Meet The Acadia Counselling Centre Team Part 2
Last week we started to introduce you to the team at the Acadia Counselling Centre with a Q&A with Christina Murphy and David MacPhee.
We’re excited to introduce you to two more team members, Marissa Walter and Jacqueline Langille!
Meet Marissa Walter, Psychologist (Candidate Register) BScH, MSc
Q: How would you describe your counselling practice?
A: I'm trained as a psychologist, and while that often brings to mind individual therapy, my current work is rooted in community-based mental health.
Rather than focusing primarily on one-to-one counselling, I design culturally responsive programs grounded in the belief that mental health is shaped by our relationships, identities, and sense of belonging. Through groups, workshops, and other community-based initiatives, I create opportunities for connection that complement individual counselling.
Q: What do you love most about the job?
A: My favourite part of my job is witnessing the moments of connection that emerge when people come together. Whether we're drumming in a circle, sharing stories around a campfire, or reflecting together on a hike, I feel incredibly fortunate to create spaces where students can connect with one another in meaningful ways while also exploring mental health and wellness.
Q: What's one piece of mental health advice you would give to every student?
A: I would invite students to ask themselves: What are the things that make me feel more human? We often know what nourishes us; we just need permission to prioritize it. So, my advice would be this: give yourself permission to be human, against the odds. There will always be deadlines and competing demands, but we can also choose to make space for rest, joy, connection, and belonging.
Q: Where do you feel most at home on Acadia’s campus?
A: My office. It's filled with reminders of home, such as shells I've collected from the beaches of Antigua, a West African board game that was gifted to me, and other meaningful pieces that make the space feel warm and welcoming. I hope students feel like they're stepping into a space that is cared for, and genuinely mine.
Q: What is your favourite thing to do outside of work?
A: Outside of work, you'll usually find me playing djembe, spending time in nature, or tending to my ever-growing collection of houseplants and my garden.
Meet Jacqueline Langille, Administrative Assistant
Q: How do you approach your job?
A: I approach my administrative role with a genuine sense of care and compassion. I also hope that others feel and recognize that I treat everyone consistently and fairly.
Q: What do you like most about working with students?
A: I love the daily interaction with the diverse student population. I like to think I can help guide them in their lives just a little. I enjoy having small chit-chats with them, learning about their lives.
Students are very appreciative for my help and this goes a long way with me.
Q: Where do you feel most at home on Acadia's campus?
A: I am so lucky to have two spots, one in Dennis and one in Willett. These house both locations for the Counselling Centre and I love my office spaces!
Q: What's your favourite thing to do outside of work?
A: My favourite thing to do outside of work is hanging out with my dogs and husband. I have two great dogs, Lennie and Nina. I'm always amazed with how much love I feel after a long day at work!
Book your session
Book your counselling session online and come to your appointment at the new Counselling Centre location in Dennis House, at 22 Horton Ave Westside Entrance, in the Student Health Centre.
The Counselling Centre is open to all current students of Acadia. This means as long as you are registered for classes or even if you’re on leave from classes but are a registered student, you have access to the Counselling Centre.