Kelowna - Glenmore Team | OK Clinical Therapy Group

Receive Specialized Counselling for Children & Families at Our Kelowna - Glenmore Location

At our Glenmore clinic in Kelowna, we provide mental health support for children, youth, families & caregivers. The space has been intentionally designed with warm, welcoming rooms and thoughtfully selected toys and resources to support play therapy and family work. Our Glenmore team is made up of carefully chosen Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC) and Registered Social Workers (RSW) who share a strong commitment to helping kids and families thrive. Whether you’re seeking support for parenting, child or youth challenges, navigating big feelings, family dynamics, anxiety, trauma, grief, or growth together, our Kelowna Glenmore clinic offers a safe, inclusive place for healing and connection.

Ciara Jeffery-Bent, MSW, RSW

Registered Social Worker - Kelowna
Nicola Sheldon, RCC

Registered Clinical Counsellor - Kelowna
Heather Pattison, RCC

Registered Clinical Counsellor - Kelowna
Paula Pelechaty, MSW, CYW, RSW

Registered Social Worker - Kelowna & West Kelowna
Zoe Reindl-Heit, RSW, MSW

Registered Social Worker - Kelowna
Laurie Mossey, RCC

Registered Clinical Counsellor - Kelowna & Online
Clara Val Crocker, CCC

Canadian Certified Counsellor - Kelowna
Emily Foster, B.Ed, RCC

Registered Clinical Counsellor - Kelowna
Christina Petrov, MSW, RSW

Registered Social Worker - Kelowna
IsaBelle Macedo, Practicum Student

Intern - Kelowna
Lauren Lawrence, Practicum Student

Intern - Vernon & Kelowna
Tamara Rose, Practicum Student

Intern - Kelowna
Liz Jensen

Intake & Administrative Coordinator
Julie Woods

Okanagan Clinic Manager
Kailey Brenner

Billing Supervisor
Nathan Hayward

Director: Community Relations and Strategic Partnerships
Alison Ruks

Executive Director

Reach out to book a consultation with a specific counsellor

Learn more about our counsellors above, or call us to find which counsellors are practicing in specific methodologies you are interested in.

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Ciara Jeffery-Bent, MSW, RSW

Registered Social Worker - Kelowna

Reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and Ciara’s goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported. Ciara holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. She works with individuals, children, and families navigating life transitions, family dynamics, and the ups and downs of mental and emotional wellbeing. Ciara is passionate about supporting clients navigating the challenges of interpersonal conflict, helping them build insight, coping strategies, and meaningful connections. Ciara’s experience as a social worker in different settings has also provided her with transferable skills that allow her to effectively support a wide variety of clients.

Ciara’s therapeutic style draws from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and client-centred modalities. Ciara aims to provide practical tools while also creating space for reflection, growth, and meaningful change.

Additionally, Ciara’s background in sociology informs the way she approaches therapy. It helps her understand the broader social, cultural, and systemic factors that shape our lives and mental health, and allows her to hold the complexities of the world we are currently existing in while supporting clients in navigating their own experiences.

Ciara strives to foster a warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental environment. Ciara views the client as the expert in their own life, while Ciara sees her role as a supportive guide—helping individuals clarify their goals, build skills, and improve their overall quality of life.

Outside of counselling, you can often find Ciara enjoying a Diet Coke, watching reality TV, or heading to a Pilates class.

Areas of Focus Include:

Life Transitions
Child, Youth, and Families
Conflict Navigation & Communication
Emotional Regulation
Mental Health and Substance Use

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 250-718-9291
Have other questions? Contact Us

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Nicola Sheldon, RCC

Registered Clinical Counsellor - Kelowna

Nicola is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) who brings compassion, experience, and genuine care to her work with the people she supports. She holds a Master of Counselling degree from City University of Seattle and an MA (Hons) in Psychology from the University of Glasgow, Scotland where she studied before immigrating to Canada. With over ten years of experience supporting individuals through mental health challenges and times of crisis, Nicola creates a space where people feel safe, respected, and truly heard.

