Associate Counsellor

Lesley (she/her) is a Registered Clinical Counselor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and a Canadian Certified Counselor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Counseling Psychology. Lesley is dedicated to creating a warm and accepting environment where clients feel safe, supporting them in accessing their inner strengths and resources to overcome challenges and transform their lives.

Lesley specializes in working with youth and adults facing various mental health concerns, using a Narrative approach through a trauma-informed lens. Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), she also integrates evidence-based techniques such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness, tailoring interventions to meet each client’s unique needs.

Originally from Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Lesley has lived internationally and brings experience working with marginalized groups in community health settings. Now settled in North Vancouver with her husband, two children, and their dog Subi, she enjoys hiking, biking, staying active with her family, and cheering on the Canucks.

LESLEY SPECIALIZES IN: Supporting individuals with anxiety disorders, ADHD, trauma-informed practice, and EMDR. Her areas of expertise also include youth counseling, addressing gender-based and sexualized violence, life stage coaching, and working with seniors.

Ages Served: Ages 8 +

Support Topics: Abuse (childhood abuse, domestic abuse, sexual abuse) Adapting to lifestyle changes and aging Adoption Addressing loneliness and isolation Addictions (drug and/or alcohol) Anger management Anxiety Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Behaviour support services Body image issues Body positivity Borderline personality disorder Building resilience in later life Child Mental Health Chronic illness management Chronic impulsivity Chronic pain management Climate anxiety Co-dependency Complex Trauma / C-PTSD Coping skills Coping with health changes Depression Dissociative disorders Divorce and separation Domestic violence Dual diagnosis Eating disorders / Maladaptive eating Emotional disturbances Emotional turmoil Exercise planning Family conflict Family of origin issues First responders’ mental health Gambling Impulse control disorders Infidelity Internet addiction Life coaching Life transitions Marital discord Meditation Mood disorders Navigating family and caregiver relationships Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Overcoming phobias, such as fear of death Parenting children with special needs Parenting issues (including child-rearing and education) Parent-teen mediation Peer relationships Personality disorders (narcissistic personality disorder, borderline personality disorder) Psychosis Rehabilitation from trauma Relationship and marriage conflict School issues Self-esteem issues Sexual abuse Sexualized violence Sleep issues or insomnia Sports performance Suicidal ideation Trauma and PTSD Transitioning into retirement Video game addiction Youth Mental Health

Therapeutic Approaches: Complex Trauma Therapy Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Narrative Therapy

Associate Counsellor Lesley (she/her) is a Registered Clinical Counselor (RCC) with the BC Assoc... Read More

Senior Counsellor

Tomi holds a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and brings a wealth of experience from her 20-year career in policing. After retiring from law enforcement, Tomi began working closely with families, particularly supporting First Responders and Veterans experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. She has also provided over two years of direct support and counseling to families dealing with parenting challenges, couples’ conflict, addiction, and the effects of acute mental health conditions.

Specializing in helping individuals and families navigate crises, loss, and trauma, Tomi is skilled at guiding clients through unexpected life changes. She has facilitated parent education groups and draws on attachment and family systems approaches in her practice. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in Trauma-Informed Practice and Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), and she has received extensive training to enhance cultural safety and awareness.

Tomi has experience working with a diverse client population, including individuals who identify as Indigenous, Asian, Middle Eastern, and LGBT2QIA.

Ages Served: Ages 19 +

Therapeutic Approaches: Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) Polyvagal Theory Somatic Therapy

Senior Counsellor Tomi holds a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and brings a wealth of ... Read More

Associate Counsellor

Wes specializes in supporting men of all ages and parents as they navigate life’s challenges. Currently, he works part-time as a Child and Youth Mental Health Clinician with a government agency in North Vancouver, allowing him to focus his private practice on adults over 18 who live on the North Shore, as well as families from other regions.

