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

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans. Hello! I’m a BFRB and ADHD coach (Body focused repetitive behaviours, e.g. hair-pulling, skin-picking, and nail-biting). My approach emphasizes practical management tools and neurodivergence. I have found my way into counselling after leaving my civil engineering career and overcoming a decade of shame and anxiety with my own compulsive skin-picking. Together with the clinic director Kathryn Atkinson, I also offer virtual BFRB and ADHD workshops and support groups. To learn more, you can listen to Fidget, my podcast about my BFRB journey. I am currently completing my Master’s in Counselling Psychology.

Age Range: 11 and Up

Email: jason@islandclinicalcounselling.ca

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans. Hello! I’m a BFRB and ADHD coach (Body focused... Read More

“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) 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) and First Nations Health Authority (FNHA). 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.

“Your present circumstances don’t determine where you go; they merely determine where you start.”... Read More

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans. Hi, I’m Jami. I am honoured to be joining the team at Island Clinical Counselling, as a student Intern. I am currently in the final stages of the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology degree through Yorkville University.

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 am honoured to be joining the te... Read More

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans. Welcome! My name is Cady (she/her) and I am an intern with Island Clinical Counselling. I am a lifelong learner that lives, works, and plays among the elements of nature on Vancouver Island. My compassion and interest in working alongside individuals, couples, and families started at a young age. My passion for therapeutic work motivated me to complete my undergraduate degree in Child and Youth Care, gain experience as a Child Life Specialist and is now leading me to complete a Master in Counselling through Athabasca University. I have professional experience working with the LGBTQIA2S+ and Indigenous communities in addition to subject areas such as terminal illnesses, grief and loss (including sudden death due to suicide and fentanyl poisonings), diverse abilities, in addition to mental health and substance use.

As human beings, it is inevitable that we will be challenged to navigate our way through hardships and obstacles of life. The process of self-discovery and healing can feel complicated and overwhelming. Allow me to acknowledge your perspective and help you in identifying your needs, sense of direction, and steps toward self-empowerment. I believe that collaborating with individuals is the most effective way to promote healing, increased self-awareness, and emotional growth. Come into sessions with me as your authentic self, and trust that you will be welcomed with open arms.

I enjoy therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Expressive-Based Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness and Somatic-based practices. Some of the theories I find myself particularly drawn to are Attachment Theory, Systems Theory, Feminist Theory, Solutions-Focused Theory, and Psychodynamic Theory.

I have experience with all ages and family dynamics!

If you are interested in connecting with me for session work, please email me or refer to my schedule. Sessions are available beginning on September of 2023.

Email: cady@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Ages: all

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans. Welcome! My name is Cady (she/her) and I am an i... 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. I feel grateful and privileged to be in a position to be able to build trust and safety with others. It takes courage and strength to seek support and to share our stories and I do not take this honor lightly. I look forward to meeting new individuals who want a supportive person to walk alongside them as we share, learn and growth together within our journeys. I am currently a student through Yorkville University, and I am completing my Master of Arts Counselling and Psychology program which lead me to want to deepen my skills through practicing alongside Island Clinical Counselling due to their reputation within the community. I look forward to learning through the multifaceted approach under the supervision of Kathryn Atkinson and Joel Martinflatt, while learning and interacting with the clinical team at Island Clinical Counselling.

I also work within the helping field outside of Island Clinical Counselling as I serve the public. I have over thirty years’ experience within the helping profession field which has given me the privilege to live and learn daily from others as we share our experiences and continue to grow together. I have worked with children, youth, and families from a variety of programs such as outreach, schools, crisis intervention services and social services. I work from a strengths-based approach that is trauma-informed as I walk alongside my clients to achieve the goals they are seeking. I have a great appreciation and passion for Indigenous communities and their unique cultural identities and have been honored to walk alongside them in many capacities throughout my career. I understand the value of working with community support to assist community members and to bring these collective minds together to strengthen and support individuals. I am happy to work within family systems and with individuals including children and youth alike to support their diverse and individualized needs including that of respecting everyone’s identity.

