registered Dietitian

Registration:CDO #13073

Location:Sudbury and Virtual (Video or Phone)

My passion for mental health began in high school when I witnessed the meaningful difference our school counsellor made in the lives of struggling students and close friends. That experience inspired me to learn more about how people heal, grow, and connect. During my Psychology studies at Laurentian University, I developed a deeper understanding of the mind and became particularly drawn to child and adolescent development, which led me to continue my education in teaching and learning.

I graduated from Laurentian University in 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and later earned a Bachelor of Education from Nipissing University. Since 2012, I’ve been a Registered Psychotherapist at HeadWay Clinic, where I provide individual, family, and couples counselling. I specialize in helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, and other emotional or cognitive challenges. I also support children and adolescents in building self-awareness, resilience, and healthy coping skills.

What I love most about psychotherapy is being part of someone’s journey toward self-understanding and growth. It’s a privilege to witness people rediscover their strengths, develop compassion for themselves, and create meaningful change in their lives. I strive to create a space where clients feel safe, heard, and empowered to explore their emotions and experiences at their own pace.

Outside of the clinic, I’m a proud mom to two adventurous daughters who keep life full of laughter and curiosity. As a family, we love spending time outdoors and embracing a self-sustainable lifestyle — gardening, canning, keeping chickens, hunting, and fishing. These experiences remind me daily of the importance of balance, connection, and finding peace in simple moments.

Inspiration and self-motivators in my life are to follow and educate myself with material on self-compassion. More specifically, Dr Kristin Neff, who is recognized as one of the world’s learning experts on self-compassion.

My most valuable resource is: The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook by Kristen Neff, PhD and Christopher Germer, PhD.

Qualifications:BA Psychology BA Education

Registration:CRPO #004864

Location:Sudbury and Virtual (Video or Phone)