For many, acknowledging challenges and seeking help doesn’t come easily. Wes understands that some may have learned early in life that vulnerability was met with punishment or that strength meant keeping struggles private. While this approach may have served them in the past, it may no longer be effective—especially as recurring issues in relationships prompt them to seek change. For parents, a desire to create something better for their children may drive them toward a new approach. Wes believes his clients are not broken or defective; they are simply reflecting what they were taught. With the right guidance, clients can adapt, and Wes is here to help.

Beyond his professional role, Wes is a son, brother, husband, and father. Prior to entering the counselling field, he spent 12 years working with young men as a probation officer and five years supporting adults in a residential drug and alcohol recovery program. These experiences have taught him to leverage clients’ strengths and motivation, using evidence-based strategies to help them break free from ingrained patterns. For those who have tried to tackle challenges independently or with the support of those around them but feel ready for a fresh approach and are prepared to put in the work, Wes invites them to reach out. Together, they can create a plan that works.

WES SPECIALIZES IN: Supporting clients with ADHD, anxiety, and depression, particularly in men. He also works with parents and couples on family dynamics and relationship challenges.

Ages Served: Ages 19 +

Support Topics Abuse (childhood abuse, domestic abuse, sexual abuse) Addictions (drug and/or alcohol) Anger management Anxiety Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Chronic impulsivity Divorce and separation Family conflict Mood disorders Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Parenting education Parenting issues (including child-rearing and education) Relationship and marriage conflict Self-esteem issues Suicidal ideation Trauma and PTSD

Therapeutic Approaches Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) Gottman Method Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Person-Centered Therapy (PCT)

Associate Counsellor Wes specializes in supporting men of all ages and parents as they navigate ... Read More

Intern Counsellor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Julie is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC) with a Diploma of Professional Counselling from the Vancouver College of Counsellor Training (VCCT). She is currently completing her Master’s in Existential Analysis.

Julie brings warmth, empathy, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story to her counselling work. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel supported in exploring their thoughts and emotions, including experiences of sadness or uncertainty. Julie offers a thoughtful and holistic approach to therapy, integrating person-centred therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and existential analysis. Combining these frameworks allows for a rich, multi-faceted way of understanding and supporting clients. She works collaboratively, honouring each client’s values, beliefs, and lived experiences.

As a wife and mother of three boys, Julie understands the many ways emotions are expressed and experienced in everyday life. Her personal and professional experiences—ranging from travel and co-managing a family business to navigating the joys and challenges of motherhood—inform her grounded, compassionate approach. She is committed to lifelong learning and deepening her understanding of mental health.

Outside of the counselling room, Julie finds balance and renewal through paddleboarding, hiking, and spending time with loved ones. She believes strongly in the healing power of nature and connection.

Ages Served: Ages 12 +

Languages Offered: English

Support Topics

Abuse (childhood abuse, domestic abuse, sexual abuse) Adapting to lifestyle changes and aging Adoption Addressing loneliness and isolation Addictions (drug and/or alcohol) Anger management Anxiety Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Authentic Self-Discovery: Unmasking Who You Truly Are Bereavement Behaviour support services Body image issues Body positivity Building resilience in later life Career guidance Chronic illness management Chronic impulsivity Chronic pain management Climate anxiety Co-dependency Complex Trauma / C-PTSD Coping skills Coping with health changes De-colonizing life and practice Dementia diagnosis and support Depression Discovering Purpose and Meaning in Life Dissociative disorders Divorce and separation Domestic violence Eating disorders / Maladaptive eating Emotional disturbances Emotional turmoil Exercise planning Facing end-of-life issues Family conflict Family dynamics Family of origin issues Gambling Gender identity Impulse control disorders Infidelity Intergenerational Trauma Internet addiction Life coaching Life management issues Life transitions Managing grief and bereavement Marital discord Meal planning Meditation Navigating family and caregiver relationships Non-ordinary experience integration (e.g., spiritual, extraordinary experiences) Obesity Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Overcoming phobias, such as fear of death Parenting children with special needs Parenting education Parenting issues (including child-rearing and education) Parent-teen mediation Peer relationships Relationship and marriage conflict School issues Self-esteem issues Sexual abuse Sexual behaviours Sexuality (2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive) Sleep issues or insomnia Sports performance Spirituality (non-emergency spiritual issues) Stress management Suicidal ideation Trauma and PTSD Transgender transition issues Transitioning into retirement Video game addiction Youth Mental Health 2SLGBTQIA+ challenges

