Michelle Pakulski

Group Therapy Co-Lead

Registered Social Worker

I am a Registered Social Worker with a strong interest in supporting men’s mental health, shaped by my personal and professional experiences with the men in my life who have faced mental health challenges.

In the past, I have led a wide range of men's groups including Caring Dad's, the Partner Assault Response (PARS) program, and other groups centred on trauma, healthy communication, and building stronger relationships. Each group has been a vital learning opportunity not only for my clients, but also for myself.

I understand men’s mental health through three levels: the individual experience, relationships and environment, and the broader social messages and systems that shape how men are taught to deal with emotions. In simple terms, I look at what’s happening within a person, what’s happening in their relationships and day-to-day life, and what messages they’ve been given about what it means to “be a man.”

Many men grow up hearing messages like “boys don’t cry,” “be tough,” or “handle it on your own.” Over time, this can make it harder to talk about emotions, ask for help, or even recognize what you’re feeling. These patterns can show up as anger, shutdown, stress, relationship conflict, or feeling disconnected.

In my work, I aim to create a space where men can speak openly without judgment and without needing to “have it all together.” Group therapy can be a place to slow things down, understand what’s been building underneath the surface, and start making sense of patterns that may no longer be working.

I support men navigating emotional stress, relationship challenges, anxiety, and life transitions, with a focus on building practical ways to cope, communicate, and build on the strengths they already carry.

My approach is grounded, collaborative, and focused on helping people understand themselves in the context of their experiences, relationships, and the messages they’ve received along the way.