Photo of Barb Foston, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Barb Foston
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Whether diagnosed or not, I have a heart for individuals who are affected by ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma.
The individuals and families I see feel stuck and unsure of their capacity to manage life struggles independently. Providing a safe space in which to process these challenges nurtures hope and offers a sense of clarity. I intend for you to leave sessions feeling empowered to make decisions that bring you closer to living authentically. I know that when you enter the room, you bring a wealth of experience that is unique to you. Therefore, consideration will be given to your individual characteristics, preferences, needs, beliefs, and abilities as we take steps that enable you to live a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
Whether diagnosed or not, I have a heart for individuals who are affected by ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma.
The individuals and families I see feel stuck and unsure of their capacity to manage life struggles independently. Providing a safe space in which to process these challenges nurtures hope and offers a sense of clarity. I intend for you to leave sessions feeling empowered to make decisions that bring you closer to living authentically. I know that when you enter the room, you bring a wealth of experience that is unique to you. Therefore, consideration will be given to your individual characteristics, preferences, needs, beliefs, and abilities as we take steps that enable you to live a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
(778) 770-5348 View (778) 770-5348
Photo of Hannah Grabowecky, Nanaimo Art Therapy, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Hannah Grabowecky, Nanaimo Art Therapy
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am passionate about working with and advocating for autistic youth as well as those with ADHD, developmental disabilities, or kids displaying behaviour issues.
Sometimes, words can’t express all the feelings inside. As an art therapist and counsellor, I use creative tools to support children and young adults through their journey of self-discovery. No artistic ability is required - it’s about exploring new ways to access the emotions and potential that are already inside. By integrating art and play in my practice, individuals who might have trouble finding the right words or who have a more developed visual vocabulary over a verbal one can find ways to communicate their experiences.
I am passionate about working with and advocating for autistic youth as well as those with ADHD, developmental disabilities, or kids displaying behaviour issues.
Sometimes, words can’t express all the feelings inside. As an art therapist and counsellor, I use creative tools to support children and young adults through their journey of self-discovery. No artistic ability is required - it’s about exploring new ways to access the emotions and potential that are already inside. By integrating art and play in my practice, individuals who might have trouble finding the right words or who have a more developed visual vocabulary over a verbal one can find ways to communicate their experiences.
(249) 507-0996 View (249) 507-0996
Photo of Megan Vandersluys, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Megan Vandersluys
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
I truly believe that the hardest part of parenting is undoing the hardwiring we experienced during our own childhood. I help adults make sense of what triggers their own reactivity with their kids, where that came from, how it plays out in their relationships and how to tame those triggers to break the cycle of authoritarian and shame based parenting. It is hard work making those changes but I truly believe it’s never too late to repair those relationships. Using EMDR, I help clients process past childhood memories that hold those negative reactions, so that we can heal and parent from a more empathetic and respectful place.
I truly believe that the hardest part of parenting is undoing the hardwiring we experienced during our own childhood. I help adults make sense of what triggers their own reactivity with their kids, where that came from, how it plays out in their relationships and how to tame those triggers to break the cycle of authoritarian and shame based parenting. It is hard work making those changes but I truly believe it’s never too late to repair those relationships. Using EMDR, I help clients process past childhood memories that hold those negative reactions, so that we can heal and parent from a more empathetic and respectful place.
(778) 763-1446 View (778) 763-1446
Photo of Barb Gottfried, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Barb Gottfried
Counsellor, MSc, RPC, MPCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 30 years of experience providing counselling services to individuals (all ages), couples, families and first responders. I offer respectful, collaborative, holistic, compassionate and goal focused counselling in a safe and supportive environment. I offer a broad spectrum of services ranging from brief solution focused support to intensive psychotherapeutic support, including EMDR. I believe in the value of working collaboratively with my clients, and I have a deep respect and appreciation for diversity.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 30 years of experience providing counselling services to individuals (all ages), couples, families and first responders. I offer respectful, collaborative, holistic, compassionate and goal focused counselling in a safe and supportive environment. I offer a broad spectrum of services ranging from brief solution focused support to intensive psychotherapeutic support, including EMDR. I believe in the value of working collaboratively with my clients, and I have a deep respect and appreciation for diversity.
(778) 655-8538 View (778) 655-8538
Photo of Jennifer McRae, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Jennifer McRae
Counsellor, MC, BEd, BA CYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Waitlist for new clients
Perhaps you are experiencing a significant transition in your life, wanting to explore your identity, are feeling the influence of anxiety or depression, or are wanting to heal from traumatic experiences you have had. Whatever the life challenge that you are experiencing, I am committed to working collaboratively with you to access your strengths, uncover your preferred vision for living, and create the change that you are seeking.
