Pleasant Valley Counselling
Clinical therapy practice offering confidential mental health and addiction services to people in Sussex and surrounding areas.
Jessica McMillan
Photo by Catchlight Studio
Clinical Social Worker/Therapist
I have a Early Childhood Education Diploma from Atlantic Business College, a Bachelor of Arts (BA) with Majors in Sociology, Psychology, and a Minor in Criminal Justice from University of New Brunswick Saint John, a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Dalhousie University, and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Dalhousie University. I have been a member in good standing with the New Brunswick Association of Social Workers (NBASW) since 2018; Prior to that I was a member in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) from 2016-2018. I currently am registered again with the OCSWSSW and able to offer therapy in Ontario, exclusively by electronic means only.
Over the past sixteen years, I have worked with a variety of populations including adults, youth, and children all with diverse personalities, cultures, ethnicities, socioeconomic backgrounds, and complex needs. I have experience in mental health and addiction counselling, child welfare, disability supports, and community social work.
While my credentials attest to my professional qualifications, I have many additional personal experiences that support and has enhanced my knowledge and sensitivity. I offer commitment, drive, excitement, organization, passion, and professionalism; qualities that are necessary for promoting a positive service user relationship.
Focusing on the Individual
Individual people are at the heart of social work. Relationships between social workers and service users are integral to all social work interventions. Being able to build relationships with service users, maintain them, and reflect honestly on them is central to social work practice.
Human Dignity and Worth
As a social worker, I understand and respect the inherent value of every human life, regardless of background or beliefs. Every person has the right to self-determination and I treat every service user in a compassionate and respectful way while being mindful of individual differences, cultural norms, and ethnic diversity. I strive to increase service users’ capacity to change, address their own needs, and become self-reliant.
Competence
Social workers develop their skills largely in the course of their practice experiences. I am continually striving to improve my knowledge and to make meaningful contributions to the profession. I do this by participating in continuing education classes and workshops and engaging in academic research.
Social Justice
Advocating for social justice and fighting against social injustice is a key passion of my work. I ensure that all service users have access to basic services, resources, and information.
Professional integrity
As a social worker, I have the responsibility to respect and uphold the values and principles of the profession and act in a reliable, honest, and trustworthy manner. Please see Canadian Association of Social Workers https://www.casw-acts.ca for social work core values. I have Professional Liability Insurance, Commercial General Liability, and Cyber Security and Privacy Liability.