Meet the Sweet Spot Team – Real Therapists for Real Life
Samantha Barnes (she/her) Registered Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor, Clinic Owner
Rates $200/session (individual) Ages 16 and up
Clinical Supervision $200/Individual, $100/dyad, Groups $80 and up
Limited Availability for in-person clients on Wednesdays, or Virtual Clients and Supervisees on Tuesdays/Thursdays, 10-3 pm – Sorry, no evenings or weekends
“When you’re carrying the weight of the world, you don’t have to do it alone.”
I’m a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario with over 25 years of experience supporting my clients through life’s most challenging transitions. As a proud single mom to three amazing kids (including some beautifully neurodivergent ones), I understand firsthand the complexities of modern motherhood, the exhaustion of carrying it all, and the courage it takes to ask for help.
My heart is in helping women rediscover their strength. Whether you’re healing from a difficult childhood, navigating divorce, struggling with anxiety and depression, or simply feeling lost in your own life—I specialize in walking alongside women who are ready to rebuild and reclaim their power.
You’re safe here. My style is relaxed and deeply relational. Think of our time together as that conversation with your wisest friend—except I happen to have 20+ years of clinical training I use to create a safe place for you to sink in and reflect on what your next steps will be. You can take off any masks, (maybe even your shoes) and show up exactly as you are, and simply breathe. There is no rush here, we go at your pace. You don’t need to have it all figured out when you walk through my door—just come as you are.
What We’ll Work On Together:
- Healing from narcissistic abuse and high conflict relationships
- Managing divorce and co-parenting challenges
- Processing grief, loss, and major life transitions
- Rebuilding self-worth and confidence
- Creating the life you actually want (not just surviving)
I use proven approaches like CBT, ACT, Narrative Therapy, Self Compassion and some somatic and trauma-informed techniques—but always in service of what feels right for YOU.
Also Offering:
- Clinical Supervision for new and established therapists (individual, group, or drop-in sessions) Read more about that here:
- Clinical Supervision | Barrie ON | Sweet Spot Counselling
- Private Practice Coaching for therapists ready to launch or grow with confidence
P.S. You might also meet Charlie, my gentle therapy dog who often joins me at the office—because sometimes healing happens best with a furry friend nearby.
Charlie Brown – Comfort and Support Animal – Rate – All the Belly Rubs Please
This gentle, non-shedding handsome guy has a special gift for knowing exactly who needs a furry friend during their therapeutic journey. Whether it’s a nervous child taking their first steps into therapy, a teenager who finds it easier to open up with a warm companion nearby, or an adult who simply finds comfort in Charlie’s calming presence, he has a remarkable way of melting away anxiety and creating instant connection.
Charlie is non-shedding and well-trained in therapeutic settings. He respects boundaries, follows commands, and has an intuitive sense of when to offer comfort and when to give space.
These days Charlie is usually only on the office on Wednesdays, attending sessions with his human Samantha however he is always happy to pay a quick visit to the waiting room for pets and snuggles
Charlie embodies our philosophy that healing happens best in spaces that feel safe, warm, and genuinely caring.
Jim van Schie, Registered Psychotherapist (he/him)
Rates $200 (Individual) $250 (75 min) Couples or Family Sessions
Offering Virtual and In-Person Sessions in our Barrie, Ontario Office
Limited evening and weekend availability
“When life feels overwhelming, you don’t have to face it alone”.
Hi, I’m Jim. For over 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside families, couples, and young people through their most challenging moments and witnessing incredible transformations along the way.
I specialize in supporting neurodivergent individuals, male-identifying teens and young adults, and families and couples navigating grief, life transitions, and conflict.
My style is warm and conversational I believe the best work happens when people feel genuinely at ease. My goal is for every client to leave with more confidence and the practical tools to move forward, not just in sessions, but in real life.
If you’re a parent feeling exhausted by constant conflict with your teenager, struggling to understand your child’s ADHD, or watching your family drift apart, I understand how isolating that can feel. You’re not failing you’re human, and these challenges are more common than you think.
If you’re a couple who used to laugh together but now can barely have a conversation without it turning into an argument, you’re not alone. Many couples find their way back to connection and joy, and I’m here to help you rediscover what brought you together.
If you’re a young person dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, or grief, it takes courage to reach out. I’ve spent years working specifically with teens and young adults, helping them build confidence, strengthen relationships, and discover their unique strengths even when everything feels impossible.
