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Meet the Therapist – Dr. Niamh Keinan
I’m Dr. Niamh, founder of Blue Sage Therapy and a psychotherapist based in Winnipeg, MB. My practice is grounded in the belief that therapy should feel safe, collaborative, and gently transformative. I’ve spent over a decade helping individuals, couples, and families navigate anxiety, trauma, grief, burnout, identity exploration, and the everyday complexities of being human. I bring a blend of trauma-informed care, evidence-based techniques, and genuine curiosity to every session. My approach is integrative and client-centered, often drawing from modalities such as CBT, DBT, CPT, and mindfulness. What lights me up most is helping people reconnect with their sense of agency, self-compassion, and emotional clarity. I am a member of the Canadian Counsellors and Psychotherapy Association*. Outside the therapy room, I share space with two emotional support mascots—Grumpy & Katerina (aka “Da Wrinkles”)—our resident Canadian Sphynx cats whose snuggles and comic timing add comfort and character to the office atmosphere. They remind me daily that healing doesn’t have to be clinical—it can be warm, quirky, and deeply personal. Whether you’re taking your first step toward therapy or returning to deepen your work, I’m honoured to walk alongside you. All are welcome here. |
Na'imah Keinan, Ph.D., CCC, MACP, BHP Certified Canadian Counsellor & Behavioural Health Provider My kind of clients: -Are figuring out marriages and relationships -Exploring defining sense of self and on a journey of growth -Experienced trauma and/or (C)PTSD -Survivors of narcissistic abuse within all types of relationships -Navigating mood disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar, and others I use therapeutic approaches such as: -Biodyne Behavioural Therapy -Brief Focused Therapy -Cognitive Behavioural Therapy -Gottman Method for Couples -Dialectical Behaviour Therapy -Cognitive Processing Therapy I offer: -Gentle challenges and a focus on creating healthy solutions -Structured and flexible therapy approaches -New ways to think about reframing & pattern identification -Honesty and openness -Tools and skills for effective and long lasting change -PTSD Assessments/General Assessments -A safe space for LGBTQIA2S+ |
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Meet the Therapist – Aleteah Schwark
Hi, I'm Aleteah—a psychotherapist at Blue Sage Therapy who brings curiosity, empathy, and a deep respect for difference into every session. My work is shaped by lived experience, lifelong learning, and a fierce belief that healing becomes possible when we’re met exactly as we are—without pressure, without judgment. I specialize in supporting clients navigating neurodivergence/ADHD, trauma, burnout, relational challenges, and the nuanced landscape of identity. As a member of the neurodivergent community, I strive to offer therapy that honours nonlinear thinking, sensory needs, and the brilliance of minds that may not fit a conventional mold. Whether you're autistic, ADHD-identified, or somewhere between diagnostic labels, you're welcome here. My approach is flexible and collaborative, integrating mindfulness, narrative exploration, somatic work, and trauma-focused care. I embrace the messy, creative, and nonlinear nature of healing—and I love helping people connect with their authenticity, intuition, and find practical and sustainable growth. I recognize that traditional therapy spaces haven’t always felt accessible or safe for neurodivergent folks or marginalized identities. I aim to hold space that is affirming, adaptable, and gently challenging when needed. Our sessions can be structured or soft, quiet or expressive. I follow your rhythm. Outside of therapy, I recharge through exploring nature, stimming-friendly movement, and finding beauty in unexpected places. And if you’re lucky, one of our emotional support cats—Grumpy or Katerina—might drop by to add a bit of wrinkly wisdom to the day. |
Aleteah Schwark, RTC
Professional Therapeutic Counsellor My kind of clients: -Looking for a place to be accepted, including their quirks -Neurodivergent (ADHD, ASD + others) -May have experienced childhood and/or adult trauma -Experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and pain -Want to explore root cause and a collaborative experience I use therapeutic approaches such as: -Relational Approach -Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (with a focus on ADHD in adults) -Somatic Techniques -Strength Based Therapy -Trauma-focused Therapy / TIP certified -Holistic Focus Therapy I offer: -Validation and empathy -Warmth and acceptance -Consent informed practices -Action planning -Resources, tools and materials for in-between sessions -A safe space for LGBTQIA2S+ |
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Hi, I'm Salma, the Administrative Assistant at Blue Sage Therapy.
