GET TO KNOW OUR TEAM
We are in this together
MORE ABOUT OUR TEAM
We are in this together
Nikita Eglinski
Registered Provisional Psychologist - Accepting new clients
My name is Nikita Eglinski and I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist (P6937) with the College of Alberta Psychologists. I am also a member of the Psychology Association of Alberta. I have my Masters of Counselling Psychology degree and have experience in community-based practice and private practice. I enjoy working with a wide demographic of people such as adults, teens, children, couples, and families. I have a special interest in areas concerning anxiety, depression, relationships, anger, intimate partner violence, trauma, grief, stress, burnout, compassion fatigue, suicide prevention, body dysphoria, sexual orientation & gender diversity, and women & girls.
My approach to therapy is through a trauma-informed lens and I establish my framework through person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, emotion-focused therapy and solutionfocused brief therapy. This means that I draw upon the experiences of my clients and cultivate a space for them to explore their thought patterns, belief systems, and behaviours. Additionally, I draw upon Gottman Method techniques when working with couples, structural family therapy techniques when working with families, and two specific CBT techniques when working with everyone else: mindfulness-based cognitive behavioural therapy and trauma-focused behavioural therapy. Moreover, I have additional experience and understanding with classical music, cultural diversity, and work within the trades.
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I am level 1 certified with the Gottman Institute (couples therapy), certified with ASIST (applied suicide intervention skills training), and continue my competencies in areas related to ethics, Indigenous training, and furthering my skills in individual therapy modalities.
My goal is to connect with clients by fostering a space in which you feel seen, heard, and understood. I believe that each person has the ability to express themselves and find comfort in knowing that their exploration is met with safety and support. My role is to facilitate personal growth and reminding clients that they themselves hold transformative knowledge in being able to identify their wants and needs. I believe in collaboration, discussion, reflection, and exploring new connections in thinking, feeling, and being. I think that the biggest takeaway anyone can have when starting their therapy journey is to recognize that taking the first step in asking for help is one of the most courageous things you can do. And in feeling and reflecting, we can begin healing.
"Pooh, what's the bravest thing you've ever said?" asked Piglet. "Help," said Pooh.
Shara Ishadi
Registered Provisional Psychologist - Accepting new clients
Hi, I’m Shara (she/her)! I’m a South Asian Canadian Provisional Psychologist, and I graduated from the University of Alberta with an M.Ed. in Counselling Psychology. As a woman and first generation immigrant, my experiences with identity, culture, and mental health have shaped how I show up in my work. I care deeply about creating space where mental health care feels equitable, accessible, and welcoming for everyone.
My approach to therapy is client-centred and strengths-based, which means I focus on your unique strengths, experiences, and goals to support healing and growth. I draw from practical strategies from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness approaches, helping you build skills to manage challenges and strengthen resilience. I also value trauma-informed care and cultural humility, which means that I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgemental space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported.
I have worked with adults and adolescents experiencing concerns such as general and social anxiety, family or relationship conflicts, trauma, career challenges, and ADHD. Whether you face similar or different challenges, you can expect our sessions to be a collaborative and compassionate space where your thoughts and feelings are validated. We will also work together toward practical, meaningful steps that align with your values. Therapy with me is flexible and tailored to you, helping you move toward positive change in ways that feel relevant and supportive.
Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new places, reading, engaging in creative hobbies, and spending time with loved ones. I also value curiosity, kindness, humour, and meaningful connections, and I try to bring these into both my work and everyday life
Brina Properzi
Canadian Certified Counsellor - Accepting new clients
Hi, I’m Brina (she/her), I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor, and I have my Master of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology. I have an undergraduate degree in kinesiology that has led me to enter the profession of counselling with a holistic approach to understanding our bodies connection to our mental health. My experience includes working with couples and adults experiencing issues with anxiety, relationship and family issues, life transitions and trauma. I find it beneficial to focus on your strengths and I use components of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy , Motivational Interviewing, Gottman Method techniques, Trauma, EMDR, and Mindfulness techniques dependent on your individual needs.
As your counsellor, I want you to feel supported. My job is to align with your mental health needs and I use an empathetic, non-judgemental perspective to create a space where you feel comfortable. I understand the challenges of dealing with issues regarding your mental health, and I am here to meet you wherever you are at in this process.
Danny Batraki
Registered Provisional Psychologist - Accepting new clients
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Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when stress, past experiences, or unhelpful thought patterns begin to take hold. In therapy, I work collaboratively with you to explore what may be getting in the way and to uncover pathways toward meaningful change. My approach is trauma-informed, strengths-based, and grounded in evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Gottman Method. Each session is tailored to your unique needs and goals, reflecting a person-centered philosophy that recognizes healing is never one-size-fits-all.
I work primarily with adults and couples, supporting concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, relational challenges, life transitions, burnout, and LGBTQ+ experiences. I also place strong importance on the client–therapist relationship, believing that feeling seen, heard, and understood is foundational to the therapeutic process.
Therapy is a space for insight, connection, and growth. While starting can feel daunting, having someone in your corner can help create shifts in perspective that lead to lasting change. I strive to offer a space that is compassionate, accountable, and grounded in genuine connection, where you can safely explore your story and reconnect with your strengths.
I’ve always been drawn to the depth and complexity of people’s experiences, the quiet, messy, and meaningful parts that often go unseen. Becoming a therapist felt like a natural extension of this curiosity and care. It is a privilege to walk alongside individuals as they rediscover their resilience, voice, and capacity for growth. You’re not broken, you’re human, and capable of far more than you may realize.
