Through all of life’s pressures, honouring our mental wellness is one of the most important steps you can take. I am thrilled to be working with Island Clinical Counselling, and look forward to walking alongside you. I am a passionate counsellor with over 15 years of experience working within various helping professions within the Nanaimo area including counselling and managing various community support programs. I am a fully registered Social Worker under the British Columbia College of Social Work and hold a Masters of Social Work through the University of Victoria.

I am passionate about meeting people where they are at, and creating a safe space on the foundational values of acceptance and empowerment. Understanding that the human experience can be diverse and complicated with various factors and influences that impact our wellbeing within society such as work, family, and past experiences – the foundation of my practice is built upon approaches such as Systems Theory and Psychodynamic Theory. I support individuals in exploring the world around them and the influences on their life, and developing individual strategies and steps in becoming empowered to make changes in behaviour and thoughts, and gain a greater perspective in their experiences.

I am passionate about diversity, and with extensive experience working with marginalized communities and individuals – everyone is welcome within my practice.

I am an active nature lover, and in my spare time I find peace in gardening, hiking, fishing, or playing a variety of sports.

Thank you for considering me in your healing journey.

Areas of Focus:

Individual Counselling Couples / Family Counselling Youth / Child Counselling Depression / Depressive Disorders Anxiety / Anxiety Disorders Trauma / PTSD Grief / Loss / Prolonged Grief Cultural / Spiritual Support Indigenous Counselling Stress Management

Education and Training:

Masters of Social Work – University of Victoria Bachelor of Social Work – University of Victoria Diploma in Indigenous Child and Youth Care – Vancouver Island University Systems Theory Psychodynamic Theory Family Systems Theory Bowen Family Theory Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Solution Focused Therapy Gestalt Therapy Person Centered Theory

I can direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit if I am approved as a service provider for your family.  Contact Autism Funding for more information.  If your plan allows it, I can direct bill to some insurance plans, see them here.  

Age ranges served: 5 years +

Session Format:  In person, virtual, and eco / nature therapy options available.

Age ranges served: all.

Session Types: Individual adults, children, and youth.  Family and Couples Counselling.  Counselling in Person or Virtual or outreach outdoors.

Email: tunisha.baines@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 Pronouns: She/Her Fees: $150.00-165.00 per session Registration: BC College of Social Workers 17485

Location: Tunisha works out of our North Nanaimo location on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Through all of life’s pressures, honouring our mental wellness is one of the most important steps... Read More

Hi, I’m Jami. I am honoured to be on the team at Island Clinical Counselling. I have a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology degree through Yorkville University and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor.

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 and 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 cyclical behaviour patterns.

I work with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), positive psychology, mindfulness, narrative 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.

I can direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit if I am approved as a service provider for your family. Contact Autism Funding for more information. If your benefits plans cover Registered Clinical Counsellors, then my services should be covered.

Age ranges served: all ages. Session Types: Individual adults, children, and youth. Families and Couples Counselling. In Person or Virtual.

Email: jami.christie@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 118 Pronouns: She/Her Fees: $150-165.00 per session

Location: Jami works out of our downtown location on Monday and Tuesday evenings.

Hi, I’m Jami. I am honoured to be on the team at Island Clinical Counselling. I have a Master of ... 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 a registered clinical counsellor (RCC) designation, as well. I am able to work with clients in British Columbia and the unregulated provinces. 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.stewartreynolds@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

Hello! I am grateful for this opportunity to work alongside the amazing group of clinicians at Island Clinical Counselling located in the unceded and traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation.

Counselling allows a special opportunity to be witness to the lives of others. I am committed to this work in the spirit of compassion and with respect and curiosity. My approach is holistic, trauma informed and culturally sensitive. I believe in the importance of understanding the context of one’s experience and respect that each individual lives within a system that influences their well-being. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is essential for creating a safe space for people to share what is authentic and meaningful and for people to be seen and heard.

I began my career as a child and youth care worker because I wanted to help those who felt they didn’t have a voice. Listening, being present and witnessing a person’s story involves walking alongside and guiding attention and awareness. I believe there is potential within everyone for healing. I love watching people come alive, shining their uniqueness and shared humanity. Since completing my master’s degree, I have been working in community-based settings, with the local health authority and in post secondary education through direct counselling roles, teaching and in leadership positions related to counselling services for couples, children, youth and families. I am currently a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and working towards further certification.

