Photo of Lorraine Grieves, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Lorraine Grieves
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5L  (Online Only)
I strongly believe that we all have the capacity to heal and to move towards our preferred future. We often can't do this alone. Collaborating with you and attuning my practice to ways that work best for you, I offer a safe space for reflection and insight building. I have worked with a broad range of people over the years and bring with me a commitment to anti-oppressive practice and attention to the contexts that contribute to suffering and to healing. We are living in a time of immense stress and increased isolation and this takes a toll. Reaching out for support is an important act of wellness and I welcome your enquiry.
I strongly believe that we all have the capacity to heal and to move towards our preferred future. We often can't do this alone. Collaborating with you and attuning my practice to ways that work best for you, I offer a safe space for reflection and insight building. I have worked with a broad range of people over the years and bring with me a commitment to anti-oppressive practice and attention to the contexts that contribute to suffering and to healing. We are living in a time of immense stress and increased isolation and this takes a toll. Reaching out for support is an important act of wellness and I welcome your enquiry.
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Photo of Wing Sum (Sharon) Kwok, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Wing Sum (Sharon) Kwok
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
You are not your circumstances. Lets talk.
You are not your circumstances. Lets talk.
(778) 860-7237 View (778) 860-7237
Photo of Keith Thurlow-Bishop, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Keith Thurlow-Bishop
Counsellor, PhD, RCC-ACS, RCAT, REAT
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6G  (Online Only)
I have been working in the field of mental health since 1990 and I am deeply committed to supporting people to heal, grow, explore who they are, and live their best life. I offer both traditional 'talk' therapies alongside expressive arts therapy and know from personal experience how well these two approaches work to help people improve their mood, thoughts, sense of self, and quality of life, as well as helping them to recover from trauma, addictions, and eating disorders.
I have been working in the field of mental health since 1990 and I am deeply committed to supporting people to heal, grow, explore who they are, and live their best life. I offer both traditional 'talk' therapies alongside expressive arts therapy and know from personal experience how well these two approaches work to help people improve their mood, thoughts, sense of self, and quality of life, as well as helping them to recover from trauma, addictions, and eating disorders.
(604) 210-4217 View (604) 210-4217
Photo of David Nisbet, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
David Nisbet
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B
My approach is informed by mindfulness, Buddhist psychology, and contemplative practices. In my work with clients I tend to be open, creative, collaborative and down-to-earth. I specialize in anxiety and relationship issues, often working with individuals and couples who feel lost or trapped in difficult patterns. I believe that within every challenge lies valuable insight waiting to be unearthed. With greater clarity comes the freedom to live authentically and pursue meaningful connections - within oneself, with others, and with life.
My approach is informed by mindfulness, Buddhist psychology, and contemplative practices. In my work with clients I tend to be open, creative, collaborative and down-to-earth. I specialize in anxiety and relationship issues, often working with individuals and couples who feel lost or trapped in difficult patterns. I believe that within every challenge lies valuable insight waiting to be unearthed. With greater clarity comes the freedom to live authentically and pursue meaningful connections - within oneself, with others, and with life.
(778) 767-0950 x778791 View (778) 767-0950 x778791
Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd , RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(778) 864-5992 View (778) 864-5992
Photo of Martin Olson, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Martin Olson
Counsellor, RCC, MA, BSc
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B
For anyone looking for support with navigating a challenge or who feels a longing to realize more of life's potential, I believe that counselling can be tremendously helpful. I also believe this is true for a variety of challenges and goals, whether it’s navigating a mental health challenge like anxiety, depression or ADHD, or just wanting to live at your highest level. Through counselling I believe we enter a space where we can honestly explore our various thoughts and feelings, generate insights and evolve our wisdom and perspective.
For anyone looking for support with navigating a challenge or who feels a longing to realize more of life's potential, I believe that counselling can be tremendously helpful. I also believe this is true for a variety of challenges and goals, whether it’s navigating a mental health challenge like anxiety, depression or ADHD, or just wanting to live at your highest level. Through counselling I believe we enter a space where we can honestly explore our various thoughts and feelings, generate insights and evolve our wisdom and perspective.
(604) 260-1964 View (604) 260-1964
Photo of Faisal Nahri, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Faisal Nahri
Counsellor, MBBS, MA, MA, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5P
I have lived, studied and worked in the Arab world, South and Southeast Asia before settling in Vancouver, BC in 2011. A good friend and mentor describes me as a honey bee, a nahlah that has travelled from place to place in search of sweetness and wisdom. Urdu is my first language, and I have picked up English and some Arabic, Farsi and Hebrew along the way. I am a hanif believer who knows the divine as the light of the heavens and the earth and dares to have a critical-appreciative relationship with tradition.
