Hi, my name is Michelle Desjardins, but I prefer to be called by my nickname, Shelly.
I have been working with children, youth, and families for over 30 years.
I am passionate about my work and root it in a Person-centred philosophy. I believe that everyone can be well, and succeed, when they are cared for and have the tools they need. Carl Rogers puts it well by saying, “It is that the individual has within himself or herself vast resources for self-understanding, for altering his or her self-concept, attitudes and self-directed behavior – and that these resources can be tapped if only a definable climate of facilitative psychological attitudes can be provided” (1980, p.115-117).
A Person-centred approach aligns well with attachment and trauma realities. When we understand how attachment impacts us, and those we care for, we can succeed in developing healthy relationships. Uncovering trauma, in a supportive and non-judgemental manner is also key to moving forward.
In my therapy practice I use an integrated approach that includes the following tools: Narrative therapy, Cognitive and Dialectical Behaviour therapy, Attachment and Developmental Trauma interventions. I have completed Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) levels 1 and 2 and chair a bi-monthly DDP Community of Practice Group. I am also a facilitator for Circle of Security Parenting (COSP).
My academic background includes a master’s degree in social work from Wilfrid Laurier University, a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Ottawa and a Childcare Worker (Child and Youth Counsellor) diploma from Algonquin College.
I began my career as a Child and Youth counsellor working on multi-disciplinary team for adolescent mental health at the Royal Ottawa Hospital. I appreciated the holistic approach of meeting the families needs.
Following this I joined the OCDSB’s specialized behaviour support worker with the Safe Schools program. This role included analysis, liaison with teachers and creating behavioural intervention plans.
I have now been with the Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa for over 15 years. At CAS I’ve had a wide range of experience, including: Adoption worker, Outside Paid Resource (OPR) Liaison and Placement worker and as a Child Protection worker with the Violence Against Women, Adolescent, and Indigenous Teams.
On a personal note, I love the outdoors including swimming, camping and skiing. In fact, I love skiing so much I was an instructor too! I have also raised two amazing, intelligent, kind, beautiful daughters – I feel blessed to be their mother!