Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans.

I am a counselling intern at Island Clinical Counselling specializing in Body Focused Repetitive Behaviours (compulsive skin picking, nail biting or hair pulling) and ADHD. My approach emphasizes practical management tools and self-compassion. In addition to individual counselling, I host workshops and monthly support groups addressing BFRBs and ADHD. I am a cisgender man of colour and use he/him pronouns.

I am currently completing my Master’s in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University, but my journey started with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of British Columbia. This unconventional path to counselling has helped me relate to the clients who did not grow up with conversations around mental health or are discovering it later in life. I was born in Chilliwack BC after my parents immigrated from central China My passion for counselling stems from overcoming my own compulsive skin-picking along with decades of shame and anxiety. To learn more, I welcome you to listen to Fidget, my podcast about my BFRB journey.

Outside of counselling, I enjoy making music, listening to podcasts, and backcountry camping.

Areas of Focus: BFRBs (trichotillomania, hair-pulling; dermatillomania, skin-picking) ADHD Cultural Identity Career changes Autism Grief Anxiety Depression Stress and Burnout

I am able to direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit for services.

Age ranges served: 11 and up

Email: jason@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 113 Pronouns: He/Him

Location: Jason works virtually out of Vancouver, BC.

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans. I am a counselling intern at Island Clinical Co... Read More

Click on my North Nanaimo/Port Alberni locations on the first booking page for more availability.

I truly believe treatment is a partnership between counsellor and client and will work with you to design an effective plan that recognizes your personal strengths and challenges. I use warmth, humour, and authenticity in my approach to make each client feel comfortable and to build a strong, positive therapeutic connection. I have experience using creative methods, such as games and movement activities, to connect with younger clients and spark their interest in the counselling process. I also support individuals with neurodiversity and their families.

I have been fortunate enough to live and work in communities both in Canada and around the world that have taught me the importance of culturally sensitive, un-biased mental health service. I aim to provide counselling that honours each client’s perspective on healing and recognizes all the elements that intersect to make each of us our own unique person. While I primarily base my approach on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, a wide variety of treatment methods and interventions may be used depending on your needs, personality, and preferences.

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and I work with adults, children, youth, couples, and families. Please reach out to book a free 15-minute consultation.

Areas of Focus:

Anxiety ADHD Autism Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviours (BFRBs), such as skin picking, nail biting, and Trichotillomania (hair pulling) Body image dissatisfaction and body dysmorphic disorder Chronic Pain Depression Family Conflict Life transitions Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Relationship issues and Couples counselling Stress and Burnout Self-Esteem Trauma Women’s issues Tics and Tourette’s Sleep Disorders

Education and Training:

I have completed my Masters of Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and Bachelor of Education from the University of Ottawa. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor.

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for OCD Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI) Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Habit Reversal Therapy (HRT) Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (TF-CBT) Nature-based Therapy Informed Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics and Tourette’s (CBIT) ICBC Counselling

I am able to direct bill to Autism Funding Unit, ICBC, and Gameplan for Athletes.

Age ranges served: all.

Email: cat@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 111 Pronouns: She/Her

Location: Cat works out of our Port Alberni office Monday to Friday and out of our Downtown Nanaimo and North Nanaimo location on Saturdays.

Click on my North Nanaimo/Port Alberni locations on the first booking page for more availability.... Read More

I work in two locations.

Evolution and growth are an innate part of the human experience, but sometimes we get stuck. That’s where counselling can help. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, symptoms of trauma, self-identity, relationship issues, substance-use, or other challenges, we can co-create sessions that focus on your personal goals. I see it as my job to help create a safe and supportive space where clients can reconnect to their inner wants and needs. As we start to identify what we want for ourselves, we can then see how we sometimes act in ways that do not serve us.

As a certified clinical counsellor, specializing in trauma-informed practices, I blend person-centred and solution-focused approaches to foster acceptance and change. I use an integrative approach that combines inquiry, mindfulness, somatic and emotion-focused modalities, while focusing on the present moment. Core elements in my practice include consent, agency, and respect. While I continue to evolve my training and practice, you are the expert in your life. Together we can create sessions that fit your needs.