What makes our work together different? I believe you already have the answers within you. My job is to help you find them. Using proven approaches like CBT and strength-based therapy, we’ll work as a team to create real, lasting change that fits your life.
You deserve relationships that bring you peace, not stress. You deserve to feel confident in your parenting. You deserve to wake up excited about your life.
Ready to take the first step? Let’s talk about how we can make that happen.
Emily Simms, Registered Psychotherapist (she/her) Clinical Associate
Offering Both Virtual and In-Person Sessions in our Barrie, Ontario Office
$180 (Individual and Parent Support) Clients ages 6 and up
Currently FULL and not accepting new clients at this time
For several years, I have supported all ages with providing a judgement free space to grow, build coping tools, and explore who you are.
I am a Neurodiversity affirming Autism Clinical Specialist and I work from a strengths-based approach, exploring each individual’s unique strengths and helping empower them to achieve their goals. I’m passionate about finding the coping skills and strategies that work best for your brain and your lifestyle. Because of this, my therapy approach is eclectic and collaborative. I am always open to feedback around how to better support you on your journey and will adapt my style to find an approach that resonates.
I believe connection and self compassion are powerful tools for change. At the core of my therapy approach is learning how to both challenge and accept yourself at the same time.
In my time outside of the office, you can spot me outside with my dog (photos of pets are always welcome!)
Sydney Osborne, Registered Psychotherapist (she/her)
Rate $160/Individual $175/Family/Couples
Accepting New Clients 7 and up – Limited Day and evening availability
Hello! My name is Sydney (she/her), and I am a Registered Psychotherapist at Sweet Spot Family Counselling.
Life can throw a lot at us, and sometimes it feels like too much to handle on your own. I offer a space that feels safe, comfortable, and down-to-earth. Therapy with me isn’t about being “perfect” or fitting into a mold. It’s about showing up as you are, being heard, and finding tools that actually work for you.
I work with kids, teens, and young adults managing different life struggles, including regulating big emotions, ADHD management, anxiety & depression, and self-esteem. I understand there is not a one-size-fits-all model, so each treatment plan is tailored to you using evidence-based practices. I’ll meet you where you’re at: we might laugh together, tackle hard stuff head-on, or pause while you teach me the meaning of the latest slang word (happens more than you’d think). Therapy doesn’t have to feel cold or intimidating; it can be real, supportive, and even a little fun.
A little bit about me! I love being outside with my dogs, trying out new recipes at home, and carving out time to play games. I can talk Pop Culture for days, and if you put on a Taylor Swift or Phil Collins record I will be the happiest person in the room! If you’re ready to have a space that’s truly yours, I’d love to be part of your journey.
Alysa Hoftyzer, (she/her) Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
$140/Individual Session Accepting New Clients age 7 and up
Day and Evening Availability
“The most powerful therapy happens when you feel truly seen and understood.”
Hello! My name is Alysa (she/her), and I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at Sweet Spot Family Counselling. I know that life can be incredibly hard, it can feel overwhelming, lonely, or confusing, and it’s during those moments that having someone who truly sees and hears you can make all the difference. As a therapist I believe each client carries the strengths, tools, and experiences within themself. My role is to support you in recognizing and using these inner resources to navigate life’s challenges.
Here’s what makes working with young people different: I meet them exactly where they are—whether that’s on the floor with art supplies, talking through video games, or just sitting in comfortable silence until they’re ready. I speak their language, respect their timeline, and believe in their strength even when they can’t see it themselves.
For parents: I know how terrifying it is to watch your child struggle. You’re not failing—adolescence and young adulthood are genuinely harder than they’ve ever been. Together, we’ll help your young person build the tools they need while supporting you through this journey.
A little bit about me, when I’m not in session, you’ll likely find me outdoors adventuring with my partner or cozied up at home with my two pets, Aspyn and Scylla. I’m currently on a mission to visit every provincial park in Ontario, because I truly believe healing can happen anywhere, not just in the therapy room.
Ready to take the first step? Whether you’re a young person ready to take the first step, or a parent looking for support for your child, I’d be honoured to be a part of your journey. I work with children, teens, and young adults navigating a variety of life challenges, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, emotional regulation, grief, and more.
