A Conversation with Donna Hutchinson

Donna Hutchinson began her career in the fitness industry. She started out as a fitness instructor and personal trainer and became a Master Trainer of fitness leaders as well as a successful author and speaker. Eventually Donna decided to return to school and to obtain a Master of Education in Counselling Psychology. This next step has opened the door for her to help her clients make a deeper mind-body connection. Donna is a certified trauma-informed yoga instructor as well as a Registered Behavior Coach, Nutrition Specialist, Registered Clinical Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner.

1. How long have you been practicing?

I have been in practice for 3 years. I changed careers at age 46 when I returned to school to complete an undergraduate degree and then masters degree in counselling psychology. Before that, I had a 30 year career in the fitness, wellness and health industry.

2. What do you like to do when you’re not working?

I have a million hobbies but right now I am addicted to Pickleball. When not on the court you can find me hiking, biking, climbing, kayaking, snowshoeing, skiing and walking my 3 dogs. I also like to draw, crochet, make jewelry and basically do anything with a creative spin.

3. What areas interest you the most in your practice?

I work with adults who have experienced a variety of traumatic events in their lives. Whether that be through adverse childhood experiences such as abuse, neglect or unnurturing environments. Whatever the case may be, if clients want to seek to live their best lives and are experiencing blocks or challenges to do so, I am happy to be part of their journey to support and guide them towards that goal.

4. Are you more directive or more guiding in your approach to helping?

I believe we all have the power within us to overcome life’s challenges, but not always the tools, skills and resources at the ready. Mainly this is because we might not have learned how to cope with our strong emotions growing up, so we may temporarily lack the blueprint to navigate our way through life. That doesn’t mean we can’t learn. It only means we need a bit more guidance to put us back on the right track. I would say my approach is directive when it needs to be, guiding when the way is not fully known and nurturing when you need recognition, acknowledgement and validation.

5. What should I expect when working with you?

When working with me, you will find that I am someone who actively listens in order to seek to understand not only the challenges you have faced in your life, but also your strengths that have gotten you this far.

I am gentle, kind, caring and open, but I am also direct. I’ve learned as a personal trainer talking only gets a person so far, it is the work put into the workouts that causes change to happen. There are no quick fixes or short cuts. Training your mind is like training your muscles, it will take a lot of repetition and consistency to make things happen and a solid plan to guide the way.

Together, we will create the plan and then work it in such a way that you will see the results of the effort
you put forth.

Contact Lynn Valley Counselling to book a consultation with Donna.