I look forward to meeting with you and walking alongside you to support you in your healing journey as we share and learn together through this human experience. It is my goal and passion to bring to you a culturally sensitive, individualistic, and non-judgmental approach that is open, honest and client driven to support you in taking the steps you need to move forward within your journey. It is my goal to support you in driving the change you wish to achieve through my strengths-based, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive practice.

Areas of Focus:

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Anxiety Disorders, Panic Disorders, Phobias

Sleep Issues, with a focus on Insomnia

Depression and Depressive Disorders

Trauma Therapy

Couples Counselling/Relationship Issues

Support for major life transitions, such as support to post-secondary students

Stress Management

Support for caregivers of and for individuals with diverse abilities

Spiritual Support

Family Counselling

Autism

Dyslexia and other Learning Disabilities

ADHD Supports

Neurodivergent Individuals

Intellectual Disability

Identity Support

Education, Certification, and Specialized Training:

Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care from the University of Victoria

Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University

Current Intern ​Certificates in:

Suicide Intervention

Cultural Diversity

Comprehensive Behavioural Interventions

At risk youth

I hope to enjoy using a multitude of therapeutic modalities and approaches such as solution-focused therapy, client centered, humanistic approaches, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapies.

Age ranges served: all ages.

Email: monica@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 119 Pronouns: She/Her

Location:  Monica works out of our downtown location on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Not eligible for reimbursement by benefit plans. I feel grateful and privileged to be in a positi... Read More

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.

I truly believe treatment is a partnership between counsellor and client and will work with you t... Read More

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.

I first wish to express my appreciation to you for the opportunity to walk alongside your journey... Read More

I am humbled to have been working in the helping field since 2003. During this time, I have walked alongside many people as they navigate life, deal with hardships, and persevere. I see my role in supporting you as holding space for your hurt and distress while also assisting you in finding the change you hope to see within yourself and the relationships around you. I strive to create a partnership of trust and support and to shine a light on your strength and capacity. Typically, people come to see me because life is hard, but counselling does not need to be. I infuse our time together with hope, and laughter. A little bit about me is that I am a partner, father, weekend athlete and outdoor enthusiast who is grateful to reside on the traditional unceded territory of the Snuneymuxw people. Education: • Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care with a specialization in Child Protection- The University of Victoria • Masters in Social Work- York University • Post Graduate Certificate in Complex Trauma-Justice Institute of British Columbia I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC. I am also a registered Social Worker with the BCCSW and BCASW. I am an approved counsellor with the First Nation Health Authority, Autism Funding Unit, Jordans Principle and Crime Victims Assistance Program. Areas of Speciality: Children/Youth: When working with children and youth they can require a slightly different approach than sit-down talk counselling. I incorporate play, activity, art and nature into my sessions as movement and activities assist children/youth in working through emotions and the “the tough stuff”. Kids are not mini-adults, their brains are still under construction and counselling needs to be geared towards their stage of development. I also engage young people by incorporating their interests into the sessions, so we have fun while working! I have experience working with children on the Autism Spectrum, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, anxiety depression, acting out behaviours, grief and loss, self-esteem, school issues, foster care and adoption experiences and other experiences of trauma. Men: Depression, burnout, stress, anger, low self-esteem, anxiety, loneliness, grief, guilt, depression, and suicidal thoughts are a range of emotions that many men feel. By working together on identifying your feelings and strengthening communication skills we can help you work towards being a more confident person, dad, and or partner. It can sometimes be hard for men to reach out…. I get that. I can provide a safe, honest, and real environment where we can tackle the hard stuff.

Couples & Relationship Issues: Relationships can be hard work. However, establishing healthy communication to better understand your patterns, what past wounds you bring and how to move forward in a positive direction is the goal of our time together. My sessions are a safe place for LGBTQ+ 2 spirit folks as well as a diverse range of relationship types.

For those couples who are navigating separation and divorce, I can assist with creating parenting and communication plans and navigating through this next stage in your journey in a calm and purposeful way.

Individuals: When working with you I want you to know that I see your strength and resilience. I have a holistic approach which means I see the whole person and we can work together to create a plan based on dignity, compassion and respect. Areas that I can assist you in are depression, anxiety, loss, childhood trauma, relating to others or the stress of life. I also have training in supporting individuals with body-focused repetitive behaviours.

