Trauma-informed
Centres safety, care, and nervous system awareness.
About
Hi, I’m Pauline.
I’m a psychotherapist, clinical supervisor, educator, researcher, and the founder of The Empowered Supervisor. I created this space to support counsellors and helping professionals in developing supervision practices that are compassionate, ethical, inclusive, and sustainable.
My work is grounded in the belief that supervision can be a powerful catalyst for personal and professional growth—a space to reflect, feel supported, challenge assumptions, and reconnect with purpose.
Stronger supervisors.
Brighter futures.
Brighter futures.
Anti-oppressive
Challenges systemic barriers and honours diverse identities.
Practice-based
Real-world tools and meaningful reflection.
Sustainable
Supports long-term wellbeing and ethical practice.
My background
Pauline O’Brien,
RP, CCC-S
CCPA No. 0249 · CRPO No. 001215
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Canadian Certified Counsellor–Supervisor. My work spans psychotherapy, clinical supervision, education, and research, with a focus on trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and culturally responsive practice.
I have worked in rural and northern communities, Indigenous contexts, urban shelter-based emergency mental health services, and private practice. I have been an adjunct professor since 2022 and develop and teach courses for counsellors and supervisors.
My approach
Supervision with
heart and integrity.
I bring a relational, collaborative approach to supervision, with a commitment to social justice, ethical practice, and the wellbeing of helping professionals.
My teaching and supervision integrate trauma-informed care, somatic approaches, Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, and critical pedagogy, with an emphasis on meaningful reflection and practical learning.
A little more about me
Connection, curiosity,
and compassion.
I’m based in Hamilton, Ontario, and I’m a mother, queer, and neurodivergent. My late-in-life experiences of coming out and understanding my neurodivergence inform my commitment to inclusive spaces where people can bring more of themselves.
Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, travel, exploring new places, and settling in with a good book and a strong cup of tea.
Let’s grow together.
Explore education or connect about the supervision support you’re looking for.