Perhaps you are experiencing a significant transition in your life, wanting to explore your identity, are feeling the influence of anxiety or depression, or are wanting to heal from traumatic experiences you have had. Whatever the life challenge that you are experiencing, I am committed to working collaboratively with you to access your strengths, uncover your preferred vision for living, and create the change that you are seeking.
(450) 987-1068 View (450) 987-1068
Photo of Mina Ishioka, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Mina Ishioka
Counsellor, MA, RCC-ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Come as you are. Whatever challenges you are currently facing, unless you talk about it, you'll never know what's possible. You don't have to know where to start. Your story needs to be told, by you. I welcome and value diversity from all walks of life.
Come as you are. Whatever challenges you are currently facing, unless you talk about it, you'll never know what's possible. You don't have to know where to start. Your story needs to be told, by you. I welcome and value diversity from all walks of life.
(705) 998-3349 View (705) 998-3349
Photo of Marie José Dhaese, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Marie José Dhaese
Counsellor, PhD, RCC, ATR, RPT-S, CPT-S
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P  (Online Only)
I am an adult/child/youth and family therapist and clinical consultant in private practice. As well as being a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), I am a Registered Art Therapist (ATR and BCATR), a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S), and a certified Play Therapist Supervisor (CPT-S). I celebrate 45+ years experience as a counsellor psychotherapist and 35 years teaching internationally the therapeutic methods I have developed called Holistic Expressive Therapy. For 34 years, I have taught courses at the Justice Institute of British Columbia where a certificate on my approach to therapy is offered.
I am an adult/child/youth and family therapist and clinical consultant in private practice. As well as being a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), I am a Registered Art Therapist (ATR and BCATR), a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S), and a certified Play Therapist Supervisor (CPT-S). I celebrate 45+ years experience as a counsellor psychotherapist and 35 years teaching internationally the therapeutic methods I have developed called Holistic Expressive Therapy. For 34 years, I have taught courses at the Justice Institute of British Columbia where a certificate on my approach to therapy is offered.
(855) 668-6003 View (855) 668-6003
Photo of Jody Tkach, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Jody Tkach
Counsellor, BScN, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
In Person & Online. I help people overcome depression, anxiety, grief, and childhood trauma using my many years of experience. I welcome teens, couples, women in pregnancy, and new parents. Manage life transitions and start living your life in line with your own values and beliefs. Together we will create a safe relationship to explore looking at your life in a new way. I am always open to changing the course of therapy if it doesn’t work for you. I use empathy, relationship, insight, and unconditional positive regard as the foundation for our work together.
In Person & Online. I help people overcome depression, anxiety, grief, and childhood trauma using my many years of experience. I welcome teens, couples, women in pregnancy, and new parents. Manage life transitions and start living your life in line with your own values and beliefs. Together we will create a safe relationship to explore looking at your life in a new way. I am always open to changing the course of therapy if it doesn’t work for you. I use empathy, relationship, insight, and unconditional positive regard as the foundation for our work together.
(249) 701-8639 View (249) 701-8639
Photo of Mia Lewis, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Mia Lewis
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
My approach to clients is always strength based, as I believe that every individual has unique strengths that can serve as a foundation for their personal growth. My style is to be warm, open, and nonjudgmental. There are many modes of therapy. I am not limited to, but use cognitive behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness based cognitive therapy and motivational interviewing.
My approach to clients is always strength based, as I believe that every individual has unique strengths that can serve as a foundation for their personal growth. My style is to be warm, open, and nonjudgmental. There are many modes of therapy. I am not limited to, but use cognitive behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness based cognitive therapy and motivational interviewing.
(778) 400-4736 View (778) 400-4736
Photo of Ross Jenkins, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Ross Jenkins
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Accepting new Clients. People seek counselling for reasons as varied as shifting tidal sands. Some want to ease stress and/or anxiety while others want help regarding past and present mistreatment of visible minorities. Others with visible and/or invisible disabilities may deal with issues regarding accessibility or navigating social interactions. Others yet are dealing with evolving sexual and/or gender identities, seeking help with their new understandings about themselves. Whether changing perspectives or navigating new territory, Inclusions Counselling can help.
Accepting new Clients. People seek counselling for reasons as varied as shifting tidal sands. Some want to ease stress and/or anxiety while others want help regarding past and present mistreatment of visible minorities. Others with visible and/or invisible disabilities may deal with issues regarding accessibility or navigating social interactions. Others yet are dealing with evolving sexual and/or gender identities, seeking help with their new understandings about themselves. Whether changing perspectives or navigating new territory, Inclusions Counselling can help.
