Therapists in Nanaimo, BC
Terry Ketteringham
Counsellor, RCC, CHyp
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Breaking Chains Counselling provides counselling, hypnotherapy, recovery coaching, continuing care and trauma therapy in Nanaimo, Vancouver Island and online. All counselling services are offered face to face or online through e-counselling anywhere in the world you have internet access.
Breaking Chains Counselling provides counselling, hypnotherapy, recovery coaching, continuing care and trauma therapy in Nanaimo, Vancouver Island and online. All counselling services are offered face to face or online through e-counselling anywhere in the world you have internet access.
Carrie Liske
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9T
Congratulations! You've taken the first step toward seeking support for yourself or your family. This takes courage, so I commend you for being here. I believe that we all possess the potential within us to heal and grow into the healthiest, most confident, successful version of ourselves. Life presents challenges and sometimes we all need someone to guide us along the way. Connection, compassion, creativity, collaboration and a touch of humour reside at the heart of my counselling style. My integrative approach is customized to your situation and draws from a variety of theoretical approaches.
Congratulations! You've taken the first step toward seeking support for yourself or your family. This takes courage, so I commend you for being here. I believe that we all possess the potential within us to heal and grow into the healthiest, most confident, successful version of ourselves. Life presents challenges and sometimes we all need someone to guide us along the way. Connection, compassion, creativity, collaboration and a touch of humour reside at the heart of my counselling style. My integrative approach is customized to your situation and draws from a variety of theoretical approaches.
Oceanside Counselling Solutions
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
I bring decades of experience helping emergency services and health care professionals find solutions to the cumulative stress they experience every day in their jobs. Without a safe place to work through these normal reactions to abnormal events, careers can be cut short and the families of these professionals struggle as well. Together we can find solutions for work related stress and other issues such as: the impact on the families, grief and loss, addiction/recovery and enhance existing coping skills. I enjoy working with a wide range of age groups from young adult to adult.
I bring decades of experience helping emergency services and health care professionals find solutions to the cumulative stress they experience every day in their jobs. Without a safe place to work through these normal reactions to abnormal events, careers can be cut short and the families of these professionals struggle as well. Together we can find solutions for work related stress and other issues such as: the impact on the families, grief and loss, addiction/recovery and enhance existing coping skills. I enjoy working with a wide range of age groups from young adult to adult.
Redirect Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R (Online Only)
Our environment and connections affect greatly our ability to cope, our wellbeing, mental health, and joy. Whether it's breaking the cycle of negative thoughts, feeling like there is no one to turn to, struggling to identify feelings, or just needing someone to talk to when life is feeling like too much, strengthening our resolve is always beneficial. Together we can deconstruct the negative stories you may tell yourself and rebuild them into kinder, stronger, and more positive stories that help you be authentic and feel connected in mind, body and environment.
Our environment and connections affect greatly our ability to cope, our wellbeing, mental health, and joy. Whether it's breaking the cycle of negative thoughts, feeling like there is no one to turn to, struggling to identify feelings, or just needing someone to talk to when life is feeling like too much, strengthening our resolve is always beneficial. Together we can deconstruct the negative stories you may tell yourself and rebuild them into kinder, stronger, and more positive stories that help you be authentic and feel connected in mind, body and environment.
Gillian Sutherland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9V
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.
Liam Murray
Counsellor, RPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! I understand what it is like to grow up in the digital age, and I've seen and experienced the effects that technology can have on our mental health. The increased struggle in this digital era is because we are not taught how to develop healthy relationships with technology and live happy and healthy lives. I specialize in technology-related issues and offer support to those seeking knowledge and change. If you feel like life is passing you by and you're on the search for a reliable and compassionate partner to guide you on your journey of change then perhaps I am the right counsellor for you.
Accepting new clients! I understand what it is like to grow up in the digital age, and I've seen and experienced the effects that technology can have on our mental health. The increased struggle in this digital era is because we are not taught how to develop healthy relationships with technology and live happy and healthy lives. I specialize in technology-related issues and offer support to those seeking knowledge and change. If you feel like life is passing you by and you're on the search for a reliable and compassionate partner to guide you on your journey of change then perhaps I am the right counsellor for you.
Alice Curitz
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC, CST
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes it can feel like we're stuck, lost and have to try to figure it out alone. I'm here to support you in redefining who you are and what you want. Create the life you truly deserve by working through the tough stuff and embracing your unique abilities. I believe that connection is what helps us to heal and grow. My practice is based on building an authentic connection with you in order to help you become empowered to reach your goals. I work with clients across Canada via video chat and phone.
Sometimes it can feel like we're stuck, lost and have to try to figure it out alone. I'm here to support you in redefining who you are and what you want. Create the life you truly deserve by working through the tough stuff and embracing your unique abilities. I believe that connection is what helps us to heal and grow. My practice is based on building an authentic connection with you in order to help you become empowered to reach your goals. I work with clients across Canada via video chat and phone.