Areas of Focus:

Anxiety Depression Stress/overwhelm Life transitions Relationships Career change Parenting support and strategies Children’s mental health and wellness Youth mental health and wellness Individual adults Couples/Families Substance use Trauma

Therapeutic Modalities:

Strength Based Therapy Biopsychosocial – Spiritual Model of Support Narrative Informed Family Therapy Family System Approaches  Solution Focused Therapy Motivational Interviewing Mindfulness Based Somatic EMDR Relapse Prevention

Education:

Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology with City University Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Youth Care with University of Victoria   Somatic EMDR Certification   Integrative Body Psychotherapy (IBP)   Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFT)   Certified Yoga Teacher Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training

Contact me today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward healing.

I can direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit if I am approved as a service provider for your family. Contact Autism Funding for more information.

Age ranges served: All.

Session Types: Couples, individual adults, individual children and youth, families, in-person sessions, or virtual

Email: carrie.barker@islandclinicalcounselling.ca

Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 129

Pronouns: She/Her

Fees: $70.00 per session or apply for the Pay What You Can program. (not covered by benefit plans)

Location: I work out of the downtown Nanaimo office on Saturdays.

Hello! I am grateful for this opportunity to work alongside the amazing group of clinicians at Is... Read More

If you’re looking for a therapist to truly meet you where you’re at with validation and empathy, please reach out. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC). My approach is flexible and integrative, adapting to your needs and situation, considering bio-psycho-socio-spiritual influences on your life and wellbeing. Together, we will balance support and processing with skills and resource enhancement, tailored to you and your goals. Working with children and youth, I adjust for their stage of development through play, activity and age-appropriate talk strategies.

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 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. I started in the social service field in 2005, spending much of my career supporting women and young survivors of violence, abuse and neglect, those with multiple barriers to housing and indigenous communities in northern BC.

Areas of Focus:

· Interpersonal trauma

-Survivors of intimate partner violence and abuse

-Survivors of childhood sexual abuse

-Survivors of sexual assault

-Intergenerational trauma

· PTSD and complex trauma experiences

· Depression

· Anxiety

· Stress management and burnout

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

· Gender and sexual diversity-affirming support

· Children and youth

· Chronic pain and illness

· Traumatic Brain Injury

· Self-harm and suicidality

· Substance use

· Children’s problematic sexual behaviour

· Body-focused repetitive behaviours

Education and Professional Membership:

· Student member of the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors

· Student member of the Canadian Horticultural Therapy Association.

· Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology - Yorkville University

· Coursework toward Graduate Certificate in Child and Youth Mental Health - Thompson Rivers University (internship not completed)

· Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, minor in English - St. Andrews College

Certifications:

· Certified Trauma Professional

· Certified Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Practitioner

· Introduction to Gender Diversity - Expanded

· Introduction to Nature-Based Therapy

· Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Instructor

· Behaviour Interventionist Basic Training

· Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT)

· Trauma informed yoga instructor

· Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)

· San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training

Therapeutic Modalities:

· Safe and Sound Protocol listening therapy

· Mindfulness-based strategies

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

· Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

· Body-based / somatic / sensory strategies

· Person centered therapy

· Strengths-based therapy

· Expressive arts and activity-based strategies

· Horticultural therapy

· Nature-based therapy

· Pain reprocessing therapy

If your insurance plan covers Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC) or Certified Clinical Counsellors (CCC) then my services will be covered. I can direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit if I am approved as a service provider for your family. Contact Autism Funding for more information. I can also direct bill to the Crime Victim’s Assistance Program (CVAP).

Age ranges served: All children, youth and adults Session types: Individual adults, individual children and youth, couples, families, online and in person Email: april.link@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 120 Pronouns: She/Her Fees: $150-165.00 per session

Location: I work out of the downtown Nanaimo office on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and the North Nanaimo office on Saturdays.

If you’re looking for a therapist to truly meet you where you’re at with validation and empathy, ... Read More

Welcome! My name is Cady (she/her) and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor proudly representing 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 of all ages, 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 acquire a Master in Counselling through Athabasca University. I have professional experience working with queer and indigenous communities as well as individuals living with diverse abilities, mental health, and substance use. I also have over 5 years of experience working with those impacted by terminal illness, grief and loss, and sudden loss from suicide and fentanyl poisoning.

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 and honest feedback.

Areas of Focus:

Couples Families Child and Youth Counselling Individual counselling Queer communities Indigenous communities Diverse abilities Substance Use Grief and Loss Illness ADHD Cancer Support Education and Training:

Attachment Theory Narrative Therapy Systems Theory Feminist Theory Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Please reach out if you have any questions or would like a consultation. It would be a pleasure to walk the path of wellness and healing with you!

I can direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit if I am approved as a service provider for your family. Contact Autism Funding for more information. If your benefits plan covers Registered Clinical Counsellors then these appointments should be covered.

