Olena Tarasova, Grief Coach in Winnipeg
Hello, I’m Olena, a certified Life and Wellness Coach based in Winnipeg, Canada. I work with grief, especially the kind that doesn’t follow rules, timelines, or offer clear answers.
Writing “About me” pages has never come easily to me. They often feel too formal, too polished, and disconnected from real life. I’d much rather ask you something simple, like whether you prefer tea or coffee, or what helps you feel a little more like yourself when things are heavy. Still, I know it matters to know who you’re sitting with. So here’s a little about me.
How my experience shapes my work
I’m originally from Ukraine. I didn’t plan to move to Canada. I arrived here in 2022 because of the russian full-scale invasion of my country. Ukraine is, and always will be, close to my heart.
I live here with my husband and our dog, Lux — a Mini Australian Shepherd you’ll probably see on this site. He offers me quiet, steady support in his own way.
My relationship with grief is personal. I’ve lived through periods of deep depression, loss, and disorientation. I’ve learned what it means to rebuild, to ask for help, and to stay present rather than rushing to “fix” what hurts.
What I’ve learned is simple, but not easy:
The most meaningful support isn’t about becoming someone else’s light—it’s about helping them see their own.
I believe that light exists in everyone, even when it feels buried, messy, or hard to trust.
You don’t need to be “better” before you arrive here. I don’t judge where you are.
I’ll walk alongside you while you search.
And even if you don’t believe in yourself yet — I do.
Professional background & credentials
I began my professional journey in Ukraine, where I earned my psychology degree from Kherson State University in 2007 through the Bologna system.
I worked as a clinical psychologist with vulnerable groups, including people living with addiction, women in the sex industry, and individuals in hospice care. Later, I started a private practice.
Throughout my career, I continued extensive professional development, including:
– 150+ hours of group therapy as a participant
– 350+ hours of psychoanalytic theory
– 400+ hours of individual Symbol Drama therapy
– 100+ hours of clinical supervision
I was close to certification in Symbol Drama psychotherapy, but stepped away when the method no longer aligned with my values.
After moving to Canada, I couldn’t continue clinical practice due to regulatory requirements, so I chose a different path.
In 2025, I completed certifications in Health & Wellness Coaching and Grief Coaching through Coach Academy programs grounded in ethics, structure, and evidence-based practice.
Coaching is not a replacement for counselling. It’s a different tool, one that creates space, agency, and deep respect for each person’s inner wisdom.
Today, my work brings together professional training, lived experience, and a calm, steady presence.
If any of this resonates with you, you’re welcome to reach out.
Sometimes, starting with a conversation is enough.
Career Timeline
2000 – 2004
Junior Designer
Company Name
2004 – 2010
Senior Designer
Company Name
2010-2018
Art Director
Company Name
2018-Present
Self Employed
Amara Kanit Design
Let’s work together
If you have a project you would like to collaborate on together, just reach out.
Contact Me