Nicola volunteers with the Central Okanagan Hospice Association, supporting individuals with life-limiting illnesses and families after the death of a loved one. She is also part of a provincial disaster psychosocial team, offering support to communities who have been evacuated from or lost their homes during forest fires and other natural disasters.

Nicola is committed to providing a welcoming, supportive space for people from all walks of life. Her work is trauma-informed and tailored to each client’s needs. She draws from several modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and existential therapy.

She especially enjoys working with adolescents and supporting them as they navigate challenges such as ADHD, emotional regulation, self-harm, self-esteem, family dynamics, and anxiety. Nicola has experience providing counselling services to teenagers in Kelowna’s middle school system and values building trusting, collaborative relationships with both youth and their families.

Nicola recognizes that loss is a universal part of being human and that grief can take many forms. She supports individuals experiencing all types of loss including those facing existential loss, such as the loss of dreams, identity, or the life they once imagined. She understands that life can change in unexpected ways, and she offers a compassionate space to make sense of those curveballs and move forward with meaning and care.

A strong believer in lifelong learning, Nicola continually expands her knowledge and skills. She has completed Gottman Couples Therapy Training Levels 1 and 2, Gottman Affairs and Trauma, and Gottman Parenting Coaching, along with additional training in grief and loss and supporting children impacted by trauma. She is currently furthering her education in cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia. Nicola has completed San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training and has worked with Indigenous clients all over BC.

Outside of her counselling work, Nicola is a married mum of three school-aged children. She loves spending time outdoors with her family and can often be found by the lake or skiing at Big White.

Areas of Focus include:

Adolescent Mental Health
Couples Counselling
Grief, Loss and Bereavement Support
Life Transitions
Women’s Mental Health and Identity

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 250-718-9291
Have other questions? Contact Us

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Heather Pattison, RCC

Registered Clinical Counsellor - Kelowna

Works with: Children (14+), Adults
Session Types: Individuals, Families

Heather has over 25-years of experience as a Registered Counsellor working in a variety of settings, supporting clients in the areas of trauma, addictions, adverse childhood experiences, loss and grief, anxiety, depression and emotional dysregulation.

Heather’s overarching philosophy to counselling is growth-oriented, empowering and person-centred. She believes that our life experiences create stories that we live by – stories about ourselves and the world. Sometimes these stories are helpful for us; other times, they come at a cost and limit us. Therapy can provide us an opportunity to safely explore how our experiences have shaped our perceptions, beliefs and choices – and to move into a future that is more in alignment with our values.

Heather’s work is guided by a deep understanding of the universal human need for connection and acceptance. She uses emotionally focused approaches to help clients become more aware of the underlying, yet unmet needs that might be
driving and sustaining mood difficulties and subsequent unhelpful coping behaviours. Clients are empowered to develop the emotional regulation, self-
compassion and courage to live with more freedom and ease.

Heather can integrate several modalities and adapt therapy to suite her clients. She has extensive training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy for Trauma and Forward Facing Trauma Therapy. She weaves somatic and mindfulness-based processes into her therapy sessions, with an ongoing awareness of her client’s needs for of agency and safety in the therapy room.

Areas of Focus Include:

Relationship difficulties
Trauma treatment
Healing adverse childhood experiences
Anxiety and depression
Emotional regulation
Loss and grief
Life transitions
Stress management

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 250-718-9291
Have other questions? Contact Us

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Paula Pelechaty, MSW, CYW, RSW

Registered Social Worker - Kelowna & West Kelowna

Paula holds a Master of Social Work from the University of British Columbia and a Bachelor of Social Work from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University). She also completed a diploma in Child and Youth Work (CYW) from Humber College. Originally from Toronto, Paula now calls the Okanagan home, where she is dedicated to supporting individuals and families in their journey toward healing and growth.

