Our Counselling Team

Clinical Supervisor – Lisa Johnson, BA, MEd, CCC, LCT-C, specializes in supporting children and teens. With a Master of Education in Counselling from the University of New Brunswick and certification as a Canadian Certified Counsellor, she integrates play therapy, narrative therapy, CBT, and other approaches to meet each client’s unique needs. Lisa provides a compassionate space, The Crow’s Nest, for young individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem issues.

Julia Besner holds a Master’s degree in Public Health and has 18 years of experience in healthcare as a Dietitian, manager, and researcher. As the co-founder of the Eating Disorder Council of New Brunswick, Julia is dedicated to supporting individuals with disordered eating and eating disorders. With a strong foundation in nutrition and counselling, Julia provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help clients build a healthier relationship with food and body image.

Katie Bettle is a Registered Social Worker with extensive experience in assessments, service coordination, and client support. With training in ASIST, SAFE Assessment, VTRA Level 1, and Mental Health First Aid, she is dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. Holding degrees in Social Work and Psychology/Criminal Justice, Katie is committed to supporting individuals in navigating challenges and accessing resources.

Dr. John Crawford, B.A., M.Div., MSc., D.Min., CCC, LCT, is a certified counsellor with degrees from both Canada and the U.S. He specializes in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT). A member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, he was inducted into the Chi Sigma Iota Honour Society in 2014. At Gentle Path, he supports clients facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, and self-esteem issues.

Gillian, BA, M.Ed., LCT-C, is a Licensed Counselling Therapist-Candidate with a Master’s in Education (Counselling) from UNB, specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and employment. She has experience as an employment counsellor for individuals on the autism spectrum and works with clients aged 5 and up using a collaborative, client-centered approach. Gillian is dedicated to fostering a compassionate, safe space for clients to explore and address various topics.

Lora Durant, BA, MEd, CCC, LCT-C, is a Licensed Counselling Therapist Candidate with over 20 years of experience supporting at-risk youth, individuals, and families. She takes an integrated, client-centered approach, fostering a safe and empathetic space for healing and growth. Lora specializes in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and personal development.

Lauren Harris, MSW, BSW, BA, is a dedicated social worker with experience in child protection and mental health support. She holds a Master of Social Work from St. Thomas University and has worked with Social Development since 2019, ensuring the safety and well-being of children. Lauren also brings her expertise to Gentle Path, providing compassionate care to individuals and families in need.

Stuart Kearney is a dedicated counsellor specializing in supporting adults of all genders who are gay, bisexual, or questioning, as well as individuals navigating anxiety and neurodiversity (ADHD and Autism). Grounded in mindfulness, his practice integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and solution-focused techniques to foster growth and resilience. With extensive experience in education and community advocacy, Stuart is committed to creating a supportive space for personal well-being and self-discovery.

Courtney Martin, LCT-C, has a passion for supporting individuals and families. With eight years of experience as a lead child educator at the YMCA of Greater Saint John, she has worked with diverse communities, fostering growth and resilience in children. Compassionate and ambitious, Courtney brings a positive and professional approach to her counselling practice.

Debby Stanton, MSW, is an experienced social worker with a strong background in crisis intervention, child welfare, and community outreach. She has worked in various social work positions across British Columbia and New Brunswick, specializing in case management and adolescent support. Debby takes a strengths-based, solution-focused approach to helping individuals navigate their healing journey. Passionate about community well-being, she is dedicated to empowering others with the support they need.

Monica Vautour CCC, LCT is a retired education and mental health school counsellor with extensive experience in child and youth integrated service delivery. With a Master’s in Counselling Psychology from UNB, background in mental health, she specializes in evidence-based counselling, behavior intervention, and support planning. As a former school counselling lead and coach, Monica is dedicated to fostering student well-being and success.

Bruce Washburn, B.A., M.Ed., R.T.C., C.C.C., is a Canadian Certified Counsellor with Reality Therapy Certification through the William Glasser Institute. With an undergraduate honours degree in Psychology and a Master’s in Educational Foundations: Counselling from UNB, NBCC-certified educator, and a certified Life Skills Coach, Bruce provides compassionate support for individuals, couples, and families facing challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, relationship issues, and personal development.