Photo of Carmel Bennett, Registered Social Worker in Victoria, BC
Carmel Bennett
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8X  (Online Only)
My approach to trauma therapy weaves together experiential, attachment-based, and somatic techniques that emphasize the integration of mind, body, and spirit, including AEDP, EMDR, EFT and parts-work.
Welcome! I'm a registered social worker offering online psychotherapy across BC and Ontario. Specializing in trauma-focused therapy, I provide a supportive space for BIPOC, Queer, and Neurodiverse folks, but my door is open to all who connect with my values. My approach acknowledges the profound impacts of trauma and systemic injustice, while also valuing the richness and complexity of our experiences that exist alongside suffering. I aim to nurture a space where we address the pain of trauma and oppression, and actively reclaim the immense potential for joy, pleasure, beauty, and fulfillment in your life.
My approach to trauma therapy weaves together experiential, attachment-based, and somatic techniques that emphasize the integration of mind, body, and spirit, including AEDP, EMDR, EFT and parts-work.
Welcome! I'm a registered social worker offering online psychotherapy across BC and Ontario. Specializing in trauma-focused therapy, I provide a supportive space for BIPOC, Queer, and Neurodiverse folks, but my door is open to all who connect with my values. My approach acknowledges the profound impacts of trauma and systemic injustice, while also valuing the richness and complexity of our experiences that exist alongside suffering. I aim to nurture a space where we address the pain of trauma and oppression, and actively reclaim the immense potential for joy, pleasure, beauty, and fulfillment in your life.
(867) 888-0330 View (867) 888-0330
Photo of Riley McDonald, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Riley McDonald
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
My aim is to provide a trusting, nonjudgmental space in which you feel comfortable sharing your story. While there is innate wisdom within all of us, our ability to see the way forward can become clouded when we become overwhelmed. A deep exploration of one’s internal experience can be freeing, and provide valuable insight into (often unconscious) patterns of relating to the self and others. We will work collaboratively from an attachment-based, client-centred orientation. Drawing connections between your past experiences and your present situation will help us identify how best to meet your future goals.
My aim is to provide a trusting, nonjudgmental space in which you feel comfortable sharing your story. While there is innate wisdom within all of us, our ability to see the way forward can become clouded when we become overwhelmed. A deep exploration of one’s internal experience can be freeing, and provide valuable insight into (often unconscious) patterns of relating to the self and others. We will work collaboratively from an attachment-based, client-centred orientation. Drawing connections between your past experiences and your present situation will help us identify how best to meet your future goals.
(450) 328-5874 View (450) 328-5874
Photo of Flora Pagan, Registered Social Worker in Victoria, BC
Flora Pagan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
My work is grounded in somatic, attachment-based, and social justice approaches and much of my training and experience has focused on relational trauma.
Many of us struggle with emotional experiences that knock us off our feet. Low mood and chronic stress; difficulty with trust and relationships; and difficulty with overwhelm, focus, or organization are painful and isolating experiences. Unfortunately, we’re surrounded with messaging that if only we tried harder, we could think or act our way out of these experiences - leaving us feeling even more alone or frustrated if things don’t change.
My work is grounded in somatic, attachment-based, and social justice approaches and much of my training and experience has focused on relational trauma.
Many of us struggle with emotional experiences that knock us off our feet. Low mood and chronic stress; difficulty with trust and relationships; and difficulty with overwhelm, focus, or organization are painful and isolating experiences. Unfortunately, we’re surrounded with messaging that if only we tried harder, we could think or act our way out of these experiences - leaving us feeling even more alone or frustrated if things don’t change.