With over 17 years of experience coaching gymnastics and a background in Child and Youth Work, Paula brings a deep understanding of human development, motivation, and mental well-being. Her work in sport and with athletes has given her unique insight into performance anxiety, confidence, and mindset — which she integrates into her counselling with youth, adults, and women alike. Paula’s neurodivergent-informed approach allows her to support clients through ADHD, anxiety, and emotional regulation challenges, helping them develop strategies that work with, not against, their individual wiring.

Paula is particularly passionate about empowering women and mothers, nurturing strong mother-daughter relationships, and guiding clients through life’s transitions with compassion and clarity. Her therapeutic approach is holistic and trauma-informed, addressing the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of wellness.

She strives to create a safe, grounding space where clients can explore their strengths, build resilience, and reconnect with themselves — whether they are athletes navigating sport performance pressures, teens developing identity, or women rediscovering balance and self-worth.

Areas of Focus include:

Neurodivergent (ADHD) Support & Coaching
Child, Youth, and Young Adult Mental Health
Women’s Mental Health and Identity
Mother-Daughter Relationships
Sport, Athlete, and Performance Counselling
Anxiety, Depression, and Emotional Regulation
Trauma-Informed and Holistic Care

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 250-718-9291
Have other questions? Contact Us

Book Your Appointment:

Kelowna – Harvey Location

Kelowna – Glenmore Location

Zoe Reindl-Heit, RSW, MSW

Registered Social Worker - Kelowna

Zoe (she/her) is a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with a Master’s of Social Work (MSW) at OK Clinical Therapy Group. She has worked for nearly a decade in the social services sector and has a strong community resource and problem-solving background. She meets clients where they are at with compassion, empathy, and care. Zoe has a passion for working with clients to explore the challenges and opportunities life’s journey brings.

Zoe works with clients from all walks of life to address issues around self-acceptance, body image, and identity. She loves helping clients explore their values and goals, work on habit formation, reduce stress, and improve their quality of life. Moreover, she uses a holistic approach to explore an individual’s whole life picture, including their environmental, social, psychological, and spiritual well-being. Zoe tailors her therapeutic approach to fit the individual and what works for them.

Additionally, Zoe enjoys working with couples and individuals focused on relationships, healthy communication, emotional expression, and boundaries. This includes working with folks with a history of relationship and family trauma and abuse. She welcomes clients who are exploring sexuality, intimacy, friendship, and relationships of all types.

Furthermore, Zoe is experienced working with clients experiencing anxiety and depression. Also, she uses a non-pathologizing, mindfulness-based approach to explore the protective functions of these mental health challenges, and incorporates trauma-informed Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skill-building to manage and cope. In addition, she has also completed Gottman Couples Therapy Training Levels 1 and 2. Zoe is currently working on incorporating Nature Therapy and Walk and Talk Therapy into her practice, and is interested in working with folks experiencing climate and existential anxiety.

On top of her Master’s in Social Work, Zoe has an undergraduate degree in Human Ecology from the University of Alberta and has experience working with pregnant and parenting individuals, as well as folks in crisis and substance use recovery. Also, in her free time, she loves hiking, gardening, crafting, cooking, reading, and spending time with her partner and dog.

Areas of Focus include:

Life Transitions
Personal Growth, Identity and Self-Discovery
Anxiety and Depression
EMDR
Perinatal Mood Disorders
Couples and Relationships
Self-Esteem, Body Image and Acceptance
Outdoor and Walk & Talk Therapy

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 250-718-9291
Have other questions? Contact Us

Book Your Appointment:

Kelowna – Harvey Location

Kelowna – Glenmore Location

Laurie Mossey, RCC

Registered Clinical Counsellor - Kelowna & Online

Book Your Appointment: Kelowna – Glenmore

Book Your Appointment: Kelowna – Harvey

Laurie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who is deeply passionate about the work she does. With over 20 years of experience, she has had the privilege of supporting youth and adults through both struggles and growth.

Her approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that each person is the expert of their own life. Laurie works from a person-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed perspective, offering a safe and supportive space where clients can feel understood and empowered. She integrates a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Observed & Experiential Integration (OEI), and mindfulness techniques, tailoring each session to meet her clients’ unique needs.