Therapeutic Approaches

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Existential Therapy Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) Person-Centered Therapy (PCT) Self-Compassion Therapy

Intern Counsellor Pronouns: she/her/hers Julie is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC) wit... Read More

Senior Counsellor

Jesse is a dedicated and compassionate Registered Clinical Counsellor with the B.C. Association of Clinical Counsellors, holding over ten years of experience working with children, teens, and adults in counselling and social service settings. He earned his B.A. in Psychology from the University of British Columbia and his Masters in Counselling Psychology from Simon Fraser University. Working from a client-centered, trauma-informed perspective, Jesse integrates techniques from Emotion-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and Existential Psychology to provide a supportive and effective therapeutic experience.

Jesse specializes in helping individuals navigate depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges, suicidal ideation and hopelessness, and trauma recovery. His approach fosters reconnection with one’s sense of identity, self-worth, and joy in life. Jesse considers it a calling and privilege to serve as a counsellor and admires the courage of those who seek change and self-improvement. He views counselling as an opportunity to break generational patterns and empower individuals to write their own stories.

Jesse has counselled clients of diverse ages, genders, sexual orientations, and cultural backgrounds, including Indigenous, Asian, African, Middle-Eastern, and European communities. Whether or not you find him the right fit, Jesse encourages you to continue exploring ways to enrich your life, reminding you that you are worth it.

JESSE SPECIALIZES IN: Depression, anxiety, finding purpose, individual relationship patterns, and navigating life changes—whether desired or required.

Ages Served: Ages 14 +

Support Topics: Abuse (childhood abuse, domestic abuse, sexual abuse) Addressing loneliness and isolation Anxiety Authentic Self-Discovery: Unmasking Who You Truly Are Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Body positivity Building resilience in later life Coping skills Depression Discovering Purpose and Meaning in Life Divorce and separation Emotional disturbances Emotional turmoil Facing end-of-life issues Family conflict Family dynamics Family of origin issues Gender identity Infidelity Intergenerational Trauma Life management issues Life transitions Marital discord Navigating family and caregiver relationships Parenting issues (including child-rearing and education) Peer relationships Relationship and marriage conflict School issues Self-esteem issues Sports performance Spirituality (non-emergency spiritual issues) Stress management Youth Mental Health

Therapeutic Approaches: Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Existential Therapy Narrative Therapy Person-Centered Therapy (PCT) Relational Therapy

Senior Counsellor Jesse is a dedicated and compassionate Registered Clinical Counsellor with the... Read More

Senior Counsellor

Poupak is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. With over 14 years of experience, she has worked extensively with the North Vancouver School District, the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD), and various non-profit organizations. Poupak provides therapy for children, youth, individuals, and families facing challenges including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, suicidal ideation, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, and more. She adopts a bio-psycho-social approach to understand her clients’ unique circumstances and to develop treatment plans that align with their goals, supporting them in realizing their fullest potential.

POUPAK SPECIALIZES IN: Supporting clients with anxiety, depression, and trauma. She also works with students struggling with procrastination and working with couples and families.

Ages Served: Ages 12 +

Languages Offered: - English - Farsi

Support Topics: Abuse (childhood abuse, domestic abuse, sexual abuse) Anger management Anxiety Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Bipolar disorder Body image issues Body positivity Career guidance Chronic impulsivity Climate anxiety Co-dependency Coping skills Depression Divorce and separation Domestic violence Emotional disturbances Emotional turmoil Family conflict Family of origin issues Infidelity Life coaching Marital discord Mood disorders Parenting education Parenting issues (including child-rearing and education) Peer relationships Relationship and marriage conflict School issues Self-esteem issues Sleep issues or insomnia Suicidal ideation Trauma and PTSD

