Guiding Compass Psychotherapy and Wellness offers in-person and virtual therapy for children, youth, adults, couples, and families. With 25+ years of experience, we use DBT, EFT, and trauma-informed care to support anxiety, neurodivergence, grief, and life transitions. Our warm, inclusive space promotes healing, connection, and growth. Therapy is for everyone.
Land Acknowledgment
At Guiding Compass Psychotherapy and Wellness, we acknowledge with deep respect and gratitude that our practice is located on the traditional and treaty territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, who are part of the larger Anishinaabeg Nation. This land is covered under the Williams Treaties and has been home to Indigenous Peoples since time immemorial.
We recognize the enduring presence, resilience, and wisdom of Indigenous communities, and we commit to engaging in ongoing learning, reflection, and action toward reconciliation. As mental health practitioners, we strive to honour Indigenous knowledge, perspectives, and healing practices while working toward creating inclusive and culturally safe spaces for all.
Miigwetch.
Meet the Team
Sarah Marquette
Hi, I’m Sarah Marquette (she/her), a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and the founder of Guiding Compass Psychotherapy and Wellness. With over 25 years of experience supporting children, youth, adults, couples, and families, I bring warmth, curiosity, and a deep respect for each person’s journey into every session. I draw from DBT,
Hi, I’m Sarah Marquette (she/her), a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and the founder of Guiding Compass Psychotherapy and Wellness. With over 25 years of experience supporting children, youth, adults, couples, and families, I bring warmth, curiosity, and a deep respect for each person’s journey into every session. I draw from DBT, EFT, the Gottman Method, and psychodynamic therapy to help clients navigate anxiety, trauma, neurodivergence, relationship challenges, and life transitions.
I believe therapy should feel safe, empowering, and accessible—because healing is not just for moments of crisis, but for anyone seeking connection, clarity, or growth. I feel truly honoured to walk alongside my clients as they find their direction.
Fun fact: I’ve lived all over Canada—but Port Perry truly feels like home.
Specialties and Expertise
With over 25 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, children, and families, I have had the privilege of walking alongside people through some of life’s most challenging and meaningful moments. My work is grounded in empathy, lived understanding, and a deep respect for each person’s story. I draw from both professional training and real-life experience to offer a space that is inclusive, affirming, and tailored to your unique journey. These are the areas I most often support:
Top Specialties
Anxiety/Depression
Relationship Issues
Neurodivergence
Additional Areas of Expertise
Addiction
Adoption
Anger Management
Cancer
Caregiver Support
Children & Youth
Chronic Illness
Depression
Domestic Violence
First Responders
Geriatric & Senior Support
Grief & Loss
LGBTQ+ Affirming Care
Life Transitions
Parenting Support
Peer Relationships
Personality Disorders
Pregnancy, Prenatal & Postpartum
Self-Esteem
Stress Management
Transgender-Affirming Care
Women’s Issues
Services Available
FREE 15 min. Consultation (in-person/virtual)
80 Min. Client Intake Session (in-person/virtual)
80 Min. Client Intake Session (in-person/virtual)
15-minute in-person/virtual consultation for new clients. This no-pressure consultation gives us a chance to briefly connect, answer your questions, and explore whether we are a good fit. We will talk about what you are looking for in therapy and how I work, so you can make an informed decision before starting.
This extended first session offers time to explore what brings you to therapy, review your history, and begin building a supportive connection. We will discuss your goals, identify strengths, and outline a plan for moving forward at your pace, in a safe and welcoming space.
50-minute in-person session. In these one-on-one sessions, we focus on your unique experiences, challenges, and goals. Whether you are navigating anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship concerns, or seeking support as a neurodivergent individual, therapy provides a supportive space to explore your emotions, build insight, and develop meaningful strategies for change.
50 min. Pro Bono Therapy - Last Monday of the Month
50 min. Individual Therapy (in-person/virtual)
Our couples therapy sessions provide a safe and supportive environment to help you and your partner work through conflict, improve communication, and strengthen your relationship.
50 min. Pro Bono Therapy - Last Monday of the Month
50 min. Pro Bono Therapy - Last Monday of the Month
Our family therapy sessions focus on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening relationships within your family. We work with families of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds.
