Find a Therapist in North Cowichan, British Columbia.

I am a registered Clinical Counsellor or practicing Psychotherapist in the Province of British Columbia. I have been practicing for over 25 years in the field of Mental Health and relationship counselling. Psychotherapy typically uses talk therapy, however, in my practice, I also use creative arts approaches if clients prefer. Psychotherapy can help with symptoms that interfere with enjoying life to the fullest. I use a trauma-informed approach, meaning that I am sensitive to the conditions and experiences that can retraumatize a person in counselling.

Psychotherapy is a fancy word for having someone truly, sincerely, empathetically and without preconceptions or judgements, share your truth with you. It is the greatest honor and also responsibility to hold precious, with respect, everything you bring to the counselling experience. Sometimes that is trauma, shame or guilt. Sometimes psychotherapy includes delving into your past but this is not always the case. If you are wanting to focus on the present, and explore how to make a life more worth living, psychotherapy can provide you the insights you need to make positive change in your life. What is important to know is that regardless of where you are or want to go, you are safe with me.

My therapeutic style starts with attentive listening in order to fully understand the challenges faced by my clients. I provide a strong sense of safe space for client's to open up. Even though I'm non-judgmental and believe the client should be in the driver's seat, I'm not afraid to grab the wheel when needed! Expert direction is sometimes called for in the therapeutic relationship. I'm a confident therapist who brings over 20 years of experience to therapeutic work. I am fluent in various modalities of therapy, including DBT, ACT and CBT. My goal to support (and gently guide) my clients to live their best lives.

Psychotherapy is often used to treat a wide range of challenges, some of which include: poor self confidence, depression, anxiety, career problems, impaired relationships, addictions, etc. As your therapist I will assist you in identifying the key areas you would like to work on. Sometimes people feel so overwhelmed they do not know where to start. Together, we can determine which issues are of top priority. I will assist you in looking at the 'big picture', while initially setting small measurable goals. I will provide you with the support you need to tackle each obstacle head on. Small successes lead to great accomplishments.

My approach is to work collaboratively with clients using a holistic model of therapy which entails a blending of Eastern and Western modalities. For example, training in meditation, yoga, Tai Chi, proper exercise, a nutritious, science-based diet and maintaining proper sleep hygiene. Also, including talk therapy can then help to reveal core values and issues. Mindfulness training benefits clients in observing clearly thoughts and behaviours. Clients benefit greatly through the use of evidence based interventions by developing the skills needed to evaluate thought patterns and overcome destructive patterns.

Each of us has a persona and a shadow. Our persona is what we project out to the world . Our personal shadow contains the less acceptable and most often unconscious aspects of who we are. Psychotherapy, when most effective, addresses the shadow. It is through our discovery and acceptance of our shadow elements that we balance inner conflict and discover unrealized potential and new creative energy. Your shadow is welcome in my office.

Patterns of self-sabotaging behavioural, disorganized thinking and overwhelming emotion make life very difficult. How can we move forward when our bodies seem to betray us and we just need a break from the buzzing anxiety or the numbing of depression? What you may not know is all these symptoms are the imprint of our unfinished business, stuck in the body and just begging to be seen, cared for and accepted. Working with me means looking with curiosity, compassion and an educated-eye at how old wounds of betrayal, abandonment and rejection show up to block living your best life. You are not alone and there is hope.

I am honoured that you are interested in my services and I would like to tell you a little bit about myself. I have been described as slightly non-conventional in the counselling world, which suits me perfectly, and also tends to suit youth who are trying to stand up to the force of the problems in their life. I am very comfortable working with this population, and I feel fortunate that I can connect with teens the way I do, conventionally or in a way that makes sense to them.

Psychotherapy can be effective and greatly beneficial for couples, individuals and families. We strive to create a safe and understanding environment where we work in a collaborative manor based on your goals and needs. We will work with a variety of techniques tailored to your specific needs providing optimal results. Through psychotherapy you can begin to see yourself and your world through a non partial and neutral lens. Through the clarity and acceptance of your authentic self we will work to build your tools for ongoing personal growth and success, independent of counselling.

Psychotherapy can be a powerful tool to help you grow in self-awareness, notice patterns in your life and help you heal. Just like when you watch a chess game from the outside, you can notice things about the game in a way that you cannot see when you are in a game, in the same way, psychotherapy can be extremely helpful in helping you to see yourself with more clarity and that clarity will result in a more fulfilled, intentional life.

Are you feeling lost and alone? Struggling with overwhelming thoughts and emotions? If you're ready to take control of your mental well-being and find a path to healing, therapy can help. As a psychotherapist, I understand how difficult it can be to cope with feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress. With support and guidance, you can learn to manage these feelings and create a happier, more fulfilling life. Together, we will work on a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals. I use powerful techniques and a warm, empathetic approach to help my clients gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and provide them with the tools they need to succeed.