Counselling & Wellness
Thrive offers free access to one-on-one counselling for those who need more personalized care. We also have a list of resources for those who are in immediate crisis and need to talk to someone immediately.
Call to make an appointment: 204.772.9091
Our counselling is no charge, but there may be a wait for services.
Providing free counselling to our community and offering student practicum opportunities reflects our dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable downtown Winnipeg community. These services are a testament to our belief in the potential of every individual and the strength of connection. By offering accessible, compassionate care and empowering the next generation of helpers, we honour the diverse experiences of our community and work humbly to address past and present inequities. Rooted in respect, dignity, and shared humanity, we are committed to creating a thriving Winnipeg where everyone has the opportunity to heal, grow, and contribute.
Thrive Community Support Circle offers diverse mental health programs that foster healing, resilience, and empowerment. Our Anger Management Program provides tools for emotional regulation, while our Men’s and Women’s Support Circles create safe spaces for peer connection and growth. The Men’s Support Circle is open to all who identify as men, offering support and discussion on topics that matter. Parenting Programs support caregivers in building strong family dynamics, and our Recovery Support Group offers guidance for those on their healing journey. The Mind and Body Wellness Program is accessible via Zoom, promoting holistic well-being. Our Artistic Empowerment Program encourages self-expression through creativity, and our Empowerment and Advocacy initiatives equip individuals with the skills and confidence to navigate life’s challenges, fostering healthy relationships and self-advocacy. Thrive is also a practicum site for Master of Counselling students, providing hands-on learning opportunities while expanding mental health support for the community. We honor and respect the diverse cultures and experiences of our community members, ensuring an inclusive and supportive environment for all.
Weekdays 9-4 pm
Closed for Lunch 12-1
Counselling Services are Currently FULL
204-772-9091
Our inclusive counselling services meet individuals where they are, empowering them on their journey toward growth and fulfillment, building a stronger community together.
Please call before your appointment if needed to cancel or reschedule.
Thank you!
Counsellor
Prabhjit (Penny) Gill
I’m a registered Social Worker with the Manitoba College of Social Workers (MCSW). I completed my Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba, as well as additional certification and training in crisis intervention, mental health first aid, applied suicide intervention skills training, and being trauma informed.
Everyone experiences problems and challenges of some kind. I have been working in the social services field for over 15 years, providing guidance and support to individuals in various areas. I help them understand their problems and issues through active listening, providing empathy, advocacy, and support, exploring options and resources, incorporating self-care while also being non-judgmental and sensitive to their needs (culturally and spiritually).
I strongly believe every individual is an expert of their own life. As a counsellor, being client centered, I use a variety of ways to help clients navigate life’s challenges such as having them share their story, set goals, and achieve them to feel satisfied and successful. Also, I work to facilitate positive change, empower these individuals to solve their own problems, promote their recovery, and enhance their well-being.
AREAS OF FOCUS:
Grief and loss
Substance Use and Addictions
Trauma
Domestic violence
Mental Health (anxiety, depression, suicide, self-harm, and injury)
Mindfulness and self-compassion
Self-Esteem
Advocacy and Support
Stress Management
Life’s choices, changes, and transitions (work, home, school, and social)
Specialized Therapist
Sandakala (Sanda) Samarakone
I have an honors degree in psychological counselling (BA-Psy) from the University of South Africa and have been a member of Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association since 2015.
I provide person-centered therapy and counselling using a combination of different approaches (CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, etc.) depending on the client’s personality, desires and the mental health situation. My methods include mindfulness (engaging breathing techniques), solution focused brief counselling, cognitive behavior therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I primarily use person-centered, strength-based approaches, as I strongly believe that individuals are the best experts on themselves. Based on the above principles, I guide people to develop a recipe that works best for them using their own ingredients. My role is to facilitate the process and see them through it by brainstorming and teaching relaxation techniques to find space in their brain and provide subtle suggestions when needed after a very active listening process encompassed with empathy.
AREAS OF FOCUS:
Mindfulness based training
Mental health first aid
Applied suicide intervention skills training
Trauma informed care
Cognitive behaviour therapy
Dialectical behaviour therapy
EMDR
Crisis intervention
Self injurious behaviour in youth
Need Child Care?
If you require child care while attending counselling sessions, a spot in our licensed Early Learning Centre may be available for children ages 2 to 5.
After booking your appointment, please call Karen at 204.779.5093.
The centre is located on the main floor at 100-475 Sargent Ave.
