Stephanie Skourtes, PhD

Background

Hi, I’m Stephanie (she/her), an intern counsellor at Avery Therapy Centre. I come to counselling with over 20 years of experience in mental health, community care, and social justice. I hold a PhD in Sociology, where my work focused on the lived experiences of communities facing social and structural barriers—specifically youth, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, Indigenous and racialized populations, and the prevention of gender-based violence. Before pursuing my PhD, I worked in social services as a youth worker and case manager and in non-profit organizations supporting diverse families. I’ve also been a college instructor, community organizer, and documentary filmmaker.

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Throughout my career, I’ve seen the profound transformation that happens when people feel truly seen and heard. I view mental health through a broad lens—recognizing that our lives are shaped not only by personal experiences but also by the world around us. In counselling, I aim to bring awareness to these connections to support healing, insight, and growth. As a queer, white, cisgender, solo parent, I’m committed—both personally and professionally—to unlearning and challenging systems of oppression. I strive to create an affirming therapeutic space that feels safe, inclusive, and honors your capacity for healing.

Therapeutic Approach

My approach to therapy is grounded in relationship. I believe that a strong, trusting connection is essential for meaningful therapeutic work. I’m trauma informed, meaning I understand how past experiences can shape present thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and I approach our work with care and sensitivity. I work from an intersectional feminist, anti-oppressive perspective, understanding that what we often name as personal struggles are deeply influenced by the larger systems we live in and the environments we grew up in. 

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Within this framework, I draw from several therapeutic approaches. These include Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness-Based practices, and Harm Reduction. I take a collaborative and flexible approach, tailoring our work to your unique needs and goals to co-create a path forward that feels right for you. My aim is to meet you where you are, support greater self-awareness, and join you in working toward meaningful change.

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My online booking link can be found here.

"Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." –James Baldwin