Our Team

Your Partners on the Path to Wellness

The Pearl Psychological Team

Each team member brings a unique set of expertise and experience to help guide you on your path to wellness. 

Read each clinicians bio below to help you chose who might be the right fit. 

If you have any questions, feel free to call Crishia and ask her to book you a 10-minute consultation with a specific clinician.

Vanessa Iceton

Registered Psychologist

As the Director and CEO, Vanessa is a dedicated psychologist with extensive experience supporting teens (14+), adults, seniors, couples, and groups facing a wide range of mental health challenges. With a special interest in trauma (PTSD), grief and loss, self-worth, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and anger issues, she offers a compassionate and evidence-based approach tailored to each client’s needs. Her background working with Indigenous communities and the LGBTQ2S+ population has shaped her culturally sensitive practice, ensuring a respectful and inclusive space for all.

Vanessa Iceton​

Experience and Special Interests

Vanessa’s path to psychology began with eight years as a child and youth care worker within Indigenous communities, working closely with children and adolescents aged six to eighteen. Immersing herself in their cultural and spiritual ways of living, she gained invaluable insight into the power of community, resilience, and healing values she continues to integrate into her therapeutic work.

Beyond her work in youth care, Vanessa spent four years as a Disability Case Manager while completing her master’s degree, supporting individuals navigating short- and long-term disability. This experience deepened her understanding of the challenges individuals face when accessing support systems and shaped her client-centered approach.

 

Vanessa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Concordia University and the University of Alberta. She completed her Masters of Counselling Psychology in 2017, sustained Provisional status for 6 years, and became a fully registered psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists in 2023. 

I took my Bachelor of Arts at Concordia University and graduated from the 3 year program. I then transferred to the University of Alberta where I took and graduated from the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology 4 year program. I completed my Masters of Counselling Psychology in December of 2017. I became fully Registered with the College of Alberta of Psychologists in December 2023. 

With over seven years of experience in mental health counselling, Vanessa specializes in supporting individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, addictions, and anger issues. She also has a strong focus on couples therapy, utilizing Level 1 and 2 Training in the Gottman Method to help partners strengthen their relationships.

Her therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). She is also a certified Grief Recovery Specialist, providing structured support for those experiencing loss and bereavement. Vanessa has completed Gottman Method Couples Therapy and uses Level 1 and 2 Training in her work with couples.

As a leader, therapist, and advocate, Vanessa is deeply committed to fostering growth, resilience, and healing. She considers it a privilege to guide her clients through life’s challenges, helping them build meaningful change and rediscover their strength. Your well-being is at the core of her work, and she strives to create a safe, empathetic space where healing begins.

Vanessa also has a passion for conducting impactful presentations for various audiences, corporations, including students, senior groups, support communities, and indigenous organizations. It brings her great joy to provide an enlightening and empowering experience for your team, contributing to a mentally healthy and supportive environment.

Outside of work, Vanessa enjoys golfing, camping, travelling, decorating her office and home, and hanging with her dog Ollie, as well as friends, and family.

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Tom Ho

Registered Provisional Psychologist

Tom Ho is a Registered Provisional Psychologist with a deep understanding of the challenges children/teens (12+), individual adults, couples, and families face when navigating cultural transitions and mental health struggles. With a particular passion for career counseling, especially for young adults, as well as a focus on anxiety, ADHD, depression, and grief, Tom works with clients navigating stress, trauma, relationships, and sports and performance management. His culturally sensitive approach ensures clients from all backgrounds feel seen, heard, and supported in their therapeutic process. He offers therapy in both Chinese and English, creating a supportive environment for clients to explore their challenges and develop strategies for growth.

Tom Ho

Experience and Special Interests

Originally from Hong Kong, Tom immigrated to Canada at a young age, and he values a culturally informed perspective. Having experienced the complexities of adjusting to new environments and balancing cultural identities, Tom understands the challenges his clients may face in navigating these aspects of their lives.

Having worked and volunteered with individuals from diverse backgrounds, Tom was inspired to pursue a career in psychology to offer support to those in need. He is especially passionate about career counselling for young adults, drawing from his extensive experience in the Post-Secondary field. Tom has a deep respect for each of his clients, valuing the uniqueness of their personal stories. He believes that every individual’s path is special and deserving of thoughtful attention.

Tom’s approach to therapy is rooted in open-mindedness and flexibility. He strives to understand each challenge from multiple perspectives, guiding clients to tap into their inherent strengths to effectively navigate difficulties. His collaborative, client-centered approach helps individuals explore challenges while working toward meaningful self-improvement.

