Created by Emily Willchuk, Intentional Wellness Therapy is an approach grounded in the belief that unmanaged mental illness and addiction can pull us into a life that feels directionless, overwhelming, and out of control. Rather than riding the wave of life’s challenges, we often feel like we are drowning, struggling to stay afloat. Our practice focuses on living with intention and aligning with your core values to bring clarity, purpose, and a sense of control back into your life.

At the heart of Intentional Wellness Therapy is the practice of developing self-awareness, setting mindful goals, and understanding what we can and cannot control. By embracing acceptance, problem-solving, and psychological flexibility, clients are empowered to become the experts of their own lives, making choices that align with their true values and fostering lasting change.

Emily’s approach blends professional expertise with a deep love and respect for the outdoors. She grew up in a big family in a small town north of Toronto, where the quiet of the woods became her sanctuary. Amidst the busyness of home life, nature provided her with peace, belonging, and a connection that has remained central to her life. With lived experience navigating mental illness, trauma, and the pressures of the modern world, Emily understands firsthand the complexities of healing and growth. Her personal journey led to a career in social work, where she combines her therapeutic expertise with the power of nature to guide others to heal.

Emily earned her Bachelor of Social Work from Lakehead University in 2014 and her Master of Social Work from the University of Windsor in 2022. With over a decade of experience in mental health and addictions, she draws from evidence-based third-wave behavioral therapies and integrates motivational interviewing, self-compassion, and strength-based approaches to support clients in meaningful change.

Beyond her professional work, Emily has spent years exploring the natural world—hiking throughout the region, backcountry camping across southern Ontario, and canoeing its many lakes. She believes in the restorative power of nature to foster healing, resilience, and self-discovery. Emily is passionate about helping others reconnect with themselves through therapy, the outdoors, and the practice of living intentionally. Through Walk and Talk therapy, clients can experience the combined benefits of outdoor therapy and evidence-based strategies, allowing for a deeper, holistic healing process..