Therapeutic Modalities: • Activity and play-based modalities • Strength-based or Asset-based model • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (TF-CBT) • Attachment Therapy • Solution Focussed Therapy • Person-Centered • Complex Trauma Interventions • Psychodynamic approaches • Mediation approaches

Age groups: all ages

Joel@islandclinicalcounselling.ca

I am humbled to have been working in the helping field since 2003. During this time, I have walk... Read More

Thank you for taking the first step toward creating a brighter future for yourself! Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, obsessive-coumpulsive disorder (OCD), 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. Are you ready to take the next step towards wellness? I’d love to connect to see if this is the best fit for you.

Age groups: all ages

Bree@islandclinicalcounselling.ca

Thank you for taking the first step toward creating a brighter future for yourself! Do you strugg... 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

Kathryn has over 13 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

Kathryn has over 13 years experience providing clinical counselling services to children, youth, ... 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 and First Nations Health Authority 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 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

One of the first steps in your journey of wellness is connecting with a counsellor who is the right fit for you. It is important that you and your counsellor have a relational connection and I strive for that to be the foundation of my work. I have been providing counselling and Social Work support for over 20 years to children, youth, adults and families and I am committed to providing a safe space to explore past hurts, co-create plans of change and engage in a therapeutic process that is specific to your needs, wants and strengths. And even though we are doing some heavy work together, I believe humour is an important part of our time together, so kleenex and laughs are part of the process.

I am originally from Ontario, (don’t hold that against me) but the West Coast specifically on the traditional unceded territory of the Snuneymuxw people’s land has been my home for many years. I would describe myself as passionate, and energetic with a healthy dose of optimism. I enjoy running, spending time with family and friends and being active in social justice movements. I am a partner and mother, and my family was created through adoption. I am also a professor at a post-secondary university teaching in the area of trauma. Education: • Bachelor of Arts in Child & Youth Care from the University of Victoria • Master of Social Work, with a specialization in children and families from The University of Toronto I am a member of the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, and I am a Registered Social Worker with BCCSW and BCASW. I am currently an approved counsellor with The First Nations Health Authority.

Areas of Speciality: Children/Youth: Kids and youth are awesome! I love working with them and walking alongside them in their growing and sometimes their healing journey. I utilize play, art, and activities in my sessions with kids and youth. Our office is filled with” fun stuff” and I create sessions geared toward the child/youth’s interest. Areas of focus are anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma experiences, abuse and neglect, school-related issues, challenging behaviours, identity, grief and loss, foster care experiences and adoption-related topics. Parenting: Have kids they said, it would be fun they said….. Parenting can be very rewarding AND it can also be super hard. Sometimes having an outside perspective and a plan for moving forward can help you in your parenting journey. The goal of my parenting counselling support is for you to gain tools and strategies that help you feel empowered within your role as a parent and focus on relationship building and attachment to strengthen your bond and connection. I have experience in working with all family types, single parents, blended, foster, and adoption, grandparents raising grandchildren and LGTBQ+ 2 spirited parents.

Adoption/Permanency Planning Counselling Building your family through adoption/permanency is unique and exciting, it also means navigating situations and experiences that biological families may not. I have worked in the permanency planning field for 20 years supporting children youth and families as they grieve attach, bond and connect. I am also a mother through adoption and this experience has provided an in-depth understanding of the process and the highs and lows of family formation through adoption/permanency. I work from a trauma-informed lens using a child-centred, solution-focused approach. This service can also include consultations for: • Proposal Package Consultation • Transition Plan Consultation • Openness Plans & Mediation • Cultural Plans

Individuals: Over the years I have worked with so many amazing and resilient people. People who have experienced grief and loss, trauma and violence, inter-generational trauma and many other inner wounds inflicted by others or a system. Safety is key when working through past traumas and it is foundational to our time together. Although trauma is heavy, I utilize a strength-based approach that focuses on trust, collaboration, empowerment and choice. I have seen healing in action, it is possible, and it can happen.

Therapeutic Modalities: • Attachment-Based Therapy • Solution Focussed Therapy • Family Systems Theory • Narrative Therapy • Activity and play-based modalities • Strength-based or Asset-based model • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (TF-CBT)

Age groups: all ages

ashleigh@islandclinicalcounselling.ca

One of the first steps in your journey of wellness is connecting with a counsellor who is the rig... 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