I regard my role as your counsellor a great privilege and see myself not as an expert in your life, but rather a professional with knowledge, wisdom and tools to help facilitate the change in your life that you are seeking. In this manner, counselling is collaborative and client-centered. I have professional clinical experience working with clients from many different cultures, religious and spiritual backgrounds. My genuine hope is that you will experience acceptance, belonging and hope from me as your therapist.

Counselling Philosophy and Approach

In terms of my approach to counselling, my intent is to practice from a holistic framework, encompassing our emotions, thoughts/intentions, body and soul/spirit. I believe that every human being is created with these components, and each of these is essential in becoming fully ourselves. I also believe that we are interconnected with others, and how we form and grow in our relationships with others is important. My hope is first and foremost, to provide my clients with a safe environment where they can feel heard, understood and accepted in the midst of whatever challenges they are in. Sometimes we just need someone to provide this safe place for us, and to help facilitate our own deepening of understanding in our lives and knowledge of what we need to do differently. Other times, we need someone to be more direct with us; to challenge us, provide outside perspective and to learn skills to manage life differently. My desire is to be able to meet people individually where they are at, and together to develop an understanding together collaboratively of what they need to reach their goals and to develop a meaningful and significant life. 

As part of my own growth, I regularly attend supervision and endeavour to work collaboratively with other counsellors and professionals involved in a person’s life. If your needs are outside of the scope of my practice I am happy to provide referrals to other professionals who would be helpful. Neil Mercer Counselling Services also has Associates who work closely together, and under certain circumstances referrals to them may also be recommended. Please contact me for any questions.

Counselling Services Provided and Clinical Issues Addressed