MEET THE TEAM AT
True North
Psychotherapy
Dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based psychotherapy services, specializing in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Our Values
Compassionate Care
We’re here to listen with empathy and respect, creating a welcoming, non-judgmental space where everyone feels safe to heal and be understood.
Commitment to Excellence
We deliver gold-standard psychotherapy, specializing in DBT and ERP, grounded in the latest evidence-based practices, and supported by ongoing professional development.
Collaboration & Empowerment
We work closely with you and your support network to create a personalized treatment plan, empowering you to take charge of your healing and build resilience along the way.
Embracing Inclusivity
We celebrate and respect the diversity of our community, providing culturally competent and inclusive services that address the unique needs of each individual.
True North Psychotherapy is dedicated to being a guiding force in the pursuit of mental health, providing a compass for individuals navigating the complexities of their lives, with a strong emphasis on our expertise in DBT, ERP, and EMDR.
MEET THE FOUNDER
Frank Pew
Owner + Clinical Director
I founded True North Psychotherapy to provide effective, evidence-based treatments that make a real difference in people’s lives. With over 15 years of experience across hospitals, community mental health, and private practice, I specialize in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which are highly effective for treating Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety. However, I believe therapy should be tailored to each individual, which is why True North brings together a team of compassionate clinicians offering a range of evidence-based approaches, such as CBT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed therapy. Our mission is to help clients of all ages, including adolescents, youth, and adults, find their inner compass, overcome challenges like anxiety, trauma, and OCD, and move toward a life of fulfillment.
Our vision is to be a beacon of hope and healing, leading the way in innovative and effective psychotherapeutic interventions, particularly in DBT, ERP and EMDR to transform lives.
MEET THE TEAM
Frank Pew
MSW, RSW
Founder and Clinical Director
Guernica Marc-Hand
MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker
Kerry Richardson
MACP
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Abby Green
MACP
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Kelly Price
MACP
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Frank Pew
MSW, RSW
Founder and Clinical Director
Frank Pew
MSW, RSW
Founder and Clinical Director
Professional Designation:
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
International OCD Foundation | Professional Member
Counselling Services Provided:
Individual Therapy
Parent Coaching
DBT Skills Group
EMDR
Exposure & Response Prevention
I am the founder and Clinical Director of True North Psychotherapy, bringing over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. My journey began in crisis intervention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where I gained deep insights into the complexities of mental health in high-pressure environments. Upon coming to Canada, I played a pivotal role in developing a comprehensive DBT-informed treatment program at the Canadian Mental Health Association in Waterloo and Wellington, solidifying my expertise in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
My practice is dedicated to supporting adolescents, transitional-aged youth, and adults as they navigate complex mental health challenges, including trauma, anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and emotion dysregulation. I am also intensively trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based therapy that helps clients process and heal from trauma. By integrating EMDR into my practice, I help individuals reduce the emotional distress tied to traumatic memories and foster meaningful healing.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to achieve your goals. My trauma-informed approach ensures that clients feel supported, understood, and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey.
Outside of my clinical work, I am passionate about continuous learning and personal growth—values that drive my commitment to providing the highest standard of care. When I’m not in the office, you can find me spending time with my family or enjoying the natural beauty of Guelph through forest walks with my dog, Winston. To me, therapy goes beyond managing symptoms—it’s about fostering resilience, reaching personal goals, and creating a meaningful, fulfilling life.
MSW, RSW
Outside of my clinical work, I am passionate about continuous learning and personal growth—values that drive my commitment to providing the highest standard of care. When I’m not in the office, you can find me spending time with my family or enjoying the natural beauty of Guelph through forest walks with my dog, Winston. To me, therapy goes beyond managing symptoms—it’s about fostering resilience, reaching personal goals, and creating a meaningful, fulfilling life.
I am the founder and Clinical Director of True North Psychotherapy, bringing over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. My journey began in crisis intervention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where I gained deep insights into the complexities of mental health in high-pressure environments. Upon coming to Canada, I played a pivotal role in developing a comprehensive DBT-informed treatment program at the Canadian Mental Health Association in Waterloo and Wellington, solidifying my expertise in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
My practice is dedicated to supporting adolescents, transitional-aged youth, and adults as they navigate complex mental health challenges, including trauma, anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and emotion dysregulation. I am also intensively trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based therapy that helps clients process and heal from trauma. By integrating EMDR into my practice, I help individuals reduce the emotional distress tied to traumatic memories and foster meaningful healing.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to achieve your goals. My trauma-informed approach ensures that clients feel supported, understood, and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey.