Laurie is passionate about working with both adults and youth, creating an environment of safety, trust, and genuine connection as they navigate life’s challenges. She also has extensive experience in grief, loss, and trauma, and has co-facilitated bereavement groups for many years.

Whether clients are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, or loss, Laurie walks alongside them with empathy, honesty, and encouragement. Her goal is to help foster healing, resilience, and hope.

Areas of Focus:

Grief, Loss, and Bereavement Support
Trauma and Resilience Building
Youth and Adolescent Mental Health
Anxiety, Depression, and Stress Management
Relationship and Life Transitions Support

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 250-718-9291
Have other questions? Contact Us

Clara Val Crocker, CCC

Canadian Certified Counsellor - Kelowna

Clara (she/her) is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC #11254180) and holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP). She is currently offering services at OK Clinical Therapy Group. She is passionate about supporting individuals and couples as they navigate life’s challenges through an empathic, client-centered approach.

Drawing from her background in Kinesiology and community outreach, Clara integrates trauma-informed, evidence-based techniques grounded in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment Theory, Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Her work supports clients in developing coping skills, building resilience, and fostering self-compassion, while also deepening emotional awareness and connection within relationships.

Clara offers individual counselling, individual relationship counselling, and couples counselling, with a particular focus on attachment patterns, communication dynamics, emotional safety, and relational repair. She works with individuals and partners experiencing relationship distress and life transitions. Additionally, Clara is passionate about working with women experiencing pre- and post-partum mood disorders. Clara emphasizes the creation of a safe, collaborative space for emotional exploration and meaningful change.

With a strong commitment to holistic well-being, Clara empowers clients by offering practical tools and insights tailored to their unique experiences. She values helping clients reconnect with their personal strengths and values while cultivating self-compassion, understanding, and secure connection throughout their therapeutic journey.

Outside of her counselling work, Clara enjoys fostering community and connection through her book club, group fitness classes, and sharing meals with loved ones.

Areas of Focus include:

Pre- and Post-Partum Mood Disorders
Couples Counselling
Individual Relationship Counselling
Anxiety and Depression
Stress and Burnout
Life Transitions
Attachment and Communication Patterns
Religious Trauma
Loneliness, Connection, and Relational Repair
Self-Compassion and Personal Growth

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 250-718-9291
Have other questions? Contact Us

Book Your Appointment at Kelowna – Harvey

Book Your Appointment at Kelowna – Glenmore

Emily Foster, B.Ed, RCC

Registered Clinical Counsellor - Kelowna

Emily is a dedicated and passionate teacher, and is now a Registered Clinical Counsellor. She has been an educator for five years in learning support and inclusive education. Over the past two years, she has worked as an elementary school counsellor throughout her practicum and internship in her master’s program.

Emily takes a trauma-informed,person-centred, and solution-focused approach believing that we all have the inherent ability to find the strength and resiliency within ourselves for growth and change. Emily’s empathy, care, and presence allow clients to feel safe, seen, and heard.

She is particularly passionate about child advocacy, building confidence, self-worth and social skills and working with the LGBTQ2SI+ community. She is experienced in supporting families and children with navigating school challenges such as social and emotional regulation, separation anxiety, academic strategies for learning, Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and teacher and school staff collaboration.

AS a Registered Clinical Counsellor, Emily is well-informed in the areas of anxiety, depression, attention difficulties, neurodivergence, child abuse, and trauma. Emily acknowledges that she lives, works, and learns on the traditional, unceded, and occupied territories of the Syilx/Okanagan people.

Areas of Focus:

Depression and Anxiety
Attention Difficulties
Neurodiversity
Childhood Trauma and Abuse
Emotional Regulation
Grief

Contact Information:

Email: emily@okclinical.com
Phone: 250-718-9291
Have other questions? Contact Us

Book Your Appointment:

Kelowna – Harvey Location

Kelowna – Glenmore Location

Christina Petrov, MSW, RSW

Registered Social Worker - Kelowna

Christina holds a BA in Psychology and completed a master’s degree in the Clinical Social Work program at UBCO. With over 6 years of dedicated experience working with children and youth, she brings a deep understanding of their needs to her role. Christina’s passion for making a positive impact on young lives is why she has chosen to pursue clinical social work. Her experiences have encompassed roles in coaching sports, youth after-school programs, and working with youth experiencing complex substance use and mental health adversities.

