Monika McDonough

Hi there! I’m Monika McDonough, a dedicated and compassionate Employment Counsellor with a passion for helping others achieve their career goals. With over two years of experience in employment counseling, job development, and program coordination, I thrive on supporting clients through every step of their job search journey—whether it’s crafting resumes, mastering computer skills, or connecting them with potential employers.

What drives me? A client-focused approach, creative problem-solving, and a deep belief in the power of optimism and self-motivation. I love tackling new challenges and am always eager to learn, whether it’s mastering the latest tech tools (like Zoom, Canva, or LinkedIn) or finding innovative ways to break down language barriers for clients.

"Believe in yourself, and the rest will follow!"

Results-driven Employment Counsellor and Program Coordinator with 2+ years of experience supporting diverse clients in achieving meaningful employment. Adept at delivering trauma-informed care to foster a safe, empowering environment for job seekers facing barriers. Combines strong counseling skills with technical expertise in resume building, job search strategies, and digital literacy training (Excel, PowerPoint, online applications).

Key Highlights:

Provided one-on-one employment counseling and group workshops (in-person/virtual), incorporating trauma-informed principles to build trust and reduce anxiety during job transitions.

Designed and facilitated Employer Information Sessions (EIS), bridging connections between clients and employers while prioritizing inclusive, low-stress interactions.

Advised 100+ clients on resumes, interviews, and workplace readiness, adapting communication styles for survivors of trauma, newcomers, and marginalized groups.

Certified in Compassionate Crisis Response and Mental Health First Aid, with recent training in Trauma-Informed Care to better address clients’ emotional and psychological needs.

Skilled in labor market research, employer outreach, and advocacy—ensuring clients access opportunities aligned with their strengths and circumstances.

Core Approach:

Committed to a client-centered, trauma-sensitive framework that empowers individuals to navigate career challenges with confidence. Passionate about fostering resilience through tailored support, whether teaching computer skills, coordinating work placements, or mitigating compassion fatigue in frontline service delivery.

"Every job search is a journey—I meet clients where they are, with empathy, practicality, and hope."

Key Qualifications:

Trauma-Informed Care (Recent Certification) – Equips me to support clients with empathy, safety, and awareness of trauma’s impact on employment.

The Assessment Component of Employment Counselling (A.C.E.C.) & Individual Employment Counselling (YWCA Saskatoon, 2020) – Core training for career guidance, client assessment, and job search strategies.

Mental Health First Aid + Compassionate Crisis Response (Oaks Mental Health, 2021–2023) – Enhances ability to address clients’ emotional and psychological barriers.

Therapeutic Recreation Diploma (Saskatchewan Polytechnic, 2019) – Strengthens client engagement and program design skills.

Why It Matters:

This combination of employment counseling expertise and trauma-informed mental health training ensures I provide holistic, adaptable support to diverse job seekers—from resume building to emotional resilience.