At 19 years old, I volunteered at a children’s camp where my passion and desire to make a difference in peoples lives began. At that time, I had no idea how I would pursue a career in psychology as the financial commitment and number of years seemed impossible. However, three years later I enrolled in university, although not psychology, and my long path to a career in psychology began.
I graduated with a degree in business administration and trained in business counselling, through the Acadia Entrepreneurship Centre, working to support entrepreneurs and other professionals as they started and marketed their own small businesses. As I helped these individuals manage entrepreneurial challenges, I realized my passion for psychology was still strong. What I noticed was, internal challenges, such as self-doubt, negative beliefs, worries and fears kept my clients from reaching their goals, their full potential, not a lack of money or a good business idea.
Finding My Direction
In 2003 I decided to change careers, go back to University, and pursue my original passion in psychology. After successfully obtaining my registration in Alberta I spent a number of years working in School Based Mental Health, Community Mental Health and at Alberta Health Services. In 2013, I decided to start my own private practice and bring my previous business knowledge and my passion for therapy together, which has always been my dream.
My therapy approach has been shaped by the opportunity to work with physicians, psychiatrists, other professionals, and most importantly, the clients I have had the pleasure to work with. I offer compassionate, non-judgmental, collaborative counselling tailored to each client’s unique situation and needs. In my years as a business counsellor and psychologist, I have seen that there are many different paths to achieve goals, but the most effective approaches are those that are developed collaboratively with clients.
At InnerPath Psychology, I offer treatment for adults experiencing anxiety, depression, infertility and grief. Many clients come to me looking for ways to manage painful, overwhelming or distressing situations that are impacting their personal life, relationships or career. Others wish to understand the root of their problem and escape the harmful cycle of negative thoughts, emotions and behaviours that has them feeling lost or stuck in their lives. Whatever difficulties you are facing, I can offer you guidance and support as you develop meaningful and lasting solutions. You can feel comfortable as you address past issues, and feel empowered as you learn new skills and strategies to cope with challenges in your life.
Finding Balance
We all go through difficult periods in our lives, and finding an appropriate healthy work-life balance can give you the time, energy and perspective you need to manage and eventually overcome challenges. This is no different for me: over five years ago, while in Calgary, Alberta I started a part-time private practice and in 2015 moved into full-time practice with the same goal to find a healthy work-life balance.
In 2018, I returned to Nova Scotia and settled in the Hantsport area, after purchasing a country property, continuing to work on my life-work balance. Early in 2019, I obtained my registration as a Psychologist in Nova Scotia and moved my private practice to the Hantsport area. When I am not helping clients, I take great pleasure in being outdoors and surrounded by nature. I love to travel, explore and experience new cultures. I’m always trying to improve my knowledge and skills, whether I’m completing additional psychology training or learning about gardening, yoga and cooking.
My office is just outside the town of Hantsport, located on the Bluff Road, and accessible via Hwy 101. If you are ready to start feeling better I invite you to contact me at 902-719-6939 to determine if I am the right psychologist for you.
Paula Winstanley is a Registered Psychologist in Nova Scotia. She earned her Masters of Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and her Bachelor of Business Administration from University of Prince Edward Island. She has completed advanced training in EMDR Therapy as well as other evidenced based treatment approaches.
