About Us

Anne Smithson, Reg.N., CPMHN (C)

Anne is a regulated health professional and an active member of the College of Nurses, Registered Nurses Association of Ontario and Independent Practise Nurses. Anne has worked in the Niagara Region for over 30 years. Her experience includes crisis intervention, in-patient Psychiatry, home visits providing assessments and support to those with mental health conditions, individual therapy, group therapy to individuals using a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy approach to care.

Anne remains current in her field by successfully completing and maintaining and updating her certificate in Psychiatric /Mental Health from McMaster University, Certificate of professional development in Cognitive Behavioural therapy from the University of St. Michael’s College , University of Toronto.

Anne has a special interest in helping clients learn improved ways of managing their symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, and psychiatric mental health disorders using a cognitive behavioural treatment approach to care so we control our symptoms rather than the symptoms control us.

James McQueen BA, BSW, RSW

James McQueen is a Registered Social Worker with 19 years of experience in the Niagara Region. He has experience in assisting individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use disorders interpersonal communication and anger management. He has a special interest in concurrent disorders (mental health and substance use) and using integrated treatment to assist individuals struggling with this.

James style of counseling is based on motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused theories. He is able to provide substance use assessments and feedback on the appropriate treatment options.

It has been a joy for me to work collaboratively with Anne for the last few years. She is the consummate professional, yet at the same time compassionate and caring. This combination of traits, at times difficult to find in counsellors, puts her clients at ease as they work with her to create change in their lives.

~Barry Jones MD | Consultant to Anne Smithson Counselling Services | Adjunct Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, McMaster University

James McQueen BA, BSW, RSW

Christine Androney, Administrative Assistant

Christine provides services as the office Administrative Assistant. Christine is happy to assist clients in booking appointments, answering their phone calls and any questions clients may have and will assist in making appropriate connections when required. She is also responsible for general office duties.

Christine has extensive office administrative experience having worked in the travel industry as well as at the Niagara on the Lake Family Health Team.

Christine Androney

Administrative Assistant