(587) 812-4186 View (587) 812-4186
Photo of Body Mind Soul Healing Centre Inc., Counsellor in V9P, BC
Body Mind Soul Healing Centre Inc.
Counsellor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The feeling of helplessness can be the most debilitating experience. In a safe nurturing space, you are gently guided to take a proactive role in your healing process, experience self-efficacy, build resilience & reclaim HOPE. We offer Integrative Somatic Therapy Practice (ISTP) incorporating gentle Yoga, Mindfulness, Breathwork, Bodywork, Ceremony, Somatic & Body Oriented Processing. Centering on this organic process of healing trauma, individuals are guided to gently release body-stored trauma, experience self-efficacy, gain greater emotional resilience, and interact with life’s circumstances with clarity, openness, & HEART.
The feeling of helplessness can be the most debilitating experience. In a safe nurturing space, you are gently guided to take a proactive role in your healing process, experience self-efficacy, build resilience & reclaim HOPE. We offer Integrative Somatic Therapy Practice (ISTP) incorporating gentle Yoga, Mindfulness, Breathwork, Bodywork, Ceremony, Somatic & Body Oriented Processing. Centering on this organic process of healing trauma, individuals are guided to gently release body-stored trauma, experience self-efficacy, gain greater emotional resilience, and interact with life’s circumstances with clarity, openness, & HEART.
(450) 977-7890 View (450) 977-7890
Photo of Rainstorm Counselling & Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in V9P, BC
Rainstorm Counselling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Parenting (or caregiving) is one of the most important jobs you've taken on. But the person you're caring for is going through some tough stuff, and the two of you aren't getting along. You're beating yourself up, because you keep screwing up your job, when all you want to do is help. You might even be coping with your own issues, in addition to helping them with theirs. You're scared of the future, and sometimes angry at the person you are caring for. You're lonely and even burnt out, because others don't understand.
Parenting (or caregiving) is one of the most important jobs you've taken on. But the person you're caring for is going through some tough stuff, and the two of you aren't getting along. You're beating yourself up, because you keep screwing up your job, when all you want to do is help. You might even be coping with your own issues, in addition to helping them with theirs. You're scared of the future, and sometimes angry at the person you are caring for. You're lonely and even burnt out, because others don't understand.
(778) 651-5292 View (778) 651-5292
Photo of John Taylor, Counselling, Counsellor in V9P, BC
John Taylor, Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
Turn relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and stress downside-up and stop repeating the same troublesome patterns. I am an experienced counsellor who can help you turn problems into solutions, getting you the tools you need to make real changes, starting now. Doing more than just listen, I help you deal with problems and underlying causes so that you can gain relief now and for the future. Life is better with help: I can help with relationships, infidelity, trust, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, sex issues, panic, addictions, anger, trauma, grief, and more. Frowns really can turn into smiles.
Turn relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and stress downside-up and stop repeating the same troublesome patterns. I am an experienced counsellor who can help you turn problems into solutions, getting you the tools you need to make real changes, starting now. Doing more than just listen, I help you deal with problems and underlying causes so that you can gain relief now and for the future. Life is better with help: I can help with relationships, infidelity, trust, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, sex issues, panic, addictions, anger, trauma, grief, and more. Frowns really can turn into smiles.
(855) 782-3011 View (855) 782-3011
Photo of Ron Lafleur, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Ron Lafleur
Counsellor, M, Ed, RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
My view on counselling is based upon the level of trust and the quality of the connection that we are able to create together. In essence, the relationship that we develop together is key. I would wish to provide you with a safe, caring environment where you could come to feel completely heard and understood. I see my role as being more of a Guide, offering support while at the same time gently encouraging your growth by pointing out certain areas, thoughts, beliefs or behaviours that may be keeping you stuck, or that you may be unaware of.
My view on counselling is based upon the level of trust and the quality of the connection that we are able to create together. In essence, the relationship that we develop together is key. I would wish to provide you with a safe, caring environment where you could come to feel completely heard and understood. I see my role as being more of a Guide, offering support while at the same time gently encouraging your growth by pointing out certain areas, thoughts, beliefs or behaviours that may be keeping you stuck, or that you may be unaware of.
(855) 694-0493 View (855) 694-0493
Photo of Andrej Klimo, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Andrej Klimo
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Are you feeling confused about how to show up as a man in today's world? Are you grappling with questions of identity and self-worth? Do you experience challenges in intimate relationships, parenting, or your work life? You're not alone. I provide a safe space to explore these challenges, seek clarity, and find practical strategies and tools so you can reconnect with who you truly are – the man we all want and need in this world.
Are you feeling confused about how to show up as a man in today's world? Are you grappling with questions of identity and self-worth? Do you experience challenges in intimate relationships, parenting, or your work life? You're not alone. I provide a safe space to explore these challenges, seek clarity, and find practical strategies and tools so you can reconnect with who you truly are – the man we all want and need in this world.
(431) 441-2881 View (431) 441-2881