In my role, I support both clients and our team by managing client cases, intake forms, and assessments, while ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. I warmly welcome clients and serve as the first point of contact, helping them feel at ease and providing support from the moment they arrive. Additionally, I lead outreach and community engagement initiatives. This includes building partnerships, raising awareness about Blue Sage’s services, and connecting with diverse communities. I also assist in developing and coordinating support groups, workshops, and culturally grounded community programs that expand access to mental health care. I hold a BSc in Psychology from the University of Manitoba and a Professional Certificate in Islamic Psychology and Counselling. Drawing on this academic foundation, my personal experiences, and strong community ties, I work to foster safe, accessible spaces for healing. My focus is on promoting trauma-informed and culturally sensitive approaches that reflect the values and needs of the communities we serve. |
Support Team
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Client Accommodations Offered at Blue Sage Therapy
🧠 Neurodivergent Support
- Option for structured vs. flexible session formats
- Use of visual aids or written summaries after sessions
- Space for stimming, movement, sensory tools, and comfort items
- Clear, low-stimulation environment with minimal sensory overwhelm
- Consent-based pacing: no pressure to make eye contact, respond quickly, or discuss triggering topics
- Sessions available in multiple formats: in-person, video, phone, or text-based support when needed
- Option to email or message pre-session updates
- Use of gentle reminders for follow-up or session preparation
- Accommodations for clients with speech, cognitive, or processing differences
- Use of chosen names and pronouns at all times
- Culturally-sensitive approaches and openness to spiritual perspectives
- Recognition of systemic stressors (racism, ableism, transphobia, etc.) as valid factors in mental health
- Supportive care for folks navigating gender transition, coming out, or identity discovery
- Flexible lighting (natural, low light, or lamp-based depending on sensory needs)
- Snacks, warm beverages, or blankets on request
- Emotional support mascots (Grumpy & Katerina) for gentle companionship 🐾
- Option to pause, step outside, or stop during a session
- Virtual sessions offered across Canada
- Sliding scale or payment plans available
- Option for shorter (30 min) or extended (75+ min) session durations
Booking Your Session
Ready to begin or continue your healing journey? Booking is simple and confidential. We offer in-person sessions at our cozy, character-rich office in St. Boniface, Winnipeg—where warm lighting, quiet corners, and the occasional cat nap from Da Wrinkles set the tone for ease and reflection.
Prefer virtual therapy? We've got you covered. Sessions are available across Canada via secure video platform, offering flexibility and continuity wherever you are.
To get started:
Prefer virtual therapy? We've got you covered. Sessions are available across Canada via secure video platform, offering flexibility and continuity wherever you are.
To get started:
- Visit our booking page
- Email us directly at [email protected] or [email protected]
Emotional Support Mascots: Grumpy & Katerina (aka “Da Wrinkles”) 🐾
At Blue Sage Therapy, comfort isn't just found in conversation—it’s often curled up on the couch, staring at you with enormous lemon-drop eyes and a little extra wrinkle. Our emotional support mascots, Grumpy and Katerina (lovingly nicknamed “Da Wrinkles”), are Canadian Sphynx cats who bring a special kind of healing to the room: playful, intuitive, and never shy about stealing your seat.
Despite their name, the Sphynx breed is known for being anything but aloof. Highly social, loyal, and affectionate, these hairless wonders often behave more like puppies than cats—following people from room to room, chirping for attention, and flopping belly-first into your lap for warmth. Their silky skin and signature folds give them the appearance of wise little philosophers, while their goofy antics keep the atmosphere light. Grumpy loves to perch like a sphinx and inspect visitors with regal intensity, while Katerina is more likely to greet you with a dramatic stretch and demand immediate snuggles. Both are pros at sensing emotion and often sidle up just when someone needs a calming presence.
Weather permitting, one of them joins us in-office nearly every day to offer gentle companionship and create a soothing “catmosphere.” Their energy reminds us of the importance of slowing down, reconnecting with joy, and taking space to breathe—even nap—when life feels overwhelming.
Clients often tell us that Da Wrinkles make the therapy space feel more human, more heartfelt, and just a little less lonely. And for those who may be new to therapy or struggling to open up, the quiet presence of a curious, loving animal can be the perfect icebreaker.
Because sometimes healing looks like talk therapy… and sometimes it looks like a 6-pound wrinkle with paws in your lap.
Despite their name, the Sphynx breed is known for being anything but aloof. Highly social, loyal, and affectionate, these hairless wonders often behave more like puppies than cats—following people from room to room, chirping for attention, and flopping belly-first into your lap for warmth. Their silky skin and signature folds give them the appearance of wise little philosophers, while their goofy antics keep the atmosphere light. Grumpy loves to perch like a sphinx and inspect visitors with regal intensity, while Katerina is more likely to greet you with a dramatic stretch and demand immediate snuggles. Both are pros at sensing emotion and often sidle up just when someone needs a calming presence.
Weather permitting, one of them joins us in-office nearly every day to offer gentle companionship and create a soothing “catmosphere.” Their energy reminds us of the importance of slowing down, reconnecting with joy, and taking space to breathe—even nap—when life feels overwhelming.
Clients often tell us that Da Wrinkles make the therapy space feel more human, more heartfelt, and just a little less lonely. And for those who may be new to therapy or struggling to open up, the quiet presence of a curious, loving animal can be the perfect icebreaker.
Because sometimes healing looks like talk therapy… and sometimes it looks like a 6-pound wrinkle with paws in your lap.