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Complex Trauma Therapy Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) Gottman Method Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

Senior Counsellor Poupak is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical... Read More

Senior Counsellor

She/Her/Hers

Alessandra is a warm, empathic, and nurturing Registered Clinical Counsellor, thrilled to provide counselling services to her North Shore community where she grew up. With over ten years of experience, she has supported children, youth, and families across non-profit organizations, hospitals, community centres, and as an Education Assistant with the North Vancouver School District. Alessandra specializes in helping children and youth with mental health challenges, trauma, and neurodiversity. Known for her gentle and comforting presence, she quickly builds trust with clients, supporting them through intense emotional distress.

Alessandra’s relaxed, conversational, and strengths-based approach is balanced with strategic, evidence-based interventions. Her counselling style integrates Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Attachment Theory, and mindfulness, tailoring her therapeutic approach uniquely to each client. Alessandra holds a Master of Counselling from the University of Queensland and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of British Columbia.

ALESSANDRA SPECIALIZES IN: Child/Youth Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Self Esteem, Relationships, Coping Skills, Autism, ADHD, Parenting Support.

Ages Served: Ages 6+

Languages Offered: English

Support Topics: Anxiety Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Child Mental Health Coping skills Depression Gender identity Mood disorders Parenting children with special needs Parenting education Parenting issues (including child-rearing and education) Peer relationships School issues Self-esteem issues Suicidal ideation Youth Mental Health Therapeutic Approaches Attachment Theory Child-Centered Play Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Expressive Therapy

Senior Counsellor She/Her/Hers Alessandra is a warm, empathic, and nurturing Registered Clinica... Read More

Senior Counsellor

Lena is a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with an undergraduate degree in BioPsychology and a Master’s in Social Work. With over 20 years of experience working with children and families, Lena initially trained in Behaviour Intervention and has since collaborated with schools, community organizations, and ministry teams. She has established therapeutic alliances with a diverse range of clients, drawing on training in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Therapies. Her primary focus is supporting children with neurodiversity, along with their siblings and caregivers, through various life transitions. She has also worked extensively with children and families managing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, and adjusting to multiple diagnoses.

Lena practices from an anti-oppressive, strengths-based, trauma-informed, and compassion-focused perspective. She is dedicated to fostering the well-being of the whole child and family system by building therapeutic rapport through creative approaches. Lena emphasizes holding space for clients to connect with and express their authentic selves.

LENA SPECIALIZES IN: Supporting children and youth and providing guidance to parents of the children/youth she works with.

Ages Served: Ages 0 - 19

Support Topics: Addressing loneliness and isolation Anxiety Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Child Mental Health Chronic illness management Chronic impulsivity Coping skills Depression Divorce and separation Domestic violence Family conflict Life transitions Navigating family and caregiver relationships Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Parenting children with special needs Parenting education Parenting issues (including child-rearing and education) Peer relationships School issues Self-esteem issues Sleep issues or insomnia Suicidal ideation Trauma and PTSD Youth Mental Health

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Complex Trauma Therapy Expressive Therapy Narrative Therapy

Senior Counsellor Lena is a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with an undergraduate degree in BioPs... Read More

Senior Counsellor

Mike is deeply grateful to live and provide services on the traditional and unceded territory of the Squamish, Musqueam, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations. With extensive experience providing counselling support to a diverse range of women, men, and non-binary individuals from Indigenous, non-Indigenous, and immigrant communities, Mike works with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents facing various challenges. His areas of focus include relationship difficulties, conflict, parenting challenges, grief, depression, anxiety, and stress. Mike brings a compassionate and person-centered approach to his work.

Mike believes in a collaborative counselling process, where the counsellor and client work together in reflection, self-exploration, and discovery. He strives to create a safe and trusting space that fosters self-awareness and personal growth, supporting clients in building resilience and enhancing their overall well-being. Taking a holistic approach to self-discovery, Mike utilizes family systems therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and outdoor therapy to facilitate insight, growth, and transformation for individuals, couples, and families.

