Ray Frizzell

Hi there,

Embarking on therapy can be a tough decision. This can feel all the more overwhelming and/or scary when we are not doing so well. I’m glad you are here.

Please allow me to introduce myself.

My name is, Ray (he/him). I am a registered counselling therapist with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT). My practice is built on offering a safe, non-judgmental, and affirming space where individuals can explore their mental health and emotional well-being. I embrace all people that find their way to me for counselling and I highlight my experience supporting neurodiverse individuals and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, ensuring that every person who walks through my door feels seen, heard, and valued. I strive to create an environment where clients feel comfortable being their authentic selves, knowing they will be met with respect and understanding.

My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in empathy, acceptance, and personalization. I work to develop strong, trusting relationships with my clients, where they can explore their unique challenges and experiences. My therapeutic focus areas include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, gender and sexual identity, Autism, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), existential questioning, and significant life changes. I understand that everyone’s journey is different, and I tailor my approach to fit each individual’s needs and goals, helping them find the tools they need to heal and grow.

As someone who lives with, and works with neurodiverse individuals, I recognize the vast diversity of human experience and make it a priority to meet clients where they are. I offer support that honors how each person processes emotions, relationships, and the world around them. As a proud member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, I am deeply committed to creating an inclusive space where clients can explore their gender and sexual identity without fear of judgment or discrimination.

My work with Autistic adults brings with it a broad range of concerns many of which are rather unique to Autistic individuals, these include:

Autism and Identity - late diagnosis, diagnosis or no diagnosis, disclosure of Autism

Distinct Anxiety - Also called ‘Anticipatory Anxiety’, Autistic individuals may often experience crippling anxiety related to need for certainty and predictability

Anxiety and Social Interactions - not to be confused with Social Anxiety, this anxiety is related to the perceived self-deficits in navigating near-typical social conventions and the fear of judgement by not getting it right

Autism and Trauma - many Autistic adults who only discover they are Autistic later in life experience very complex trauma from ongoing bullying, exclusion and isolation in their younger years - being told and made to feel they are damaged or broken

Autistic Burnout - Many Autistic adults experience nervous system overwhelm that leads to shutdowns and possible burnout. This is often mislabeled and attached to shame as being lazy or over-dramatic rather than the impact of neuro-difference being understood and steps taken for recovery

Interoception - Due to sensory differences, many Autistic individuals have very little awareness to of their body. Many do not feel sensations until they are extreme or conversely have big reactions to physical sensations that are, to many people, very minor.

Intersecting Identities - How does Autism intersect with other identities - be they cultural or other such as being Autistic AND Queer.

Alexithymia - many Autistic Adults are diagnosed with Alexithymia - a condition where one has extreme difficulty identifying/feeling emotions.

To guide my work, I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches, including Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Self-compassion Focused Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Emotional Regulation and Processing. Each of these approaches allows me to meet my clients where they are and offer a tailored, integrative approach that supports healing and personal growth.

I understand that life transitions and mental health challenges can feel overwhelming, and my goal is to offer a supportive environment where you can find clarity and resilience. Therapy with me is not just about managing symptoms—it’s about fostering lasting change, personal growth, and a deeper sense of self-acceptance, I’d be honored to walk that journey with you.

Ray