(431) 304-6966 View (431) 304-6966
Photo of Zachary Bruyere, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Zachary Bruyere
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8T
Drawing from a diverse toolkit that includes Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), attachment-based techniques, mindfulness practices, and a trauma-informed lens, I tailor my approach to meet each individual's unique needs.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I am dedicated to offering a safe and nurturing space for individuals, aged 16 and above, to explore their experiences and rediscover inner peace, joy, love, and safety. Join me in a collaborative partnership towards healing and growth, where together, we can navigate challenges with empathy, insight, and unwavering support. I have experience in supporting individuals navigating Acute and Complex Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Life Transitions, Relationship Issues, Shame, and Male Masculinity Expectations.
Drawing from a diverse toolkit that includes Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), attachment-based techniques, mindfulness practices, and a trauma-informed lens, I tailor my approach to meet each individual's unique needs.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I am dedicated to offering a safe and nurturing space for individuals, aged 16 and above, to explore their experiences and rediscover inner peace, joy, love, and safety. Join me in a collaborative partnership towards healing and growth, where together, we can navigate challenges with empathy, insight, and unwavering support. I have experience in supporting individuals navigating Acute and Complex Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Life Transitions, Relationship Issues, Shame, and Male Masculinity Expectations.
(250) 389-2819 View (250) 389-2819
Photo of Carli Kirby, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Carli Kirby
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8P
I work with folks who are experiencing post-traumatic stress responses, anxiety, depression, the effects of abuse and early attachment wounds. Through a relational, attachment-based somatic approach to counselling, I can help clients develop a stronger sense of self, increase their capacity to tolerate emotions, learn to self-regulate the nervous system, repair relational injuries, get "unstuck", and heal from the effects of trauma in an embodied way.
I work with folks who are experiencing post-traumatic stress responses, anxiety, depression, the effects of abuse and early attachment wounds. Through a relational, attachment-based somatic approach to counselling, I can help clients develop a stronger sense of self, increase their capacity to tolerate emotions, learn to self-regulate the nervous system, repair relational injuries, get "unstuck", and heal from the effects of trauma in an embodied way.
(778) 764-1579 View (778) 764-1579
Photo of Amy Chiasson, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Amy Chiasson
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W  (Online Only)
It is my belief that as humans we are biologically wired to heal; each of us already holds the internal resources needed to grow and thrive. As a counsellor, I would be honoured to walk alongside you as a guide in uncovering these resources, offering warmth and a grounding presence alongside evidence-based interventions to assist you on this journey. I offer an integrated approach to counselling, utilizing attachment-based, emotion-focused, and body-based practices alongside internal parts work in my practice. I believe it is important to create space for the body, mind, and spirit to be present in our work together.
It is my belief that as humans we are biologically wired to heal; each of us already holds the internal resources needed to grow and thrive. As a counsellor, I would be honoured to walk alongside you as a guide in uncovering these resources, offering warmth and a grounding presence alongside evidence-based interventions to assist you on this journey. I offer an integrated approach to counselling, utilizing attachment-based, emotion-focused, and body-based practices alongside internal parts work in my practice. I believe it is important to create space for the body, mind, and spirit to be present in our work together.
(438) 834-3141 View (438) 834-3141
Photo of Maggie Grant, Registered Psychotherapist in Victoria, BC
Maggie Grant
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V  (Online Only)
In my work as a Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor, I work to create a space that is thoughtful, warm and connected. Together we’ll dig deep to explore underlying thoughts, feelings and behaviours to better learn what’s going on, where you might be getting stuck and pathways to move forward. I aim to help you live with a greater sense of authenticity, ease and meaning. I bring a relational, trauma-informed and attachment-based lens to my work.
In my work as a Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor, I work to create a space that is thoughtful, warm and connected. Together we’ll dig deep to explore underlying thoughts, feelings and behaviours to better learn what’s going on, where you might be getting stuck and pathways to move forward. I aim to help you live with a greater sense of authenticity, ease and meaning. I bring a relational, trauma-informed and attachment-based lens to my work.
(647) 697-5209 View (647) 697-5209
Photo of Alyssa A. Morgan, Registered Social Worker in Victoria, BC
Alyssa A. Morgan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8L  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are having trouble moving past a specific event or feel like you are engaging in destructive thinking patterns or behaviours? Therapy is a safe and confidential place where you can share your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of being judged. My practice aims to highlight your strengths while finding solutions for unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours, helping you to move forward and thrive in the areas of your life which are most important to you.
