Our Westshore Team
TEEN & ADULT
Dr. Katie Elmhurst, DSW
Dr. Elmhurst has committed her life to building her knowledge and skills to counsel and consult youth, adults and families through the lens of strengths-based Social Work and family system’s practice. Dr. Elmhurst received her Bachelor of Social Work from McGill University in Montreal, Quebec, as well as her Masters of Science in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University in New York City. Following this, Dr. Elmhurst moved to New Orleans, Louisiana, where she completed her Doctorate of Clinical Social Work practice with a specialization in trauma from Tulane University. Dr. Katie Elmhurst believes that as individuals we each have the ability to channel unique personal strengths and resiliencies to overcome hardship and adversity. It is through client partnership that Dr. Elmhurst creates a safe space for each client to continue on their unique journey of self-acceptance and healing.
YOUTH, ADULT & FAMILY
Tiffany Canning
Whatever it is, how you tell your story online can make all the difference. Tiffany is your local Labradorian from the North who thrives on humour and joy! She almost always has a smile on her face! She brings a welcoming and warm presence to the counselling environment. Seeking counselling can be one of the most difficult things you do, but Tiffany makes it a point to show you how strong you truly are.
With a decade of experience in the non-profit sector and mental health crisis response, she has worked extensively with children, youth, and families from all backgrounds and walks of life. As a third-cultured kid, she advocates for indigenous youth and immigrant families in her community. Her work is grounded in integrative, anti-oppressive, collectorate, and trauma-informed principles, fostering a safe and empathic environment that encourages growth and promotes healing and freedom.
Tiffany holds a M.A. in Counselling Psychology (Yorkville Univ), B.A. in Theology and is a Certified Clinical Counsellor (BCACC), and Canadian-certified Counsellor (CCPA).
Beyond her counselling practice, Tiffany indulges her passion for exploration by travelling globally, learning new cultures, camping, hiking, biking, and spending quality time with her furry cat companion, Lulu.
YOUTH, YOUNG ADULT & FAMILY
Kelly Houlahan
Kelly brings experience working with children, youth, and families in community, school, and in-patient environments across southern Vancouver Island. She is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with BCACC and a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.
She specializes in addressing the distinct needs associated with developmental stages, whether guiding teenagers through identity exploration, helping adults navigate life transitions, or supporting children facing emotional challenges. Her goal is to empower her clients to develop resilience and coping skills, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves. She believes in the transformative power of building a strong therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone for positive change. Together, you’ll embark on a collaborative journey toward emotional balance, growth, and healing.
Kelly offers a range of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Art Therapy, and Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). She addresses a variety of concerns, including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, peer/family relationships, academic stress, and self-esteem. As a trained yoga instructor, Kelly is passionate about incorporating mindfulness and movement into her integrative therapeutic approach. She also loves singing along to musicals!
Meet Our Interns
YOUTH & FAMILY- MCC IN PROGRESS
Layla Casper
Layla Casper is completing her counselling internship at The Budding Elm under the mentorship of Dr. Katie Elmhurst and Tiffany Canning. Nearing the end of her Registered Clinical Counselling requirements, she is also pursuing a Master’s in School Counselling from the City University of Seattle.
With over 25 years of experience advocating for youth and 13 years in classroom teaching, Layla adopts a person-centered approach and respects her clients’ unique experiences. She focuses on the impacts of screens and social media on mental health, particularly for youth facing ADHD, anxiety, or depression, and aims to promote healthy online habits and self-compassion.
Layla holds degrees in Business Administration and Education and stays connected to current research in youth counselling. Her internship allows her to provide affordable services while maintaining the high standards of The Budding Elm. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her husband and their dog, Tootsie.
TEEN & ADULT- MACP IN PROGRESS
Cheryl Dafoe
Cheryl views authentic and trusting relationships as powerful catalysts for growth and change. Her counselling approach is compassionate, candid, and genuinely curious, creating a welcoming space where clients can feel safe and seen as they explore and understand their unique experiences.
With a diverse background in education, recreational programming, and child and youth care, Cheryl holds a Bachelor's in Education from the University of Calgary and a Bachelor's in Recreation Management from Acadia University. Currently pursuing her MA in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University, she is excited to join The Budding Elm as an intern under Dr. Katie Elmhurst and Tiffany Canning.
Cheryl employs an integrative approach, using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and other modalities to support clients facing challenges such as separation, grief and loss, family dynamics, attachment issues, ADHD, and burnout.
Outside of her practice, she enjoys comedy, music, and exploring Vancouver Island with her two children and their dog, Cleo.