Mike offers both in-office sessions and outdoor meetings, depending on clients’ preferences.

MIKE SPECIALIZES IN: Supporting men and boys, working with couples, and addressing family conflict.

Ages Served: Ages 12 +

Support Topics: Abuse (childhood abuse, domestic abuse, sexual abuse) Adapting to lifestyle changes and aging Addressing loneliness and isolation Anger management Anxiety Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Behaviour support services Bipolar disorder Body image issues Body positivity Borderline personality disorder Building resilience in later life Chronic illness management Chronic impulsivity Chronic pain management Climate anxiety Co-dependency Colonization Coping skills Coping with health changes De-colonizing life and practice Dementia diagnosis and support Depression Divorce and separation Domestic violence Eating disorders / Maladaptive eating Emotional disturbances Emotional turmoil Facing end-of-life issues Family conflict Family of origin issues First responders’ mental health Gender identity Impulse control disorders Infidelity Intergenerational Trauma Life management issues Life transitions Marital discord Meditation Mood disorders Navigating family and caregiver relationships Non-ordinary experience integration (e.g., spiritual, extraordinary experiences) Obesity Overcoming phobias, such as fear of death Parenting education Parenting issues (including child-rearing and education) Parent-teen mediation Peer relationships Personality disorders (narcissistic personality disorder, borderline personality disorder) Rehabilitation from trauma Relationship and marriage conflict School issues Self-esteem issues Sexual abuse Sexual behaviours Sexualized violence Sexuality (2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive) Sleep issues or insomnia Spirituality (non-emergency spiritual issues) Suicidal ideation Trauma and PTSD Youth Mental Health 2SLGBTQIA+ challenges

Therapeutic Approaches: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) Narrative Therapy Nature Therapy

Senior Counsellor Mike is deeply grateful to live and provide services on the traditional and un... Read More

Associate Counsellor

Essay is a dedicated clinical counsellor who supports individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. She works with clients who struggle with focus, goal attainment, relaxation, or finding joy in daily life, and she is passionate about helping those navigating significant life and career transitions. Essay also works closely with parents, equipping them with effective strategies to enhance their parenting approaches.

Her counselling approach is evidence-based and process-oriented, guiding clients in exploring life’s challenges, fostering personal growth, and achieving meaningful change. She firmly believes in everyone’s capacity to create a life filled with purpose and significance.

With a warm, empathetic, and client-centered approach, Essay invites you to collaborate in addressing your unique challenges.

ESSAY SPECIALIZES IN: Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Parenting and Relationship Challenges.

Ages Served: Ages 10 +

Languages Offered

• English
• Mandarin

Support Topics: Adapting to lifestyle changes and aging Anger management Anxiety Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Family conflict Family dynamics Life transitions Mood disorders Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Parenting issues (including child-rearing and education) Relationship and marriage conflict Trauma and PTSD Youth Mental Health

Therapeutic Approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) Existential Therapy Gottman Method Psychodynamic Approach Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

Associate Counsellor Essay is a dedicated clinical counsellor who supports individuals experienc... Read More

Senior Counsellor

Akbar is a compassionate and dedicated Clinical Counsellor and Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with over 20 years of experience in mental health and wellness. He specializes in individual and substance use counselling, with expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic therapy. Akbar has extensive experience working with youth and families, providing support in both private practice and family service agency settings. His passion for mental health advocacy drives him to actively participate in workshops and training sessions to raise awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health challenges, substance use, chronic pain, and medically unexplained symptoms (MUS). Akbar holds a Masters in Personality Psychology, is registered with the BCACC, and holds a Specialized Business License with Psychology and Counselling Organizations in Iran. He has completed training in adolescent substance abuse interventions (Matrix Model) and holds certifications in Clinical Hypnosis (ISSCH) and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy from the Tehran Psychoanalytic Institute (TPI). Akbar’s integrative, client-centered approach addresses a wide range of issues, including personality disorders, addiction, stress, anxiety, trauma, and parenting challenges.

