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Keely Murphy is a mental health counsellor in the Wellness Centre, dedicated to supporting students' mental health and well-being through in-person appointments. 

Specializing in working with queer individuals, couples, and communities, Murphy offers affirming support that addresses unique challenges and fosters empowerment. She is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental space to help individuals explore their experiences and pursue their personal goals.  

Tell us a bit about yourself and your professional background?  

I have my master's degree in spiritual care and psychotherapy and I have been working as a therapist for about seven years. I have a private practice called Orange Tulip Counselling based out of Moncton, NB and I’ve worked as a therapist in Ontario and Quebec before moving here two years ago. 
 
What inspired you to pursue a career in mental health counselling? 

I always loved talking to people and listening to what was happening in their lives. In my 34 years on this Earth, I have been through several massive life changing experiences, from deaths to divorce to moving across the country — I’ve seen it all. What I noticed though, was that I consistently ended up feeling very alone and isolated during those moments. From this, I realized that I wanted to do the best I could to be there for people, so they never had to feel alone through the hardest moments. I wanted to be someone people could rely on and I think I’ve worked hard to achieve that so far!

What drew you to Mount Allison and what are you looking forward to most about working with students?

First off, Mount Allison holds a high reputation in the educational community, so all you students should be proud of your accomplishments being here. Beyond that, the campus! Stunning. The people here are amazing and the welcoming atmosphere was calling my name. I couldn’t refuse and I am so excited to work with students. Students have so much on their plates and I think they all deserve a place to go to when things feel too heavy or overwhelming. â€¨ 

What is your approach to counselling and how do you work with students to address their mental health concerns?

I like to approach counselling a bit differently than a traditional therapist. Instead of looking at just one problem, I like to take a holistic approach and look at everything happening in your life now, in the past and in the future.  

My goal is to try to better understand what being in your life can really feel like, so I can help bring clarity and solutions. I am dedicated to understanding their experiences and whatever feelings come up, we welcome them and hold space for them. I also believe that students usually know themselves best, so I think collaborating with them on how they want to receive care is important.  

What can students expect from a counselling session with you? Is there any advice you would give to students who may be hesitant to seek help?

Well, we will start off with an introduction to who I am, my credentials, and I explain confidentiality and informed consent. I let everyone know that there is no blame, no shame, no judgement, and no criticism during the sessions, so however you show up is great.  
I am going to ask you a silly number of questions in the first few sessions while I'm trying to get to know you and I will probably give you some terms to help name what you are experiencing. I usually use a lot of humour and I will also be straightforward with how we talk, so that we don’t risk confusion.  

For those who are nervous to come, that is totally okay and normal! Think about it — I am a complete stranger and we are talking about really big topics. Of course, therapy is scary at first but know that if you have the trust to try it, you might be surprised at how it feels.

Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests? 

Well, I am 34 going on 89, so I love to crochet and do crafts. I have a small dog who I like to take on hikes in Dieppe and Riverview, although she brings a real chaotic flare to wherever we go. When I'm not working, I am usually at the rock-climbing gym in Moncton, spending time with my wife, or out shopping at Guy Frenchy’s. I also have a private therapy practice outside of Mount A, so some of my time is spent running that too. Don’t be surprised if you see me scrolling through TikTok when I'm out at Jennings or pulling tarot cards at a table. 
 
Learn more about the wellness supports available to students.