50 min. Pro Bono Therapy - Last Monday of the Month
50 min. Pro Bono Therapy - Last Monday of the Month
50 min. Pro Bono Therapy - Last Monday of the Month
Free 50-minute therapy session, offered in-person or virtual, on the last Monday of each month for those facing financial barriers. Limited spots available. No intake required.
At Guiding Compass, we offer Walk and Talk Therapy for those who feel more comfortable moving than sitting. These outdoor sessions combine gentle walking with supportive conversation, helping you feel grounded, open, and at ease.
Ideal for clients who enjoy nature, find sitting indoors challenging, or simply prefer a more relaxed setting. Sessions take place on quiet, accessible trails in Port Perry and are weather-dependent.
Wellness Wednesday in Palmer Park - FREE Summer Series
Chalk the Walk for Mental Health - Saturday, October 11th
Chalk the Walk for Mental Health - Saturday, October 11th
Take a midweek pause for yourself at Wellness Wednesdays in beautiful Palmer Park, running every Wednesday from July 16 to September 24, 9:30–10:30 AM.
This free, drop-in wellness hour is a chance to connect, reflect, and recharge. Each week, we’ll explore grounding techniques, self-compassion, and other topics that matter to the group.
Bring your own chair, an open heart, and an inquisitive mind.
Have kids? From July 16 to August 28, two responsible teens with babysitting certification and CPR-C will be available to supervise children at the playground during the session.
✨ Free to attend – no registration required
📍 Palmer Park, Port Perry
🪑 BYO chair
👧 Childcare available until August 28
📅 July 16 – September 24
🔗 Sign up at www.guidingcompass.ca or just show up!
Come join the conversation, connect with others, and nurture your well-being in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Chalk the Walk for Mental Health - Saturday, October 11th
Chalk the Walk for Mental Health - Saturday, October 11th
Chalk the Walk for Mental Health - Saturday, October 11th
Join us for a heartwarming community event in honour of World Mental Health Day, a global movement that shines a light on the importance of mental wellness and reminds us that no one should struggle alone. Observed each year on October 10th, World Mental Health Day encourages open conversations, reduces stigma, and promotes compassion for ourselves and others.
To mark this important day, we are gathering on Saturday, October 11th for Chalk the Walk — an uplifting celebration where everyone is invited to share positive messages, hopeful artwork, and encouraging words along our boardwalk.
Chalk will be provided — just bring your creativity and your kind heart. Whether you're there to draw, reflect, or connect, your presence helps show that mental health matters.
All ages welcome. No registration required — just show up and spread some love.
Pro Bono Offered - Last Monday of Every Month
Chalk the Walk for Mental Health - Saturday, October 11th
Pro Bono Offered - Last Monday of Every Month
At Guiding Compass Psychotherapy and Wellness, we believe that mental health support should be accessible to everyone—regardless of financial circumstances.
As part of our ongoing commitment to the community, we offer pro bono therapy sessions (50 minutes) on the last Monday of every month.
These sessions are designed to provide short-term support, create space for reflection, or offer a therapeutic check-in for those who may not otherwise be able to access services.
Who can access this?
Anyone who feels they would benefit from a session but may be facing financial barriers. There is no intake process or documentation required—just trust and respect for the space.
How to book:
Sessions are limited and must be reserved in advance through our online booking system. Click on the "Book" button below to find available times.
Please note:
These sessions are offered on a first-come, first-served basis each month. If all spots are filled, you’re welcome to try again next month.
At Guiding Compass, we are guided by the belief that everyone deserves to feel heard, supported, and empowered—no matter their circumstances.
If you are in immediate danger or need urgent mental health support, please do not wait for an appointment. The resources below can connect you to help right away.
Resources in Scugog & Durham Region:
Durham Mental Health Crisis Line (24/7): 1-800-742-1890
Distress Centre Durham (24/7): 905-430-2522 or text 258258
911 or Local Emergency Services if you are in danger or need immediate medical support
Talk Suicide Canada (24/7): 1-833-456-4566 or visit talksuicide.ca
Lakeridge Health Oshawa Emergency Department: Mental health crisis services available 24/7
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