Meet Mackenzie – Your Therapist at Sunrise Out East Counselling

 

 

I’m Mackenzie Ells, MSW, RSW (she/her/elle) — a Clinical Social Worker and Registered Counselling Therapist / Psychotherapist (Candidate). I’m educated, experienced, and registered to provide high-quality mental health counselling, and I bring both professional training and a colourful, down-to-earth personality to the work we’ll do together.

 

I grew up in rural Nova Scotia, which gave me my folksy, conversational style and genuine interest in people’s stories. I’ve also lived in big cities, moving through corporate boardrooms, creative communities, academic halls, and live music venues — meeting all kinds of people and learning life lessons along the way.

 

I’ve provided counselling in clinical healthcare settings in Nova Scotia and Ontario, as well as through Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). My career has also included roles in social work, wellness navigation, case management, human resources, music and performance, volunteerism, and the winding journey of life itself.

 

Known for being kind, client-centred, fair, and calm under pressure, I’m also a strategic thinker, an advocate, and a good listener who will read the fine print when it matters. I was voted “Most Unforgettable Character” in high school, and I’ve learned to celebrate my sparkle. I’ve seen and experienced a lot, and I bring that wisdom and compassion into every session.

 

Meet Mackenzie – Your Therapist at Sunrise Out East Counselling

 

I’m Mackenzie Ells, MSW, RSW (she/her/elle) — a Clinical Social Worker and Registered Counselling Therapist / Psychotherapist (Candidate). I’m educated, experienced, and registered to provide high-quality mental health counselling, and I bring both professional training and a colourful, down-to-earth personality to the work we’ll do together.

 

I grew up in rural Nova Scotia, which gave me my folksy, conversational style and genuine interest in people’s stories. I’ve also lived in big cities, moving through corporate boardrooms, creative communities, academic halls, and live music venues — meeting all kinds of people and learning life lessons along the way.

 

I’ve provided counselling in clinical healthcare settings in Nova Scotia and Ontario, as well as through Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). My career has also included roles in social work, wellness navigation, case management, human resources, music and performance, volunteerism, and the winding journey of life itself.

 

Known for being kind, client-centred, fair, and calm under pressure, I’m also a strategic thinker, an advocate, and a good listener who will read the fine print when it matters. I was voted “Most Unforgettable Character” in high school, and I’ve learned to celebrate my sparkle. I’ve seen and experienced a lot, and I bring that wisdom and compassion into every session.

 

 My Counselling Approach


Your mental health counselling sessions are all about you — your thoughts, your experiences, and your feelings. I create a supportive space where you can “let your hair down,” explore what’s on your mind, and work toward healing and hope.


I work from a compassionate, trauma-informed perspective, tailoring each session to fit your needs. My toolkit includes cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based techniques. We’ll focus on “self-management”, learning coping skills you can carry with you so you’re not just waiting for change, you’re equipped to create it.


I’ve supported clients through a wide range of challenges, including:

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Workplace conflicts, bullying, and toxic environments

  • Relationship concerns (poly/open and monogamous)

  • Substance use recovery and harm reduction

  • Family troubles, body image concerns

  • HIV/AIDS-related challenges

  • LGBTQIA+ identity and gender expression exploration

With my background in HR and workplace wellbeing, I also bring insight into navigating corporate stress, career burnout, and professional relationships.