Holly Strickland
Psychotherapy Intern, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Why I Became a Therapist
Do you struggle with relationship concerns, addiction, or anxiety that affects your day-to-day life? Do you feel overwhelmed just getting through the day? Do you wonder if your social life could be better? Now more than ever, many of us are navigating uncertainty and searching for a sense of belonging. I believe it shouldn’t feel so hard to live a more balanced, fulfilling life, and that there is hope for meaningful change.
Hi, I’m Holly! I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a Psychotherapy Intern completing my clinical practicum under the supervision of a Registered Psychotherapist. Through my work at Embolden Mental Health & Psychotherapy, I provide a supportive space to collaboratively confront life’s challenges. I’ve learned through years of experience that some of the most meaningful growth happens when we show up for people during the hardest moments of their lives.
With five years of experience supporting adults navigating depression, emotion regulation, and substance use, I’ve seen firsthand how building strong therapeutic alliances can empower clients to feel heard, understood, and supported. In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions and experiences openly. You’re encouraged to come as you are, and together we’ll work with a person-centered focus to address the root causes of stress and explore healthy coping strategies.
What I Bring to My Practice
Holly has extensive experience supporting individuals with complex mental health and addiction challenges across residential care, community programs, and addiction treatment services. She has worked as an Addiction Counsellor and Residential Counsellor, providing both individual and group counselling, conducting comprehensive assessments, and developing tailored interventions. Her experience includes crisis intervention, suicide assessment and prevention, harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused approaches.
She is skilled in case management, coordinating care, and supporting clients through transitions and significant life challenges. Holly has also contributed to community programs, offering education and presentations to diverse audiences, and has a strong background in supporting individuals with substance use and concurrent mental health concerns.
Her practical experience and commitment to evidence-informed care allow Holly to provide support that is both confident and compassionate—helping clients feel supported and equipped to navigate life’s challenges.
Client Focus:
Seniors (65+), Adults, Couples, Teens
Types of Therapy:
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy (SFT)
Conditions:
Addiction, Anxiety, Communication concerns, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Relationship challenges, Relapse Prevention, Self-Esteem, Stress Management
My Education
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology – Master’s Program
Yorkville University
Expected Graduation: 2026
Addictions and Mental Health - Graduate Certificate
Durham College
Criminology and Justice - Bachelor of Arts Degree (Honours)
Ontario Tech University
Your Path To Healing
How Our Therapy Works
01
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Start with a free 20-minute phone chat. We’ll talk about what’s been challenging for you and what you’re hoping to work toward. This conversation helps us determine if we’re a good fit and how therapy can support you in feeling stronger and creating positive change in your life.
02
Getting Started
Once we’ve determined we’re a good fit, we’ll schedule your first session during our call. Before we meet, you’ll complete a few online forms that will be sent via email. This information helps me understand you better so we can dive right into therapy from your very first visit.
03
Start Your Healing Journey
We’ll work together using evidence-based methods that help people make real progress. You’ll learn strategies for managing difficult situations, building confidence, and developing practical tools you can use every day. I will provide guidance and support, and celebrate your growth, both big and small.
How to Get Started
If you’re ready to feel more confident, more grounded, and more hopeful about what’s ahead, I’m here to support you.
I offer a free consultation so we can get to know each other and talk about what you’re looking for in therapy. Please reach out by email or book directly through the Jane App.
Core Beliefs That Guide Our Work
Come As You Are
You don't need to have it all figured out before we start. Bring your mess, your questions, and your doubts - that's exactly where real healing begins.
Progress Not Perfection
Healing isn't a straight line and that's perfectly okay. I'm here to walk with you through tough moments and celebrate every small win along the way.
Your Truth Matters
Your feelings are valid even when they're complicated. I'm here to listen to your real story without trying to fix or judge you in any way.
We're In This Together
This isn't about me having all the answers while you listen. We figure things out together using your wisdom and my experience as our guide.
You're Already Enough
The strength you need is already inside you right now. My job is to help you rediscover what you're truly capable of, not change who you are.
Find Strength in Being Seen
Life can feel pretty overwhelming sometimes, can't it? Maybe you're dealing with anxiety that makes everyday tasks feel impossible. Or relationships that leave you feeling drained and confused. Maybe you're struggling with substances and wondering if you'll ever feel in control again.
Here's what I want you to know: you don't need to have it all figured out before we start talking. You don't need to be "ready" or have your life together. You just need to be willing to try something different. I've spent years working with people who felt exactly like you do right now. People who thought they were too broken, too complicated, or too far gone. And you know what? They weren't. And neither are you.
In our work together, there's no judgment. No pressure to be someone you're not. Just a safe space where you can be honest about what's really going on and start building some tools that actually help. I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard and understood. That includes you - exactly as you are today.
Take the First Step Towards Healing
If you’re thinking about trying therapy, or just curious about what it could be like, I’d be happy to connect.
Start with a FREE consultation — no pressure, no commitment. It’s simply a chance to talk about what’s going on in your life, ask any questions about my approach or experience, and see if we’re a good fit to work together.