Counselling is an exciting and rewarding journey, and I am deeply grateful to have the privilege to work alongside clients. Making the choice to change and grow is powerful.

Areas of focus

Trauma-related symptoms

Acute trauma

Complex trauma

Substance use

Process addictions (shopping, gambling, food-related)

Relationship issues

Occupational stress injury

Life transitions

Personal and cultural identity support

2SLGBTQI+ support

Grief and loss

Anxiety disorders

Depression and depressive disorders

Neurodiverse abilities

Education and Training

My bachelor’s degree, from the University of Oregon, is Romance Languages and Second Language Teaching and Acquisition, and I spent much of my early career teaching and traveling abroad. As part of my own journey, I went on to complete a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I am a certified clinical counsellor (CCC) and I am in the process of obtaining the registered clinical counsellor (RCC) designation, as well. My additional trainings include:

NARM Level 2 Therapist Training - in progress

Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Training - 2024

ART - Accelerated Resolution Therapy Basic Training - 2023

ASIST - Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training - 2023

Therapeutic Modalities

Trauma-informed

Person-centered

Emotion-Focused

Neuro-affective Relational Model (NARM)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP)

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

Strengths-based

Motivational Interviewing

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

Systemic & Ecological lens

Biopsychosocial-spiritual lens

Culturally Responsive & Socially Just lens

Ages: 16 and up

kelsey@islandclinicalcounselling.ca 778-762-3759 ext. 115

Kelsey works out of the Downtown clinic on Thursday nights and Saturday afternoons. She works out of the North Nanaimo clinic on Fridays.

I work in two locations. Evolution and growth are an innate part of the human experience, but so... Read More

Carolyn is a Registered Clinical Counsellor in good standing with the BCACC. She completed her Masters in Counselling Psychology and supervised clinical training at the University of British Columbia in 2014. She works with individual clients (adults and children over 10) on a variety of presenting concerns with a trauma-sensitive and attachment-focused lens. She offers a warm (but not too gooey!) presence while creating a clear, co-constructed treatment plan that feels safe and supportive. Carolyn’s approach to treating trauma and related mental health concerns is grounded in the development of a strong therapeutic relationship. Her work is informed by Interpersonal Neurobiology, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and some elements of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). To set up a free phone/virtual consultation, please email Carolyn directly at carolyn@islandclinicalcounselling.ca

Age groups: adults

carolyn@islandclinicalcounselling.ca

Carolyn is a Registered Clinical Counsellor in good standing with the BCACC. She completed her M... Read More

It takes courage to step into the counselling process and focus on your healing and growth. I hold the utmost respect and admiration for my clients as they work to change unhealthy thoughts and behaviours, build stronger relationships, and heal from deep trauma. My therapeutic style brings kindness and warmth and I endeavour to create safety. My integrative approach combines cognitive and behavioural processes, somatic modalities, and emotional and mindfulness-based approaches.

I am passionate about supporting youth, individual adults, and couples who are navigating challenges related to recent or past trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I believe it is essential to understand people’s experiences in light of their particular social, cultural, and relational contexts, and I aim to be sensitive to this in my work.

Areas of Focus

Stress and Burnout Self-esteem Trauma therapy Couples Counselling/Relationship Issues Life transitions, such as transition to post-secondary, parenting, and retirement. Pregnancy and Postpartum Immigrant and refugee support Cultural identity Spiritual support Grief Anxiety Disorders Depression and depressive disorders Diverse abilities, such as Autism and ADHD

Education and Training

My fascination with people’s stories and the cultures in which they were raised led me to a Bachelor’s degree in Global Studies. For several years, I worked for a non-profit in various countries worldwide, allowing me to gain different perspectives on living and healing. I have a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology and am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). I have specific training in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Suicide intervention (ASIST).

Therapeutic Modalities

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Emotionally Focused Therapy Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Mindfulness Compassion Focused Therapy Strengths-based therapy Solution-focused therapy Adlerian Theory

I can direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit. If your benefits plan covers Registered Clinical Counsellors, then these appointments should be covered.

Ages ranges served: 12+

Email: joy@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 Ext 122 Pronouns: she/her

Location: Joy works out of our Downtown Nanaimo location on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

It takes courage to step into the counselling process and focus on your healing and growth. I hol... Read More

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans.