Lisa Bylsma
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Accepting new clients. Available for in-person sessions in Nanaimo or virtual sessions anywhere in BC. - After over 12 years working as a counsellor within government and non-profit organizations, I have decided to open my own practice. In my years of working with people, I have come to strongly believe that people and their problems make sense. I can help you understand your struggles, your emotions, and yourself. I aim to understand you holistically, including your complex life. I strive to listen deeply, to be genuine, and to really see you.
Accepting new clients. Available for in-person sessions in Nanaimo or virtual sessions anywhere in BC. - After over 12 years working as a counsellor within government and non-profit organizations, I have decided to open my own practice. In my years of working with people, I have come to strongly believe that people and their problems make sense. I can help you understand your struggles, your emotions, and yourself. I aim to understand you holistically, including your complex life. I strive to listen deeply, to be genuine, and to really see you.
Ian Gartshore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MTh
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
When life is difficult the resulting symptoms usually include depression, anxiety, fear, anger and/or withdrawal. Rather than avoiding these states I have helped hundreds of clients turn them into resources, significantly improving their lives --usually after only a few sessions. I have 25+ years experience working with couples, individuals, families and groups, and have supervised 20+ new therapists. I specialize with couples, helping them to move beyond arguing, tension, anger, resentment and distancing into happy couples. My clients turn their problems into workable solutions. Free tips: www.shorecounselling.ca.
When life is difficult the resulting symptoms usually include depression, anxiety, fear, anger and/or withdrawal. Rather than avoiding these states I have helped hundreds of clients turn them into resources, significantly improving their lives --usually after only a few sessions. I have 25+ years experience working with couples, individuals, families and groups, and have supervised 20+ new therapists. I specialize with couples, helping them to move beyond arguing, tension, anger, resentment and distancing into happy couples. My clients turn their problems into workable solutions. Free tips: www.shorecounselling.ca.
Cole Schafer
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Most people I work with initially seek counselling as a result of some form of suffering. Sometimes this suffering is specific such as symptoms of anxiety, depression, addiction, stress or relationship issues. Other times the suffering is vague, a feeling of something being off, amiss, or worse. In either case, I meet people where they are at, either 'getting to it' (so to speak) and yet taking the time for whatever needs to unfold.
Most people I work with initially seek counselling as a result of some form of suffering. Sometimes this suffering is specific such as symptoms of anxiety, depression, addiction, stress or relationship issues. Other times the suffering is vague, a feeling of something being off, amiss, or worse. In either case, I meet people where they are at, either 'getting to it' (so to speak) and yet taking the time for whatever needs to unfold.
Janina Zofia Barnett
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
It is my hope that through counselling, people and couples who struggle with life’s adversities will grow and change towards living and feeling empowerment, love, and compassion. I work with individuals, couples, and families on a range of areas including relationships, communications, grief, loss, addiction, anxiety, depression, and self-compassion.
It is my hope that through counselling, people and couples who struggle with life’s adversities will grow and change towards living and feeling empowerment, love, and compassion. I work with individuals, couples, and families on a range of areas including relationships, communications, grief, loss, addiction, anxiety, depression, and self-compassion.
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Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Accepting Clients - I am a somatic therapist supporting older youth & adults healing from symptoms of anxiety and depression, the stressors of daily living, processing trauma related to relationships and family, and navigating life transitions. The people who seek me out are often yearning for authentic living and deep connection. They may be in search of their identity or life purpose. Some may be uncovering limiting relational patterns and want to break the cycles that no longer serve them in order to live more fulfilling lives.
Accepting Clients - I am a somatic therapist supporting older youth & adults healing from symptoms of anxiety and depression, the stressors of daily living, processing trauma related to relationships and family, and navigating life transitions. The people who seek me out are often yearning for authentic living and deep connection. They may be in search of their identity or life purpose. Some may be uncovering limiting relational patterns and want to break the cycles that no longer serve them in order to live more fulfilling lives.
Patricia Gage
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Navigating life's challenges can be lonely, overwhelming, and exhausting. I seek to empower my clients along their path to growth and wellness through providing genuine, empathetic, caring, and skilled support. I work with a wide range of ages, from preschoolers to retirees. I offer individual counselling (youth and adults), play therapy, couples, and family therapy.
Navigating life's challenges can be lonely, overwhelming, and exhausting. I seek to empower my clients along their path to growth and wellness through providing genuine, empathetic, caring, and skilled support. I work with a wide range of ages, from preschoolers to retirees. I offer individual counselling (youth and adults), play therapy, couples, and family therapy.
Hannah Grabowecky, Nanaimo Art Therapy
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9T
Waitlist for new clients
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.
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.
Rachel Falconer
Counsellor, RCT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R (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.
