Our Story
Therapy that’s personal, flexible, and grounded in compassion.
We’re Betsy and MacGregor Austin-Olsen, Registered Social Workers and Therapists based in Stratford, Ontario. Together, we offer counselling services designed to meet you where you are—emotionally, physically, and practically.
We each bring distinct yet complementary approaches to the therapeutic process. With experience supporting clients through a wide range of concerns—trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, family dynamics, performance pressure, life transitions, and more—we create a space where real conversations can happen and meaningful change can begin.
We know that no two people’s stories are the same. That’s why we shape each therapeutic relationship to the individual, drawing from evidence-based practices while also listening to what matters most to you.
We also understand that traditional therapy settings don’t work for everyone. When it feels appropriate and supportive, we’re open to meeting outside the office.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, searching for clarity, or simply looking for a safe space to talk, we’re here to walk alongside you with compassion, curiosity, and respect.
ABOUT THE THERAPISTS
Meet therapists Betsy Austin-Olsen and MacGregor Austin-Olsen.
Betsy Austin-Olsen, MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker | Therapist
Stratford, Ontario
With over 25 years of experience as a Registered Social Worker (MSW), Betsy Austin-Olsen has dedicated her career to helping individuals and families in Stratford, Ontario and the surrounding communities. She has worked extensively in the healthcare sector and continues to provide compassionate care through her private counselling practice.
Betsy believes that healing begins with a secure therapeutic relationship built on respect and understanding. She works collaboratively with clients to explore early experiences, challenge internalized beliefs and build skills for emotional regulation and distress tolerance. Her warm and supportive approach helps clients feel safe while working through difficult emotions and experiences.
Areas of Focus
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Betsy provides counselling support for a wide range of concerns, including:
- Anxiety and depression
- Trauma and emotional dysregulation
- Suicidal thoughts
- Grief and loss
- Family conflict and parenting challenges
- Work-related stress
She has a particular interest in supporting parents and caregivers, helping them deepen their emotional connection with their children by understanding their own attachment patterns and inner emotional states.
Therapeutic Approaches
Betsy draws from psychodynamic and attachment-based frameworks, while integrating practical tools from:
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
- DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy)
- EFT (Emotion-Focused Therapy)
- IFS (Internal Family Systems)
This flexible approach allows her to tailor therapy to meet the unique needs of each client.
Professional Credentials
Betsy is a member in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, ensuring her clients receive professional, ethical, and evidence-based care.
MacGregor Austin-Olsen, BSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker, Certified Mediator, Certified Master MHCR (Mental Health Crisis Response) Trainer | Therapist
Stratford, Ontario
MacGregor has spent the past decade as Registered Social Worker supporting individuals, couples and families in and around the Perth and Huron regions. Throughout his career he has worked in the Healthcare and Justice systems. MacGregor believes in creating a strong therapeutic alliance with his client and sees that alliance as the key dynamic when in search of personal growth. He works in collaboration with his clients exploring early life experiences, building skills to manage life stressors, and managing anxieties that can inhibit emotional stability and growth. His kind and positive demeanour creates a safe and comfortable environment for his clients.
MacGregor has also expanded his practice to include Sport and Performance counselling and he has been connected to various elite athletes, teams and leagues supporting athletes and achievers throughout the region.
Areas of Focus
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MacGregor can support his clients through a wide range of issue including but not limited to:
- Anxiety and Depression
- Trauma and Emotional Dysregulation
- Irrational Thinking
- Suicidal Thoughts
- Couples Counselling
- Grief and Loss
- Family Conflict
- Parenting Concerns
- Stress
- Sport and Athletic Performance
- Frontline Workers (Police, EMS, Military)
Therapeutic Approaches
MacGregor works from an eclectic framework drawing on tools from the following modalities in order to create a therapeutic response tailored to each clients specific needs:
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
- DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy)
- Psycho-educational
- IFT (Internal Family Systems)
Professional Credentials
MacGregor is a member in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, ensuring his clients receive professional, ethical, and evidence-based care.