I am a student member of the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors and member of the Canadian Horticultural Therapy Association working toward registration as a Horticultural Therapist.

I was “raised” as a counsellor in trauma-informed, intersectional, feminist theory which remains with me in my prioritization of trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship, efforts to level the power differential between therapist and client and validation and acknowledgment of client wisdom, strength and expertise on their own experience. I recognize that we live in social, cultured and gendered contexts that present disproportionate concerns for gender, sexual, racial and cultural minorities and work to create a safe space for diverse folks in the LGBTQ2SI+, Indigenous and multicultural communities.

Areas of Focus:

-Interpersonal trauma focused on survivors of

Intimate partner violence and abuse

Childhood sexual abuse

Sexual assault

Intergenerational trauma

-Children’s problematic sexual behaviour

-PTSD and complex trauma experiences

-Depression

-Anxiety

-Stress management

-Neurodiversity-affirming support for individuals and families with developmental differences such as autism, ADHD and intellectual disabilities

-Gender and sexual diversity-affirming support

-Self-harm and suicidality

Education and Training:

-Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology through Yorkville University (in progress)

-Coursework toward Graduate Certificate in Child and Youth Mental Health

-Introduction to Nature-Based Therapy

-TF-CBT training

-Person centered therapy

-Trauma informed yoga

-Applied suicide intervention skills training (ASIST)

-Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Instructor

-Behaviour Interventionist Basic Training

-San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training

Therapeutic Modalities:

-Trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (TF-CBT)

-Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

-Mindfulness-based strategies

-Body-based / somatic / sensory strategies

-Person centered therapy

-Nature-based therapy

-Expressive arts and activity-based strategies

-Strengths-based therapy

Age ranges served: All children, youth and adults

Pronouns: She/her

Location: I work out of the downtown Nanaimo office on Mondays 9am-4:30pm and Fridays 3-7p

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans. I am a student member of the BC Association of ... Read More

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans.

Hi, I’m Jami. I believe the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of all the work we do together, and my priority is providing person-centered care for my clients. My focus is on working on empowering individuals towards their goals to support their life journey. My practice is informed through an attachment-focus and family system lens which helps to support children, youth and families engage in life in a meaningful way.

As a classroom teacher, school counsellor, and coach, I have experience working with youth of all ages and needs including supporting neuro-diverse individuals, highly sensitive children, learning challenges, and children with ADHD. This includes facilitating social-emotional groups, working 1:1 with children and youth to support their social emotional needs. I also believe strongly in supporting parents and families with strategies to navigate effective communication, personal triggers and maladaptive behaviour patterns.

I work with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), solution-focused, positive psychology, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy in session.

Areas of focus: -Parenting Support -Support for major life transitions, such as divorce or education transition -Stress Management -Anxiety Disorders -Depression and Depressive Disorders -Mood Disorders -Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) -ADHD support -Learning support -Grief and Loss -Self-Esteem

In my spare time I enjoy the outdoors with my family, including surfing, skiing and hiking. I am honored to be a part of your journey and am currently accepting new clients.

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans. Hi, I’m Jami. I believe the therapeutic relati... Read More

Not reimbursable by benefits plans.

I’m a current high school counsellor at School District 68 and have been privileged to be in that position for the past 5 years. I’m grateful to be joining the team at Island Clinical Counselling to take the final steps to earn my RCC qualification.

The foundation of my counselling approach is built on trust and building a strong therapeutic relationship. Together we will work through the challenges you are facing, while discussing your strengths, to develop effective coping strategies to achieve your goals.

Professionally, as a teacher and coach for 15 years locally and internationally, I have experience working with youth who demonstrate a wide range of social, emotional and educational needs. I enjoy working as a team with youth, caregivers, and community partners to help people grow.

Personally, I have coped with grief, loss and trauma. With these experiences, I can relate to those actively working through, learning from, and mending from life’s challenges. I truly believe that we all have the capability to be resilient and overcome any adversity with support.

I am happily married and a father to two kind, loving, and energetic boys. I have passion for sports, especially basketball. I played at the collegiate level at VIU for 5 years and have coached competitive boys basketball since 2008. I love spending time with my family and friends and am privileged to do this on the traditional unceded territory of the Snuneymuxw people. 

