I’m Tracy Riley, a clinical and counselling psychologist with over 20 years of experience supporting adults in navigating emotional and psychological concerns, life transitions, and the ongoing work of personal growth and meaningful change. I offer individual and group therapy to clients in Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Yukon — either in person near Sydenham, Ontario or through secure video sessions.
At the heart of my work is a belief in your capacity to grow, heal, and live with greater alignment — even when life feels uncertain, overwhelming, or stuck. Therapy with me is a collaborative process, grounded in presence, curiosity, and care.
My Approach
My approach to therapy is evidence-informed, client-centered, and integrative. I draw primarily from cognitive-behavioural therapies (CBT), including Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based approaches, and Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy.
These practices support emotional resilience, self-understanding, and values-based change while also making space for compassion, flexibility, and connection to what matters most.
I see people as living systems shaped by many interconnected influences, both internal and external. This perspective invites curiosity, compassion, and flexibility as we work together to understand what’s happening and what might help. We can’t always shift everything at once. But often, we can gently tend to part of the system—a habit, a pattern of thought, a nervous system response—and that can open up possibilities elsewhere, too.
We’ll work together in a way that’s responsive to your unique needs, preferences, and hopes for therapy. Over many years, I’ve been deeply engaged in training and practice in mindful, compassion-based approaches. This continues to shape how I show up in the therapy space — with gentleness, attunement, and respect for your lived experience.
Who I Work With
I work with thoughtful, reflective adults (18+) navigating a range of concerns, including:
• Anxiety, worry, stress, or emotional overwhelm
• Health-related stress and adjustment
• Chronic self-criticism, shame, or low self-worth
• Grief, loss, and life transitions
• Navigating complex or demanding roles
• Impacts of trauma or long-term emotional strain
• A desire for personal growth, self-compassion, and deeper self-understanding
Whether you’re moving through a specific challenge or seeking a more connected, intentional relationship with yourself, my role is to walk alongside you with presence, skill, and care.
Professional Background
I’m registered as a psychologist with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario. I hold a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and fulfilled additional registration requirements through coursework, supervised practice, and other structured learning experiences. Over the past two decades, I’ve worked in private practice and university settings. Earlier in my training, I also gained experience in a community-based clinic.
I’m committed to providing ethical, trauma-aware, and culturally sensitive care — care that honours your autonomy, your readiness for change, and the depth of your experience.
To support thoughtful, high-quality practice, I continue to engage in professional development and clinical peer mentorship.
A Practice Rooted in Presence
My in-person practice is located just outside of Sydenham, Ontario, on a quiet, nature-focused property that offers a tranquil setting for therapeutic work. I also offer secure video therapy for clients located across Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Yukon — making therapy accessible and adaptable to your needs.
Therapy can be a powerful and restorative space, one where change happens not through pressure or fixing, but through slowing down, tuning in, and reconnecting with what truly matters.
Let’s Connect
If what you’ve read here resonates with you and you’re thoughtfully considering starting therapy, I welcome you to reach out. I offer a brief, 10-minute phone call — a space to ask questions and explore fit. You’re also welcome to take your time exploring my website and services before deciding whether to connect.