AKBAR SPECIALIZES IN: Supporting clients with addiction , pain disorders and personality disorders.

Ages Served: Ages 19 +

Languages Offered: English, Farsi, Turkish

Support Topics Addressing loneliness and isolation Addictions (drug and/or alcohol) Anger management Anxiety Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Bipolar disorder Body image issues Borderline personality disorder Chronic illness management Chronic impulsivity Chronic pain management Co-dependency Coping skills Depression Dissociative disorders Dual diagnosis Emotional disturbances Emotional turmoil Gambling Impulse control disorders Internet addiction Mood disorders Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Overcoming phobias, such as fear of death Parenting children with special needs Parenting education Parenting issues (including child-rearing and education) Parent-teen mediation Personality disorders (narcissistic personality disorder, borderline personality disorder) Psychosis Stress management Video game addiction

Therapeutic Approaches Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Motivational Interviewing Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Psychodynamic Approach

Senior Counsellor Akbar is a compassionate and dedicated Clinical Counsellor and Registered Clin... Read More

Senior Counsellor

Shalene Takara is a seasoned counsellor with over 10 years of experience supporting couples and families. She specializes in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) and works with parent couples addressing challenges such as communication, conflict, anger, mental health issues (including depression, anxiety, and trauma), parenting concerns, addiction, separation/divorce, co-parenting, and significant life transitions. Shalene has additional specialized training in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy for Trauma, Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), and attachment-based parenting.

With a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Shalene has worked with a diverse range of populations, including immigrant and refugee families, same-sex parent couples, and families from Indigenous communities.

SHALENE SPECIALIZES IN: Trauma, particularly related to abuse, difficult childhood experiences, and relationship or family conflict. She supports individuals, couples, and families from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, including those impacted by intergenerational trauma and migratory experiences. Shalene is also equipped to support clients seeking a therapist with an understanding of the Islamic worldview, drawing from her 10+ years living in Islamic communities in North Africa, Europe, and Canada, where she primarily spoke French. Additionally, she is well-suited to work with East Asian clients, those with diverse or mixed cultural identities, and first- or second-generation individuals.

Ages Served: Ages 19 +

Languages Offered: - English - French

Support Topics Abuse (childhood abuse, domestic abuse, sexual abuse) Adapting to lifestyle changes and aging Addressing loneliness and isolation Anger management Anxiety Building resilience in later life Climate anxiety Colonization Coping with health changes De-colonizing life and practice Depression Dissociative disorders Divorce and separation Emotional disturbances Emotional turmoil Family conflict Family of origin issues Intergenerational Trauma Life transitions Marital discord Mood disorders Navigating family and caregiver relationships Non-ordinary experience integration (e.g., spiritual, extraordinary experiences) Overcoming phobias, such as fear of death Parenting issues (including child-rearing and education) Peer relationships Personality disorders (narcissistic personality disorder, borderline personality disorder) Relationship and marriage conflict Self-esteem issues Sexual abuse Sexuality (2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive) Spirituality (non-emergency spiritual issues) Trauma and PTSD Transitioning into retirement

Therapeutic Approaches Complex Trauma Therapy Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Intersectional Feminist Therapy Narrative Therapy Sensorimotor Therapy Somatic Therapy

Senior Counsellor Shalene Takara is a seasoned counsellor with over 10 years of experience suppo... Read More

Senior Counsellor

Jana is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who brings a rich background of experience from her career in the Czech Republic, where she worked as a police psychologist for seven years, supporting first responders, their families, and victims and witnesses of crime. Since moving to British Columbia in 2015, Jana has dedicated herself to supporting individuals in various roles, including working with adults dealing with addiction and landed immigrants. She specializes in areas such as post-traumatic growth, loneliness, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, parenting challenges, attachment issues, career coaching, and relationship challenges.