Photo of Alita Dancy, Pre-Licensed Professional in V9P, BC
Alita Dancy
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, BEd, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Hi there, I understand the decision to seek support can be both courageous and challenging, so I am proud of you for taking the first step. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and non-judgment, creating a safe and welcoming space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I look forward to working with clients who might be experiencing anxiety, depression, disassociative thoughts, self-doubt and low self-esteem. With a commitment to confidentiality and ethical practice, I strive to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship built on mutual respect and collaboration.
Hi there, I understand the decision to seek support can be both courageous and challenging, so I am proud of you for taking the first step. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and non-judgment, creating a safe and welcoming space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I look forward to working with clients who might be experiencing anxiety, depression, disassociative thoughts, self-doubt and low self-esteem. With a commitment to confidentiality and ethical practice, I strive to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship built on mutual respect and collaboration.
(438) 803-5928 View (438) 803-5928
Photo of Gillian Sutherland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in V9P, BC
Gillian Sutherland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Waitlist for new clients
At Central Island Counselling, our clients will immediately find an advocate with compassion, acceptance and expertise. We provide the highest standard of private clinical counselling services to adults, youth, children and families in the Nanaimo area and beyond. We value privacy, professionalism and creativity in care. Our mission is to safely guide each client while they rediscover their internal resources. You are not alone and there is a path forward to healing.
At Central Island Counselling, our clients will immediately find an advocate with compassion, acceptance and expertise. We provide the highest standard of private clinical counselling services to adults, youth, children and families in the Nanaimo area and beyond. We value privacy, professionalism and creativity in care. Our mission is to safely guide each client while they rediscover their internal resources. You are not alone and there is a path forward to healing.
(226) 799-0835 View (226) 799-0835
Photo of Rachel Falconer, Counsellor in V9P, BC
Rachel Falconer
Counsellor, RCT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P  (Online Only)
My focus is strongly influenced by a person-centered therapy approach to wellness through different methods such as Eco-therapy or expressive art therapy techniques and using the natural elements available to us should the sessions call for such an approach. Reducing stress and anxiety to create a more peaceful person inside who can claim their meaning and be more joyful in life is a difficult path to walk alone. I am here to help and be part of the healing journey. I have completed my diploma in April of 2023 and plan to continue my education and training to better serve the clients I take on as I evolve as a counsellor.
My focus is strongly influenced by a person-centered therapy approach to wellness through different methods such as Eco-therapy or expressive art therapy techniques and using the natural elements available to us should the sessions call for such an approach. Reducing stress and anxiety to create a more peaceful person inside who can claim their meaning and be more joyful in life is a difficult path to walk alone. I am here to help and be part of the healing journey. I have completed my diploma in April of 2023 and plan to continue my education and training to better serve the clients I take on as I evolve as a counsellor.
(548) 457-0379 View (548) 457-0379
Photo of Laurie Larkin-Boyle, Registered Psychotherapist in V9P, BC
Laurie Larkin-Boyle
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, DVATI, RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
Waitlist for new clients
Laurie Larkin-Boyle is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Art Therapist. As a former teacher, she has 20 years experience working with children and youth. Laurie offers individual counselling for children and youth as well as art therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. Her therapeutic approach is client-centered and tailored to the individual needs of each client.
Laurie Larkin-Boyle is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Art Therapist. As a former teacher, she has 20 years experience working with children and youth. Laurie offers individual counselling for children and youth as well as art therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. Her therapeutic approach is client-centered and tailored to the individual needs of each client.
(431) 813-2756 View (431) 813-2756
Photo of Joel Martinflatt, Registered Social Worker in V9P, BC
Joel Martinflatt
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
I am a registered Social Worker with the BCCSW and BCASW with a Master's of Social Work. I have completed a post-graduate Certificate in Complex Trauma. In my practice, I utilize CBT, Solution Focused, Person-Centered and Motivational Interviewing techniques to support and inform change. I have extensive experience working with children and youth and I incorporate play, activity, art, nature, movement and activities into my sessions. Other areas of focus are working with men around communication skills, relationships and regulation of emotions as well as couples and individual counselling.
I am a registered Social Worker with the BCCSW and BCASW with a Master's of Social Work. I have completed a post-graduate Certificate in Complex Trauma. In my practice, I utilize CBT, Solution Focused, Person-Centered and Motivational Interviewing techniques to support and inform change. I have extensive experience working with children and youth and I incorporate play, activity, art, nature, movement and activities into my sessions. Other areas of focus are working with men around communication skills, relationships and regulation of emotions as well as couples and individual counselling.
(343) 453-1162 View (343) 453-1162

