About Us
About Kaleidoscope Mental Health
When you look through a kaleidoscope, you move a series of mirrors to create colourful images. The objects that you are looking at don’t change, instead, you change the way that you see them.
This illustrates how I approach my work. Neurodiversity-affirming mental health does not mean changing a person, rather, it facilitates growth by looking at a challenge in a new way. Like a kaleidoscope, I work with my clients to change how we see things, and use this change of perspective to create something new.
Not to mention that a kaleidoscope is fun, colourful, and playful. These are powerful tools for change and discovery, and are key components of my work with children, youth, and families.
About Ruth Mills, MSW, RSW
Throughout my career, I have been invited into the lives of neurodivergent children, youth, and their families. As a social worker, I have extensive experience in counselling, service coordination, and advocacy. Prior to this, I worked as a summer camp director for almost a decade, supporting campers and staff with a wide range of mental health and developmental needs.
Following an undergraduate degree in Outdoor Recreation, Parks, & Tourism at Lakehead University, I graduated with a Masters of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. I am currently a PhD student in Lakehead University’s Health Sciences department, where I am studying mental health equity for neurodivergent children and youth. I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and a member in good standing with the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW).
While my education and experience have shaped my clinical skills, nothing has prepared me as much as being the parent of two neurodivergent children. Parenting has taught me how to adapt my approach to suit each child (I am still learning!) and focusing on three key values has helped me along the way.
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Curiosity
You are the expert of your experience. This means that I have the opportunity to learn from you. Being curious helps me to understand your perspective, your hopes, and your strengths. It also reminds me to be open-minded, instead of jumping to judgments or pre-determined treatment plans. -
Connection
Taking the time to build trust and respect will allow us to be honest with each other, open to ideas, and willing to take risks. It is also important to incorporate a person’s existing relationships into treatment, as your circle of support can play a key role in your growth or change. -
Creativity
Creativity helps me to bring all of these things together! I love to be creative, exploring different ways of understanding a problem, discovering possible solutions, and building hope that things can change. Creativity also allows us to play!
Contact us
Dive into the world of colourful minds where every thought counts and every feeling is embraced. Reach out, and let's create a unique pattern of wellness together!
Located in Thunder Bay, Ontario.