Meet a Therapist in Alberta: Bonnie Kelly

Get to know Bonnie Kelly, a Registered Psychologist who works with teens, families, and couples, in this interview from our Meet a Therapist in Alberta series. Bonnie shares her life philosophy, the obstacles she's overcome, and what she'd tell someone who's nervous to start therapy.

Who are you?

This is a complicated question, because I wear many hats. I'm a mother, a therapist, a coach, and a friend.

At my core, I'm a nurturer, a listener, and a goal setter. I'm a nature lover, summit chaser, and ocean admirer. Powerful music brings tears to my eyes, and the smell of rain brings me a sense of peace.

We are all so many things, and one box isn't big enough for any of us. We can all evolve, bloom, and grow!

What led you to become a therapist?

I've wanted to support people since I was on the peer support team in high school.

I've always been curious about other people's experiences, perspectives, and opinions, and how I can support them in seeing and reaching their goals. I've had a strong sense of social justice for most of my life, and I'm always working to understand the many factors affecting the people I work with.

The short answer is that life can be tough, and we are all so unique in how we move forward. Being able to share space with people as they explore their world and experiences is an honour.

What is your life philosophy?

Everyone is doing the best they can with what they have in that moment.

Be kind, be honest, and be true to yourself. There's no place for judgment as we grow and learn. We're all going to stumble. Be compassionate with yourself, and remember, we all have bumps. Some are just harder to navigate than others.

Do you ever get overwhelmed by the stuff people tell you?

Absolutely. I'm human, and I'm not immune to big feelings.

Part of my practice is making sure I take care of myself, check in with my feelings, notice where I'm at, and do the things I love when I'm having a tough day. Mindfulness is a key practice for me. It helps me stay present with the people I'm working with, while also giving me space to reflect on myself.

How do you take care of yourself as a therapist?

I love what I do, so most days it comes easily.

People amaze me every day with their strength, courage, and resilience. Some days are overwhelming, and on those days I do my best to use the very things I suggest to the people I see in therapy.

What makes your job fulfilling?

It's so rewarding when people have aha moments and start putting the pieces of their own puzzle together.

It's incredible to see what unfolds. I admire the resilience and determination it takes to move forward.

What would you tell someone who's nervous to start therapy?

I would tell them that feeling nervous is normal.

You're stepping into a space with someone you don't know, and you're being asked to be vulnerable. That's scary! Just know that you're in a safe place, and you're in control. The conversation will move at your pace, and it gets easier as trust builds.

You may not click with the first therapist you meet, and that's okay. Every therapist is as unique as the people they work with, and some will be a better fit than others.

What are some obstacles you've overcome?

I learned how to be a single parent when my boys were very young.

Navigating the barriers and bumps we faced was challenging, but when I look back, it's amazing to see how far we've come.

I've navigated the health care and education systems while advocating for my child with health, cognitive, and learning needs, and provided the extras growing children need. It was often very hard, but I always did it with confidence, trust, and love.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love walking, hiking, going to spin class, watching my boys play football and swim, and spending time with family and friends.

I enjoy nature, and love being outside when it isn't freezing! I also like to zone out with TV shows that need little to no thinking. Sometimes it's nice to have downtime and do nothing at all.

What's the best advice you've ever received?

That which is meant for you will stay, and that which is not will go.

Trust yourself, trust your instincts, and allow things to unfold as they should.

Do you have kids?

I have four sons.

What's your favourite show and movie?

Blue Bloods and Crazy, Stupid, Love.

I rarely sit down to watch TV, but I always have it on for background noise.

What's your favourite book?

Untamed by Glennon Doyle.

Right now, I'm reading Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown.

What kind of music do you listen to?

I absolutely love 90s grunge, especially Pearl Jam.

I enjoy all genres of music, though, and usually have something playing. I have my own in-car rock concerts, and I dance while I do the dishes.

Cats, dogs, or other?

I always thought I was a dog person, until I got my cat Marley.

Now I have three cats, and I love them all, as well as two dogs!

What did you want to be when you were 10?

A lawyer.

What's your favourite quote?

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain.

Indoors or outdoors?

Outdoors in the summer, indoors in the winter.

I'm a wimp when it comes to the cold, but I love hiking and exploring when the weather allows. I love the ocean and the mountains!

What are your favourite foods?

Tacos, vanilla ice cream, and salted chocolate caramel.

What's your wish for your clients?

To find their inner strength and voice, and recognize that they are capable, courageous, and resilient.

Family Therapy in Alberta

If communication in your family has felt strained, reaching out for support can help.

Family therapy offers a space to understand the patterns between you and find new ways to connect. A therapist can help your family build trust and navigate this stage together.

You can find your way back to each other.

This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

If you or someone you care about is in crisis or at risk of harm, please get help now. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. You can also call or text 988 any time for suicide and crisis support. For more options, see our crisis support page.

About Bonnie

Bonnie Kelly is a Registered Psychologist who works with individuals, families, and couples, specializing in teens and families navigating identity, gender, relationships, and school. She provides affirming therapy, especially for neurodiverse, gender diverse, and 2SLGBTQIA+ folks, and is passionate about helping people understand and express themselves, find their strengths, connect, and thrive.