Kristen Brooker

 Kristen Brooker, MA, RP (Qualifying), is a compassionate psychotherapist focusing in the profound bond between humans and animals. With over a decade of experience in the animal welfare sector, she offers a unique perspective on pet loss, animal-related anxieties, and grief.

Her clinical practice is grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), providing clients with values-based tools to navigate difficult life transitions. As a neurodiversity-affirming practitioner, she expertly adapts her therapeutic interventions to meet the sensory and communication needs of ADHD and autistic individuals. Kristen is particularly known for integrating Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) into her work, often partnering with her therapy dog and other animal partners to enhance emotional regulation. Beyond grief support, she also assists clients overcome phobias and anxieties related to dogs through gentle, evidence-based strategies.

She currently manages Human-Animal Support Programs at the Ottawa Humane Society, where she leads therapeutic programming for psychiatric inpatient units.

Her trauma-informed approach ensures a safe, inclusive environment for individuals from all walks of life, including first responders and newcomers.

Kristen holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and is dedicated to fostering resilience through the human-animal connection. Whether supporting a client through the loss of a companion or navigating neurodivergent challenges, her goal is to help individuals build meaningful, connected lives.

Professional Certifications and Development:

-Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University.

-Post-Degree Diploma in Therapeutic Recreation

-Recipient of the Civitan Award for excellence

-SafeTALK (Living Works)

-Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (CPI)

-Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) Specialist

-Standard First Aid, CPR, and AED (Red Cross)