Luke Froese, BA, BSW
Registered Social Worker
With self‑compassion, we give ourselves the same kindness and care we’d give to a good friend.
- Kristin Neff
Starting therapy can feel like stepping into the unknown. It takes courage to reach out, especially when you are already feeling overwhelmed or unsure. My goal is to make that first step feels safe, respectful, and genuinely helpful. I offer a grounded, compassionate space where you can speak freely, without judgment.
Who I Work With
I support adults (16+) facing a range of challenges, including:
- Anxiety and chronic stress
- Low mood or depression
- Self-doubt, inner criticism, and overthinking
- Relationship issues and communication struggles
- Life transitions such as illness, separation, job changes, or relocation
Whether you are navigating something sudden or carrying a weight that’s built up over time, you are not alone and you don’t need to figure it all out by yourself.
My Approach
My counselling style is collaborative, practical, and rooted in respect. Together, we will explore what matters most to you, identify patterns that may be holding you back, and build tools to help you move forward. I draw on evidence-based approaches such as:
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC)
These models are helpful for developing emotional flexibility, reduce self-criticism, and respond to life’s challenges with clarity and strength.
Experience and Background
I bring over 20 years of experience in mental health and human services, including 9 years in private practice counselling. Prior to that, I spent 12 years working in government and community-based programs, supporting youth and adults navigating trauma, mental health challenges, and complex life circumstances.
After completing clinical coursework as part of my Master of Social Work degree at Dalhousie University, I am now in the final stage of the program. My counselling practicum is focused on advancing skills in trauma healing, improving outcomes for my clients, and meeting the needs of diverse client groups.
Coverage and Access
My services are also covered by most extended health insurance plans. I also offer direct billing for the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program.
If you are feeling uncertain, stuck, or just not like yourself, that does not mean something is wrong with you. It means you are human, and it’s okay to ask for support. Therapy can be a space to reflect, grow, and reconnect with what matters.
Recent Training & Professional Development
Mindful Self-Compassion Core Skills Workshop with Kristen Neff and Chris Germer (Santa Monica, CA – May and June 2025)
Evolution of Psychotherapy Conference (Anaheim, CA – December 2023)
Innovations in Recovery – Addictions Conference – Substance abuse and co-occurring mental health treatment (San Diego, CA – April 2019)
The Advanced Master Program on the Treatment of Trauma: The National Institute for the Clinical Application of Behavioural Medicine.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) Course
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Online Training
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Training
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Webinar: Transforming Pain into Purpose (Praxis Continuing Education and Training)
Brain Story Certification Course (Alberta Family Wellness)
Substance Abuse Professional Certification Course
Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory (SASSI) administration, scoring, interpretation training
Suicide Risk Assessment Training