Meet Allison Mckenna
UNB Counselling Intern, Sept 2026-April 2027
Located in Saint John, NB or virtually across New Brunswick
Pronouns: she/her
About Me:
As a counselling intern currently completing my Master of Education in Counselling at the University of New Brunswick (Fredericton), I am passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where you can show up exactly as you are. I believe that healing happens through connection, compassion, and collaboration. My approach is person-centred, meaning that our work together is guided by your unique experiences, strengths, goals, and what feels most helpful to you. You are the expert in your own life, and I am here to walk alongside you on your healing journey.
I strive to offer a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and accepted. I take pride in working from a trauma-informed lens, recognizing the impact that life experiences can have while honouring your resilience and capacity for growth. One of my greatest passions is helping people recognize the strengths they already possess and supporting them as they build on those strengths.
For the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of working with youth in a variety of supportive roles throughout the greater Saint John community. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the importance of authentic relationships, safety, and meeting people where they are. I believe in showing up as my authentic self and creating a space where you can feel comfortable doing the same.
Quick Facts:
Areas of Interest: Trauma, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Emotional Well-being, Youth and Adult Mental Health
Therapeutic Approach: Person-Centred, Trauma-Informed, Strengths-Based, Collaborative
Clients I Work With: Youth (10+) and Adults
Location: In-person (Saint John), Virtual, or by phone
Availability: Mondays, Wednesday evenings, by appointment at other times
Language: English
Credentials and Training
- Master of Education in Counselling (currently completing), University of New Brunswick – Fredericton
- SafeTALK Trainer
- ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training)
- Trauma-Informed Care Training
I am excited to continue learning alongside the experienced counsellors at Rising Tides while supporting members of our community through compassionate, client-centred care.
Frequently Asked Questions
We believe counselling should be accessible. Allison offers reduced-fee counselling while completing her Master of Education in Counselling at the University of New Brunswick. She is supported through regular clinical supervision and mentorship by the experienced Rising Tides Counselling team.
Low cost counselling can be a great option for people without health insurance benefits or other means to pay for therapy. Counselling interns are in the final phases of their education and training and will become eligible for registration with a counselling body as soon as they graduate. Low-cost counselling gives you access to their knowledge and experience before their rates increase.
Counselling students are actively engaged in Masters-level university programs. They receive support and mentorship from their academic advisors as well as weekly supervision at the internship site. At Rising Tides, many clients who begin working with a student intern continue to work with their therapist after they graduate and become licensed as their experience has been so positive and they want to continue the therapeutic relationship.
Allison is your therapist and will be your primary point of contact throughout your care. As part of her master’s practicum, she receives regular clinical supervision from Lori McIsaac Bewsher and has access to consultation with the experienced Rising Tides Counselling team. Your privacy remains very important, and any clinical discussions are conducted confidentially and solely to support the highest quality of care.
Allison can support youth and adults with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, stress, life transitions, trauma, and emotional well-being. Throughout her practicum, she receives regular clinical supervision and has access to consultation with the experienced Rising Tides Counselling team, providing an additional layer of support to help ensure high-quality, client-centred care.