Pembroke / Petawawa

Adrienne Carfagnini

Let’s welcome our neighbour, Adrienne Carfagnini.

Hi, Adrienne! Tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Adrienne Carfagnini, and I’m the founder of Connected Counselling Services, where I work as a therapist, clinical supervisor, and Clinical Director. I started CCS in 2017 as a private practice, but during the pandemic I expanded, finding myself wanting something bigger — a community of therapists working together to support our own community and its particular needs. Private practice is lonely! Living so close to Garrison Petawawa means many local families carry the unique challenges of military life, and being a rural community comes with its own flavour too.

I also wanted CCS to be a teaching practice, so we could offer very low-fee and pro bono (free) psychotherapy to people who need it. We’re lucky to have some free counselling services in the area, but I wanted to make sure that high-quality professional psychotherapy was within reach for those who can’t afford it.

What matters most to me is that everyone who walks through our doors feels truly welcome! I am neurodivergent myself, and CCS is proudly neurodivergent-affirming and committed to supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, military members, veterans and their families, and people from every walk of life and every income level. Our sliding scale and teaching practice are a big part of that, and we are always working on making our services as accessible as possible. I don’t believe good mental health care should depend on what’s in your bank account.

I’m especially proud of our new clinic on Boundary Road in Pembroke. It’s our “forever home,” and I designed it to be calm and inviting, much more like a living room than like a clinic. There are over 100 plants there! Every detail was chosen intentionally, from soothing colours and natural textures to soundproofing and accessibility built in from the start. People do their best healing when they feel safe and at ease, and I wanted the space itself to begin that process.

Beyond the therapy room, I’m passionate about supporting the next generation of therapists! I offer clinical supervision and mentor newer clinicians, which means more skilled, caring professionals staying and working right here in the Ottawa Valley. Growing our own local capacity for mental health care is one of the ways I hope to give back to the community that has given so much to me.

When I’m not at the clinic, you’ll probably find me at the pottery wheel, up to my elbows in clay and experimenting with glazes. I also love indoor plants and gardening, especially garlic, tomatoes, and perennials, but I also love working out, yoga, and photography. I’m a mom of two teenagers, so life is never dull. Fuelled by a good cup of coffee, I’m happiest when I’m making something with my hands.

If there’s one thing I’d love my neighbours to know, it’s that reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. It is brave and courageous. You don’t need to have it all figured out; you just need to take the next best step.

What is your least favourite household chore?

I have sensory issues, so really anything that involves a slimy texture like cleaning the dishwasher or toilets — EWWW!

What sound do you hate?

I have misophonia. If I am feeling stressed, I can’t deal with the sound of other people chewing!

If you could start a whole new career path, what would you be?

Definitely an artist. Perhaps I’ll be a ceramicist after I retire!

What is the weirdest thing you have ever eaten?

I am from Montreal originally, and they have an insectarium there where they used to have an annual culinary event. I have tried deep-fried crickets and chocolate-covered ants. Not sure I’d go back for seconds in the future — haha — but it was an experience.

Who is the best-known celebrity you have ever seen in person?

I met a Beatle! When I was younger, I used to work for Tommy Hilfiger, and George Harrison came in during the
Grand Prix to buy gifts for people. It was so surreal, because of course I AM A HUGE BEATLES FAN.

Do you own a piece of clothing that no longer fits, but you can’t seem to part with it? Why?

Yes, I have a few pieces from my early 20s that I love, and that remind me of a much more playful and adventurous version of myself. They will never fit again, but I will keep them forever!

Are you a cat or a dog person? Why?

Definitely a cat person. Cats smell better, they are more independent, and cuter. They are far more low-maintenance, and their personalities are more chill, which fits me better than the high needs of a dog.

If you were an Olympian, which sport would you compete in?

Long jump maybe. It looks fun and seems uncomplicated. lol

You’ve just won the lottery. What will you do with your windfall?

I would pay off my and my family’s debts first. Then I would put some money aside to travel with them, and
for their educations. I’d also love to start a charity or fix some of our community’s problems.

What do you miss the most about being a kid?

That feeling of not having anything to worry about and no responsibilities — tied with those feelings I used to get while playing: complete flow and joy!

Thanks for sharing with us, neighbour Adrienne.

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Next week, we will welcome Dennis Jenkins.