Jana’s therapeutic approach integrates dynamic and attachment-based theories with a client-centered and strengths-based perspective, creating a supportive environment for clients to explore and overcome their challenges. She holds a Master of Arts degree in Psychology from Charles University in Prague and a Bachelor’s degree in Law and Security Studies from the Police Academy in Prague. Jana has also completed specialized training in trauma work, occupational stress, group therapy, and victim support from the Czech Republic, USA, and Canada.

JANA SPECIALIZES IN: Supporting first responders, the Czech and Slovak community, expat life, young parents’ challenges, and relationships.

Ages Served: Ages 19 +

Languages Offered

• Czech
• English
• Slovak

Support Topics: Addressing loneliness and isolation Addictions (drug and/or alcohol) Anxiety Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Climate anxiety Complex Trauma / C-PTSD Coping skills Depression Domestic violence Family of origin issues First responders’ mental health Life management issues Life transitions Navigating family and caregiver relationships Peer relationships Rehabilitation from trauma Relationship and marriage conflict Self-esteem issues Stress management Trauma and PTSD

Therapeutic Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Psychodynamic Approach Self-Compassion Therapy

Senior Counsellor Jana is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who brings a rich background of exper... Read More

Senior Counsellor

Agnieszka holds a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and is dedicated to empowering clients to build the life they truly desire. She practices a person-centered approach, grounded in unconditional positive regard, and tailors her support to each client’s unique needs. Starting from the foundation of the nervous system, Agnieszka helps clients transition from dysregulated states to a place of well-being. With a compassionate, warm presence, she integrates a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to address issues like anxiety, depression, substance abuse, body image, and eating disorders. Agnieszka also supports clients through challenging life transitions such as grief, the impacts of immigration, relationship and family concerns, and parenting. She believes that meaningful connection is a core human need essential for healing and personal growth.

AGNIESZKA SPECIALIZES IN: Supporting clients with addiction and recovery, trauma, anxiety, and panic. She is also skilled in working with couples and families on relationship challenges.

Ages Served: Ages 21 +

Languages Offered: English, Polish

Support Topics Abuse (childhood abuse, domestic abuse, sexual abuse), Addictions (drug and/or alcohol), Anger management, Anxiety, Body image issues, Body positivity, Co-dependency, Complex Trauma / C-PTSD, Depression, Domestic violence, Emotional disturbances, Emotional turmoil, Family conflict, Family dynamics, Family of origin issues, Infidelity, Marital discord, Parenting issues (including child-rearing and education), Relationship and marriage conflict, Self-esteem issues, Spirituality (non-emergency spiritual issues), Stress management, Trauma and PTSD

Therapeutic Approaches: Complex Trauma Therapy, Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Therapy,

Senior Counsellor Agnieszka holds a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and is dedicated t... Read More

Senior Counsellor

Terri is a compassionate and non-judgmental counsellor with extensive experience supporting individuals who have faced trauma, cycles of violence, and addiction recovery. She brings warmth, openness, and a trauma-informed approach to help clients navigate life’s challenges and grow their strengths. With professional experience as a counsellor and spiritual director in prisons and hospitals, a Professional-in-Residence at the Hazelden/Betty Ford Clinic, and work with individuals in recovery, Terri values the trust her clients place in her.

Her therapeutic expertise includes training in CBT, DBT, individual and family trauma, addictions, and Family Systems therapies, offering depth, wisdom, and flexibility in her work. She is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified Family Trauma Professional, providing care to individuals, couples, and families.

Terri offers online sessions exclusively. In addition to her counselling practice, Terri co-owns Listening Horse Ranch, where she integrates her role as a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Play Therapist to provide Equine Facilitated Therapy, helping clients find healing and growth through connection with horses.

TERRI SPECIALIZES IN: Terri specializes in individual, family, and couples therapy, as well as therapy with teens, and supports those who have experienced or witnessed family violence, criminal acts, or any form of violence; she also works with trauma-related conditions such as PTSD, C-PTSD, and DSD, and helps clients navigate life transitions, grief, aging, and explore the meaning of life.

