Welcome, so glad you are here

Stefanie Collins

Registered Social Worker

My name is Stefanie and I am a registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) in good standing. I have been working in the field for over 10 years with experience providing support to individuals and families with physical health concerns such as the diagnosis of a life-limiting illness or receiving palliative and end of life care. I have also provided extensive support to individuals who have experienced the traumatic death of a significant person, or whose grief journey manifests with complex symptoms and experiences.

Through my work in the field of grief and bereavement, I witnessed firsthand how obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) made grief even more difficult to manage, and how this mental health condition can be debilitating for individuals experiencing it. This led me to pursue intensive training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for OCD. ERP is the first-line treatment for OCD and has many research studies supporting its effectiveness in helping individuals manage the symptoms of OCD.1 I am passionate about helping individuals take back control of their life from OCD and move towards a life driven by what is most important to them.

1 https://iocdf.org/ocd-treatment-guide/

Book Now

My Approach

I work from a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach. I like to view therapy as a “coming alongside;” everyone is the expert and navigator of their own life; I can act as a guide to provide tools and support along the way. My extensive experience in the field of death, dying and grief has taught me how to hold space for individuals in some of the most stressful and difficult times in their life. I practice from a place of non-judgement and seek to create opportunities for individuals to connect back to their sense of self, their values, and assist them to find ways to move through life that feel authentic and positive to them. I am passionate about ongoing education and remain informed of current best practice and evidence-based approaches.

Education

Master of Social Work with specialization in Health and Mental Health from the University of Toronto, 2015

Bachelor of Social Sciences in Conflict Studies and Human Rights from the University of Ottawa, 2008

Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy for OCD, Cognitive Behavioural Institute, 2025

Certificate in Trauma Counselling for Mental Health Professionals: Level 1, Sick Kids Learning Institute, 2025

Mindfulness-Based Practice for Individuals and Groups: the Foundations, Wilfrid Laurier University, 2025

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy: Level 1, Sick Kids Learning Institute, 2023

Death, Dying & Bereavement Certificate, Wilfrid Laurier University, 2019

Brief & Narrative Therapy Certificate, Windz Institute, 2018

Fundamentals of Hospice Palliative Care, North Simcoe Muskoka Hospice Palliative Care Network, 2018

My Availability

Available in-person or virtually on Fridays.

Services Offered

Adults (16+)
Exposure and Response Prevention for Adults (16+)
Exposure and Response Prevention for Children & Youth (coming soon)

Treatment Specialities

Anxiety
Grief & bereavement
Guilt and shame
Life transitions
Managing Stress
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Physical health concerns, life-limiting illness, end of life care
Traumatic loss and its associated symptoms (nightmares, flashbacks)

Therapeutic Modalities

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy
Mindfulness techniques
Narrative therapy
Polyvagal Theory
Trauma-Informed Approach

Request an Appointment with Stefanie

Get to Know Stefanie

What made you decide to pursue a career as a therapist?

I have always had the desire to support others and make a difference. I completed my undergraduate degree in Conflict Studies and Human Rights with the intention to go on to work at a non-governmental organization creating better policy and upholding human rights around the world. Upon completion of this degree, I realized that I wanted to work directly with people and make a difference in the lives of individuals. This led me to pursue my Master of Social Work at the University of Toronto. I have truly enjoyed the past ten years of providing case management, resource connection and counselling to individuals and families.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I enjoy getting to know what makes each person special. My approach to therapy stems from a belief that every person carries strengths, values, and experiences that can help guide us through the work we do together in therapy. I enjoy helping to develop and bring these strengths to light. My goal as a therapist is to provide tools for you to thrive and work myself out of a job!

What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about mental health?

I think the biggest misconception about mental health is that it is something to be ashamed of. Every person will be touched by mental health concerns at some point in their life, whether it is personally or through family and friends. Experiencing difficulties with your mental health should be treated with the same tenderness, care, and respect as a physical health condition.

What will it be like for clients to work with you as their therapist?

I take a very human approach to therapy. Clients meeting with me will meet a warm, friendly, and non-judgemental therapist who genuinely cares about their wellbeing. I can sit with individuals in deeply vulnerable, difficult situations, as well as in lightness, positivity, and humour. If you are interested in learning more about my approach, please do not hesitate to reach out!

Learn More About Our Team

View Therapists

Our Office

We provide a safe, private, and empathetic space where individuals can explore their challenges, knowing they will be met with understanding, respect,a dn support throughout their journey toward healing.

In-Person & Online

All services at Bridge Therapy Services are offered for either in-person and online (virtual) appointments – or a mixture of both to suit your needs! Our hope for in-person appointments is that we have created a space that is safe and comfortable for all clients. For those hoping to access online appointments, you are encouraged to set up in a private, safe, and comfortable space to ensure you get the most out of your appointment.

Book Now