About Shelby Beardy

Hi, I’m Shelby!

I hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and am a professional member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). As an Indigenous woman, my lived experiences have shaped the way I see the world and reinforced the importance of creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and respected.

I’ve worked in the social services field since I was 18 years old. I started in support and respite work with Child and Family Services before moving into youth group homes in Winnipeg. Most recently, I worked as an Action Therapist with Jordan’s Principle, supporting Indigenous children, youth, and families. During my master’s practicum, I completed placements at two universities where I worked with young adults, as well as an online counselling placement supporting women experiencing substance use challenges.

These experiences have shaped the counsellor I am today. I truly believe everyone deserves a space where they can show up as they are, without fear of judgment or the pressure to have everything figured out. My goal is to create a warm, supportive environment where you feel comfortable exploring whatever is bringing you to therapy. I approach each client with warmth, compassion, and the belief that every client deserves to be heard, seen, and validated.

I take a person-centred and collaborative approach to counselling because I believe you’re the expert in your own life. I draw from Person-Centred Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Attachment Theory, and concepts from Polyvagal Theory. Every person is different, so I believe therapy should be tailored to what feels right for you. Whether you’re hoping to better understand yourself, build healthier coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, heal from past experiences, or simply have someone to walk alongside you, we’ll work together to find an approach that fits your needs.

I primarily work with teens and adults and welcome clients from all walks of life and backgrounds. While I have experience supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, relationship challenges, and grief, I welcome clients with all presenting concerns.

When I’m not counselling, you’ll probably find me swimming at the beach, spending time in nature, trying a new recipe in the kitchen, or hanging out with my dog.