Christina’s practice commitment is to create a safe and nurturing environment for children and youth to thrive in. She firmly believes that fostering such an environment is essential for supporting their emotional and psychological growth. Using a child-centered and person-centered approach allows Christina to tailor her interactions to each individual’s unique needs. This approach resonates deeply with her as it empowers individuals to be active participants in their own healing journey.

Christina is particularly drawn to expressive therapies, such as play and art therapy. She recognizes the power of these creative mediums in allowing individuals to communicate complex emotions and experiences that might otherwise be challenging to express verbally. These methods offer a unique opportunity for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings in a safe and non-judgmental space.

Outside of the professional environment, Christina enjoys spending time in nature, playing beach volleyball, skiing and snowboarding, travelling, and spending time with friends and family.

Areas of Focus:

Children, Youth, and Families
Grief
Trauma & PTSD
Anxiety & Depression
Self-esteem
Relationship dynamics

Contact Information:

Phone: 250-718-9291
Email: [email protected]
Have other questions? Contact Us

Book Your Appointment:

Kelowna – Harvey Location

Kelowna – Glenmore Location

IsaBelle Macedo, Practicum Student

Intern - Kelowna

IsaBelle is a practicum student completing her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) with OK Clinical Therapy Group. Grounded in warmth, curiosity, and respect, she strives to create a supportive environment where clients feel seen and understood. Her approach is collaborative, evidence-based, and trauma-informed, emphasizing each client’s unique goals and strengths.

IsaBelle brings experience working with neurodiverse youth, which has strengthened her appreciation for the individuality of each person’s way of thinking, feeling, and communicating. She values creating space where all clients can explore their experiences with curiosity and self-compassion.

As she continues her training, IsaBelle is developing an integrative approach informed by narrative therapy, emotion-focused therapy (EFT), cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), and parts-based (Internal Family Systems) perspectives. She believes that growth happens through connection, self-awareness, and compassionate understanding of one’s own experiences.

Outside the therapy room, IsaBelle enjoys baking, walking her dog, reading, and spending time with loved ones.

IsaBelle is practicing as an intern under the supervision of Devinder Dhaliwal (RCSW #13248)

Areas of Focus include:

Stress and burnout management
Building emotional awareness and resilience
Anxiety and coping strategies
Self-esteem and personal growth
Life transitions

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 250-718-9291
Have other questions? Contact Us

Book Your Appointment in Kelowna

Lauren Lawrence, Practicum Student

Intern - Vernon & Kelowna

Please Note: Lauren is not currently accepting new clients at this time.

With a long-standing interest in human connection and emotional wellbeing, Lauren brings warmth, curiosity, and care into her work. She draws from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), narrative therapy, and emotion-focused therapy (EFT). She often integrates somatic, polyvagal-informed techniques that blend an understanding of the nervous system with practical, body-based strategies to help you regulate emotions and feel more grounded. Her approach is collaborative and integrative, focusing on each person’s unique needs, identities, and goals to create a session that truly fits them.

Lauren works with individuals, youth (12+), and couples from all backgrounds, and has a particular interest in concerns related to ADHD, sexuality, self-esteem, and relationships. She is affirming of diverse relationship structures, including polyamory, consensual non-monogamy, and other non-traditional or kink-positive dynamics.

Outside of her clinical work, Lauren enjoys reading fiction, paddle boarding, hiking, and playing board games. She lives with her partner and two dogs, who remind her daily of the joy in slowing down and staying present.

Outside of her clinical work, Lauren enjoys reading fiction, paddle boarding, hiking, and playing board games. She lives with her partner and two dogs, who remind her daily of the joy in slowing down and staying present.