Do you feel like you are having trouble moving past a specific event or feel like you are engaging in destructive thinking patterns or behaviours? Therapy is a safe and confidential place where you can share your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of being judged. My practice aims to highlight your strengths while finding solutions for unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours, helping you to move forward and thrive in the areas of your life which are most important to you.
(587) 596-0837 View (587) 596-0837
Photo of Jessica McMahon, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Jessica McMahon
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, CT
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8W  (Online Only)
I believe that everybody & every body has a story. With this belief in mind, I'll work with you using a trauma-informed, integrative approach that focuses on relational, attachment-based somatic therapy as well as person-centered, narrative and emotionally focused therapy. I work with clients experiencing: Depression/anxiety, Chronic stress/burnout, Trauma, Birth and Reproductive trauma, Relationship challenges, Life transitions, and Grief/loss.
I believe that everybody & every body has a story. With this belief in mind, I'll work with you using a trauma-informed, integrative approach that focuses on relational, attachment-based somatic therapy as well as person-centered, narrative and emotionally focused therapy. I work with clients experiencing: Depression/anxiety, Chronic stress/burnout, Trauma, Birth and Reproductive trauma, Relationship challenges, Life transitions, and Grief/loss.
(604) 330-1227 View (604) 330-1227
Photo of Arezou Mirzaei, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Arezou Mirzaei
Counsellor, MCP, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
Are you tired of struggling in your relationship? Are you and your partner having difficulty communicating? Has their been an extramarital affair? You maybe feeling exhausted, hurt or simply numb about your relationship. I utilize Gottman method which is an evidence-based skills building approach to couples therapy. I also use Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT) that is attachment based and conceptualizes the negative, rigid interaction patterns and absorbing negative affect that typify distress in couple relationships in terms of emotional disconnection and insecure attachment.
Are you tired of struggling in your relationship? Are you and your partner having difficulty communicating? Has their been an extramarital affair? You maybe feeling exhausted, hurt or simply numb about your relationship. I utilize Gottman method which is an evidence-based skills building approach to couples therapy. I also use Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT) that is attachment based and conceptualizes the negative, rigid interaction patterns and absorbing negative affect that typify distress in couple relationships in terms of emotional disconnection and insecure attachment.
(506) 713-2973 View (506) 713-2973
Photo of Virlyn Collantes, Registered Social Worker in Victoria, BC
Virlyn Collantes
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R
In individual sessions, I use a combination of modalities from CBT, DBT, SFBT, Grief Therapy, Psychodynamic, and Attachment-based style.
I accept both British Columbia and Ontario clients for individual and couples therapy. I specialize in the following areas but not limited to: Relationship or Marriage Issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Prenatal/Postpartum, Self-Esteem, Emotion Regulation, Trauma, and Life Transition. I’m a dedicated Registered Social Worker (RSW) practitioner associated with the British Columbia College of Social Workers and The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in Toronto, Ontario, followed by a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Erikson Institute in Chicago.
In individual sessions, I use a combination of modalities from CBT, DBT, SFBT, Grief Therapy, Psychodynamic, and Attachment-based style.
I accept both British Columbia and Ontario clients for individual and couples therapy. I specialize in the following areas but not limited to: Relationship or Marriage Issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Prenatal/Postpartum, Self-Esteem, Emotion Regulation, Trauma, and Life Transition. I’m a dedicated Registered Social Worker (RSW) practitioner associated with the British Columbia College of Social Workers and The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in Toronto, Ontario, followed by a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Erikson Institute in Chicago.
