About us
True Ally is a trauma-informed therapy and consulting practice founded by Sharlene Gumbs, MSW, RSW. We support individuals and organizations through change, healing, and growth by centering emotional safety, practical tools, and real-world context. Our work bridges individual care with systems-level understanding, helping people move forward in ways that are both effective and sustainable.
Our Guiding Principles
Safety First
Emotional and psychological safety are the foundation for healing, learning, and growth.
Trauma-Informed by Design
We honour choice, collaboration, pacing, and respect in every interaction.
Relationship-Centred
Meaningful change happens through trust, connection, and authentic partnership.
Practical & Purposeful
We provide strategies, tools, and solutions that work in real-world settings.
Systems-Aware
People do not exist in isolation. Context, culture, leadership, and systems shape wellbeing and outcomes.
Sustainable Impact
We prioritize long-term capacity, resilience, and healthy workplaces over short-term fixes and burnout.
In Practice
True Ally has delivered trauma-informed training, facilitation, policy development, and consulting for nonprofit and community-based organizations across Ontario.
Select experience includes work with organizations such as Ontario Association of Social Workers, Roots Community Services, Ifarada Institute, and George Hull Centre for Children and Families.