I have lived, studied and worked in the Arab world, South and Southeast Asia before settling in Vancouver, BC in 2011. A good friend and mentor describes me as a honey bee, a nahlah that has travelled from place to place in search of sweetness and wisdom. Urdu is my first language, and I have picked up English and some Arabic, Farsi and Hebrew along the way. I am a hanif believer who knows the divine as the light of the heavens and the earth and dares to have a critical-appreciative relationship with tradition.
(587) 417-6469 View (587) 417-6469
Photo of Ellie Dobreva, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Ellie Dobreva
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, parenting, relationships and life transitions, infertility and pregnancy loss, relationship or marriage struggles. We, humans are born as WHOLE beings, we are worthy of love, we crave attachment, safety and connection. Sometimes we experience life events that may make us feel: stressed, angry, lonely, hurt, or unworthy of love. Having experienced trauma, loss and grief in my personal life, I know what it feels like to feel stuck, helpless, and worst of all, hopeless.
I specialize in helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, parenting, relationships and life transitions, infertility and pregnancy loss, relationship or marriage struggles. We, humans are born as WHOLE beings, we are worthy of love, we crave attachment, safety and connection. Sometimes we experience life events that may make us feel: stressed, angry, lonely, hurt, or unworthy of love. Having experienced trauma, loss and grief in my personal life, I know what it feels like to feel stuck, helpless, and worst of all, hopeless.
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Photo of Cote Counselling and Consulting, Registered Social Worker in Vancouver, BC
Cote Counselling and Consulting
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
In my work, I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment for clients to explore and remove life barriers. I believe that all behavior does serve a purpose, and that purpose is usually to meet an unmet need. Through the work of therapy, you can develop a deeper understanding of what protective mechanisms such as anxiety, self- harm, and addiction have played a role in your life. Together, we can explore and discover what you need to feel supported to overcome these challenges and to experience growth and change.
In my work, I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment for clients to explore and remove life barriers. I believe that all behavior does serve a purpose, and that purpose is usually to meet an unmet need. Through the work of therapy, you can develop a deeper understanding of what protective mechanisms such as anxiety, self- harm, and addiction have played a role in your life. Together, we can explore and discover what you need to feel supported to overcome these challenges and to experience growth and change.
(236) 239-5301 View (236) 239-5301
Photo of Ivy Pan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Vancouver, BC
Ivy Pan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA cand
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5Z  (Online Only)
Your first session with me is free. If you have been feeling stuck, confused, or hopeless due to adverse life events or traumatic and upsetting personal experiences that happened in the past - I'm glad you found me. For the past decade, I've dedicated myself to supporting teens, adults and older adults from diverse backgrounds, including (but not limited to) international students, immigrants, individuals from equity-deserving communities, to find their goals, hope, purpose, and meaning in life.
Your first session with me is free. If you have been feeling stuck, confused, or hopeless due to adverse life events or traumatic and upsetting personal experiences that happened in the past - I'm glad you found me. For the past decade, I've dedicated myself to supporting teens, adults and older adults from diverse backgrounds, including (but not limited to) international students, immigrants, individuals from equity-deserving communities, to find their goals, hope, purpose, and meaning in life.
(226) 840-2031 x11 View (226) 840-2031 x11
Photo of Dr. Michael A. Gordon, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Dr. Michael A. Gordon
Counsellor, MSc, PhD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5Y
I have been in private counselling practice for 15 years, and in wellness, personal development and the media for 25 years. My practice draws self-referring, high-functioning adults/couples with addiction, phobia, anxiety, depression and attachment disorders affecting their lives beyond their historical, current or perceived ability of self-control. In couples, I usually begin individually to create safety and self-awareness, then back together towards clear self-advocacy, expression and to build trustful communication. EMDR in the couple context can clear a lot of old trauma and wounded pattern-associations that mire us in destructive relational dynamics.
I have been in private counselling practice for 15 years, and in wellness, personal development and the media for 25 years. My practice draws self-referring, high-functioning adults/couples with addiction, phobia, anxiety, depression and attachment disorders affecting their lives beyond their historical, current or perceived ability of self-control. In couples, I usually begin individually to create safety and self-awareness, then back together towards clear self-advocacy, expression and to build trustful communication. EMDR in the couple context can clear a lot of old trauma and wounded pattern-associations that mire us in destructive relational dynamics.
(888) 596-6278 View (888) 596-6278
Photo of Lazzaro Pisu in Vancouver, BC
Lazzaro Pisu
DHP, CHI, NGH, MCH
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6Z
Lazzaro Pisu is one of the most recommended Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist in Canada. Over the past years to the present day Lazzaro have helped thousands of private patients, and based on the effective of his sessions he built a respectable practice and name, and his clients are not only from Canada but from around the world. Clients go to Lazzaro for issues related to Depression, Anxiety, Addictions, Trauma, Abuse, Loss of Purpose, Self Confidence, Motivation, Moodiness, Sexual Problems, Bereavement and Loss, Stroke Recovery and other personal issues. Call Lazzao to get fast results and to get better mentally and physically.
