LAURA & ANDREW

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Laura is an active member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). She is also a Certified Attendance Counsellor with the Ontario Association for Counselling and Attendance Services (OACAS) and an Associate Addiction Counsellor and an active  member of  the Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF). With extensive experience in counselling students to overcome attendance challenges, many of which are fueled by video game addiction, Laura's previous roles at Humewood House and Youthdale Treatment Centre have further honed her skills in client assessment and analysis. Her education in Addiction Studies with honours, combined with over two decades of experience in counselling and social service, provides her with a profound and comprehensive understanding in the field. Laura's dedication, non-judgmental approach, and empathetic nature have fostered strong working relationships with families, youth, and community agencies. She remains an invaluable support to individuals seeking to overcome gaming addiction and find a healthier balance in their lives.

Andrew, a member of the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT), has been teaching and coaching in various high schools for two decades. Andrew specializes in pathway planning, and has a background as a Special Education Resource Teacher (SERT). Andrew has worked extensively with students from diverse backgrounds, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and behavioural issues such as Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD), employing personalized educational approaches. Andrew is also a video game expert and skilled player of engrossing games like Fortnite, Grand Theft Auto V, Diablo, and Elden Ring. His personal triumph over a serious addiction to World of Warcraft, where he played five accounts simultaneously, equips him with firsthand insight into the complexities of gaming addiction. Drawing from this experience, Andrew offers specialized support to individuals grappling with similar challenges, empowering them to regain control and establish a balanced life. Working alongside Laura, who brings a deeply empathetic approach to counselling, Andrew contributes his firsthand experience and specialized knowledge, ensuring a holistic and informed strategy to address gaming addiction.