Tennille PhippsRPC, MPCC
Owner / Counsellor
“And the day came when the risk it took to remain tightly closed in the bud became more painful than the risk it took to bloom” (Anais Nin)
Tennille Phipps is one of the counsellors and owners of Living Bridges Therapy Collective. She is in this position because she is passionate about supporting individuals and our community in the journey of healing as we build bridges to a strong and hopeful future. The path that brought her here had many unexpected twists and turns, and although some were difficult and overwhelming at times, she's grateful for the growth and lessons that have helped her continue to take the risk of blooming. One of those lessons has been balancing facing the hard and messy while also embracing the beauty and hope in life.
As a therapist, Tennille uses an integrative approach to counselling, respecting the individuality and autonomy of each client, and believing that there is no “one size fits all” method. She aims to collaborate with you, her clients, as she supports you in your healing journey, believing that creativity and curiosity are our most important tools in therapy. Tennille works to cultivate a place of safety and trust where you can bring your whole self, knowing you are accepted with compassion and without judgment. One of the ways she does this is by ensuring that she is learning and growing in creating a space that is not only collaborative but also inclusive, culturally safe and responsive.
To give an idea of her educational and professional background, Tennille has been working in the field of mental health & addictions for the past fifteen years mostly here in Kamloops, but also in Calgary. Her educational background includes a diploma in applied psychology and counselling, a BA in leadership, and, most recently, a master's in counselling, to be completed in April 2025. Her portfolio also includes case management, development and facilitation of programs, workshops and training, as well as team leadership and development. Tennille is certified in trauma-informed practice and Observed Experiential Integration (OEI),which is a specific technique used in the treatment of trauma and in which she is also a certified trainer. More recently, she has begun applying OEI to assist athletes in overcoming obstacles and enhancing their performance. Her work with athletes also includes teaching leadership and team-building skills. Currently in her practice, Tennille provides individual therapy and specializes in trauma/complex trauma, grief and loss, burnout, addictions, support for first responders, attachment, and identity development.
Born and raised in Kamloops, it is with humility that she acknowledges that she is an uninvited settler living and working in the traditional and unceded territory of the Secwépemc people. Tennille enjoys exploring the many trails around the area with her partner and her dog, Kaiah. Some sources of joy in her life are her family and friends, music and art, creating, cooking, crocheting, playing games, and she's also learning to garden. Travelling has always been a passion for Tennille as she loves to adventure and experience different countries and cultures. Though she's moved away a few times, her love for the community of Kamloops keeps calling her home. Tennille feels honoured to serve in the Interior and is passionate about making a difference in the health and wellness of the members of our community.
Favourite Quotes:
“Choose courage over comfort. Choose whole hearts over armour. And choose the great adventure of being brave and afraid at the exact same time.” (Dr. Brene Brown, 2019)
“Don't ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” (Thurman, 2010)