Areas of Focus: Stress Management Anxiety Disorders Depression and Depressive Disorders Mood Disorders Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) ADHD Support Learning Support Grief and Loss Self-Esteem Parenting Support Life Transitions Sport Performance

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)  Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) Strength Based Mindfulness Narrative Therapy Person Centered Therapy Family Systems Activity and play-based modalities Attachment Theory

Education: Bachelor of Arts (VIU)  Bachelor of Education (VIU)  Master of Education in Counselling (City University of Seattle) 

Email: graham@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 123 Pronouns: He/Him Location: Downtown Clinic on Saturdays.

Not reimbursable by benefits plans. I’m a current high school counsellor at School District 68 a... Read More

Anticipated leave February 2025. I first wish to express my appreciation to you for the opportunity to walk alongside your journey with healing and self-discovery. I am grateful for the gift of trust that you share for the reciprocal learning process. In addition to working as a clinical counsellor, I am also a social work professional in the traditional and unceded territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation communities. With a strengths-based approach and trauma-informed lens my focus is to develop strong therapeutic alliances with those in my care. I have over 12 years of experience working with children, youth, and young adults through therapeutic treatment programs and within various diverse communities and collaborative settings. A key consideration through my experiences is the value of integration of the family system and the importance of community connection. In my work with young people I value the critical importance of identity and belonging; key factors in the development of children, youth, and young adults.

I look forward to having the opportunity to work with you in your healing journey. Through the exchange of learning, healing, and self-discovery, my hope is that you will experience a respectful and authentic presence, with a person-centered, strengths-based approach. Using a holistic and balanced approach it is my belief that you are in the driver’s seat and are the expert of your story. Each time we meet it is my aim to ensure you leave with something new and beneficial. The use of a trauma-informed lens, EMDR, and culturally responsive practices are fundamental values throughout my practice. Openness, respect, and collaboration are values I will bring to our work together.

Areas of Focus:

Family Transitions and Support Trauma Anxiety Grief and Loss Relationship Issues Stress and Burnout Women’s Issues Life Transitions Depression Body Image Culture and Spirituality Career Changes Family and Couples Counselling Child Counselling and Play Based Therapy Youth Support Education and Training:

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Informed Approaches Humanistic Psychotherapy Solution Focused Therapy Mindfulness Based Therapy Adlerian Approaches Narrative Therapy Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Approaches I have completed my EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) certification. I have completed my Bachelors in Social Work from Thompson Rivers University and my Masters of Counselling from Yorkville University. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor.

Ages ranges served: all ages, individuals and families

Email: janay@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 116 Pronouns: She/Her

Location: Janay works out of our Downtown Nanaimo location on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Anticipated leave February 2025. I first wish to express my appreciation to you for the opportuni... Read More

Not reimbursable by benefit plans.

I am excited to be completing my internship with the skilled team at Island Clinical Counselling. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Thomspon Rivers University and am in the final stages of my Master of Counselling degree at Athabasca University. For over a decade, I have supported children, adolescents, and adults with mental health concerns and I am currently available to work with individuals, couples, and families. I enjoy working collaboratively and believe in meeting you where you are.

My background is in exposure and response prevention (ERP) for anxiety-related concerns including OCD, hoarding, panic, and phobias. My personal experiences have led me to supporting people through fertility challenges, pregnancy, and postpartum mental health, with my graduate research centered on the impact of fertility-related stress on individuals and couples. I work with couples in monogamous and consensually non-monogamous relationships and provide 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming care.

I have a deep understanding of the challenges of parenthood. I offer support for parents and children, including individuals with confirmed or suspected ADHD and those navigating late diagnosis. Additionally, I have training in chronic health concerns, body image, and disordered eating, using a Health at Every Size (HAES) approach.

I am committed to using evidence-based therapies, delivered in a person-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally inclusive way. I work from cognitive-behavioural and mindfulness-based perspectives and have training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI), as well as specialized tools for working with couples using Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method.

If you feel like we would be a good fit to work together, or have questions, please get in touch and we can discuss how we might get started.

