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About Thrive

Why I started Thrive

Helen Scott, PhD (Epidemiology), MA (Counselling Psychology), RP Founder, Thrive Canada

For more than 25 years, I've devoted my career to one deceptively simple question:

What helps people live healthier, happier lives?

Helen Scott smiling outdoors beside a bed of spring tulips

My story

A question that became personal

  1. The scientist

    As an epidemiologist and public health leader, I've spent my career turning health research into real change, from community health programs in Ontario to global health initiatives in more than 30 countries with the World Health Organization.

  2. The turning point

    In 2018, a brain injury changed my understanding of health in a profoundly personal way. During a long recovery, I immersed myself in the science of brain health and well-being, discovering just how interconnected our physical health, mental health, and everyday habits really are.

  3. The psychotherapist

    My recovery led me to study counselling psychology and become a Registered Psychotherapist. Today, I combine my public health expertise with clinical experience to help people make meaningful, lasting changes in their lives.

Why educators?

Teachers have always been part of my world

My late father-in-law was actually my high school teacher when I met my husband, who also became a teacher. My sister teaches, two of my five children are pursuing careers in education, and my sister-in-law is a professor of education.

I've seen first-hand how easily teachers' own health takes a back seat. Educators spend their careers helping others learn, grow, and reach their potential. I believe they deserve that same investment in themselves.

I've spent my career learning what helps people thrive. Now I get to share it with some of my favourite people: teachers.

My approach

Science meets everyday life

Knowing what supports good health is one thing. Finding ways to put that knowledge into practice, especially in a busy life, is another. Thrive brings together evidence-based health education and practical strategies for making meaningful, lasting change.

Each month brings one practical focus, from what's on your plate to what's on your calendar. Topics include:

Body

  • Nutrition & metabolic health
  • Movement & physical health
  • Sleep & recovery

Mind

  • Stress, anxiety & burnout
  • Trauma & emotional well-being
  • Brain health & resilience

Life

  • Relationships & social connection
  • Time management & organization
  • Goals & habits

It's not about doing everything perfectly. It's about small, sustainable changes that add up to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Professional background

Two kinds of training, one goal: helping people live healthier lives.

Science & public health

  • Assistant Professor (Status Only)Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto
  • PhD, EpidemiologyUniversity of Toronto
  • MSc, Community Health and EpidemiologyQueen's University
  • BSc, Life SciencesQueen's University

Clinical practice

  • Registered PsychotherapistCollege of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
  • MA, Counselling PsychologyYorkville University
  • BA (Honours), PsychologyQueen's University

The next step

There's more to life than getting through the day.

Our next Thrive program begins in January 2027. Join the waitlist to be the first to know when enrolment opens.

Interested in individual psychotherapy?

Learn more about our separate psychotherapy services