Photo of Nelson Szeto, Counsellor in British Columbia
Nelson Szeto
Counsellor, MCP, RCC-ACS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H
Our approach is attachment-based, trauma-informed/sensitive, neuroscience/evidence-based with a focus on insight (emotion and cognitive awareness and shifts) and behavioural changes.
Our team aims to help you create and discover a life worth living for and have fulfilling relationships with yourself and with others. Living from a place of fear/anger/resentment right now might be impacting how you see the world every single day. It may also affect your relationships with your family members, partners, and/or children (young and adults), friends, even coworkers, and you need help to make sense of it all. Every day, you may experience conflict, lack of connection, fear of something, or other challenges that gets in the way of you finding that sense of belonging and ownership over your life.
Our approach is attachment-based, trauma-informed/sensitive, neuroscience/evidence-based with a focus on insight (emotion and cognitive awareness and shifts) and behavioural changes.
Our team aims to help you create and discover a life worth living for and have fulfilling relationships with yourself and with others. Living from a place of fear/anger/resentment right now might be impacting how you see the world every single day. It may also affect your relationships with your family members, partners, and/or children (young and adults), friends, even coworkers, and you need help to make sense of it all. Every day, you may experience conflict, lack of connection, fear of something, or other challenges that gets in the way of you finding that sense of belonging and ownership over your life.
(778) 716-3889 View (778) 716-3889
Photo of Carmel Bennett, Registered Social Worker in British Columbia
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 Lucia Simoncicova, Counsellor in British Columbia
Lucia Simoncicova
Counsellor, MA, RCC, RCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V  (Online Only)
Therapeutic modalities: Attachment-based therapies, Emotion-Focused Family Therapy and other Family Systems approaches, Art and Play therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural therapy, Grief Recovery Method, Interpersonal therapy, Trauma-Informed Approach, and Polyvagal Theory in Therapy.
Lucia Simoncicova, MA, is a Clinical Counsellor registered with BCACC. She is a Registered Art Therapist with CATA. Lucia has offered counselling in community mental health centres and in her private practice. She is passionate about working with adults, caregivers, children and teenagers. She offers treatment for a variety of concerns including emotional regulation, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, learning issues, trauma, and relationship issues. Lucia’s specialty is working with highly sensitive persons of any age. She enjoys offering support to carers via parental consultations.
Therapeutic modalities: Attachment-based therapies, Emotion-Focused Family Therapy and other Family Systems approaches, Art and Play therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural therapy, Grief Recovery Method, Interpersonal therapy, Trauma-Informed Approach, and Polyvagal Theory in Therapy.
Lucia Simoncicova, MA, is a Clinical Counsellor registered with BCACC. She is a Registered Art Therapist with CATA. Lucia has offered counselling in community mental health centres and in her private practice. She is passionate about working with adults, caregivers, children and teenagers. She offers treatment for a variety of concerns including emotional regulation, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, learning issues, trauma, and relationship issues. Lucia’s specialty is working with highly sensitive persons of any age. She enjoys offering support to carers via parental consultations.
(778) 763-1353 View (778) 763-1353
Photo of Katrina Kaiser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in British Columbia
Katrina Kaiser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B
For work with children and families, I draw on attachment-based interventions including Theraplay and my training as a Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) Facilitator.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma-related symptoms, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transitions, parenting support, and attachment wounds unique to those who have been adopted. Most people have experienced challenges in their life and it is normal to feel stuck, lost, or confused as a result of what we have experienced. People have the resources and inner wisdom to heal and by working together we can integrate those painful experiences so they do not remain in the present causing emotional pain and disturbance.
For work with children and families, I draw on attachment-based interventions including Theraplay and my training as a Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) Facilitator.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma-related symptoms, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transitions, parenting support, and attachment wounds unique to those who have been adopted. Most people have experienced challenges in their life and it is normal to feel stuck, lost, or confused as a result of what we have experienced. People have the resources and inner wisdom to heal and by working together we can integrate those painful experiences so they do not remain in the present causing emotional pain and disturbance.
(778) 650-4755 View (778) 650-4755
Photo of Nicole Shigeoka, Counsellor in British Columbia
Nicole Shigeoka
Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2B
I take an attachment-based lens to help understand how your experiences have shaped you, pulling from various experiential modalities to personalize your experience.
While working with me, you’ll find that I take a gentle yet direct angle to help you move at your pace while giving an encouraging push to keep you on your path to healing and wholeness. I take a special focus in exploring how your past experiences impact your current life in a nonjudgmental and compassionate way. This often looks like examining how your trauma (big or small, it's all valid!) is still carried today. I aim to help you find the safety to let go of your burdens and find new ways that your system can work for you, based on the here and now instead of the past, through processing and integration of new patterns.