Areas of focus:

· Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

· Anxiety, Panic, Phobias

· Depression

· Fertility challenges including Secondary Infertility

· Pregnancy and Postpartum

· Parenting Support, Parent-Child Relationships

· ADHD Support (Confirmed and Undiagnosed), Late Diagnosis

· Body Image, Disordered Eating, Self-esteem, Health-At-Every-Size (HAES)

· Chronic Illness, Chronic Pain, Tinnitus

· Sleep Issues

· Relationship Issues

· Family Relationships and Communication

· Life Transitions and Decisions

· Identity and Career Exploration

Not reimbursable by benefit plans. I am excited to be completing my internship with the skilled ... Read More

Hello! I am very excited to be joining Island Clinical Counselling and being a part of such an amazing group of people who are dedicated and helping others along the healing journey.

My approach to therapy is integrative.  I work with Integrative Body Psychotherapy (IPB), Somatic Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT).  It is so important to recognize the part our bodies play in our trauma and emotion. I am also a couples counsellor; I focus on providing therapy to those with attachment injuries.  My approach is strength-based, person-centered and holistic. I feel it is important to work with a person on multiple levels so that deep healing can take place.  I offer a warm and empathetic presence to my clients.

I found my passion for counselling and helping others through my journey in music. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Music, specializing in Opera. I am a professional singer, as well as a voice and music teacher. It was through this path that I discovered the healing qualities of music and voice. This inspired me to become a counsellor, and now I am able to work from both my musical and healing practices.  I also can offer  my clients voice-integrated therapy and music-integrated therapy if they desire.

Areas of Focus:

Depression Stress-Management Substance Use Anxiety Trauma Performance Anxiety Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).   Children and Youth Individual Adults Couples Diverse Abilities, such as Autism and ADHD

Education and Training: I have graduated with my M.A. in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC). During my training I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of age groups and cultures.  My therapeutic modalities include:

Somatic Therapy Psychodynamic Individual Therapy Integrative Body Psychotherapy (IBP) Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) Voice-Integrated Therapy Music-Integrated Therapy 

I am able to direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit for services.  

Age ranges served: 7 and up.

Email: shante@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 108 Pronouns: She/Her

Location: Shante works out of our Downtown clinic.

Hello! I am very excited to be joining Island Clinical Counselling and being a part of such an am... Read More

I feel profoundly honoured to support people in their journey toward wellness. My approach is nurturing, respect-based, collaborative, strength-based, and trauma-informed. I specialize in working with trauma and PTSD. I love the richness of working with all people. Populations of specialty include: couples, men, middle agers, and elders. I am also passionate about working with people experiencing diverse challenges such as life transitions and aging, anxiety and depression, grief, relationship conflicts or issues, stress management and burnout, neurodiversity (adults and youth), and identity, sex and sexuality.

So often, people who have experienced one or many traumas also experience anxiety or depression, intrusive or overwhelming memories, sleep disturbances, hopelessness, and a deep loss of trust and confidence in themselves and others. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where people can be vulnerable and express themselves authentically. Together, we can rebuild a sense of safety and stability so people can manage their symptoms and heal their traumas.

I utilize a variety of modalities depending on the diverse needs of each individual, couple, or family; however, I am most proficient with Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Person-Centred Therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I am an ally to and for LGBTQ2+ and sex-positive communities, highly respectful of all people from all cultures, religious beliefs, and walks of life, and I strive to apply a culturally responsive and socially just lens to all that I do.

Education and Training:

I am so excited and grateful to be a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the amazing Island Clinical Counselling team. I am an EMDR Therapist, and I have my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology degree through Yorkville University. I also hold a Master of Vocational/Technical Education (Adult Education) degree from the University of Regina and received my Coaching Out of the Box certification as part of the SLP (Saskatchewan Leadership Program) training through the Saskatchewan Health Authority.

Therapeutic Modalities:

· EMDR Therapist, Basic Training, EMDRIA Approved

· Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

· Dialectical Behavioural Therapy Person-Centered Therapy

· Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

· Strength Based Therapy

· Narrative Therapy

Age ranges served: children and youth (5 and up), adults, elders.

I can direct bill to Autism Funding, ICBC, and First Nations Health Authority.

