Michelle Helder, Registered Social Worker in Ontario

Michelle Helder

MSW, RSW

Registered Social Worker

In-Person, Virtual
Daytime, Evenings
Accepting New Clients

Client Focus:

Adults Children (7+) Couples Seniors (65+) Teens

Areas of Support:

ADHD Anger Assertiveness Behavioural Concerns Boundary Setting Brain Injury Building Confidence Bullying Burnout Communication Skills Compassion Fatigue Conflict Resolution Depression Emotional Regulation Family Difficulties Gender Identity General Anxiety Grief & Loss Healthy Thinking & Coping Patterns Infertility Support Miscarriage Support Mood Disorders OCD Parenting Difficulties Perinatal Support Post Partum Support Pregnancy Support Prenatal Anxiety Relational Trauma Relationship Challenges Self-Esteem Self-Harm Separation Anxiety Significant Life Stressors Social Anxiety Stress Stroke Suicidal Ideation Transition to Parenthood Trauma Women's Mental Health

Session Fees:

$175/hr for Individual Therapy
$195/hr for Couples Therapy.

Hello! I am a Registered Social Worker with extensive experience supporting individuals of all ages through life’s challenges. My therapy sessions are grounded in a strengths-based perspective, and I use approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help manage thoughts and feelings. I also provide trauma-informed care, taking time to understand how past experiences may be impacting you, so that my support fits your unique needs.

I work with children, teens, and adults (including seniors) who may be dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, major life transitions (such as adjusting after a stroke or traumatic brain injury), trauma, or persistent patterns of self-criticism. My therapeutic style is flexible and collaborative; I combine talk therapy with creative interventions when appropriate, always adapting to what works best for you. For children, I offer art and play-based therapy techniques, which provide a safe and engaging way for young clients to express emotions, develop coping skills, build confidence, and work through challenges.

In addition to individual therapy, I provide couples therapy to help partners strengthen their relationships. In our sessions, we will explore patterns in your relationship, identify areas of growth, and develop practical tools for improving communication, rebuilding trust, and deepening your connection. I draw on evidence-based approaches such as the Gottman Method, and offer a nonjudgmental space where both partners can feel supported and understood.

I am deeply committed to helping people build resilience, feel more confident, and strengthen their connections with others. In our sessions, we will work on practical ways to handle tough situations, understand and express emotions, and develop habits that support your well-being. Whether you or your child are facing new challenges or want to change old patterns, I am here to support you at your own pace.

If you are ready to talk or want to explore therapy for yourself or your child, I am here to help you figure things out and support you in feeling better about yourself and your life.

 

Language Spoken: English

Approaches Used
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Attachment-Based Perspective
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
Collaborative Approach (work alongside client)
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Gender-Affirming Approach
Gottman_Method
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Mindfulness
Motivational Interviewing
Narrative Therapy
Neuro-Affirming Approach
Parent Collaboration
Solution-Focused Approach
Strength-Based Approach
Trauma-Informed Approach
  • Master of Social Work – University of Windsor
  • Registered Social Worker (RSW), Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
  • Gottman Institute Couples Therapy – Level 1 & 2
  • Understanding Relationships workshop
  • Perinatal / Postnatal training workshop
  • DBT skills workshop
  • Trauma certificate
  • Trauma-Focused CBT
  • Multiple gender affirming care workshops
  • Naloxone training/ prevention
  • Multitude of Experience with Big Brothers/ Big sisters
  • Solution-Focused therapy workshop

Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy spending time with my family, doing yoga, spending weekends at our trailer, going for nature walks, and exploring different crafts. These activities help me remain grounded and bring a sense of balance and creativity to my life.

Dr. Smolewska & Associates is now Colibri NeuroWellness!

Same trusted team and quality therapy and assessment services to help you find clarity, strength, and balance.