Therapist Courtney Bognar, listening compassionately to her clients struggling with perinatal, postpartum, anxiety or depression challenges.

About me

I hold a Bachelor of Arts from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Bachelor of Education from Nipissing University. For ten years, I worked as an elementary teacher, where I was deeply invested in my students' learning and well-being. My journey took a significant turn after experiencing a first-trimester loss during my first pregnancy and navigating perinatal anxiety during my second. These experiences opened my eyes to the importance of mental health and support.

Upon returning to work, I found myself drawn to conversations about mental health, both with my students and peers. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for supporting others, prompting me to pursue a Master's in Counseling Psychology at Yorkville University, which I completed in August 2024.

Now, I feel I have found my calling. I enjoy working with clients facing challenges such as mood disorders, the stress of teaching, and the transition into parenthood. Each session is an opportunity for growth, healing, and connection.

When I'm not in therapist-mode, you can find me spending quality time with my husband, our daughter, and our beloved one-eyed cat, Rogue.

Therapist Courtney Bognar and her family, reflecting her values using the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approach.

My Approach

In our sessions, I show up as a fellow human being, bringing my own lived experiences to the table. I believe in creating a therapeutic relationship rooted in compassion and empathy. I aim to create a safe space where you feel understood and valued. Each client is the expert of their own life, and I recognize that your experiences are unique to you.

Together, we will navigate the ups and downs, laughing and crying along the way. My role is to journey alongside you, offering encouragement and support as you learn the skills necessary for personal growth. My aim is to help you create a rich and meaningful life that aligns with your values.

I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in our work together. This approach allows us to explore and unhook from challenging thoughts and feelings that may be controlling your behaviour. We’ll identify your core values and make choices that resonate with the person you want to be, empowering you to live a more authentic life.

Why Rogue?

The name Rogue Healing Psychotherapy was chosen for many reasons, each reflecting my commitment to helping you find your unique path to healing. First and foremost, the word Rogue evokes a sense of doing things differently. In our therapy sessions, my focus is on helping you heal in a way that aligns with your individuality, recognizing that each person's journey is unique.

As a bit of a nerd, I also love how Rogue appears in various comics and fantasy realms like Dungeons and Dragons. In these stories, Rogue is a character who is often seen as cunning, insightful, and confident, qualities I strive to embody for myself and inspire in my clients. I believe that tapping into these attributes can help you navigate your challenges with creativity and resilience.

Finally, Rogue is also the name of my beloved one-eyed kitty, who often makes delightful cameos during our sessions. Her playful spirit serves as a reminder to embrace joy and lightness, even in the midst of deeper work.

Together, we can explore what it means to heal on your terms, uniquely, boldly, and authentically.

My

Credentials

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario

Member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association

Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology with Honours from Yorkville University

Bachelor of Arts Honours Contemporary Studies with Distinction from Wilfrid Laurier University

Bachelor of Education from Nipissing University

Certified with the Ontario College of Teachers to teach grades K-12, including Core French

Specialized Training:

o   Postpartum Support International Perinatal Mood Disorders: Components of Care Course

o   Postpartum Support International Perinatal Mental Health Advanced Psychotherapy Training

o   Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Course

o   Internal Family Systems Therapy Overview Course

o   Currently enrolled in the Perinatal Mental Health Certificate Program through CPMHT

Reach out

I’d love to hear from you! If you're ready to take the next step in your journey or have any questions, please fill out the form below with your name and email. I’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Your path to healing and growth starts here!

“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”

- Carl Rogers