Kate Kinniburgh, (she/her)Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Individual Sessions $140 No Sliding Scale at this time
Accepting New Clients age 8 and up – Day and Evening Availability
Your story matters, and it deserves to be heard by someone who truly gets it.
What draws me to this work? Having spent years as a front-line community worker and live-in resident advisor, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible resilience of young people navigating life’s challenges. There’s something magical that happens when someone your age really listens without judgment—when they create space for you to discover your own inner wisdom and strength.
My approach is simple: I believe you already have everything you need inside you to heal and grow. My job isn’t to fix you (because you’re not broken) but to walk alongside you as you uncover your own answers and find that powerful place within yourself.
A bit about me: I live with my partner and our little family—Sawyer-Stitch (our kitten who thinks he’s a dog) and Stella (our actual dog who thinks she’s a human). My perfect day starts with making an iced latte and journaling in my cozy corner, maybe playing some piano or guitar later. I’m equally happy hiking outdoors or getting completely absorbed in a good show or video game—because balance is everything.
I believe the stories we tell ourselves shape our reality, and every single story deserves to be witnessed with empathy and compassion. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, identity, or just feeling lost in this chaotic world, I’m here to listen without judgment and help you rewrite your narrative in a way that feels authentic and empowering.
Ready to start uncovering your story together? Contact me Today
Jillian Yuzpe Registered Psychotherapist – Virtual Sessions Only
Individual and EMDR $175 60 min sessions $262.50 90 min sessions
“Loving ourselves is the most difficult and courageous thing we’ll ever do.” – Brené Brown
Life doesn’t have to feel this heavy. If you’re navigating grief, chronic illness, divorce, or just feeling stuck in the chaos of everyday stress, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
I’m Jillian, and I believe therapy is about walking through difficult times with someone by your side who truly understands. Finding peace and moving through life’s challenges shouldn’t be a lonely undertaking.
My approach is grounded in compassion, not perfection. I use trauma-informed Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with a strong focus on self-compassion and mindfulness. Together, we’ll help you live with greater meaning and authenticity—even when life feels uncertain. I’m also trained in EMDR, a powerful approach that can help release emotional blocks and support deeper healing.
What we’ll work on together:
- Grief and loss
- Life transitions and chronic illness
- Divorce, separation, and co-parenting
- Anxiety, stress, and emotional regulation
- Building self-esteem and confidence
- Parenting challenges and maternal well-being
- Relationship struggles
Here’s what makes our work together different: I understand that starting therapy can feel vulnerable. A safe, respectful therapeutic relationship where you feel truly heard is fundamental to making positive change. I work from a culturally sensitive, compassionate place, helping you build resilience by uncovering insights that foster self-compassion and acceptance.
A bit about me: I come from a varied background—I spent a decade as a Chartered Accountant before becoming a therapist. I’m also a qualified teacher, a mother, and a co-parent to three amazing kids. I understand the complexities of juggling multiple roles while trying to take care of yourself.
Whether you’re an adult navigating major life changes or an adolescent working through difficult emotions, I’m passionate about supporting you through whatever challenges you’re facing. You deserve a space that’s truly yours
Emily Oliveira-Mastrangelo, Clinical Intern, Laurier Graduate Student
Student Rate $90/individual session, Ages 10 and up (Sliding Scale Options Available)
Evenings and Weekends Available
You are more capable than you know, and sometimes, having the right person in your corner makes all the difference.
I became a therapist because I genuinely love people. I love their stories, their resilience, and the way each person sees the world a little differently. Children, families, couples, and individuals of all ages have taught me so much over the years, and that sense of curiosity and wonder is something I bring into every session.
I have a soft spot for the early years, supporting child development and walking alongside parents as they figure out this whole parenting thing. But no matter who I’m working with, what lights me up is watching someone discover something new about themselves, or find a strength they didn’t know they had.
In our work together, you set the pace. My approach is warm, curious, and completely judgment-free. I’m here to create a space where you feel comfortable enough to slow down, get honest with yourself, and explore what’s really going on without pressure, without rush.
I also geek out a little on how the brain works and why we are the way we are. (In the best possible way, I promise.)
Outside the office, I’m an animal lover through and through. My cat Pebbles was my sidekick for 17 years, and these days my two dogs Tori and Kodi keep things lively. When I’m not with them, I’m usually travelling, hiking, or hunting down new experiences because life is too interesting not to explore.
I’d love the chance to work with you. Let’s figure this out together.