Jean-Luc Roy
Registered Psychologist - Accepting new clients
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Hello. My name is J.R. and I am very excited to meet and get to know my clients. I understand that trust has to be built for the best outcomes of therapy to occur. My experiences of building and exhibiting trust with others have come from contributing and learning as a member of a numerous sports teams throughout my life from elementary ages through to University football and diverse work experiences throughout my life. Most significantly, before becoming a psychologist I spent years working in the industrial trades as Millwright where I experienced firsthand the pressures, stress, and expectations that many people carry every day and in many ways. That background shaped how I approach therapy today: practical, honest, and focused on helping people move forward in meaningful ways.
That approach begins immediately as I get to know the person or people sitting across from me and with their guidance, we design goals and strategies that work best with their resources and strengths. I understand that many people are carrying stress quietly, trying to manage relationships, work responsibilities, emotional struggles, or major life changes without feeling like they have a place to talk openly. I believe therapy should feel collaborative and practical, not overwhelming or overly clinical. My goal is to provide a supportive and respectful environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered while working towards these goals. I have observed and understand therapy to be most beneficial when conducted through the lens of cognitive-behavioural interventions while resolutely incorporating methods from person-centered, emotion-focused, mindful, solution-focused therapies as well. I work best with adult individuals experiencing self-esteem, stress, anxiety, anger, depression, and substance use issues. I am most adept when working with males of any age. I also work with couples experiencing conflict, distance, monotony, communication breakdowns, and shared life stressors. I utilize the Gottman method above all else when working with couples.
I have a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and have been a Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists for 4 years. I have worked with all ages in non-profit, private, and substance abuse rehabilitation settings.
Deanna Barrie
Senior Registered Psychologist
Hi! Let me take a moment to introduce myself, my name is Deanna Barrie (she/her/hers) and I am the owner of Life by Design Psychology. I am so glad you found your way to me. Before we get started there are some things I would like you to know about me. First, I am a Registered Psychologist (4623) in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists. I hold a Master of Counselling degree, in Counselling Psychology, and I am member of the Psychological Association of Alberta. I offer people, just like you, a wide range of counselling and psychological services to help guide them through life’s challenges and most trying times. Life can get difficult, trust me I know! What I also know is that sometimes a little help from a professional can make things a bit better.
I believe that you have the insight and ability to create a life you love. Don't get me wrong, I recognize that life does a really good job of throwing obsticales in our way, but I also bear witness to the fact that you've found your way through the tough stuff before. It is my belief that people have an intrinsic motivation to live their best lives and to strive to be their best selves. However, I also appreciate that sometimes we forget how to get there. Here's were I come in... Sometimes all that we need is someone to be there with us, to hold space for us, and encourage us as we find our way back. And perhaps my offering of support, guidance, my training, and my use of empirically supported techniques can help you to learn how to tackle even the most traumatic circumstances.
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If you haven't found what you need here, or you have questions about counselling or my services please give me a shout. I would be happy to chat with you, and if I don't have what your looking for I would happily like to connect you with someone who does.
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"You don't have to see the whole staircase, you just have to take the first step."
- Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. Robert J. Trifiletti
Senior Registered Psychologist - Accepting new clients
Dr. Robert Trifiletti, Registered Psychologist, is a highly experienced clinical psychologist specializing in evidence-based and in-depth psychological assessments in areas that include: posttraumatic stress disorder, depression/anxiety/panic disorder issues, OCD, personality adjustment, and for persons who are experiencing sexual relationship concerns.
He has considerable experience in providing VAC assessments for RCMP/military members to acknowledge and document the toll of your service on your psychological adjustment. His assessment history includes evaluations for persons who have experienced known or suspected mild traumatic brain injury (sustained in injury accidents).
He also has considerable training and experience in the comprehension psychological (and neuropsychological) assessment for persons with known or suspected Autism Spectrum Conditions, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity, and related neurodivergent conditions.
Marissa Kargus
Registered Provisional Psychologist - Who will be working with Children and Families Starting in 2027
WHO CLIENTS REALLY COME TO SEE
Comfort and Companionship
Retired
Tink!
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Tink loves to spend her days at the office greeting and comforting clients. She is soft and gentle by nature, but admits she is sometimes guilty of taking a nap in session. She enjoys pets if it is helpful to you, but is also happy to give you extra space if that is what you need. Although Tink takes her companion role very seriously and likes to be of service, she also knows she is not for everyone. If you aren't keen on her joining your session be sure to to let Deanna know beforehand so she can ensure Tink is properly cared for.
Therapy Dog in Training
Maybelle
Maybelle is still a puppy, but she is working really hard at becoming a perfect therapy dog. Â She understands she has some pretty big paws to fill, and she is up to the challenge. Â Maybelle brings an easy going manner, humour, and joy to our sessions. She is quirky and sweet, and a comfort to be around. Â Though she is not always in the office, if she finds her way on site for your session she would love your attention and patience as she finds her way.
Office Greeter (In Training)
Bear
Bear is currently in training as our part-time office greeter and full-time sweetheart. He takes his job very seriously, making sure the office feels safe, warm, and welcoming.
Bear is vegan—but not exactly by choice. Sweet potatoes are his absolute love language and the currency that fuels his best behavior.
Bear isn’t always in the office but is so proud to be part of the Life by Design family.