Meet Our Founder
Katie Reed, B.S.W., M.S.W., R.S.W.
Registered Social Worker and counsellor based in Windsor, Ontario. OCSWSSW Registration #860578. Providing trauma-informed, anti-oppressive support for adults navigating some of life's most difficult moments.
Education & Credentials
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
University of Windsor
Master of Social Work (MSW)
University of Windsor
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
OCSWSSW — Registration #860578
Addictions Certificate
Fanshawe College
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
McMaster University
Trauma- & Violence-Informed Care (TVIC) Foundations
University of British Columbia
Certified Danger Assessment (DA) Assessor
Specializations
2SLGBTQI+ Affirming
CORE Counselling is a welcoming, affirming space for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. All are welcome here — exactly as you are.
Our Approach
I came to social work because I believe deeply in people's capacity to heal — even when that feels impossible to imagine. My path into this work was shaped by a genuine curiosity about the human experience and a commitment to showing up for people in some of their most difficult moments.
I hold a Bachelor and Master of Social Work from the University of Windsor, and I'm a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I also hold an Addictions Certificate from Fanshawe College and completed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy training at McMaster University — both of which directly shape how I approach the work.
My training spans trauma, intimate partner violence, family violence, addictions, and psychoeducation. I hold a Trauma- and Violence-Informed Care (TVIC) Foundations certificate from the University of British Columbia and am a certified Danger Assessment (DA) assessor. I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches — including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, motivational interviewing, and somatic awareness — always adapting to what works best for you.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship trauma, grief, and major life transitions. I also support parents, individuals navigating new ASD or ADHD diagnoses, and anyone who feels lost in the social services system and needs help finding their footing.
Above all, I believe that the therapeutic relationship matters. My goal is to create a space where you feel genuinely heard, respected, and supported — not judged, not rushed, and never alone in what you're carrying.
“The therapeutic relationship matters. My goal is to create a space where you feel genuinely heard, respected, and supported — not judged, not rushed, and never alone in what you're carrying.”
Our Framework
The C.O.R.E. Approach
Every session is guided by four principles designed to help you move from surviving to thriving — at your own pace, in your own way.
Clarity
Making sense of what you're experiencing — naming it, understanding it, and seeing it clearly without shame.
Ownership
Reconnecting with your agency and your story. Not blame — but the empowering recognition that you have choices.
Regulation
Building the capacity to manage difficult emotions and sensations so they don't run the show.
Empowerment
Moving forward with confidence, tools, and a renewed sense of who you are and what you're capable of.
The C.O.R.E. framework is a guide, not a script. Every session is shaped by what you need that day.
How We Work
What guides every session
Trauma-Informed
Every aspect of the work is grounded in an understanding of how trauma shapes the nervous system, relationships, and sense of self. Safety and trust come first — always.
Addictions-Informed
Substance use and addictive behaviour are understood through a lens of compassion, not judgment. The focus is on the whole person — not just the behaviour.
Client-Centered
You are the expert on your own life. The therapeutic relationship is a collaboration — your goals, your pace, your voice at the centre of every session.
Evidence-Informed
Practice draws on research, clinical training, and lived experience — including CBT, motivational interviewing, and somatic awareness — always adapted to what works best for you.
2SLGBTQI+ Affirming
CORE Counselling is a fully affirming space. You deserve support that honours your full identity — without explanation, justification, or judgment.
Intersectional
Race, culture, gender, class, disability, and lived experience all shape mental health. This work acknowledges and respects the full complexity of who you are.
Transparency & Trust
Know your rights — and the limits of confidentiality.
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship. What you share in our sessions stays within the practice — with a few important, legally defined exceptions you deserve to know about from the start.
Risk of harm to self or others
If there is a serious and imminent risk that you or someone else may be harmed, I am required to take steps to ensure safety — which may include contacting emergency services.
Child protection (mandatory reporting)
Did you know? All social workers — and many other adults who work with children — are mandated reporters under Ontario's Child, Youth and Family Services Act (s. 125). This means if there are reasonable grounds to suspect a child may need protection, a report to the Children's Aid Society is legally required. This duty exists to keep children safe — not to discourage you from seeking support.
Court orders & legal proceedings
In rare circumstances, a court may order the disclosure of clinical records. If this occurs, I will inform you and work to protect your privacy to the fullest extent possible.
College complaints & professional oversight
The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers may review records as part of a formal complaint or quality assurance process.
Outside of these exceptions, your privacy is fully protected.
These limits will be discussed in full during your first session and are outlined in your informed consent documentation. You will always be informed before any disclosure is made whenever it is safe and appropriate to do so. If you have questions about confidentiality before we meet, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Ready to take the first step?
A free 15-minute consultation is available — no pressure, no commitment. Just a conversation to see if we're a good fit.