Counselling is about moving from stuck patterns in life to ones that work. I specialize in getting people the skills they need to transform issues now. As well, I help clients explore what may be causing symptoms. I have been helping people meet their goals for over 20 years and am confident I can help you make the changes you need.
Professional training, skills, life experience, and personal attributes make it easy for people to relate to and trust me. I completed my graduate training in Santa Barbara, California, with a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology, meeting the rigorous requirements of the California Marriage and Family Therapist License (MFT). I furthered my studies through post grad training, including at the University of British Columbia, Peach Arch Hospital, The Gottman Institute in Seattle WA, and more.
I am acknowledged for my compassion, empathy, intuition, and ability to help people feel better. I offer an effective counselling approach, one that gets to the deeper roots of issues so that changes are long-term. In my personal life, I am married with children; I understand first-hand the challenges and rewards of being a parent and a partner. I lived overseas for over 10 years, travelling in many parts of the world. This experience has reinforced an understanding of how each person and each problem are truly unique. Using the best evidence-based therapies, I am passionate about getting you the tools you need to make change a reality.
Warmth, respect, professionalism, and a deep understanding of how to transform problems at their root are what you will find with me. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC registration number 2472) and a Registered Psychotherapist (certification number 1966). Both designations require me to continuously update my qualifications in order to be recertified. Being licensed means that I am ethically guided in my work, I am qualified to practice psychotherapy, and I keep up-to-date with the newest information.
I have worked as a counsellor long enough to see how patterns can repeat; it can feel like you are just spinning your wheels when root causes of problems are not addressed. I can help you access a deeper intelligence and move through troublesome issues. I do this in dialogue with you, creating tools you can use right away; it is not necessary to be in therapy for years before change occurs.
When we enter the core of problems, better solutions to life's challenges become clear. It is my privilege to accompany you on this journey.
John Taylor Reaches
Nanaimo BC