About Edith
Edith Townsend is a highly skilled and compassionate clinician who draws on 19+ years of experience and training working with individuals, couples and families, and groups in the fields of addiction, mental health, relationships and trauma.
She received bachelor’s degrees in both Psychology and Criminology at the University of Ottawa in 1999 and a Master of Social Work in Individuals, Families and Groups at Wilfrid Laurier in 2003. She is a Registered Social Worker in excellent standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and subscribes to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
Edith has provided psychotherapy in a variety of clinical settings in both Canada and the United Kingdom including community agencies, treatment centres, public and private hospitals, the school system and not-for-profit organizations. She has experience working with diverse groups of people and also specializes in working with specific occupations such as health care professionals, the military, and hazardous occupations.
Edith began her career in the field of alcohol and drug addiction and later became a specialist in the field of process addictions at Bellwood Health Services in Toronto, ON where she developed and implemented several treatment programs for individuals struggling with problem behaviours. These include sex, gambling, video gaming and Internet use, shopping, eating and other compulsive behaviours. She also had a special interest in working with families of those struggling with addictions. Her work has been presented at national conferences as well as the media including national newspapers, radio, magazines and television.
After relocating to Guelph, ON, and starting her private practise and consultation services, Edith has worked with several local organizations. She has provided individual and group therapy at the Canadian Mental Health Association for clients struggling with moderate to severe mental illnesses, particularly anxiety and depression. She led groups for mood disorders, emotion regulation, and piloted a Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy program. She also provided individual therapy for adolescents struggling with mental health issues and completed assessments and consultations for the 0-6 years population and their families. Edith provided clinical services and consultation for The Residence, an inpatient treatment facility and spent two years facilitating group and individual therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy skills groups and participated in program development at the Centre. She also provided consultation and group therapy services for Stonehenge Therapeutic Community working with clients with addiction issues. Edith currently provides part time clinical services at Guelph General Hospital in the Bariatric Clinic providing assessment and support for the surgical program.
Edith is deeply committed and passionate about the fields of addiction and mental health and continues training in both professional and personal development. She genuinely enjoys working with people and helping to support and guide them in reaching their goals and living a more satisfying life. Aside from her practice, Edith finds fulfillment through yoga, travel, music and the outdoors, and adventures with her children.