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Psychologists & Counsellors

Uthrive Calgary chiropractor Dr. Benjamin Jespersen

BEN JESPERSEN

Canadian Certified Counsellor

Acknowledging that we are all unique, Ben takes a collaborative, curiosity-driven, individualized, compassionate, person-focused, and strength-based approach to counselling.

 

He draws from a combination of modalities, such as solution-focused therapy, person-centred therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), somatic therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). He works with individuals dealing with chronic pain/somatic issues, couples/relationship challenges, parenting issues, anxiety, depression, religious trauma, self-esteem, life changes/existential challenges, work/life stress, grief, and loss.

 

Ben has been a Chiropractor for 14 years and he uses his experience in working with individuals, with a variety of health issues, to integrate the complex and intertwined biological and physiological connections with the mind and our overall well-being.

 

His understanding of the human body significantly informs his understanding of the interplay between our physical and mental health.

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MICHELLE JOHNSTON

Registered Psychologist

Michelle Johnston is committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve their personal goals. With empathy and expertise, she provides a compassionate and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions, develop effective coping skills, and create lasting change. As a Registered Psychologist, Michelle is passionate about guiding individuals through their mental health journeys, helping them overcome obstacles and discover their inner resilience.

 

Michelle's path to becoming a therapist is deeply rooted in her personal commitment to understanding and supporting those who have faced trauma. Inspired by her own experiences with adversity and driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact, she chose to focus her career on helping others find healing and growth.

 

With extensive experience working with youth and adults, Michelle specializes in addressing a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, stress, depression, financial issues, ADHD, burnout, job dissatisfaction, job loss, imposter syndrome, people pleasing, perfectionism, and trauma/PTSD. She is particularly skilled in supporting those who feel they are not good enough, struggle to set boundaries, or seek deeper connections with themselves and others.

 

Her approach to therapy is collaborative and personalized, tailoring each session to the unique needs and goals of her clients. Michelle utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness, to empower her clients to face their struggles with clarity and confidence. Additionally, she is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a powerful method for addressing trauma and facilitating deep healing.

 

Clients working with Michelle can expect more than just a listening ear—she offers practical strategies, guidance, and support to help them overcome limiting beliefs and foster positive change in their lives.

 

If you're ready to explore and address the challenges you're facing, Michelle is here to support you. Together, you’ll work towards finding practical solutions and making meaningful progress in your personal growth and mental well-being.

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LORI JOHNSTONE

Registered Psychologist (Provisional)

Lori's approach to therapy is relational, holistic, and somatic. She considers the whole person, recognizing how our thoughts, values, beliefs, and the systems around us impact and align with our daily lives. Lori adapts her interventions to the individual experience, applying a broad range of techniques.

 

She deeply believes in our inherent ability to heal and the power of connection. To Lori, vulnerability is a superpower that helps build the self-awareness needed to grow into healthier versions of ourselves. She offers a safe, collaborative space to explore whatever is preventing you from living a full and expansive life.

 

Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, complicated relationships, family estrangement, or trauma, Lori provides a secure base as you discover new strengths empowering you to move forward with confidence. As a neurodivergent therapist, she welcomes neurodivergent, LGBTQIA2S+ individuals and anyone seeking inclusivity and acceptance.

 

When Lori is not in the therapy room, she is usually with her family. She and her husband are from Annapolis Royal, NS, and they have two adult children and two beloved, purring cats. With her family, Lori enjoys downhill skiing, cycling, and walking. On her own, she often has her nose in a book or cheering for the Colorado Avalanche and Denver Broncos, which keeps her connected to Colorado.

 

A fun fact about Lori: She spent 13 years in the United States where her children were born.

Chiropractors : Our Team
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