Lazzaro Pisu is one of the most recommended Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist in Canada. Over the past years to the present day Lazzaro have helped thousands of private patients, and based on the effective of his sessions he built a respectable practice and name, and his clients are not only from Canada but from around the world. Clients go to Lazzaro for issues related to Depression, Anxiety, Addictions, Trauma, Abuse, Loss of Purpose, Self Confidence, Motivation, Moodiness, Sexual Problems, Bereavement and Loss, Stroke Recovery and other personal issues. Call Lazzao to get fast results and to get better mentally and physically.
(855) 680-3228 View (855) 680-3228
Photo of Willful Minds Counselling Services, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Willful Minds Counselling Services
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6K
Do you feel distressed but don't understand why? Have you tried different methods and it only helped a little but never get ahead? Have you ever wondered what the core issue is? Working with me might find you those answers. A lot of people ask who gets counselling, I believe that anyone who experiences stress could get a therapist; however, many have amazing family and friends that allow them to bounce ideas, inspire motivation, and provides insight so counselling really isn't needed. Most people wait till they are in crisis to get help which would mean a rough journey to baseline. Let's be preventative rather than reactionary.
Do you feel distressed but don't understand why? Have you tried different methods and it only helped a little but never get ahead? Have you ever wondered what the core issue is? Working with me might find you those answers. A lot of people ask who gets counselling, I believe that anyone who experiences stress could get a therapist; however, many have amazing family and friends that allow them to bounce ideas, inspire motivation, and provides insight so counselling really isn't needed. Most people wait till they are in crisis to get help which would mean a rough journey to baseline. Let's be preventative rather than reactionary.
(778) 906-2644 View (778) 906-2644
Photo of Anthony De Lemos Kawka, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Anthony De Lemos Kawka
Counsellor, MM, RP, RCS
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6Z
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Registered Counselling Supervisor. My practice is guided by extensive experience working with people coming from various socioeconomic backgrounds as well as many years of serving the most vulnerable communities in Vancouver’s DTES. While my approach is integrative of modern theories and techniques, it heavily relies on Psychodynamic theories and practice. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy is a highly individualized treatment whose goal is not only to alleviate the most obvious symptom. It relies on the fact that our personalities are uniquely shaped by several developmental stages.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Registered Counselling Supervisor. My practice is guided by extensive experience working with people coming from various socioeconomic backgrounds as well as many years of serving the most vulnerable communities in Vancouver’s DTES. While my approach is integrative of modern theories and techniques, it heavily relies on Psychodynamic theories and practice. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy is a highly individualized treatment whose goal is not only to alleviate the most obvious symptom. It relies on the fact that our personalities are uniquely shaped by several developmental stages.
(226) 457-3416 View (226) 457-3416
Photo of Colette Marie Mrazek, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Colette Marie Mrazek
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6C
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with youth, adults, couples and families addressing a variety of personal issues such as stress and anxiety, depression, anger, addictions, disordered eating, grief and loss, death and dying, parenting concerns and attachment issues, career and identity, life transitions, loneliness and isolation, communication, assertiveness, self-esteem, family conflict and relationship issues, domestic violence, trauma and abuse.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with youth, adults, couples and families addressing a variety of personal issues such as stress and anxiety, depression, anger, addictions, disordered eating, grief and loss, death and dying, parenting concerns and attachment issues, career and identity, life transitions, loneliness and isolation, communication, assertiveness, self-esteem, family conflict and relationship issues, domestic violence, trauma and abuse.
(778) 760-3517 View (778) 760-3517
Photo of Venturous Counselling, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Venturous Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5Z
You know the best way out is always through...but "through" is HARD, especially when you're experiencing painful emotions and you're not sure where to start. So let us help you through. Breaking free from deeply-rooted self-doubt, anxiety, body image concerns, relational conflicts, and struggling self-worth isn't something you need to do alone. We've got you! You'll fit right in with us if you're ready to change your relationship with yourself, to really get to know who you are, and finally heal from the patterns that are holding you back.
You know the best way out is always through...but "through" is HARD, especially when you're experiencing painful emotions and you're not sure where to start. So let us help you through. Breaking free from deeply-rooted self-doubt, anxiety, body image concerns, relational conflicts, and struggling self-worth isn't something you need to do alone. We've got you! You'll fit right in with us if you're ready to change your relationship with yourself, to really get to know who you are, and finally heal from the patterns that are holding you back.