Ages ranges served: all ages Session Types: Individual adults, children, and youth. Families and Couples Counselling. In Person or Virtual. Email: cady.redford@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 109 Pronouns: She/Her Fees: $150.00-165.00 per session

Location: Cady works out of our Downtown Nanaimo location Monday to Thursday.

Welcome! My name is Cady (she/her) and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor proudly representing... Read More

Life can throw us some curveballs, like struggles with emotional regulation, communication skills, and holding our boundaries, which can keep us from living our best lives. But together, we can tackle these challenges using a personalized blend of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Talk Therapy, sprinkled with the uplifting vibes of Solution-Focused techniques. We’ll explore how your biology, environment, and psychology can be realigned to help you reach your goals—and yes, we’ll have infographics and worksheets to make the process even more engaging!

In our sessions, we’ll dive into the many layers of your mental well-being, emphasizing acceptance, building resilience, and growth. The journey is about discovering your strengths while working toward your goals, with a mix of psychoeducation and personal work between sessions. Expect accountability, honesty, reflection — along with tears, laughter, and a touch of age-appropriate salty language!

My space is all about inclusivity, and I truly appreciate what each person brings to it. I value the wisdom from my elders and the raw honesty and energy from younger voices. With 15 years of experience as an educator for kids aged 4 to 10, alongside work with youth in the justice system and adults with diverse abilities, I’ve learned firsthand the power of those different perspectives. Since making a mid-life switch to become a counselor, I’ve focused on ADHD, mood disorders, PTSD, and addiction.  Authenticity is the key to creating a welcoming, non-judgmental environment for everyone.

Let’s embrace the beauty of vulnerability and honesty together, and don’t be surprised if we share a laugh over the absurdity of life—the moments when we could have shone just a bit brighter!

Areas of focus:

ADHD Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Therapy for children Substance use  Process addictions (shopping, gambling, food-related) Therapy for elders Relationship issues Mood Disorders Life transitions Grief and loss Anxiety disorders Depression and depressive disorders Neurodiverse abilities 

Therapeutic Modalities:

Trauma-informed  Person-centered  Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)  Strengths-based  Motivational Interviewing  Solution-Focused Brief Therapy  Systemic & Ecological lens Biopsychosocial-spiritual lens

I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) and you should be able to submit receipts to most benefit plans. I am able to work with clients in British Columbia and the unregulated provinces.

Age ranges served: all ages. Session Types: Individual adults, children, and youth. In Person or Virtual.

Email: heather.andersen@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 103 Pronouns: She/Her Fees: $150.00 per session 

Location:  Heather works out of our downtown location on Monday evenings and Saturdays.

Life can throw us some curveballs, like struggles with emotional regulation, communication skills... Read More

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

“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 couples using the Gottman approach.  A Gottman-trained couples counsellor is defined as: 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 am also skilled in working with individuals, who have anxiety, phobias, body focused repetitive behaviours (BFRBs), stress management, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I offer support to adults and young people with confirmed or possible autism spectrum disorder.  I 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 abilities. I also have training and am equipped to support individuals and couples 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 if I am approved as a service provider for your family. Contact Autism Funding for more information. If your benefits plan covers Registered Clinical Counsellors then these appointments should be covered.

Age ranges: 16+ Session Types: Individual adults and young adults 16+.  Couples Counselling.  In Person or Virtual.

Email: lisa.passarelli@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 104 Pronouns: She/Her Fees: $150-165 per session

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

Click on my North Nanaimo/Downtown locations on the first booking page for more availability. “Y... Read More

Not reimbursable by benefit plans. Currently offering a lower rate of $70 per session until summer 2025. I am excited to be part of the team at Island Clinical Counselling. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Thompson Rivers University and a Master of Counselling degree at Athabasca University. I am in the process of registering with a regulatory body. 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) Motivational Interviewing (MI) Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) 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 Chronic Pain Tics and Tourette’s 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 Marriage and Couple Therapy Family Relationships and Communication Life Transitions and Decisions Identity and Career Exploration

I can direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit if I am approved as a service provider for your family. Contact Autism Funding for more information.

Age ranges served: All children, youth and adults Session Types: Couples, individual adults, individual children and youth, families, in person sessions or virtual.

Email: sondra.petrus@islandclinicalcounselling.ca Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 121 Pronouns: She/Her Fees: $70.00 per session until summer 2025

Location: I work out of the downtown Nanaimo office on Mondays and Fridays. I work in Parksville Tuesday to Thursday.

Not reimbursable by benefit plans. Currently offering a lower rate of $70 per session until summ... Read More