See more therapy options for V9P


ADHD Counsellors

When should I seek treatment for ADHD?

You should seek treatment for ADHD if you consistently have difficulty with attention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity that interferes with your daily life. Symptoms of ADHD include the inability to sustain attention during tasks, difficulty organizing tasks and activities, being easily distracted, frequent fidgeting or squirming, and talking or interrupting excessively. If these symptoms interfere with your career, academics, or relationships—for example, consistently failing to complete professional projects on time—you should seek an evaluation for ADHD.

How does treatment for ADHD work?

Effective treatment for ADHD often consists of medication, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes. Stimulant medications such as Adderall and Ritalin work by altering levels of neurotransmitters in the brain; higher levels of dopamine and norepinephrine are known to improve attention and focus. Therapy works by helping people with ADHD understand the condition, discuss their areas of difficulty, and develop behavioral strategies to manage their symptoms. In some cases, modifying one’s diet and exercise can also help improve symptoms.

Are there specific medications for ADHD?

Medications to treat ADHD are generally stimulants, the most common are Adderall and Ritalin. There are two categories of stimulants: Amphetamines include Adderall, Dyanavel, Vyvanse, and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates include Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana, Focalin, Quillichew, Quillivant, and Metadate. Non-stimulants and antidepressants may be used as an alternative if stimulants aren’t effective or viable for a particular patient.

How long does treatment for ADHD take?

It’s tough to give an exact time frame because everyone varies. In terms of medications, stimulants begin to work very soon after you take them, generally within the hour. It may take time to identify the right medication and dosage, but the medication itself is fast-acting. In terms of therapy, it takes time to develop skills and put them into practice, but you will likely see improvements within a few weeks or months.