online across Ontario
Mariam Jonckheere
Registered Social Worker · MSW · RSW
- Individuals & Families
- English
Support for Anxiety, Behavioural Issues, Depression and Grief and loss.
Areas of focus
If what you are carrying is not listed, it is still worth a conversation.
Also works with Family conflict, Life transitions, Parenting, Self-esteem and Stress management.
In Mariam's words
With 28 years of experience, I have had the privilege of supporting children, youth, individuals, and families as they navigate life’s challenges, including anxiety, depression, school avoidance, crisis, grief, loss, and trauma. I believe in collaborating with clients to build on their strengths and develop practical strategies that foster emotional well-being and resilience. Through a warm and compassionate approach, I create a safe space where clients feel understood, empowered, and able to move forward with confidence.
Continue reading Mariam's approach
For over 18 years, I worked within a school board setting, supporting youth and children while advocating for their well-being and academic success. I provided counselling to students and parents navigating social-emotional challenges and mental health concerns.
In private practice, I have supported both youth and adults facing stress, mental health concerns, trauma, and life transitions. Drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches, I help clients identify their strengths, set meaningful goals, and develop practical tools within a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
I help people navigate life’s challenges with compassion and understanding, creating a space where they can heal, grow, and embrace their full potential. I am here to support you on your journey to wellness.
Background
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) — Ryerson University
Registered with Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW)
Qualifications & registrations
- Also holds
- Master of Social Work (MSW) — University of Toronto
- EMDR Basic Training (EMDRIA approved) — Dr. Amanda Bell and Associates
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) — Level 1 — Wilfrid Laurier University
- CBT for Children and Adolescents — Wilfrid Laurier University
- DBT-Informed Practice — Adler Graduate Professional School
- Motivational Interviewing — Adler Graduate Professional School
- Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (Core Clinician) — Mental Health Foundations
- Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) — LivingWorks
- Brief Intervention for School Clinicians (BRISC) — School Mental Health Ontario
- STRONG — Supporting Transition Resilience of Newcomer Groups — School Mental Health Ontario
- Indigenous Canada Certificate — University of Alberta
- 2SLGBTQ+ Foundations Training — Rainbow Health Ontario
- Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) Training — Sunnybrook Hospital, School Mental Health Ontario
- Brief Coping Intervention Certificate — School Mental Health Ontario
- Micro-Credential Certificate — Enhanced Email, Text, and Video Counselling — Therapy Online, Lawrence Murphy
- Award of Distinction (2x), Peel District School Board
- Award of Excellence, Peel District School Board
- Experience
- 28 years
- Also a member of
- Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW)
Trained in these approaches — drawn on depending on what each person needs, not a fixed formula.
A few questions, answered
Since I was a child, I’ve always wanted to help others. I’ve always been a good listener and naturally try to be there for people, offering support and guidance. I enjoy helping solve problems and have always felt a calling to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
My favorite thing about being a therapist is meeting new clients and providing them a safe space to share their story. I especially love seeing those ‘a-ha’ moments—when a client discovers, on their own, the path they want to take and the steps they want to move forward with.
I understand that starting therapy can feel overwhelming or uncertain, and it can be hard to share personal struggles with someone new. I focus on creating a safe, supportive space where clients know they are not being judged. Building rapport and trust is very important to me, so that you feel heard, understood, and supported every step of the way.
Children don’t need perfect parents—they need caregivers who are willing to learn, grow, and show up with care.
I have worked with many clients who have experienced trauma. A common misconception is that trauma only comes from dramatic events, when in reality it can start very early—even in infancy or in utero—and shape how we respond to the world. As Gábor Maté says, ‘Trauma is not what happens to you, it’s what happens inside you as a result of what happens to you.’ Understanding this helps us see the roots of behaviours and work toward healing.
Getting to know Mariam
- Would you rather cook or order in?
- I love to cook—my son even calls me “the Chef” since I’m always getting creative in the kitchen and trying new recipes. It’s one of the ways I like to wind down and recharge.
- What song always gets you out on the dance floor?
- I love to dance and enjoy music from all decades and genres. Mr. Brightside is a song that I can never sit down for.
- How do you enjoy spending your alone time?
- I love to read, cook and go for walks. I love nature and being outside. I find walking helps ground me when I am feeling stress or need a break.