I take an attachment-based lens to help understand how your experiences have shaped you, pulling from various experiential modalities to personalize your experience.
While working with me, you’ll find that I take a gentle yet direct angle to help you move at your pace while giving an encouraging push to keep you on your path to healing and wholeness. I take a special focus in exploring how your past experiences impact your current life in a nonjudgmental and compassionate way. This often looks like examining how your trauma (big or small, it's all valid!) is still carried today. I aim to help you find the safety to let go of your burdens and find new ways that your system can work for you, based on the here and now instead of the past, through processing and integration of new patterns.
(506) 560-4088 View (506) 560-4088
Photo of Axel McGown, Counsellor in British Columbia
Axel McGown
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nelson, BC V1L
Are things feeling like a lot right now? It's tough out there. Whether you're struggling in your relationships, wondering what the heck a boundary is and how to create them, needing ways to cope with a really intense world, or wanting to trace a frustrating pattern and find new ways forward, you deserve support. I work with folks who are feeling stuck or overwhelmed to build resilience and choice. Using a somatic, attachment-based approach, I aim to create a space of care and acceptance for folks to name and feel feelings, map out unhelpful patterns, and practice new ways of navigating life’s challenges.
Are things feeling like a lot right now? It's tough out there. Whether you're struggling in your relationships, wondering what the heck a boundary is and how to create them, needing ways to cope with a really intense world, or wanting to trace a frustrating pattern and find new ways forward, you deserve support. I work with folks who are feeling stuck or overwhelmed to build resilience and choice. Using a somatic, attachment-based approach, I aim to create a space of care and acceptance for folks to name and feel feelings, map out unhelpful patterns, and practice new ways of navigating life’s challenges.
(431) 430-4118 View (431) 430-4118
Photo of Nicole Persall, Counsellor in British Columbia
Nicole Persall
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6J  (Online Only)
I tend to use attachment-based, trauma-informed, and somatic approaches in my work.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), I offer online counselling to individual adults and couples facing issues such as anxiety, trauma, and relationship concerns. I help people understand how past experiences may have shaped their patterns and beliefs, and support learning new ways of relating to self and others that may increase connection, intimacy, and authenticity. I help clients learn things such as effective communication skills, how to set boundaries, how to manage stress and anxiety, and how to regulate their nervous systems so that they can navigate their daily lives with more ease and joy.
I tend to use attachment-based, trauma-informed, and somatic approaches in my work.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), I offer online counselling to individual adults and couples facing issues such as anxiety, trauma, and relationship concerns. I help people understand how past experiences may have shaped their patterns and beliefs, and support learning new ways of relating to self and others that may increase connection, intimacy, and authenticity. I help clients learn things such as effective communication skills, how to set boundaries, how to manage stress and anxiety, and how to regulate their nervous systems so that they can navigate their daily lives with more ease and joy.
(587) 844-0485 View (587) 844-0485
Photo of Melissa Ko, Pre-Licensed Professional in British Columbia
Melissa Ko
Pre-Licensed Professional, BKin
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A
Through a holistic and attachment-based lens, we will work collaboratively to explore your relationships and experiences to cultivate strategies for healing, self-expression, and self-compassion.
Welcome to a warm and compassionate space where healing begins! I am a dedicated trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and neurodivergent-affirming intern therapist specializing in the healing of trauma and attachment wounds. I aim to help clients work towards integration and wholeness by targeting the root of your symptoms to get you unstuck, allowing you to move forward in life. I work to provide personalized support for individuals seeking to reclaim their lives from the grip of past wounds and lingering symptoms. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space to support you on your journey towards healing and transformation.
Through a holistic and attachment-based lens, we will work collaboratively to explore your relationships and experiences to cultivate strategies for healing, self-expression, and self-compassion.
Welcome to a warm and compassionate space where healing begins! I am a dedicated trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and neurodivergent-affirming intern therapist specializing in the healing of trauma and attachment wounds. I aim to help clients work towards integration and wholeness by targeting the root of your symptoms to get you unstuck, allowing you to move forward in life. I work to provide personalized support for individuals seeking to reclaim their lives from the grip of past wounds and lingering symptoms. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space to support you on your journey towards healing and transformation.
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Photo of Carli Kirby, Counsellor in British Columbia
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 Esther Nordin, Counsellor in British Columbia
Esther Nordin
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
Although my approach is tailored to best support each individual's unique needs, I draw heavily on AEDP and attachment-based theories.
Starting a counselling journey takes courage; I honour your decision to explore it. I take a collaborative and holistic approach to supporting mental, emotional, embodied, and spiritual healing, depending on a person’s unique needs, goals, and hopes. I love walking alongside clients as they grow into fuller, more authentic expressions of themselves and their relationships.
Although my approach is tailored to best support each individual's unique needs, I draw heavily on AEDP and attachment-based theories.