(647) 557-5942 View (647) 557-5942
Photo of Lauren Gelfer, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Lauren Gelfer
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5Y  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Lauren (she/her). I’m here to help you heal, grow and thrive by tapping into the inner knowing and wisdom of your body and heart, and by encouraging you to step into your power and truth. The clients who seek me out are often on journeys of self discovery or facing life transitions that open up questions and possibilities about who they are, what matters most to them, and how they want to live. I was called to this work through my personal journey of owning my unique path in life, despite it being different than the societal expectations that I grew up with.
Hi! I’m Lauren (she/her). I’m here to help you heal, grow and thrive by tapping into the inner knowing and wisdom of your body and heart, and by encouraging you to step into your power and truth. The clients who seek me out are often on journeys of self discovery or facing life transitions that open up questions and possibilities about who they are, what matters most to them, and how they want to live. I was called to this work through my personal journey of owning my unique path in life, despite it being different than the societal expectations that I grew up with.
(819) 201-2077 View (819) 201-2077
Photo of Shelley P Foster, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Shelley P Foster
Counsellor, RCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology with 15 years of experience as a psychotherapist in Vancouver, BC. My strengths include connecting with each client quickly and customizing the work to achieve what they are coming to therapy to accomplish. I am committed to making sure every session is productive and useful. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Parenting, Life Transitions, Conflictual Relationships (professional and personal), Addictions and Eating Disorders.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology with 15 years of experience as a psychotherapist in Vancouver, BC. My strengths include connecting with each client quickly and customizing the work to achieve what they are coming to therapy to accomplish. I am committed to making sure every session is productive and useful. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Parenting, Life Transitions, Conflictual Relationships (professional and personal), Addictions and Eating Disorders.
(778) 655-8651 View (778) 655-8651
Photo of Steven Hobkirk, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Steven Hobkirk
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5Z
Waitlist for new clients
Life is complex and ever-changing. Whether you're feeling stuck, struggling in relationships, having difficulty identifying your feelings and values, or struggling to process the effects of a trauma, I am dedicated to providing a safe, empathic, and trusting environment that fosters acceptance, understanding, healing, and growth. At the core of my work is the belief that every person has the capacity to change, and I am committed to working collaboratively with you to reach your goals.
Life is complex and ever-changing. Whether you're feeling stuck, struggling in relationships, having difficulty identifying your feelings and values, or struggling to process the effects of a trauma, I am dedicated to providing a safe, empathic, and trusting environment that fosters acceptance, understanding, healing, and growth. At the core of my work is the belief that every person has the capacity to change, and I am committed to working collaboratively with you to reach your goals.
(587) 207-4933 View (587) 207-4933
Photo of Wayne Richard Dykstra, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Wayne Richard Dykstra
Counsellor, PhD, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5K  (Online Only)
Counseling is, thankfully, no longer considered something reserved for individuals with severe mental health concerns. Today we are increasingly comfortable admitting many would benefit from dedicated space where our personal concerns, challenges, and goals can be carefully tended to. My clients learn quickly that therapy is about dialogue and consistent attention to their sadness, depression, anxiety, worries, and difficulties in different spheres of their lives (relationships, parenting, work, money, environment, to name a few). Clients often seek a deeper sense of purpose and engagement, therapy can help achieve this.
Counseling is, thankfully, no longer considered something reserved for individuals with severe mental health concerns. Today we are increasingly comfortable admitting many would benefit from dedicated space where our personal concerns, challenges, and goals can be carefully tended to. My clients learn quickly that therapy is about dialogue and consistent attention to their sadness, depression, anxiety, worries, and difficulties in different spheres of their lives (relationships, parenting, work, money, environment, to name a few). Clients often seek a deeper sense of purpose and engagement, therapy can help achieve this.
(579) 400-2825 View (579) 400-2825

See more therapy options for Vancouver

Alcohol Use Counsellors

Are there specific medications for alcohol use?

There are oral medications approved to treat alcohol use disorder—such as disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone, which also comes in an injectable form. These medications do help people reduce their drinking as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone helps reduce cravings, disulfiram can make a person feel sick when they drink, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.

How do alcohol recovery or rehabilitation programs work?

In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other patients in recovery; in outpatient programs,individuals live at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff can also include people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other tools for recovery.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?

Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for alcohol use reduce the amount of alcohol they intake. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.