About Us
Meet Our Team
Ian Robertson
MSW, RSW, Social Worker
Education
- Master of Social Work, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON
- Bachelor of Social Work, Niagara University, Niagara Falls, NY
- Certificate in Advanced Clinical Supervision, Smith College – School of Social Work
For over thirty years, Ian has been a beacon of guidance for families, couples, and individuals. Rooted in a deep understanding of their distinct needs and challenges, he offers a flexible approach to scheduling, ensuring everyone is accommodated.
A substantial part of Ian’s practice is devoted to individuals, couples and families. In addition, Ian extends his expertise by providing clinical supervision to numerous therapists, both in private practice and within community organizations.
As a passionate clinical educator, Ian regularly imparts his clinical knowledge across various organizations and healthcare institutions, with a particular emphasis on mental health, addictions, and trauma.
Trainings Ian Offers
In his practice, Ian has consistently stood as a beacon of support for individuals who have endured various traumatic situations, ranging from domestic violence to significant traumatic incidents. His dedication to trauma-informed care stands as a cornerstone of the agency’s ethos.
Further enriching his professional depth, Ian collaborates closely with several community services and institutions. He holds the position of Regional Clinical Supervisor for Addictions and Mental Health at the Niagara Health System. His rich background includes service as a clinical therapist in diverse settings, coupled with active participation in community development initiatives. Below are some of the various trainings Ian Robertson Therapy & Counselling offer:
- Dissociative Identity Disorder
- Understanding Features of Trauma
- Trauma-Informed Leadership
- Trauma-Informed Training Workshop
- Countertransference ‘Traps’ Workshop
- Polyvagal Therapy Workshop
- Motivational Interview Training Workshop
- Working with ‘Parts’ Workshop
- Becoming a Mindful Practitioner
- Concurrent Disorders Workshop
- Mental Health 101 Workshop
- Understanding Neuroplasticity Workshop
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Workshop
- Mindfulness for Trauma Workshop
- Schema Therapy Workshop
- Advanced Motivational Interviewing
- Structural Dissociative Theory
Academic Qualifications
- Master of Social Work, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON (2005)
- Bachelor of Social Work, Niagara University, NY (2003)
- Advanced Clinical Supervision, Smith College – School of Social Work, MA, US
- Certification in Brainspotting (2023)
Professional Training
Michelle Graham
MSW, RSW
Education
- Master of Social Work, Windsor University, Windsor, ON (2016)
- Bachelor of Honors Sociology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON (2012)
Michelle’s vast experience in the realm of addictions and mental health is noteworthy. She leads mindfulness groups at the agency, catering to clients with conditions such as anxiety, depression, substance use, and ADHD. Her previous roles include positions at Withdrawal Management Services at the Niagara Health System. She has also completed her clinical practicum focusing on mental health at the NHS.
Clinical Approaches
Michelle has benefited from clinical supervision under Natalie Zlodre, a respected trauma specialist. Additionally, she’s an instructor at Wilfred Laurier University, where she teaches online courses emphasizing trauma and addiction. Below are some of the most noted approaches:
- Trauma Incident Reduction
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Motivational interviewing Solution-focused therapy
- Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Brainspotting (BSP) – Levels 1,2 & 3
- Brainspotting for ‘Parts’
- Polyvagal Therapy
- Structural Dissociative & Parts Work
- Neuro-linguistic programming
Academic Qualifications
- Master of Social Work, Windsor University, Windsor, ON (2016)
- Bachelor of Honors Sociology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON (2012)
Professional Training
Blackcy Placidass
MSW, RSW
Education
- Master of Social Work, Windsor University, Windsor ON (2016)
- Certificate in Addictions: Treatment and Prevention, Georgian College, Orillia ON (2012)
- Honours BA in Psychology and Minor in Sexuality, York University, Toronto ON (2010)
Blackcy Placidass leads BP Counselling and Therapy with a wealth of experience and dedication to mental health. Originating from Sri Lanka and now practicing in Ajax, Ontario, Blackcy brings a rich cultural perspective and professional expertise to her practice. With over 15 years in the field, her humanistic approach emphasizes empathy, understanding, and personalized care. She is committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their challenges and work towards healing and personal growth. Blackcy’s dedication to her clients is evident in her comprehensive approach, addressing a wide range of issues including addictions, mental health, grief and loss, fertility and infertility, chronic health conditions, palliative care, dementia, caregivers support, new mothers, and relationships.
Clinical Approaches
Blackcy Placidass employs a variety of clinical approaches to ensure personalized and effective therapy for her clients. Her training and expertise include
- Trauma Incident Reduction (TIR): Aiming to reduce the emotional intensity of past traumas, TIR provides clarity and peace for those in need.
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps unravel negative thought spirals and reconstruct them into patterns of positivity and strength.
- Motivational Interviewing: Provides a motivational map for clients, assisting them in navigating the terrain of personal transformation.
- Solution-Focused Therapy: Emphasizes building solutions rather than focusing on problems, promoting positive change and resilience.
- Attachment and Trauma: Addresses the impact of attachment issues and trauma on mental health and relationships.
Focus Areas
- Addictions
- Mental Health
- Grief and Loss
- Fertility and Infertility
- Chronic Health Conditions
- Palliative Care
- Dementia
- Caregivers Support
- New Mothers
- Relationships
Professional Training
Our Space
Nestled near the iconic Niagara Falls, our therapy center is designed to offer solace, peace, and comfort. Every corner, room, and space is thoughtfully curated to ensure a warm and welcoming environment, conducive to healing and introspection.
Join Us in Your Journey
At Ian Robertson Therapy Group, we are not just offering sessions; we are inviting you to a journey. A journey of understanding, growth, and rediscovery. We are here to walk beside you, every step of the way.
Book a Session Today
Ready to take the first step towards healing and growth? Connect with us at Ian Robertson Therapy Group and begin your journey to a brighter, more balanced future.