Starting a counselling journey takes courage; I honour your decision to explore it. I take a collaborative and holistic approach to supporting mental, emotional, embodied, and spiritual healing, depending on a person’s unique needs, goals, and hopes. I love walking alongside clients as they grow into fuller, more authentic expressions of themselves and their relationships.
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Photo of Maggie Fraser, Counsellor in British Columbia
Maggie Fraser
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V1M
In my role as your counsellor, I will bring a person-centered, trauma informed, and attachment-based therapeutic approach.
My extensive experience in programs for youth and adults enhanced my passion for helping and establishing connections with others. I have always been interested in establishing a deeper understanding of our life experiences, how they shape us as well as the development of our interpersonal relationships. This interest and curiosity stems from my own journey with interpersonal relationships, grief, and parenthood that has developed into the foundation of my appreciation for the strength and healing that we all share within our unique journeys.
In my role as your counsellor, I will bring a person-centered, trauma informed, and attachment-based therapeutic approach.
My extensive experience in programs for youth and adults enhanced my passion for helping and establishing connections with others. I have always been interested in establishing a deeper understanding of our life experiences, how they shape us as well as the development of our interpersonal relationships. This interest and curiosity stems from my own journey with interpersonal relationships, grief, and parenthood that has developed into the foundation of my appreciation for the strength and healing that we all share within our unique journeys.
(672) 572-2760 View (672) 572-2760
Photo of Lauren Gelfer, Counsellor in British Columbia
Lauren Gelfer
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5Y  (Online Only)
I’m a registered clinical counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, I have a Masters in Counselling Psychology, I’m trained in trauma-informed, somatic, relational, neuroscience, and attachment-based therapies and have a decade of experience in the field of mental health.
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.
I’m a registered clinical counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, I have a Masters in Counselling Psychology, I’m trained in trauma-informed, somatic, relational, neuroscience, and attachment-based therapies and have a decade of experience in the field of mental health.
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 SunRae Studio, Creative Wellness Center. , Art Therapist in British Columbia
SunRae Studio, Creative Wellness Center.
Art Therapist, BFA, DKATI
Verified Verified
When words aren't enough. . . Art Therapy uses engagement in the creative process as a tool to encourage self-exploration, and is combined with more traditional forms of counselling/therapy. It is particularly beneficial when working with children, as younger people can be less comfortable or haven’t yet developed the capability of expressing themselves with words only. Action, creativity, imagination and play are naturally more familiar forms of expression and/or communication for children. Art Therapy accesses the above modalities.
When words aren't enough. . . Art Therapy uses engagement in the creative process as a tool to encourage self-exploration, and is combined with more traditional forms of counselling/therapy. It is particularly beneficial when working with children, as younger people can be less comfortable or haven’t yet developed the capability of expressing themselves with words only. Action, creativity, imagination and play are naturally more familiar forms of expression and/or communication for children. Art Therapy accesses the above modalities.
(587) 742-1585 View (587) 742-1585
Photo of Hameda Nyamekye, Counsellor in British Columbia
Hameda Nyamekye
Counsellor, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
I practice from a relational, attachment-based perspective and intentionally incorporate therapeutic approaches that support my clients as they navigate life’s challenges and work towards achieving their goals.
There is nothing more beautiful to me than the rawness of the human spirit. No matter who we are, where we are from or where we go next, we carry narratives about ourselves that impact our experiences and the way we show up in the world. Humans are social beings, which means that the condition of our relationships directly influences our quality of life & overall wellness. However, many of us were never taught the importance of nurturing a strong and healthy relationship with the self, first. Without this relationship, we may be left wondering who we are, what matters most, and how to let go of what no longer serves us.
I practice from a relational, attachment-based perspective and intentionally incorporate therapeutic approaches that support my clients as they navigate life’s challenges and work towards achieving their goals.
There is nothing more beautiful to me than the rawness of the human spirit. No matter who we are, where we are from or where we go next, we carry narratives about ourselves that impact our experiences and the way we show up in the world. Humans are social beings, which means that the condition of our relationships directly influences our quality of life & overall wellness. However, many of us were never taught the importance of nurturing a strong and healthy relationship with the self, first. Without this relationship, we may be left wondering who we are, what matters most, and how to let go of what no longer serves us.
(343) 309-9893 View (343) 309-9893
Photo of Heather Scott, Counsellor in British Columbia
Heather Scott
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5V
Hi! I’m a Registered Clinical Counsellor & Clinical Director at Scott Sheere Wellness, providing counselling services online and in Vancouver’s Mt. Pleasant community. Using a range of therapeutic modalities I provide trauma-focused therapy for adults, with the bulk of my practice focusing on the experience of cis & trans women. I have specialized training in complex trauma, post-traumatic stress and dissociation. I am trained in the use of Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindful Self-Compassion, Motivational Interviewing and attachment-based somatic therapies.