Outside of my clinical work, I am passionate about continuous learning and personal growth—values that drive my commitment to providing the highest standard of care. When I’m not in the office, you can find me spending time with my family or enjoying the natural beauty of Guelph through forest walks with my dog, Winston. To me, therapy goes beyond managing symptoms—it’s about fostering resilience, reaching personal goals, and creating a meaningful, fulfilling life.
MSW, RSW
Outside of my clinical work, I am passionate about continuous learning and personal growth—values that drive my commitment to providing the highest standard of care. When I’m not in the office, you can find me spending time with my family or enjoying the natural beauty of Guelph through forest walks with my dog, Winston. To me, therapy goes beyond managing symptoms—it’s about fostering resilience, reaching personal goals, and creating a meaningful, fulfilling life.
Professional Designation:
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
International OCD Foundation | Professional Member
Counselling Services Provided:
Individual Therapy
Parent Coaching
DBT Skills Group
EMDR
Exposure & Response Prevention
Guernica Marc-Hand
MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker
Guernica Marc-Hand
MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker
Professional Designation:
Bachelor of Arts in psychology (BA)
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
Counselling Services Provided:
Individual Therapy
Parent Coaching
DBT Skills Group
I began my career in the social services profession over 20 years ago, starting as a child and youth worker, and later as an outreach and addiction worker. I am a dedicated and experienced Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. For nearly 15 years, I have worked in various roles, including School Social Worker, DBT Clinician, and Mental Health Worker, which has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by children, youth, and families.
I believe that a successful therapeutic relationship is built on collaboration and mutual respect. I value the lived experiences of my clients, viewing them as the true experts in their own lives. I complement this perspective with a strong foundation in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and a focus on Parent Coaching, providing the tools and support needed to navigate mental health challenges, improve self-esteem, and address intergenerational trauma.
My trauma-informed and client-centred approach creates a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their concerns, set goals, and work towards meaningful and lasting change. Fluent in French, English, and Creole, I am committed to serving diverse communities and ensuring that all clients feel understood and empowered in their therapeutic journey.
Whether I am working individually or with families, my dedication to fostering healthy relationships and mental well-being shines through in my practice. I am passionate about helping my clients build resilience and cultivate a life worth living.
Therapeutic Approaches
My approach to therapy is client-centred and trauma-informed, with a strong emphasis on fostering healthy family dynamics. I specialize in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and parent coaching, offering both in-person and online sessions designed to support mental wellness and strengthen parent-child relationships. By integrating DBT principles, I help clients build skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and effective communication, all aimed at enhancing overall quality of life.
I began my career in the social services profession over 20 years ago, starting as a child and youth worker, and later as an outreach and addiction worker. I am a dedicated and experienced Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. For nearly 15 years, I have worked in various roles, including School Social Worker, DBT Clinician, and Mental Health Worker, which has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by children, youth, and families.
I believe that a successful therapeutic relationship is built on collaboration and mutual respect. I value the lived experiences of my clients, viewing them as the true experts in their own lives. I complement this perspective with a strong foundation in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and a focus on Parent Coaching, providing the tools and support needed to navigate mental health challenges, improve self-esteem, and address intergenerational trauma.
My trauma-informed and client-centred approach creates a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their concerns, set goals, and work towards meaningful and lasting change. Fluent in French, English, and Creole, I am committed to serving diverse communities and ensuring that all clients feel understood and empowered in their therapeutic journey.
Whether I am working individually or with families, my dedication to fostering healthy relationships and mental well-being shines through in my practice. I am passionate about helping my clients build resilience and cultivate a life worth living.
Therapeutic Approaches
My approach to therapy is client-centred and trauma-informed, with a strong emphasis on fostering healthy family dynamics. I specialize in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and parent coaching, offering both in-person and online sessions designed to support mental wellness and strengthen parent-child relationships. By integrating DBT principles, I help clients build skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and effective communication, all aimed at enhancing overall quality of life.
Professional Designation:
Bachelor of Arts in psychology (BA)
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
International OCD Foundation | Professional Member
Counselling Services Provided:
Individual Therapy
Parent Coaching
DBT Skills Group
Kerry Richardson
MACP
Registered Psychotherapist
Kerry Richardson
MACP
Registered Psychotherapist
Professional Designation:
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP)
Counselling Services Provided:
Individual Therapy
DBT Skills Group
Exposure & Response Prevention
I am a compassionate and skilled Registered Psychotherapist with nearly 15 years of experience working across diverse therapeutic settings, including schools, youth treatment centres, and individualized treatment planning. My approach to therapy is grounded in the belief that meaningful change stems from a collaborative partnership between therapist and client.