Lauren is practicing as an intern under the supervision of Rubina Dhaliwal (RSW #10240)

Areas of Focus include:

Anxiety and Depression
Neurodiversity Support (ADHD & Autism)
Life Transitions
Sexuality & Gender Identity
Self-Esteem
Couples & Relationships (including polyamory and non-monogamy)

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 250-718-9291
Have other questions? Contact Us

Book Your Appointment in Vernon

Book Your Appointment in Kelowna – Glenmore

Tamara Rose, Practicum Student

Intern - Kelowna

Please Note: Tamara will be completing her placement on April 30th and is currently accepting short-term clients only.

Tamara Rose (she/her) is a social work practicum student with OK Clinical Therapy Group and a proud member of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation. Additionally, she is an RSW candidate, completing her Bachelors of Social Work. Tamara brings meaningful experience supporting children, youth, and families through trauma-informed, strengths-based, and culturally responsive approaches. For example,, this includes her work as an advocate within the Okanagan Public School District.

At the core of her work,, Tamara’s approach focuses on helping clients identify practical tools and strategies they can use . Moreover, she integrates solution-focused practice with strengths-based and family systems perspectives. Tamara draws on both Indigenous and Western frameworks to support healing, insight, and meaningful change. As a result, guided by the Two-Eyed Seeing approach, Tamara values collaboration, balance, and respect for each client’s unique experiences and ways of knowing.

Tamara works with children, youth, families, and individual clients, supporting people to build resilience, navigate life transitions, and strengthen relationships. She welcomes both Indigenous and non-Indigenous clients and has a particular interest in working with children and families, including those navigating separation, anxiety, neurodiversity, and school-related challenges.

During sessions, her sessions are collaborative and goal-oriented, designed to help clients gain insight and leave each session with tools they can put into practice immediately.

At this time, Tamara is practicing as a social work intern under the supervision of Trevor Good (RSW #12430) and Nicole Ripley (RCC #10535).

Outside of her clinical work, Tamara enjoys spending time with her husband and four children, connecting with the land, and creating designs that celebrate identity, resilience, and empowerment.

Areas of Focus include:

Children, youth, and families
Youth mental health and resilience
Parenting support, including families of neurodiverse children
Trauma-informed and strengths-based care
Identity, belonging, and life transitions
Solution-focused strategies
Community outreach and resource navigation

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 250-718-9291
Have other questions? Contact Us

Book Your Appointment in Kelowna – Glenmore

Liz Jensen

Intake & Administrative Coordinator

Liz brings over 20 years of experience across retail administration, operations, management, and the wellness industry. She is passionate about helping others and takes pride in being of support. Liz supports through clear communication, strong organization, and thoughtful problem-solving. Liz finds purpose in creating positive, supportive experiences and being a steady presence for those she works with.

Throughout her career, Liz has been driven by a genuine desire to support people. Having personally witnessed the powerful impact that access to mental health and wellness resources can have, she is inspired to help others feel heard, supported, and guided toward the care they need. Her approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and making sure everyone feels comfortable and valued.

Outside of work, Liz enjoys traveling, especially to different regions of Mexico, along with golfing, pickleball, snowshoeing, paddleboarding, hiking, and exploring small towns across British Columbia. She loves cooking, gardening, caring for her plants, and spending time with family and friends. After a busy day, she recharges by walking her two dogs along the waterfront or fitting in a quick round of golf.

Liz believes everyone deserves to be heard, supported, and treated with care, and looks forward to the opportunity to make a positive impact wherever she goes.

Contact Information:

Phone: 1-250-718-9291
Email: [email protected]
Have other questions? Contact Us

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Julie Woods

Okanagan Clinic Manager

Born and raised in the vibrant city of Kelowna, Julie has spent over a decade honing her skills in the customer service industry. She later transitioned into health care, where she spent three years as a community health worker, providing in-home care and meaningful mental health support to clients, a role she found deeply rewarding.

Today, she is proud to serve as the Clinic Manager for our Kelowna and West Kelowna locations, where she gets to support both our team and our clients in creating a welcoming, well-organized environment.

