Tall Poppy Counselling Services
Helping women navigate the complexities of motherhood and into midlife
Confidential, compassionate & collaborative mental health therapy for women in Ottawa and throughout Ontario
Shannon Tessier, BA, MSW, RSW
Welcome! Shannon is a Registered Social Worker in the province of Ontario with over 15 years of clinical counselling experience. As a mental health therapist, she uses various evidence-based therapeutic approaches to help you thrive and meet your goals. She prides herself on creating a safe, warm environment that is inclusive and trauma-informed so that you feel comfortable and at ease. Services are offered in Ottawa and virtually across Ontario.
Perinatal Mental Health Counselling
Motherhood requires a village, however, the pathway to it and the journey itself can often feel lonely, overwhelming, and not as you expected. Common areas of concern can include:
Postpartum depression and anxiety
Fertility issues
Miscarriage and infant loss
Relationship and family adjustment
Feelings of anger, shame, or failure
Identity and role changes
General Mental Health Counselling for Women
Throughout our life span, we all encounter challenges that require support. Examples of issues that Shannon has experience supporting clients with include:
Anxiety
Depression
ADHD
Stress and burnout
Relationship, parenting and family issues
Career or life transitions
Grief and loss
Health concerns
Existential/meaning of life questions
Difficulties in early life/early life trauma
Treatment approaches are tailored to each client’s needs and concerns. Shannon has training and education in the following modalities, which is what she uses in her work with clients:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and attachment approaches
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Integrative Somatic Trauma approaches
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
1. What issues can counselling help me address?
Counselling can help with a wide range of issues, including but not limited to relationship problems, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, ADHD management, trauma, and life transitions such as divorce or career changes. I also have specialised training in working with women, and those identifying as women, who have recently become pregnant or became a Mom and are struggling with feelings, thoughts or behaviours around that role.
2. How do I know if counselling is right for me?
Life is hard sometimes. Even if you have a good support network, it can be helpful to talk to someone confidentially who is outside of your situation and will provide a non-judgemental ear. Counselling can be beneficial for anyone experiencing emotional distress, facing life challenges, or seeking personal growth. If you're unsure, I can provide a complimentary 15-minute virtual consultation to help you determine if this is a good fit for you.
3. Is my information confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is a top priority. Information shared during counselling sessions is kept strictly confidential within legal and ethical limits. Those limits will be discussed with you during your initial appointment. I am committed to providing a safe and trusting environment for you to express yourself.
4. How long does a counselling session typically last and how often are appointments?
Counselling sessions typically last 50-55 minutes. During your initial appointment, you and I can discuss the appropriate session frequency based on your goals and preferences.
5. Do you offer virtual (online) counselling services?
Yes, at present, most of the sessions I offer are online counselling services (limited in-person sessions are available, please inquire). Virtual counselling provides a convenient and flexible option for those who may have scheduling constraints or prefer the comfort of their own space. My online platform ensures a secure and confidential virtual counselling experience. While based in Ottawa, virtual services allows me to see clients throughout Ontario.
6. Are you bilingual?
While I have a good working knowledge of both official languages, I am only providing services in English at this time.
7. How much do counselling sessions cost?
My rate is $170 per session. Counselling sessions with Registered Social Workers are exempt from HST. While not covered by OHIP, most national insurance companies provide coverage for counselling services with a social worker. Please contact your insurance provider to confirm.
Frequently Asked Questions
“Owning our story and loving ourselves through the process is the bravest thing that we’ll ever do”
— Brené Brown