Christine G Hall
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. I embrace a holistic and collaborative approach to working with others, respecting that successful therapy honours the values and beliefs of each client. I believe that one's trauma history, distress, and pain are often the foundations that strength, meaningfulness, and wisdom are built upon. I offer personalized short or long-term therapy individuals, couples, adolescents, or families. Resiliency need not be something one is born with, it can be cultivated. ~Christine
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. I embrace a holistic and collaborative approach to working with others, respecting that successful therapy honours the values and beliefs of each client. I believe that one's trauma history, distress, and pain are often the foundations that strength, meaningfulness, and wisdom are built upon. I offer personalized short or long-term therapy individuals, couples, adolescents, or families. Resiliency need not be something one is born with, it can be cultivated. ~Christine
Suzannah Mills
Counsellor, BA, MA, MACP
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Welcome. Connection, compassion and non-judgemental listening support my Person Centered approach. Together we find ways for you to voice your challenges, purpose and direction. One way to shine the light of attention on difficulties is through writing. Insights often reveal themselves when thoughts and feelings are put down on paper. If this approach appeals to you, I have extensive experience and belief in the healing power of the written word/journalling as a path to inner knowing.
Welcome. Connection, compassion and non-judgemental listening support my Person Centered approach. Together we find ways for you to voice your challenges, purpose and direction. One way to shine the light of attention on difficulties is through writing. Insights often reveal themselves when thoughts and feelings are put down on paper. If this approach appeals to you, I have extensive experience and belief in the healing power of the written word/journalling as a path to inner knowing.
Quarress Addiction Services
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CSAT-S, CCAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9T
Do you struggle with Compulsive Sexual Behaviors or Betrayal Trauma associated with your partners Sex, Porn and/or Love Addiction? If you can relate to any of these struggles that have created anxiety and stress in your life, let me help. Allow me to come along side you and support, guide, heal and offer accountability.
Do you struggle with Compulsive Sexual Behaviors or Betrayal Trauma associated with your partners Sex, Porn and/or Love Addiction? If you can relate to any of these struggles that have created anxiety and stress in your life, let me help. Allow me to come along side you and support, guide, heal and offer accountability.
Holly Miles
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I'm Holly (She/They). I'm glad that you found your way here. I provide individual counselling, clinical supervision and consultation in-person in Nanaimo, BC, and virtually across Canada. I have experience supporting survivors of gender-based violence, childhood relational trauma, and folks experiencing mental health changes in the postpartum period. The modalities in which I have received training include Narrative therapy, Expressive Arts therapy, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Level 1).
Hello, I'm Holly (She/They). I'm glad that you found your way here. I provide individual counselling, clinical supervision and consultation in-person in Nanaimo, BC, and virtually across Canada. I have experience supporting survivors of gender-based violence, childhood relational trauma, and folks experiencing mental health changes in the postpartum period. The modalities in which I have received training include Narrative therapy, Expressive Arts therapy, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Level 1).
Tanglewood Counselling Services
Counsellor, MACP, BSW, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
If you are feeling overwhelmed with the stress of anxiety, overthinking, workplace burnout, lack of confidence, life transitions, relationship conflict, family dysfunction, etc., get in touch and we can make a care plan to match your specific needs. Talk therapy can help you untangle your thoughts and clear your mind. You can also receive feedback and talk out options and possible solutions to your problems with someone who does not have a personal stake in your choices. I am here for you so we will focus on what is important to you. You might decide to incorporate some new tools and practices to make positive changes going forward.
If you are feeling overwhelmed with the stress of anxiety, overthinking, workplace burnout, lack of confidence, life transitions, relationship conflict, family dysfunction, etc., get in touch and we can make a care plan to match your specific needs. Talk therapy can help you untangle your thoughts and clear your mind. You can also receive feedback and talk out options and possible solutions to your problems with someone who does not have a personal stake in your choices. I am here for you so we will focus on what is important to you. You might decide to incorporate some new tools and practices to make positive changes going forward.
See more therapy options for Nanaimo
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Nanaimo, BC
200+
Average cost per session
$140
Counsellors in Nanaimo, BC who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
83% | Depression |
80% | Self Esteem |
78% | Relationship Issues |
77% | Stress |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
51% | First Nations Health Authority |
41% | Green Shield Canada |
40% | Pacific Blue Cross |
How Counsellors in Nanaimo, BC see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
17% | Male | |
4% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Nanaimo?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postal code, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postal code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Most Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are certified by one of the main professional associations, mainly the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), and will have a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) designation with their name. Social Workers listed in the directory must be registered members of the college specific to their province. To be listed in the directory, Psychologists must be registered with the psychological college specific to their province or territory.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Psychologists, counsellors, psychotherapists and social workers can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in Canada.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Canada could be between $100 and $200. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postal code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Professionals licensed by regulatory colleges and those certified by associations such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association are obligated to uphold client confidentiality unless there is a legal reason that requires them to disclose information. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others, or a court order, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.