Hi, I’m Emily, nice to meet you!

She/Her/Hers
Admire the poise and grace of Audrey Hepburn.
Love gnomes and always pronounce the “G”.
Can be found being active with my kids, playing baseball, hockey or skiing with the family.
Have come to realize that my hobby of buying books and reading them are two different things.
Am introverted with a desire/need to be extroverted.
Still hate the dark even as an adult.
Love being silly with my kids (and letting my inner child play, even if the rest of the world doesn't always get this side of me).

"Think of yourself as the skilled navigator of your life's expedition; I'm here as your trusted mountain guide, supporting and guiding you through the terrain you know best. You're the skilled climber scaling life's peaks; I'm your experienced Sherpa, supporting you on the ascent to personal growth and well-being."

- Emily MacIver

It’s nerve-wracking to start this process.

I’m supposed to tell you all about myself here.

BUT I’m going to start with YOU. You’re looking for that really good fit of a therapist because you want to feel like you can lay it all out there, like they could be your best friend, while at the same time, expertly guiding you to create the change you’re needing.

And it’s nerve-wracking to start this process of looking in the first place.

I totally get that!

“Therapy isn't all serious introspection; it's about embracing laughter, finding joy in the small victories, and celebrating your resilience. Within our safe and accepting space, you can show up as your authentic self, free from judgment or expectations. It's a place to explore, vent, and discover the incredible power that lies within you.”

- Emily MacIver

What clients have said about me…

Ok so now I’ll talk about myself, but it’s not going to be about my license, degrees, and trainings (you can find those WAY down at the bottom).

You can expect me to be REAL with you.

I have had clients tell me I am patient, empathetic, refreshing (with a dash of humor).

Most sessions will feel like you got something out of it, like there was a connection, some gentle nudges for you to grow and find that solution you’re wanting.

There’s a good balance of going to the heart of what you’re feeling, while also getting those solutions.

I’m also ok being called out in our session too.

I’m open to you guiding and sharing what’s working for you, what you don’t like, and what you need.

Ultimately, my main goal is for you to feel comfortable, understood, and safe to do the healing you need to do.

I’m in it with you. I’m there with you. Bringing a solid sense of calmness to our sessions, realness, humor, and expertise.

How did Oak and Sands come to be?

From the Tiny Acorns of Today to the Mighty Oaks of Tomorrow.

Oak and Sands is named after my kiddos! My eldest, a fearless explorer, would always gift me acorns found on our property. He taught me a lot about being a parent and about myself. "Sands" honours my beach-loving daughter, who can turn both good and bad days into lakeside celebrations. As she wisely puts it, "There's always a place for feelings at the beach."

My mother's coat of arms also happens to mean Oak, which embodies strength, endurance, and longevity - something I hope our clients get to walk away with.

My ultimate goal is to empower you to achieve the transformation you want and guiding you to a point where my help is no longer needed.”

Oh, and in case you wanted to know!

Masters Counselling Psychology

EMDR Therapist (Trained)

Emotion Focused Therapy and EFIT (Trained)

Anxiety, IFS, DBT, CBT (Educated & Trained)

Honors BA in Psychology

Post Grad Communication Disorders Certificate

Mini FAQ on Emily

No - while all have moods like anyone else, we won't bite! We will be our friendly selves, be real with you, and make the whole experience feel as comfy as possible!
Not at all! While we do have some seriously comfy couches, we also have chairs and there is no body position requirements! Some clients even sit on the floor! You do you. If you want to colour, sketch, snack, doodle, knit or fidget - do it! It’s all about what you need.
Laughter.