(204) 312-8488

dfehrcounsel@gmail.com

In his teens, Dennis realized he had a concern for others and a gift for connecting with people.  During his 20 years of service provision in the mental health field, Dennis has placed great importance on connecting with clients and the unique experiences that have impacted their lives.  Dennis considers it a sacred trust to journey with people during crises and hardship, as they open themselves to share and explore their struggles. Dennis married into a farming family; his in-laws have farmed for 47 years in the Pembina Valley area of Southern Manitoba.  He has a great respect for the farming community and understands the unique challenges, decisions, and stresses that farmers face as they look to sustain their farm and the farming way of life for their families. Clients who work with Dennis describe him as practical, understanding, kind, approachable and patient.

In his free time Dennis enjoys sports; especially football, basketball and volleyball. He enjoys spending time outside whether it be hiking, snowshoeing, cycling, gardening or tending yard.  He is an animal lover and enjoys playing with and training his dog. These opportunities are all available for Dennis at his home base in La Riviere Manitoba.   Dennis is married and has an adult son. His wife is active on the family farm and also works as a registered nurse. His adult son is employed as a Journeyman Ag Equipment Technician.

Qualifications:

Bachelor of Theology – Practical Theology (1989) – CMBC Winnipeg, MB

Bachelor of Arts – Psychology (1992) – U of M Winnipeg, MB

Master of Divinity – Counselling (2000) – AMBS Elkhart, Indiana

Additional Credentials:

PACCP Certified Professional Counsellor

Credentialed for Sexually Abusive Youth (CSAYC)(2006) – Indiana Association of Juvenile Sexual Offender Practitioners Indianapolis, IN

Extensive continuing education in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, and couple therapy

Location:

In person sessions available through Dennis’s office in Winkler MB. Virtual sessions available using the modality that works best for the client. Clients may call, text, or e-mail Dennis directly to discuss their counselling needs. Email: dfehrcounsel@gmail.com Call or Text: (204) 312-8488. Clients can have peace of mind that when they reach out they will be in contact with Dennis directly. Confidentiality is very important to Dennis, and he understands the challenges of dual relationships in small communities.

Specialties:

Behavior & Emotional Issues with Adolescents, Trauma, Sex Abuse Issues (victim and offender), Attachment Disorders, Depression, Burnout & Overworking

Issues:

Client Demographics Dennis works with: Individuals, Couples, Families, Groups.

Client Age Groups Dennis works with: School Aged (6-13 years), Teen (13+), Adults & Seniors

Areas of Practice (not exhaustive list): Abuse, Addictions, Conflict Resolution, Phobias, Marital Issues, Relationship Issues, Couple Issues, Trauma, Anger, Bereavement/Grief, Religious Issues, Faith Based Issues, Moral Dilemmas, Harassment/Bullying, PTSD, Stress Management/Burnout, Violence, Sexual Issues, Anxiety, Career, Depression, Men’s Issues, Parenting, Suicide, Workplace Issues, Decision Fatigue, Family Conflict related to Business, Self-Esteem, Self- Concept Issues

Client Focus and Treatment Approach:

Dennis works from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, incorporating psychodynamic, trauma, developmental, strength and solution-based models. Dennis also uses a supportive humanistic approach that is practical but also emotion focused.  He often considers family systems when working with his clients.  Dennis continually pursues education that expands the treatment options he uses.  Dennis strives to create a strong therapeutic relationship with each client, establishing a common understanding of causal factors and identifying the core issues which need clinical attention.  A collaborative strategy for improved coping and the development of healthier living patterns are essential elements in his approach to therapeutic recovery. 

Dennis has lived and worked in Central Canada and the United States (Northern and Southern Manitoba, Southwest Saskatchewan, Indiana & Michigan) giving him unique perspectives and experiences which he draws on as he works with clients to achieve their goals and gain new understanding.