I view my clients as the true experts of their own lives and bring a strong foundation in both Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to support them. These evidence-based approaches are highly effective in addressing a range of mental health challenges, particularly for individuals struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety, addiction, self-esteem issues, and trauma-related concerns.
By integrating trauma-informed care with specialized expertise in ERP and DBT, I strive to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. My goal is to help clients build resilience, develop emotional regulation skills, and take meaningful steps toward creating a life aligned with their values.
I hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and am committed to ongoing professional development to ensure I provide the highest quality of care. Whether we meet in person or online, my focus is on helping you navigate your challenges and achieve lasting, positive change.
Therapeutic Approaches
I specialize in both Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), combining trauma-informed care with evidence-based strategies to support emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and the treatment of OCD and anxiety-related disorders. I offer both in-person and online sessions designed to empower clients to build resilience and create a more balanced, fulfilling life.
I am a compassionate and skilled Registered Psychotherapist with nearly 15 years of experience working across diverse therapeutic settings, including schools, youth treatment centres, and individualized treatment planning. My approach to therapy is grounded in the belief that meaningful change stems from a collaborative partnership between therapist and client.
I view my clients as the true experts of their own lives and bring a strong foundation in both Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to support them. These evidence-based approaches are highly effective in addressing a range of mental health challenges, particularly for individuals struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety, addiction, self-esteem issues, and trauma-related concerns.
By integrating trauma-informed care with specialized expertise in ERP and DBT, I strive to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. My goal is to help clients build resilience, develop emotional regulation skills, and take meaningful steps toward creating a life aligned with their values.
I hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and am committed to ongoing professional development to ensure I provide the highest quality of care. Whether we meet in person or online, my focus is on helping you navigate your challenges and achieve lasting, positive change.
Therapeutic Approaches
I specialize in both Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), combining trauma-informed care with evidence-based strategies to support emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and the treatment of OCD and anxiety-related disorders. I offer both in-person and online sessions designed to empower clients to build resilience and create a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Professional Designation:
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Counselling Services Provided:
Individual Therapy
DBT Skills Group
Exposure & Response Prevention
Abby Green
MACP
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Abby Green
MACP
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Professional Designation:
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology
Counselling Services Provided:
Individual Therapy
Couples Therapy (Gottman Method Level 1)
Cognitive Processing Therapy
Exposure & Response Prevention
I work with individuals and couples who feel stuck, disconnected, or caught in patterns they understand but still struggle to change. Many of the people I support are thoughtful and self-aware, yet find themselves feeling emotionally overwhelmed, numb, reactive, or frustrated in their relationships. My work is trauma-informed, attachment-focused, and collaborative. Therapy offers a space to slow things down, make sense of your experiences, and understand how past patterns may still shape how you cope, connect, and respond today.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating complex trauma and its many aftereffects, including challenges with emotional regulation, self-worth, attachment, and feeling safe in relationships. Trauma often shows up in subtle and layered ways, and many people struggle to find language for what they are experiencing. My goal is to create a grounded and compassionate space where clients can explore their experiences at a pace that feels safe while developing greater self-understanding, emotional stability, and a renewed sense of agency.
In addition, I support individuals experiencing intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and patterns related to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). I am trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), an evidence-based treatment widely recognized as the gold standard for OCD. ERP helps individuals gradually face feared thoughts or situations while learning new ways to respond, reducing the cycle of anxiety and compulsions that can interfere with daily life.
Therapy with me is collaborative, thoughtful, and tailored to each client’s unique needs. I aim to create a therapeutic space that feels grounded, safe, and non-judgmental, where clients can build insight, develop practical skills, and move toward greater clarity, stability, and self-trust.
Therapeutic Approaches
My approach is trauma- and attachment-informed, with a strong emphasis on relational safety and parts-based work. I integrate Internal Family Systems alongside narrative and person-centred approaches to help clients develop deeper insight, self-compassion, and emotional awareness. I am also trained in evidence-based trauma treatments, including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT), which support clients in processing and healing from traumatic experiences.
I also enjoy working with couples who want to better understand their relationship patterns, strengthen communication, and rebuild emotional connection. I am trained in and work with couples using the Gottman Method, which focuses on helping partners understand each other more deeply, navigate conflict more effectively, and create a stronger foundation of trust and emotional safety.