(she/her/hers)

I feel profoundly honoured to support people in their journey toward wellness. My approach is nur... Read More

I work in two locations.

Thank you for taking the first step toward creating a brighter future for yourself! Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), phobias, body-focused repetitive behaviours (BFRB) or other mental health concerns? I am here to help. Together we will walk a journey towards wellness by unpacking your negative thinking patterns or unhelpful behaviours and work to create healthy thoughts and behaviours that will lead towards a healthier you!

My primary approach is through a cognitive behavioural therapy perspective. Through this lens we examine the power of our thoughts and behaviours on our mental health. I have experience working with OCD and BFRB as well as anxiety and depression. I work with children, youth and adults. I am able to direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit and have experience working with autistic children and adults.

Areas of Focus:

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Sports Psychology, focus on support for athletes Anxiety Disorders, Panic Disorders, Phobias Depression and depressive disorders Body Focused Repetitive Behaviours: picking and pulling disorders (BFRBs), such as Dermatillomania and Trichotillomania Tics and Tourette’s Syndrome Body Dysmorphic Disorder Trauma Therapy Support for major life transitions, such as support to post-secondary students Stress Management Support for caregivers of and individuals with diverse abilities Family Counselling Education and Training: I have completed my Masters in Counselling and a supervised practicum. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor.

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) for anxiety, depression, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Exposure Response Prevention (ERPs) Habit Reversal Therapy (HRT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for OCD Trauma Focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (TF-CBT) Informed Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics and Tourette’s (CBIT) I am able to direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit for services as well as Game Plan for athletes mental health. If your benefits plan covers Registered Clinical Counsellors then these appointments should be covered.

Age ranges served: All

Email: bree@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 105 Pronouns: She/Her

Location: Bree works out of our North Nanaimo clinic on Tuesdays, virtually on Wednesdays, and in our Downtown clinic on Thursdays.

I work in two locations. Thank you for taking the first step toward creating a brighter future f... Read More

Expected leave of absence as of March, 2025

I work in two locations

“Your present circumstances don’t determine where you go; they merely determine where you start.” – Nido Quebin

I am both honoured and thrilled to be working as part of the Island Clinical Counselling team. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I specialize in working with individuals and couples. I am skilled in working with anxiety, phobias, body focused repetitive behaviours (BFRBs), stress management, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I provide support to children, adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families and offer support to adults and young people with confirmed or possible autism spectrum disorder. I am a Gottman-trained couples counsellor: Gottman–trained therapists aim to help couples build stronger relationships overall and healthier ways to cope with issues as they arise in the future. I also find it a privilege to work with neurodiverse populations. I have experience providing support to individuals with traumatic histories and work with clients of all ages and abilities. I also have training and am equipped to support individuals, couples, and families impacted by acute and complex grief and bereavement.

I am deeply passionate about promoting mental health and empowering individuals to attain positive and meaningful change in their lives…. for change IS possible! My approach to counselling draws upon a strength-based framework that focuses on cultivating individual strengths, abilities, and internal resources. Although, I am largely guided by the principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) I am committed to tailoring my approach to honour the unique needs, interests, and resources of every client so I routinely incorporate a variety of therapeutic tools and counselling approaches.

Therapeutic Modalities:

Gottman Couples Therapy Training Levels 1 and 2 Certification Gottman Couples Therapy Treating Affairs and Trauma Certificate Gottman Couples Therapy Couples and Addiction Recovery Certificate Prolonged Grief Disorder Training through Columbia University (certificate) Certified Informed Grief Training Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Exposure Response Prevention (ERPs) for OCD Person-Centered Therapy Mindfulness-Based Counselling Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) Strength Based Therapy Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT)

Education and Training:

I hold a post graduate diploma in General Psychology from Roehampton University and a Masters in Counselling Psychology through Yorkville University. I am also in the process of becoming skilled in Animal Assisted Therapy.

I can direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit (AFU). If your benefits plan covers Registered Clinical Counsellors then these appointments should be covered.

Age ranges: All

Email: lisa@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 104 Pronouns: She/Her

Location: You will find Lisa working Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday in our North Nanaimo location. Lisa works out of our downtown clinic on some Saturdays.

