Making A Difference in Uptown Waterloo

Business Profile
Neighbours Of North Waterloo
By Harry Endrulat
Banner Photo by Heartwork Portrait Studio

Growing up, Alice Rushing was always there for her friends when they needed a supportive ear. And with a keen interest in Psychology, it’s no wonder that she became a Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario.

For 12 years, Alice worked at the University of Waterloo as a Learning Specialist supporting students with learning challenges. She was also retained by the Waterloo Catholic District School Board as a Psychology Consultant to conduct assessments for school-age children. During this time, she was also working in the private sector.

In 2012, Alice launched her own private practice from her home office. Two years later, she moved into a shared professional office space and hired an extraordinary team of Associates to practise under her supervision. Then, in 2018, Alice expanded once again and moved her business to 22 King Street South, in the heart of Uptown Waterloo, where her wonderful receptionist will greet you with a smile.

“At Alice Rushing, MASc., Psychologist & Associates, we work with clients of all ages—from as young as four to older adults,” says Alice. “Our range of services now includes Psycho-Educational Assessments and specialized ADHD Assessments, as well as Counselling/Therapy for children and young adults, ADHD Coaching for adults and post-secondary students, and Educational Therapy for children.”

Today, Alice takes great pride in the number of people she and her associates have helped over the years. “I’d have to say my biggest inspiration in my work is when I get the feedback that I’ve truly ‘made a difference’ or
had a positive impact on a client or family I’ve worked with,” says Alice. “It’s also those ‘aha’ moments during a counselling or coachingsession, when I know something has truly shifted for that client.” Alice’s warmth, sense of humour and lighthearted personality allows her to connect deeply with her clients. When it’s time for families to move on, she is often told that they are sad their sessions will be ending. And their children often draw Alice pictures as a way to thank her for their time together.

Like many practices, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the way the team works with clients. “I am very proud that we have been able to tailor our services to support parents and children, as well as university and college students, whose school year has been uprooted by the need for physical distancing,” notes Alice. “We are continuing to offer ADHD Coaching & Assessment, and Counselling through video-conferencing. Plus, we are starting Psycho-Educational Assessments by doing our initial interviews remotely to get the process underway.”

The Educational Therapist at the firm is also offering remote sessions via Zoom to provide Academic Coaching and Learning Strategies. The team is also providing support and strategies to parents, who are suddenly playing the role of teacher (while often simultaneously having to work from home). As for parents concerned about their child’s readiness for school in September, Alice and her Associates are helping to provide
Learning Services through the summer months.

When Alice finds time to take a break, she enjoys travelling—whether it be a trip to New York City (one of her favourite destinations) or on her annual cruise with her son. Alice is a true animal lover and has had dogs all her life. Her child clients take delight in finding all of the Dachshund accents she has throughout her office. Currently, Alice is in the process of adopting a rescue dog to keep her cat George company and herself active—especially during these unprecedented times.

As Alice explains, “During this health crisis, maintaining self-care is critical to keep our energy and spirits up—going out for walks, getting creative with your ‘workout routine’ and using this slower pace to get some creative household projects underway. Perhaps most importantly, you should strive to be kind to you self and those around you.”

It’s that compassionate care and innate desire to help others that continues to draw people to Alice Rushing and her team of talented Associates. So, if you’re in need of a helping hand, please reach out today. You’ll be glad you did.

Ms. Alice Rushing is an absolutely amazing person. She is very professional but also very caring, knowledgeable and loves what she does. I was afraid how my kids would react, but she connected with them in a way that they always asked when they were going back. She spoke to them, not at them. I rave about her to anyone who mentions they are looking for a psychologist! She is always my go-to person! —S.R., grateful mother