About Andra Gemmell

Andra is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) #11293 and member of the College of Registered Psychotherapist’s of Ontario. She received her Bachelor of Applied Science in Adult Development with a minor in Psychology at the University of Guelph and her Master’s of Arts in Counselling Psychology through Yorkville University. Andra completed her internship at MyLife under the supervision of our Clinical Director Mark Nixon, RP #2331. We invited her to join our team full time after getting such positive feedback from her clients!

Andra has been working in the field of mental health over the past six years and brings with her a wealth of training and experience.

As a Behavioural Counsellor, Admissions, and Care Coordinator at Stonehenge Therapeutic Community in Guelph, Andra worked closely with people struggling with severe addiction and mental health issues. She helped residents in crisis, supported their recovery, and listened to their stories. In doing so, she came to understand how people do their best to cope with traumatic pasts and how these strategies can sometimes be harmful in the long run.

Her experience in addictions has inspired her to help people find healthier ways to safely and gradually process painful events from their past rather than avoid them. She uses a trauma-informed approach when working with her clients. This means she helps clients feel safe, grounded, and resourced before dealing with painful memories or events so that they don’t feel overwhelmed in the present. Her goal is to help clients regain their peace-of-mind, overcome shame, and regain a sense of confidence in directing their lives.

As the past Service Coordinator at Here 24/7, Andra provided one-on-one support to people calling in crisis, seeking referrals, and needing brief support as they waited for ongoing services. Her work included responding to children and adults struggling with suicidal thoughts and connecting them with urgent support. Andra’s experience means she’s extremely skilled at helping people feel understood, grounded, and actively supported through all types of distress in their lives including anxiety, trauma, depression and relationship conflict.

Andra immigrated from Romania from a young age and still holds her roots in the culture through her love of Romanian food, music, and language. Part of her self-care includes gardening, cooking, and exploring new places with her husband.

Articles by Andra