Nora Smith • Registered Counselling Therapist

Nora Smith • Registered Counselling Therapist Therapy rooted in empathy, respect, and understanding. Primary focus on trauma, anxiety, and sexuality. Neurodiverse and LGBTQIA2S+ informed.

Currently accepting in-person clients in Dartmouth and virtually throughout Nova Scotia. I offer counselling therapy to those aged 18 and up. Using elements from cognitive-behavioural therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and client-centred therapy, I guide clients toward healing from grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, substance dependency, intimacy issues, and many other mental wellness concerns.

“I was overwhelmed, drowning in work and taking care of others. But people always commented on how strong and selfless I...
09/25/2025

“I was overwhelmed, drowning in work and taking care of others. But people always commented on how strong and selfless I was for all I was doing, so I kept going….”

Sound familiar?

In our culture, it’s common to celebrate people who are always busy, exhausted, and giving everything they have to others. We’re told it’s admirable to “push through,” to “go above and beyond,” and to put our own needs last.

But constantly being overworked or self-sacrificing isn’t a badge of honour — it’s often a sign of burnout and disconnection from ourselves. True strength is knowing your limits, setting boundaries, and prioritizing your well-being.

Let’s start praising rest. Let’s celebrate balance. Let’s honour people who care for themselves as much as they care for others. Because when we’re nourished and whole, we show up more fully and sustainably for the people and things that matter most.

09/25/2025

In a world of constant notifications, endless scrolling, and 24/7 news updates, our minds can easily become overwhelmed. Taking intentional breaks from social media and the news isn’t avoidance — it’s self-care.

Disconnecting…..
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Gives your nervous system time to recharge
• Helps you reconnect with the present moment
• Creates space for your own thoughts and feelings

Set aside a few hours (or even a whole day) without social media or news. Use that time for rest, hobbies, connecting with loved ones, or simply being still. Notice how you feel afterwards.

09/21/2025
Considering therapy but unsure if it’s right for you? I offer free 15 minute consultations to discuss any questions or c...
09/18/2025

Considering therapy but unsure if it’s right for you? I offer free 15 minute consultations to discuss any questions or concerns you may have.

09/17/2025

The term Psychotherapist is widely known, but the title
Registered Counselling Therapist can leave some questions regarding we are and what we do.

So, what Does It Mean to Be a Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) in Nova Scotia?

When you see the title Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT), it’s more than just a name — it’s a protected, regulated designation.

• Education & Training
RCTs hold at least a master’s degree in a counselling-related field and complete thousands of hours of supervised practice before becoming fully licensed.

• Regulated & Accountable
They’re licensed by the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT), follow strict Codes of Ethics & Standards of Practice, and must complete ongoing professional development.

• Safe & Professional Support
RCTs provide talk-based therapy for individuals, couples, and families — helping with life changes, emotional distress, relationships, and mental health concerns.

• Title Protection
Only those registered with NSCCT can legally use the title “Registered Counselling Therapist” or “RCT.” This helps ensure public protection and quality care.

—> Why it matters: Choosing an RCT means you’re working with someone whose qualifications and ethics are verified — and who’s accountable to a professional regulator.

Main Causes of Burnout • Chronic Work Stress – Heavy workload, unrealistic deadlines, or constant overtime. • Unclear Ex...
09/12/2025

Main Causes of Burnout
• Chronic Work Stress – Heavy workload, unrealistic deadlines, or constant overtime.
• Unclear Expectations – Not knowing exactly what’s expected of you.
• Lack of Support – Minimal help from supervisors, colleagues, friends, or family.
• Poor Work–Life Balance – Not enough time for rest, hobbies, or relationships.
• Constant Exposure to Stressful Situations – e.g., caregiving, healthcare, or high-pressure roles.
• Perfectionism / High Self-Expectations – Setting unrealistic standards for yourself.
• Unaddressed Emotional Stress – Grief, relationship conflict, or chronic worry that never gets processed.

Burnout is usually a mix of these factors rather than one single cause.

09/10/2025
09/09/2025

If you have reached out to me and haven’t received a response please check your spam/junk mail folders!

Imagine being able to access therapy from the comfort of your own home - I offer virtual sessions to clients throughout ...
09/06/2025

Imagine being able to access therapy from the comfort of your own home - I offer virtual sessions to clients throughout Nova Scotia, providing a convenient and flexible way to support your mental health journey through video-chat sessions and telephone appointments.

Nora-Jane Smith, Counsellor, Dartmouth, NS, B3A, (782) 828-5546, I offer my clients a safe, welcoming, and empathetic experience where we work together toward their goals and develop a strong therapeutic relationship. My main clinical focus areas are trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, burnout, in...

I often use somtatic techniques to help my clients heal from trauma and anxiety. A calm body and an anxious mind cannot ...
09/05/2025

I often use somtatic techniques to help my clients heal from trauma and anxiety.
A calm body and an anxious mind cannot coexist 💚

Address

192 Wyse Road
Dartmouth, NS

Opening Hours

Wednesday 12pm - 8pm
Thursday 4pm - 8pm
Friday 10am - 6pm
Saturday 10am - 4pm

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