Therapeutic Approaches
My approach is trauma- and attachment-informed, with a strong emphasis on relational safety and parts-based work. I integrate Internal Family Systems alongside narrative and person-centred approaches to help clients develop deeper insight, self-compassion, and emotional awareness. I am also trained in evidence-based trauma treatments, including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT), which support clients in processing and healing from traumatic experiences.
I also enjoy working with couples who want to better understand their relationship patterns, strengthen communication, and rebuild emotional connection. I am trained in and work with couples using the Gottman Method, which focuses on helping partners understand each other more deeply, navigate conflict more effectively, and create a stronger foundation of trust and emotional safety.
Professional Designation:
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology
Counselling Services Provided:
Individual Therapy
Couples Therapy (Gottman Method Level 1)
Cognitive Processing Therapy
Exposure & Response Prevention
Kelly Price
MACP
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Kelly Price
MACP
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Professional Designation:
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology
Counselling Services Provided:
Individual Therapy
Exposure & Response Prevention
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who works with individuals navigating grief and loss, emotional overwhelm, life transitions, anxiety, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). My goal is to create a space where clients feel safe, understood, and able to explore their experiences openly, at a pace that feels right for them.
I view therapy as a collaborative process. Clients bring deep knowledge of their own lives, while I offer guidance, curiosity, and evidence-based tools to help make sense of experiences and move toward meaningful change. Together, we work to better understand patterns, build coping strategies, and strengthen the skills needed to navigate difficult emotions and life’s challenges.
My work is grounded in a trauma-informed perspective that recognizes how our nervous systems respond to stress, loss, and uncertainty. I integrate approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), somatic-informed practices, and skills drawn from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). I have also completed intensive training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), an
evidence-based treatment and the gold standard approach for OCD. ERP helps individuals gradually face feared thoughts, images, or situations while learning to reduce compulsive responses, helping to interrupt the cycle of anxiety, obsessions, and rituals that can interfere with daily life. This work supports clients in developing greater awareness of their internal experiences while building practical tools that foster
emotional regulation, resilience, and a stronger sense of stability.
I hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and am committed to ongoing learning to ensure I provide thoughtful, evidence-based care that meets the evolving needs of my clients. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions and support clients in developing the insight and skills needed to move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
Therapeutic Approaches
My therapeutic approach is integrative and trauma-informed. I draw on elements of somatic therapy informed by polyvagal theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), with a focus on helping clients develop a greater sense of safety and connection within their nervous systems. I also incorporate strategies from modalities such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based practices. When supporting clients with OCD, I incorporate ERP in a collaborative way to help reduce compulsive behaviours, build tolerance for uncertainty and distress, and develop new responses to intrusive thoughts.
This flexible approach allows therapy to be tailored to each individual, supporting clients in deepening self-understanding, strengthening emotional regulation, and reconnecting with what matters most to them
Therapeutic Approaches
My therapeutic approach is integrative and trauma-informed. I draw on elements of somatic therapy informed by polyvagal theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), with a focus on helping clients develop a greater sense of safety and connection within their nervous systems. I also incorporate strategies from modalities such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based practices. When supporting clients with OCD, I incorporate ERP in a collaborative way to help reduce compulsive behaviours, build tolerance for uncertainty and distress, and develop new responses to intrusive thoughts.
This flexible approach allows therapy to be tailored to each individual, supporting clients in deepening self-understanding, strengthening emotional regulation, and reconnecting with what matters most to them
Professional Designation:
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology
Counselling Services Provided:
Individual Therapy
Exposure & Response Prevention
OUR APPROACH
What you can expect when you work with us
Initial Contact
Contact us by phone, email, or fill out our contact form to discuss your needs and schedule a consultation.
Consultation
We will discuss your concerns, goals, and our available services, providing information about the therapists and answering any questions you have.
Intake Process
You’ll complete a brief intake form that goes over essential information about your background and current situation. Review our treatment contract, which outlines our policies, confidentiality, and expectations for therapy.
Assessment
In the first few sessions, we will assess your needs and create a personalized treatment plan. This may include self-administered questionnaires.
Therapy Sessions
Begin regular 50-minute sessions, typically scheduled weekly based on your treatment plan.
Sessions may be scheduled weekly or as recommended by your therapist based on your individualized treatment plan.
Ongoing Support
We provide continuous support and regularly review your progress to ensure that the treatment is effective and aligned with your goals.
Adjustments to the treatment plan are made as needed to accommodate any changes in your needs or circumstances.
MAKE AN IMPACT
Join Our Team
We’re seeking individuals who are eager to make a difference. Grow professionally and personally in a collaborative and supportive environment.
