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Meet the Therapist – Aleteah Schwark
Hi, I'm Aleteah—a therapeutic counsellor 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/PTSD, 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 minds that may not fit a conventional mold. Whether you're diagnosed or self-identifying, 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
Registered Therapeutic Counsellor My kind of clients: -Looking for a place to be accepted and create safety -Neurodivergent (ADHD, ASD + others) -May have experienced childhood and/or adult trauma -Suspect or diagnosed PTSD/C-PTSD -Experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, pain, chronic illness -Want to explore root cause and find sustainable steps towards change 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 Focused Therapy I offer: -Validation and empathy -Warmth and acceptance -Consent informed practices -A collaborative experience -Action planning -Resources, tools and materials for in-between sessions -A safe space for LGBTQIA2S+ |
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 available
- Option for shorter (30 min) or extended (75+ min) session durations
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.



