Carl MacNeil

Hello,

     My name is Carl, and I am a Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists, and I am also registered as a Canadian Certified Counsellor through our national association, the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.

     I was born in Cape Breton and at a young age my parents moved to Halifax where I grew up in Fairview. With the exception of a few years working in Calgary, Alberta, I have lived most of my life in Halifax. I am married with a teenage daughter in high school and can attest to the stress which sometimes can accompany family life.   

     My academic background includes a BA from Saint Mary’s University and a B.Ed. post-graduate degree from St. Francis Xavier University. Early in my career I taught remedial studies, flex education, learning resource, as well as summer & night school programs at various Halifax and Dartmouth schools. Recently, I completed a Master of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University and practiced at Couch of Hope in Dartmouth.  

     I have been employed with the Nova Scotia Provincial Government for 17 years, and as part of my role, I speak with clients daily who have had contact with law enforcement, social services, and other departments. Understanding the government context well, I can help provide guidance and support navigating challenges which may have evolved from within the system.

     At 50 years of age, you may be wondering why I decided to return to university for a master’s degree and begin counselling. The inspiration for this decision came from witnessing a family member who was vibrant, spontaneous, and an accomplished professional become reduced to a shell, withdrawing completely from life, addicted and suffering. Over the course of a year, and after losing employment and becoming increasingly sick; finally, they entered and completed inpatient treatment. Experiencing this wellness journey and supporting their recovery during the following year, I met many talented people who cared deeply about those affected by mental illness and addiction. With the encouragement of others, I began my own journey, learning about counselling and beginning to assist others with finding their way. I truly believe a new path in life can always be created. The process of change can take time; however, it is never too late to start, and no obstacle is too great to overcome.  

     I utilize an integrative approach rooted in a combination of theories including humanist, psychodynamic, and cognitive. This provides a basis for the model of treatment intervention I apply in session by blending forms such as positive psychology, narrative and strength-based therapy, and cognitive processing. As your counsellor, I can assure you’ll receive unconditional positive regard, warmth, empathy, and always be treated with dignity.

     Thoughts I hold closely: I believe in hope, I believe change is always possible, I believe in second chances. Life can deliver unexpected difficulty; as your counsellor I am here to help. Together, we will work through the challenges.

Take care,

Carl