Ages Served: Ages 14 +

Support Topics: Abuse (childhood abuse, domestic abuse, sexual abuse) Adapting to lifestyle changes and aging Addressing loneliness and isolation Addictions (drug and/or alcohol) Anxiety Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Authentic Self-Discovery: Unmasking Who You Truly Are Bereavement Body positivity Building resilience in later life Career guidance Co-dependency Complex Trauma / C-PTSD Coping skills Coping with health changes Dementia diagnosis and support Depression Discovering Purpose and Meaning in Life Divorce and separation Domestic violence Facing end-of-life issues Family conflict Family dynamics Family of origin issues First responders’ mental health Gender identity Grief Infidelity Intergenerational Trauma Life coaching Life management issues Life transitions Loss Managing grief and bereavement Marital discord Meditation Navigating family and caregiver relationships Non-ordinary experience integration (e.g., spiritual, extraordinary experiences) Overcoming phobias, such as fear of death Parent-teen mediation Peer relationships Rehabilitation from trauma Relationship and marriage conflict Self-esteem issues Sexualized violence Spirituality (non-emergency spiritual issues) Trauma and PTSD Transitioning into retirement Youth Mental Health

Therapeutic Approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Attachment Theory Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Complex Trauma Therapy Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) Existential Therapy Gottman Method Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Nature Therapy Polyvagal Theory Psychodynamic Approach Relational Therapy Self-Compassion Therapy Sensorimotor Therapy Somatic Therapy Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

Senior Counsellor Terri is a compassionate and non-judgmental counsellor with extensive experien... Read More

Associate Counsellor

One of the most exciting aspects of life is that it is always changing, yet this can also be one of our biggest challenges. Change can be difficult as it can cause stress, uncertainty, and confusion. It can make us question ourselves and others and may overwhelm us into inaction.

Marnie believes that having someone to talk to who will listen and guide you through these tough times is so helpful. She is particularly drawn to working with people who are experiencing grief and loss. Grief can be experienced because of death but also divorce, loss of a job, loss of identity or any major life transition. She has been through many life phases herself and has experienced counselling in a Hospice Society setting.

She will walk with you as you experience a variety of emotions, acknowledging that everyone handles grief in their own unique way. Your work together will be comforting and supportive using a wide variety of therapeutic techniques chosen specifically for your work together. She will work with you collaboratively at your own pace and will provide a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental space.

Marnie holds a Master Degree in Counselling from City University of Seattle in Canada and is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors.

MARNIE SPECIALIZES IN: Supporting clients through grief and loss from bereavement, life transitions (such as retirement, becoming an empty nester, divorce, and loss of employment), and issues affecting older adults (including dementia, health decline, and fear of death). She also works with clients on anxiety, self-esteem, and relationship issues, including challenges within parent/child, partner/spouse, and friendship dynamics.

Ages Served: Ages 19 +

Support Topics: Adapting to lifestyle changes and aging Adoption Addressing loneliness and isolation Anger management Anxiety Bereavement Bipolar disorder Body image issues Body positivity Building resilience in later life Career guidance Chronic illness management Climate anxiety Co-dependency Coping skills Coping with health changes Dementia diagnosis and support Depression Discovering Purpose and Meaning in Life Divorce and separation Emotional disturbances Emotional turmoil Exercise planning Facing end-of-life issues Family conflict Family of origin issues Grief Infidelity Life coaching Life management issues Life transitions Loss Managing grief and bereavement Marital discord Meal planning Meditation Mood disorders Navigating family and caregiver relationships Non-ordinary experience integration (e.g., spiritual, extraordinary experiences) Obesity Overcoming phobias, such as fear of death Peer relationships Relationship and marriage conflict Self-esteem issues Sleep issues or insomnia Spirituality (non-emergency spiritual issues) Suicidal ideation Trauma and PTSD Transitioning into retirement

Therapeutic Approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Complex Trauma Therapy Continuing Bonds Theory Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Dual Process Model Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) Narrative Therapy Person-Centered Therapy (PCT)

Associate Counsellor One of the most exciting aspects of life is that it is always changing, yet... Read More