(587) 804-0680 View (587) 804-0680
Photo of Shawna Bot, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Shawna Bot
Counsellor, RCC, MACP, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8Z  (Online Only)
Taking that first step towards healing takes courage. I want to honour that and walk alongside of you while we work towards your wellness goals. The reality is that not many people are taught the skills to deal with life’s wear and tear. More often than not, we find ourselves in situations where we simply do not know how to work through things on our own. The good news is that we don't have to, and you are on the path to support now! Warmth and acceptance are key tenants of my practice, and sessions will be collaborative, judgment free and open to exploring whatever you bring to the table.
Taking that first step towards healing takes courage. I want to honour that and walk alongside of you while we work towards your wellness goals. The reality is that not many people are taught the skills to deal with life’s wear and tear. More often than not, we find ourselves in situations where we simply do not know how to work through things on our own. The good news is that we don't have to, and you are on the path to support now! Warmth and acceptance are key tenants of my practice, and sessions will be collaborative, judgment free and open to exploring whatever you bring to the table.
(306) 801-7867 View (306) 801-7867
Photo of Kathryn Pybus, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Kathryn Pybus
Counsellor, MCP-AT, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8W
Counselling is a courageous step in the direction of positive change. As your therapist, I hold myself to providing the highest quality of service determined by the ethics and standards of my profession. Practicing from a place of compassion, non-judgment, curiosity, and respect, I strive to facilitate each client's innate capacity for positive growth and development. My clinical specializations include disordered eating, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, childhood sexual abuse, and relationship issues.
Counselling is a courageous step in the direction of positive change. As your therapist, I hold myself to providing the highest quality of service determined by the ethics and standards of my profession. Practicing from a place of compassion, non-judgment, curiosity, and respect, I strive to facilitate each client's innate capacity for positive growth and development. My clinical specializations include disordered eating, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, childhood sexual abuse, and relationship issues.
(778) 765-3672 View (778) 765-3672
Photo of Kashka Hughes Clarke - Heartwood Counselling, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Kashka Hughes Clarke - Heartwood Counselling
Counsellor, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W  (Online Only)
I ground my approach in the transformative power of human connection and relationships, working with individuals and couples. I believe that our wellbeing is shaped by what we've learned and experienced while moving through life, and by the ways we consciously and unconsciously relate to these experiences, to ourselves, and to others. I aim to help you transform painful or challenging emotions, understand your patterns, create healthy boundaries, and develop skills for authentic and effective communication, deep connection, and fulfilling relationships.
I ground my approach in the transformative power of human connection and relationships, working with individuals and couples. I believe that our wellbeing is shaped by what we've learned and experienced while moving through life, and by the ways we consciously and unconsciously relate to these experiences, to ourselves, and to others. I aim to help you transform painful or challenging emotions, understand your patterns, create healthy boundaries, and develop skills for authentic and effective communication, deep connection, and fulfilling relationships.
(450) 987-6629 View (450) 987-6629
Photo of Theresa Gulliver, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Theresa Gulliver
Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
I offer a safe space to show up exactly as you are and support you in who you want to become. Specializing in pregnancy and postpartum counselling, I help untangle and understand anxieties, depression and difficulties with the adjustment to parenthood. Shifting from a place of fear or confusion to a place of truth and understanding, you are left feeling more resourced and empowered in this important life transition.
I offer a safe space to show up exactly as you are and support you in who you want to become. Specializing in pregnancy and postpartum counselling, I help untangle and understand anxieties, depression and difficulties with the adjustment to parenthood. Shifting from a place of fear or confusion to a place of truth and understanding, you are left feeling more resourced and empowered in this important life transition.
(250) 800-2342 View (250) 800-2342
Photo of Erin Kowlalewich, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Erin Kowlalewich
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9B  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you seek anxiety/OCD management tools, wish to address past or recent trauma, hope to gain some support through life transitions, enhance accountability with your self-care goals, or just desire a place to explore and be.... I look forward to meeting you. I enjoy working with adult clients from all walks of life, and personalize sessions for my clients based on their goals and needs. I offer a student rate for those with University/College ID, and can direct bill for ICBC clients. Please contact me to set up your free, 15-minute consultation. Please email me to join the Spring 2024 waitlist!
