Welcome to Five Star Wellbeing, we look forward to working with you!

Have questions before booking? Contact Derrick at derrick@fivestarwellbeing.com

Click here to add your name to our waitlist to be notified immediately of last-minute cancellations. Please schedule additional session(s) at weekly or bi-weekly intervals to ensure continuity of care.

We can bill most insurance companies directly. NEW CLIENTS, please add a photo or screenshot of your insurance information on your intake form, and we will direct bill your insurance company whenever possible.

Compassionate Support for At-Risk Youth & Young Adults in the Annapolis Valley.

Young people today are navigating a complex world. Whether your child is struggling with bullying, substance use, anger, or pushing boundaries, it can feel overwhelming for the whole family. To change habits and make healthier choices kids need a space where they can explore their thoughts and feel heard.

I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) and Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with extensive experience in the field. Having worked with marginalized youth within the Nova Scotia Department of Justice for 14 years.

My Philosophy of Care

I believe that healing begins with a safe space and a fresh perspective. Having spent over a decade working with youth facing significant adversity, I have learned that resilience is not a trait we are born with, but a skill we build not by avoiding challenges, but by overcoming challenges.

My practice is built on the understanding that we are all in the process of becoming experts of our own stories. Mistakes will happen, and as we learn from them, we develop a stronger sense of who we are.

Counselling with Me

Whether meeting in my office or walking outdoors on the property, my goal is to help you move past judgment and uncover your inherent strengths. By combining practical skill-building with the restorative power of nature, we work together to turn life’s obstacles into a foundation for lifelong growth.

What does an outdoor session look like? It is very similar to a traditional therapy session, just without the walls. We might walk slowly through the property or find a quiet place to sit and talk. There is no rigorous exercise involved; the focus remains on your thoughts, feelings, and goals. Nature simply acts as a co-therapist, providing a calming backdrop that can make it easier to open up.

Why choose the outdoors? For many people, sitting face-to-face in an office can feel intense. Walking side-by-side or sitting in nature can reduce that pressure, making it easier to discuss difficult topics. Being outside also helps with “grounding”—using the sights and sounds of nature to lower anxiety and help you feel more present in the moment.

Is it private? Absolutely. My practice is located on our private property in Berwick, ensuring a quiet and confidential space for our conversations. Just like an indoor session, your privacy is my top priority.

What if the weather is bad? We always have a Plan B. Outdoor therapy is always your choice. If it is raining, too cold, or if you simply prefer to be inside that day, my comfortable home office is always available. We will check in at the start of every appointment to decide what feels right for you.

Compassionate Support for At-Risk Youth & Young Adults in the Annapolis Valley. Young people... Read More

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Berwick
Located at: 34 Shaw Road, Berwick
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