Nicole Couillard

My Story & Approach

My path to becoming a psychologist has been shaped by over twenty years of professional experience working alongside children, youth, and families in education, addictions counselling, therapeutic recreation, and community mental health settings. Through this work, including years as a French Immersion educator, addictions counsellor, and psychosocial programmer, I developed a deep appreciation for how life experiences, relationships, and environments shape the way we understand ourselves and the world around us. Today, I bring that perspective into my practice as a Registered Provisional Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP), supporting clients at OBP's Airdrie and Cochrane locations. As a Registered Provisional Psychologist, I practise under the supervision of a Registered Psychologist, meeting all requirements set by CAP. I have been registered since 2024.

I hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University (2023), a Diploma in School Counselling and Psychology from the University of Calgary (2019), a Certificate in Children's Mental Health from the University of Calgary (2021), a Bachelor of Education from Queen's University (2004), and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Calgary (2003). I've also completed specialized training in suicide intervention (ASIST), non-suicidal self-injury assessment, depression (Dr. Michael Yapko), and anxiety (Dr. Lynne Lyons). My background across education, counselling, and psychology informs my collaborative and practical approach to therapy and assessments.

In my work with clients, I draw from several evidence-based approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Motivational Interviewing, client-centred therapy, and solution-focused approaches. I believe therapy works best when it is flexible and tailored to the individual. My goal is to create a space where clients feel safe, understood, and supported as they explore their experiences and move toward meaningful change.

I offer both counselling and psychological assessments for adults, youth (ages 12 and up), and families at OBP's Nauton House location in Airdrie and our Cochrane office. In addition to in-office sessions, I provide outdoor walk-and-talk therapy along the trails in both Airdrie and Cochrane for those who feel more comfortable talking while moving or being outdoors. Many clients find that integrating movement and nature into therapy helps them feel more grounded and open during the process.

Outside of my work, I'm a busy mom of three who loves skiing, hiking, and biking with my family, walking our dogs along the creek, and spending many weekends cheering from the sidelines at my kids' sporting events. These experiences keep me connected to the rhythms of family life and the importance of balance, community, and time outdoors.