Tom integrates various therapeutic modalities into his practice, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Existential Therapy, Logotherapy, and Narrative Therapy. His work is also informed by Person-Centered Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, ensuring clients receive a holistic, personalized experience tailored to their needs.

Outside of his professional life, Tom enjoys spending time with his small puppy, who brings him joy and balance. In his spare time, he travels to different places to better understand various lifestyles. He values personal time, seeing it as an opportunity to recharge and stay connected to life’s simple pleasures.

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Crishia D

Administrative Assistant

Crishia is the Administrative Assistant for Pearl Psychological. With her background in psychology, volunteer work, and administrative experience, she offers compassionate support and provides a smooth and welcoming experience for every client.

Crishia D

Experience and Special Interests

Crishia Dela Paz is an Administrative Assistant at Pearl Psychological, bringing a background in psychology, volunteer work, and administrative experience. She is committed to offering compassionate support and creating a smooth, welcoming experience for every client.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from the University of Alberta, where she also earned a Certificate in Community Service Learning. Throughout her undergraduate studies, Crishia volunteered with various non-profits, which helped her recognize her own positionality and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges different communities face. These experiences reinforced her commitment to creating positive change and supporting others in meaningful ways.

Currently, she is pursuing her Master’s of Counselling at City University, further expanding her knowledge of mental health and well-being.

Alex W

Volunteer

Alex is currently a Counselling Psychology student working toward her Master’s degree. She brings a background in marketing and is supporting our communications initiatives—including additions to the website, SEO, blog writing, and social media content.

Alex W

Experience and Special Interests

Alex is currently a Counselling Psychology student working toward her Master’s degree. She brings a background in marketing and is passionate about using those skills to help people find the support they need to grow and flourish. Her experience includes working with children ages 0–16 and with individuals affected by domestic and intimate partner violence.

She’s especially committed to providing clear, accessible information about therapy so that people can make informed decisions about their mental health. As part of her role with us, Alex will be supporting our marketing and communications initiatives—including additions to the website, SEO’s, blog writing, and social media content!

Outside of her studies and volunteer work, Alex enjoys gardening, hiking, and anything outdoors. She’s also a creative spirit who’s always looking to learn something new!

Mahek M

Volunteer

Mahek is a Psychology graduate and volunteer blog writer with Pearl Psychological. With a background in psychology and community work, she enjoys bringing warmth, curiosity, and reflection into her writing.

Mahek M

Experience and Special Interests

Mahek is a Psychology graduate and volunteer blog writer with Pearl Psychological. She loves exploring how psychological ideas and past experiences manifest in the psyche and shape human behaviour, connecting theory to the patterns we see in everyday life. With a background in psychology and community work, she enjoys bringing warmth, curiosity, and reflection into her writing.

Why Choose Us

Passion and Privilege

Our genuine passion for this profession drives us to support clients on their transformative journeys. It is both an honor and a privilege to be entrusted with guiding individuals through their struggles, fostering their well-being and growth.

A Safe and Confidential Space

We believe in fostering a warm, non-judgmental, and authentic environment for our therapy sessions. Your feelings, thoughts, and experiences are of utmost importance, and we are committed to creating a safe space where you can openly explore and express yourself without fear of judgment.

Empathy and Collaboration

We truly value the therapeutic relationship we build together. Through empathy and understanding, we will work collaboratively with you to understand your unique needs and goals. Your voice and preferences guide our journey, ensuring that you are an active participant in your healing process.

Fostering Hope and Growth

We firmly believe that counselling has the power to increase insight, self-awareness, acceptance, and hope for a more fulfilling life. Together, we will identify your strengths and utilize them to navigate life’s challenges, fostering personal growth and resilience.

Evidence-Based Therapies

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns
  • Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma recovery
  • Grief Recovery Specialist with the Grief Recovery Institute
  • Level 1 and 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy

Adapting Therapeutic Approaches

Recognizing that every individual’s journey is unique, we are committed to adaptability in my therapeutic approaches. Alongside evidence-based therapies, we integrate other modalities to ensure a holistic and personalized counseling experience. Our flexibility allows me to align with your specific goals and needs, fostering a deeper understanding and connection throughout the therapeutic process. Together, we will navigate through challenges and work towards achieving your desired outcomes, providing a supportive space for your growth and well-being.

Your Guide to a Healthier and Happier Life

Ready to create positive change in your life? 

Taking the first step towards positive change can be transformative, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re facing difficult times, seeking personal growth, or simply looking for a supportive space to explore your feelings, we are committed to being your partner on the path to well-being.

Let’s embark on this journey together. Book a session today, and let’s work towards a healthier, happier, and more balanced life. We look forward to connecting with you and being a part of your positive change.

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