Meet our Team
Elim Counselling Services is non-profit Christian Counselling service located in Ottawa, Canada. Our primary goal is to help people cope with and overcome life’s challenges. Although Elim incorporates psychological techniques and interventions used in other clinical settings, Elim counsellors are also trained in understanding spiritual issues which are often raised by clients. At Elim, we believe that a person’s faith in God can be a vital asset in accomplishing therapeutic goals. This approach is not unique to Elim; many of the most successful programs such as the 12 step Gamblers Anonymous program and the Alcoholic Anonymous Program have cited belief in a higher power as one of their key steps in overcoming addiction.
Counselling at Elim meets the professional requirements necessary for certification by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). As such we are not only able to offer professional service of the highest quality but also adhere to the ethical standards specified by CCPA.
About the Director
Michael Hart, M.A., C.C.C, R.P.
Michael is a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and holds the Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) designation from the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, reflecting his extensive training and expertise. He is qualified to work with individuals and couples and is specially trained in trauma therapy, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
In addition to his psychological credentials, Michael is a Bible college graduate with a B.A. in Theology from St. Paul University. He is the author of the widely acclaimed book The Transformed Life, which integrates psychological principles with Biblical insights. This unique combination of expertise enables Michael to address the distinct challenges faced by the Christian community, offering a holistic approach to healing.
In 2015 Michael Hart was awarded the prestigious Private Practitioner of the Year Award by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, Private Practitioner Chapter.
Selma Lamprecht
M.A., Registered Psychotherapist
Selma holds an M.A. in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, a B.A. Honours in Psychology and a B.A. in Social Work. She is a registered social worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (Registration Number 800251).
Selma has years of counselling experience and a range of expertise working with adult individuals and couples. She has spoken at conferences, seminars, and workshops in Ottawa and the surrounding area. As a believer in Christ, Selma is not only knowledgeable about clinical matters, but also has a strong understanding of the Christian values, and understands the unique nature of mental health issues in the Christian context.
Heather Talbot, BA, MA
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Education & Certification
Heather is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. Heather holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honors) in International Studies from York University and a Graduate Diploma in Global Missions and Intercultural Studies from Tyndale Seminary.
Counselling Experience
Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, Heather spent nearly two decades as an educator, honing skills in communication, empathy, and creating safe, non-judgmental spaces for clients. She uses a client-centered approach, tailoring therapy to individual needs with evidence-based methods. Heather has experience supporting adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions, with a special focus on emotion regulation and managing interpersonal challenges.
Personal Approach to Counselling
I provide a safe, supportive space to explore challenges and develop skills for growth, believing change is always possible. Using a strengths-based, client-centered approach, I integrate evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness to meet your unique needs. Together, we’ll work towards your goals for an authentic, purpose-filled life.