Hi! I’m a Registered Clinical Counsellor & Clinical Director at Scott Sheere Wellness, providing counselling services online and in Vancouver’s Mt. Pleasant community. Using a range of therapeutic modalities I provide trauma-focused therapy for adults, with the bulk of my practice focusing on the experience of cis & trans women. I have specialized training in complex trauma, post-traumatic stress and dissociation. I am trained in the use of Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindful Self-Compassion, Motivational Interviewing and attachment-based somatic therapies.
(431) 441-1607 View (431) 441-1607
Photo of Amanda Bowers, Counsellor in British Columbia
Amanda Bowers
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Port Moody, BC V3H
Hi! I’m Amanda. I provide gentle, holistic, and compassionate care to people of a wide variety of ages and backgrounds. Do you find yourself feeling lonely amongst other people? Do you struggle with understanding why you feel the way you do? Do you want to feel more comfortable in yourself, understand your emotions, and feel internally more sturdy and aligned?
Hi! I’m Amanda. I provide gentle, holistic, and compassionate care to people of a wide variety of ages and backgrounds. Do you find yourself feeling lonely amongst other people? Do you struggle with understanding why you feel the way you do? Do you want to feel more comfortable in yourself, understand your emotions, and feel internally more sturdy and aligned?
(778) 488-0379 View (778) 488-0379
Photo of PureInsights Counselling, Counsellor in British Columbia
PureInsights Counselling
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1W
Over 30 yrs. experience in helping people overcome their challenges and start to make choices about themselves and the life they want to be living. Have you been struggling with an addiction, anxiety or anger? Do you need to learn more about boundaries and self esteem? Feeling overwhelmed and not knowing how to cope in your current relationship? Nobody goes through life without having to face difficulties. I will create a safe, comfortable and supportive relationship, so we can explore your current struggles and learn new skills in overcoming/managing yourself, relationships and dealing with your circumstances in your life.
Over 30 yrs. experience in helping people overcome their challenges and start to make choices about themselves and the life they want to be living. Have you been struggling with an addiction, anxiety or anger? Do you need to learn more about boundaries and self esteem? Feeling overwhelmed and not knowing how to cope in your current relationship? Nobody goes through life without having to face difficulties. I will create a safe, comfortable and supportive relationship, so we can explore your current struggles and learn new skills in overcoming/managing yourself, relationships and dealing with your circumstances in your life.
(866) 832-8648 View (866) 832-8648
Photo of Amber L Alexander-Huggins, Counsellor in British Columbia
Amber L Alexander-Huggins
Counsellor, MS, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4P
Hello! I’m Amber and I am a trauma-informed, strengths-based, Registered Clinical Counsellor who uses a relational-attachment-based approach in my work with individuals and couples coping with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, relationship, sexuality and communication/boundary challenges. I have been working in the field of counselling and mental health for 11 years and in private practice since 2014. I offer a free 15-minute confidential consultation via phone to determine whether my services and approach are a good fit for you. Feel free to reach out via phone or email anytime.
Hello! I’m Amber and I am a trauma-informed, strengths-based, Registered Clinical Counsellor who uses a relational-attachment-based approach in my work with individuals and couples coping with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, relationship, sexuality and communication/boundary challenges. I have been working in the field of counselling and mental health for 11 years and in private practice since 2014. I offer a free 15-minute confidential consultation via phone to determine whether my services and approach are a good fit for you. Feel free to reach out via phone or email anytime.
(604) 409-8562 View (604) 409-8562
Photo of Flora Pagan, Registered Social Worker in British Columbia
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 Valerie Dolgin, Registered Psychotherapist in British Columbia
Valerie Dolgin
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
I have an eclectic approach drawing from relational cultural theory, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), attachment-based, feminist, trauma-informed, expressive arts, and play therapy.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) who specializes in working with children, adolescents and adults. Regardless of their age, my goal is to help clients recognize their inner strength, trust their instincts and develop new ways of managing troubles as they arise. I am passionately curious about the human condition and dedicated to assisting my clients to deepen their connection to self and others. I welcome folks of all ages, stages and orientations. I feel privileged to walk next to my clients on this portion of their journey.
I have an eclectic approach drawing from relational cultural theory, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), attachment-based, feminist, trauma-informed, expressive arts, and play therapy.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) who specializes in working with children, adolescents and adults. Regardless of their age, my goal is to help clients recognize their inner strength, trust their instincts and develop new ways of managing troubles as they arise. I am passionately curious about the human condition and dedicated to assisting my clients to deepen their connection to self and others. I welcome folks of all ages, stages and orientations. I feel privileged to walk next to my clients on this portion of their journey.
(604) 210-6955 View (604) 210-6955

See more therapy options for British Columbia


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.