About Cheryl
Cheryl Otterbein, RCS, MTC, C.Cht, HT, is a compassionate and experienced Psychotherapist and Clinical Counselling Hypnotherapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s emotional and psychological challenges.
With more than a decade of clinical experience, Cheryl specializes in trauma recovery, anxiety management, grief, and stress-related conditions. Her integrative approach combines traditional psychotherapy with therapeutic hypnosis, mindfulness, and evidence-based strategies to promote genuine healing and self-discovery.
Cheryl’s sessions provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, understand their emotions, and develop practical tools for resilience and growth.
Education & Credentials
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Registered Clinical Supervisor (RCS)
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Master Therapeutic Counsellor (MTC) – Registered with both ACCT (Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada) and ACTA (Alberta Counselling Therapy Association)
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Clinical Counselling Hypnotherapist (C.Cht)
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Certified Hypnotherapy Instructor (HT)
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President, International Association of Counseling Hypnotherapists (I.A.C.H.)
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Founder & Owner, Meristem Therapy Academy
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Board Director, FACT BC (Federation of Associations for Counselling Therapists in British Columbia)
Treatment Philosophy
Cheryl believes that healing begins with understanding. Her philosophy centres on the connection between the conscious and subconscious mind – where insight, emotional processing, and behavioural change intersect.
Using modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Techniques, and Clinical Hypnotherapy, she tailors every session to the client’s unique goals and readiness.
Her focus is on empowering clients to build emotional regulation, release past pain, and move toward confidence, clarity, and well-being.
Areas of Expertise
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Anxiety, panic, and chronic stress
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Trauma, PTSD, and emotional dysregulation
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Depression, burnout, and life transitions
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Grief and loss
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Relationship and communication challenges
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Confidence, motivation, and performance enhancement
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Behavioural and habit change
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Sleep difficulties and overthinking
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Menopausal symptom relief (emotional regulation, sleep, mood, and stress)
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Phobias and fears
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Dental and needle pain management
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Chronic pain and tension reduction
Beyond the Clinic
Outside her clinical work, Cheryl is an educator, mentor, and advocate for the counselling and hypnotherapy professions in Canada.
She finds inspiration and balance through time in nature, painting, and creating meaningful projects that combine creativity and wellness. Her personal philosophy reflects her professional one – growth is a lifelong journey of curiosity, reflection, and renewal.