Outside of work, life is delightfully full with her two energetic boys and their playful puppy, who always keep her on her toes. She loves staying active, playing sports, trying new recipes, and spending as much time outdoors as possible, soaking in the beauty of the Okanagan.

Contact Information:

Phone: 1-250-718-9291

Email: [email protected]

Have other questions? Contact Us

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Kailey Brenner

Billing Supervisor

Kailey has worked as the Billing Supervisor at OK Clinical. She brings with her a love for problem-solving and numbers. She is a local to Kelowna, BC, and has years of experience in both administrative and client-based work. Prior to OK Clinical, Kailey worked closely with individuals from various walks of life and assisted them around the community. From there she decided to further her knowledge of administrative work and Completed the Business Program at Okanagan College and now serves our team remotely for all of the OK Clinical locations.

As our Billing Supervisor, Kailey is happy to assist clients with any invoicing needs as well as direct billing to insurance companies. She works closely with our counsellors to ensure all external invoicing is complete and accurate.

Outside of work, Kailey is a mother to her beautiful boy along with a very energetic Australian Shepherd named Goji (yes, like the berry!). Her family loves getting outside during the warm summer months to soak in the rays of the Okanagan but sticks to the indoors once the temperature drops, and enjoys cozy activities like board games, knitting, and reading.

Contact Information:

Phone: 250-718-9291

Email: [email protected]

Have other questions? Contact Us

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Nathan Hayward

Director: Community Relations and Strategic Partnerships

Nathan Hayward is one of the Directors at OK Clinical Therapy Group, supporting Community Relations and Strategic Partnerships. He plays a central role in expanding access to mental health services through strategic partnerships, community engagement, and systems-level collaboration.

Born and raised in the Okanagan, Nathan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Counselling and supplementary certificates in leadership, community development, marketing and business. Nathan also brings over a decade of experience across human services, non-profits, school districts, and community-based organizations. His work is informed by a strong understanding of how organizational systems, accessibility, and relationships shape meaningful access to care.

In his role, Nathan develops and manages organizational and corporate partnerships, supports contract-based counselling programs, and collaborates closely with clinical and administrative leadership to ensure services are operationally sound, ethical, and sustainable. He also contributes to marketing and public-facing initiatives, helps design referral and intake pathways, and supports digital systems that improve client access and experience.

Known for his collaborative, solutions-focused approach, Nathan serves as a key point of connection for organizations, referral partners, and individuals seeking to engage with OK Clinical. He supports cross-team communication and problem-solving, helping bridge strategy, operations, and community impact.

Nathan is available Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and welcomes conversations around partnerships, referrals, and community initiatives.

Contact Information:

Phone: 250-718-9291

Email: [email protected]

Have other questions? Contact Us

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Alison Ruks

Executive Director

Alison Ruks is an executive leader and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience working at the intersection of business, mental health, and wellbeing. Her background spans consumer packaged goods, natural health, technology, agriculture, cannabis, and education, with a strong focus on executive leadership within the health, counselling, and wellness space.

Born and raised in Port Alberni on Vancouver Island, Alison relocated to the Okanagan and made it her home in 2000. She has held senior leadership roles across both for-profit and nonprofit sectors, most recently serving as Executive Director of Connect Counselling & Therapy Society, a large multidisciplinary charitable counselling and education organization delivering community-based mental health services.

Alison holds a business degree from the University of British Columbia with a specialization in Human Resources and workplace health and wellbeing. She is a Chartered Human Resources Professional and has served as an Executive in Residence with Accelerate Okanagan, mentoring founders and leadership teams.

She is also the author of the forthcoming book Healing Outside the System, informed by her personal experience in healing from an incurable neurological autoimmune disease, which continues to shape her grounded, compassionate leadership approach.

Alison welcomes conversations around strategic partnerships, corporate sponsorships, community collaboration, and initiatives that strengthen access to ethical, sustainable mental health care. She is also open to thoughtful media and speaking opportunities aligned with these values.

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Have other questions? Contact Us

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