Expected leave of absence as of March, 2025 I work in two locations “Your present circumstances... Read More

Clinic Director Kathryn Atkinson has over 15 years experience providing clinical counselling services to children, youth, individual adults, families, couples and groups. Kathryn is also an Approved Clinical Supervisor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. She works within a number of modalities and has expertise in the following areas: OCD, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviours (ex. hair pulling, skin picking), Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Tics, Hoarding, Transitions, Sleep Issues, Spiritual Support, Family Conflict, Diverse Abilities, Autistic individuals, and Impulse Disorders.

Age groups: all ages

kathryn@islandclinicalcounselling.ca

Clinic Director Kathryn Atkinson has over 15 years experience providing clinical counselling serv... Read More

I have over 15 years of experience working with adults, children, teens, and families. These individuals have faced challenges from physical and cognition disabilities, Obsessive Compulsive Disoder (OCD), Body Focused Repetitive Behaviours (BFRBs), fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) or encountering symptoms deriving from intergenerational trauma, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, anxiety, depression, addictive processes, grief and loss, and low self-esteem/worth. A client-centred approach informs my practice because at the heart of my work I believe each client is unique and valuable. Therefore, the therapeutic road map will be tailored to respect the client’s individual needs.

I am passionate about providing creative and safe mental health supports that are encompassed within an honest, respectful, and attuned presence for my clients. Clients find my nurturing approach alongside them to be supportive, while they create meaningful change by connecting to themselves and others. I understand that human beings are complex with many layers that influence their beliefs, values and behavioural patterns - for example, family systems, culture and society all contribute to shaping our views of self and others. My job is to be curious with clients, help them gain insights into their problems by understanding what contributes to them, and then learn how to take the necessary steps to make meaningful shifts toward positive changes. Whether you are seeking counselling to work through past experiences or dealing with current circumstances, I can support you in helping you reach your goals.

Congratulations on taking the first step towards your healing process. I understand the courage it takes to reach out to someone and open up about the challenges you are facing, and I would be honoured to be a part of your journey. I will go at whatever pace is most comfortable for you, while coming from a non-judgmental place of support and collaboration.

Education  Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Youth Care from Malaspina University College.  Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University.  I am a member of the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors.

Therapeutic Modalities:  Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

 Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy

 Accelerate Resolution Therapy

 Attachment-Based Therapy

 Solution Focused Therapy

 Narrative Therapy

 Strength-Based Therapy

 Somatic Sensation

 Family Systems Theory

 Polyvagal Theory

Age groups: all ages

brittany@islandclinicalcounselling.ca

I have over 15 years of experience working with adults, children, teens, and families. These indi... Read More

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans.

I am an ADHD Coach and a Child and Youth Care Counsellor at Island Clinical Counselling. I have over three years experience working with children who are neurodiverse as well as their families. These children have a wide range of social and emotional concerns, mental health concerns, and trauma. I provide one-to-one and group support for children and youth. I have specialized experience with emotional regulation, social skills development, reducing anxiety, improving mood, and problem solving. CYC Counselling can be useful for improving skills in mindfulness, emotion identification, and coping. I offer a safe space for children and youth to work through big feelings, life changes, and other stressors. I offer social groups for children that range from ages 3 to 13. These are offered throughout the year. I also offer a regular anxiety group for youth, a strength based group for youth with big emotions, and a Neurodivergent group for pre-teens.

ADHD coaching helps educate clients about their symptoms.  As a coach, I work collaboratively with you to help you develop stronger emotional regulation, create and meet academic/professional/personal goals, enhance self-acceptance and create practical solutions that help reduce symptoms.  Coaches use basic counselling skills to support their clients and provide empathy.  It is also a very practical appointment and clients find it useful to engage in concrete strategies and techniques.

Education and Training: I have a bachelor degree in Child and Youth Care from Vancouver Island University and she am currently working towards her Masters in Counselling.  I am also in the process of becoming an ADHD coach.

I can direct bill to autism funding for my services. Age ranges served: 0-24 for Child and Youth Counselling; All Ages for ADHD Coaching

Email: hannah@islandclinicalcounselling.ca

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans. I am an ADHD Coach and a Child and Youth Care C... Read More