Prior to COVID-19, the organization operated out of two locations, but when the pandemic hit many employees were working from home offices, making the second location unnecessary at the time. However, after experiencing exponential growth in 2024, the organization found itself outgrowing its office on Winnipeg Ave.
“Thunder Bay Counselling doesn’t grow for the sake of growing – we do it because we see a gap in community services that needs to be filled,” explains Thunder Bay Counselling CEO, Nancy Chamberlain. “We’ve been discussing an expansion for a while now, and with the growth we’ve seen over the past couple years we knew it was time. It’s not about getting bigger – it’s about identifying gaps in the community and doing what we need to do to help fill them. This second location will allow our staff to continue doing what they do best – providing compassionate service to our community – but in an even more accessible way.”
Insight on Roland is housing some of Thunder Bay Counselling’s Child & Youth Services staff who often provide community outreach as part of services, making this satellite office an ideal setup. The new location is also near the new Youth Wellness Hub, offering more accessible, convenient, and relevant support to young people and their families.
Last year, the organization also saw major growth in their Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAP), as well as expansion of its Gender Based Violence and related services, leading to an influx in new counsellors. This growth is being supported by the new location, which also offers options to ensure privacy and confidentiality – both of which are critical due to the nature of services.
Says Thunder Bay Counselling Board Chair, Rose Potestio; “As a board, our job is to ask ‘why’. ‘Why should we do this?’ With the tremendous growth Thunder Bay Counselling has seen in the past few years, the ‘why’ is clear. This second location allows us to build capacity, ensuring that we’re supporting as many community members as we can.”
Insight on Roland is now open to clients with scheduled appointments. Thunder Bay Counselling’s main office at 544 Winnipeg Ave. will remain open.