Whether you seek anxiety/OCD management tools, wish to address past or recent trauma, hope to gain some support through life transitions, enhance accountability with your self-care goals, or just desire a place to explore and be.... I look forward to meeting you. I enjoy working with adult clients from all walks of life, and personalize sessions for my clients based on their goals and needs. I offer a student rate for those with University/College ID, and can direct bill for ICBC clients. Please contact me to set up your free, 15-minute consultation. Please email me to join the Spring 2024 waitlist!
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Photo of PRYSM - Couples Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, BC
PRYSM - Couples Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with a challenging relationship that affects your ability to feel seen, heard, and validated? Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and lost by patterns of arguing, defensiveness, and lack of closeness in your relationship? Do you question whether things will ever get better? Today more than ever, couples are feeling anxious and uncertain about overcoming their relationship challenges, moving past resentment, and if there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I believe it is possible to improve any relationship and that wounds in high stakes relationships can be healed.
Do you struggle with a challenging relationship that affects your ability to feel seen, heard, and validated? Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and lost by patterns of arguing, defensiveness, and lack of closeness in your relationship? Do you question whether things will ever get better? Today more than ever, couples are feeling anxious and uncertain about overcoming their relationship challenges, moving past resentment, and if there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I believe it is possible to improve any relationship and that wounds in high stakes relationships can be healed.
(506) 315-3612 View (506) 315-3612
Photo of Peter Ciceri, Psychotherapy & Counselling, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Peter Ciceri, Psychotherapy & Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8R
Waitlist for new clients
The focus of my practice is trauma and PTSD – single incident, developmental or complex trauma. As a certified First Responder Therapist, I also work with adult clients experiencing a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, life & career transitions, grief/loss, relationships and addiction. Modalities include CBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, IFS, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Mindfulness, Somatic Therapy, and I am a certified EMDR Therapist. Lastly I am a trained Psychedelic Therapist and can assist with post journey integration and when Health Canada approved, with Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
The focus of my practice is trauma and PTSD – single incident, developmental or complex trauma. As a certified First Responder Therapist, I also work with adult clients experiencing a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, life & career transitions, grief/loss, relationships and addiction. Modalities include CBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, IFS, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Mindfulness, Somatic Therapy, and I am a certified EMDR Therapist. Lastly I am a trained Psychedelic Therapist and can assist with post journey integration and when Health Canada approved, with Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
(855) 262-3688 View (855) 262-3688
Photo of Dawn Cox, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Dawn Cox
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
No matter what you are struggling with, remember that on the other side of this difficult time will be increased wisdom, the exciting potential of a better you and more of what you want. We all have a survivor inside of us, an innate ability to overcome even the most difficult of challenges. Talking to someone can help you harness the strength that lives inside you. That is the essence of counselling.
No matter what you are struggling with, remember that on the other side of this difficult time will be increased wisdom, the exciting potential of a better you and more of what you want. We all have a survivor inside of us, an innate ability to overcome even the most difficult of challenges. Talking to someone can help you harness the strength that lives inside you. That is the essence of counselling.
(866) 617-5358 View (866) 617-5358
Photo of Maha Elias, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Maha Elias
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC, FMC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8N
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), Canadian Certified Counsellor, Comprehensive Family Mediator (FMC), and sexual health and trauma-informed practitioner specializing in couples and family counselling. I am passionate about helping couples and individuals identify and achieve their personal and relational goals and I take great pride in the progress and success of my clients.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), Canadian Certified Counsellor, Comprehensive Family Mediator (FMC), and sexual health and trauma-informed practitioner specializing in couples and family counselling. I am passionate about helping couples and individuals identify and achieve their personal and relational goals and I take great pride in the progress and success of my clients.
(782) 800-7340 View (782) 800-7340

See more therapy options for Victoria


Attachment-based Counsellors

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.