Addiction Therapists in Kelowna, BC

Photo of Shelley E Ugyan, Counsellor, MC, BAEd
Shelley E Ugyan
Counsellor, MC, BAEd
Online Only
Shelley Ugyan, RRC, is an acclaimed author, speaker and has over 15 years experience in mental and holistic health. Her evidence based tools including Cognitive Behavioural reconditioning as well as psychodynamic, relational and hypnosis approaches set you on a path to direct healing, starting immediately in the first 90 minute session. Her approach is genuine, empowering and powerful. Healing is probable, and happens as a result of conscious daily actions and unconscious dynamics that shift as a result of this process. Shelley is known for her groundbreaking therapeutic work in anxiety and eating disorders for adults and children.
Shelley Ugyan, RRC, is an acclaimed author, speaker and has over 15 years experience in mental and holistic health. Her evidence based tools including Cognitive Behavioural reconditioning as well as psychodynamic, relational and hypnosis approaches set you on a path to direct healing, starting immediately in the first 90 minute session. Her approach is genuine, empowering and powerful. Healing is probable, and happens as a result of conscious daily actions and unconscious dynamics that shift as a result of this process. Shelley is known for her groundbreaking therapeutic work in anxiety and eating disorders for adults and children.
(604) 714-5346 View (604) 714-5346
Photo of Carrie DeJong, Counsellor, MC, RCC
Carrie DeJong
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Online Only
If you are experiencing substance misuse or addiction, therapy can help you identify and explore the life issues that have led to addiction.
We all desire to discover and experience the best parts of who we are. But sometimes we need help exploring those parts of ourselves where we experience struggle or pain. Whether you are experiencing the negative impacts of trauma, engaging in unhealthy behaviours, or seeking new tools to be the best version of yourself, therapy can make a difference. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with 20 years experience. My approach is informed by the mind-body connection, attachment theory, and the recent contributions of neuroscience. My goal is to provide the tools and support you need to rediscover the best parts of who you truly are.
If you are experiencing substance misuse or addiction, therapy can help you identify and explore the life issues that have led to addiction.
We all desire to discover and experience the best parts of who we are. But sometimes we need help exploring those parts of ourselves where we experience struggle or pain. Whether you are experiencing the negative impacts of trauma, engaging in unhealthy behaviours, or seeking new tools to be the best version of yourself, therapy can make a difference. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with 20 years experience. My approach is informed by the mind-body connection, attachment theory, and the recent contributions of neuroscience. My goal is to provide the tools and support you need to rediscover the best parts of who you truly are.
(604) 808-0806 View (604) 808-0806
Photo of Tracy Atkins, Counsellor, BSW, MACP, RCC
Tracy Atkins
Counsellor, BSW, MACP, RCC
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
My name is Tracy and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor who has been working with youth and adults with various mental health and substance use struggles for over fifteen years.
I have training in and draw from the following counselling modalities: Emotion-Focused Therapy for both Individuals and Couples, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Self- Compassion, and Motivational Interviewing.
My name is Tracy and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor who has been working with youth and adults with various mental health and substance use struggles for over fifteen years.
I have training in and draw from the following counselling modalities: Emotion-Focused Therapy for both Individuals and Couples, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Self- Compassion, and Motivational Interviewing.
(778) 400-1421 View (778) 400-1421
Photo of Glenn Bekar, Counsellor, BSW, RN, MA, RCC
Glenn Bekar
Counsellor, BSW, RN, MA, RCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have over 20 years of experience in mental health and substance use services.
I draw upon various modalities, including Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing. I am also in my third and final year of Somatic Experiencing training.
I have over 20 years of experience in mental health and substance use services.
I draw upon various modalities, including Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing. I am also in my third and final year of Somatic Experiencing training.
(778) 924-0957 View (778) 924-0957
Photo of Christopher Iwestel Kinman, Counsellor, PhD, MSc, RCC
Christopher Iwestel Kinman
Counsellor, PhD, MSc, RCC
7 Endorsed
Online Only
My work has had several unique focuses through the years, including: children and youth, family therapy, addictions, mental health concerns, criminal justice matters, and I have worked extensively with indigenous communities.
I have been a counsellor and family therapist for over 30 years, during that time I have worked with a rich diversity of people. Counselling and family therapy is a work that I love. I have found that people carry with them, in their own lives and networks, the strengths, the relationships, and the gifts that enable them to move through the most challenging of situations. I have found that I am able to help people find the possibilities that they need to cope with life’s various challenges.
My work has had several unique focuses through the years, including: children and youth, family therapy, addictions, mental health concerns, criminal justice matters, and I have worked extensively with indigenous communities.
I have been a counsellor and family therapist for over 30 years, during that time I have worked with a rich diversity of people. Counselling and family therapy is a work that I love. I have found that people carry with them, in their own lives and networks, the strengths, the relationships, and the gifts that enable them to move through the most challenging of situations. I have found that I am able to help people find the possibilities that they need to cope with life’s various challenges.
(343) 308-1812 View (343) 308-1812
Photo of Darrin J Taylor, BA, MTC, CCAC, CIP
Darrin J Taylor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1V
If you or someone you love or rely upon is affected by alcoholism or addiction I would like to offer you hope.
I am a Board Certified Interventionist, a Master Therapeutic Counsellor and a Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor. My personal experience with the pain of addiction fuels my passion to help those who still suffer. I will travel anywhere to help with an intervention. Effective and timely assessment, treatment planning, and family support are something we do particularly well.
If you or someone you love or rely upon is affected by alcoholism or addiction I would like to offer you hope.
I am a Board Certified Interventionist, a Master Therapeutic Counsellor and a Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor. My personal experience with the pain of addiction fuels my passion to help those who still suffer. I will travel anywhere to help with an intervention. Effective and timely assessment, treatment planning, and family support are something we do particularly well.
(866) 771-9424 View (866) 771-9424
Photo of Sinéad Unsworth, Psychologist, PhD
Sinéad Unsworth
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
I believe we all have the potential for growth and the ability to create deeper meaning in our lives. I work with clients who are motivated to understand themselves better and want to feel more grounded and aligned with their values. My approach is warm, practical, and rooted in evidence-based care. I am based in Kelowna, BC but registered to work virtually, as I am registered in both BC and Sask.
I believe we all have the potential for growth and the ability to create deeper meaning in our lives. I work with clients who are motivated to understand themselves better and want to feel more grounded and aligned with their values. My approach is warm, practical, and rooted in evidence-based care. I am based in Kelowna, BC but registered to work virtually, as I am registered in both BC and Sask.
(431) 306-1572 View (431) 306-1572
Photo of Ammy Kaur, Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC
Ammy Kaur
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I utilize a trauma-informed practice, integrating elements from Cognitive behavior therapy for substance abuse, Bowen's family therapy and Emotion-focused couples therapy.
We are all struggling in our own ways through many challenges of life. The past is essential for understanding the present and shaping our future. I work collaboratively with Clients to discover their self-identity and navigate ways to explore their inner strengths.
I utilize a trauma-informed practice, integrating elements from Cognitive behavior therapy for substance abuse, Bowen's family therapy and Emotion-focused couples therapy.
We are all struggling in our own ways through many challenges of life. The past is essential for understanding the present and shaping our future. I work collaboratively with Clients to discover their self-identity and navigate ways to explore their inner strengths.
(587) 856-0603 View (587) 856-0603
Photo of Pete Grinberg, Counsellor, BA, Bed, MACP, RCC
Pete Grinberg
Counsellor, BA, Bed, MACP, RCC
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1V
Alcohol and/or drug issues take control.
I have worked many years with people from all walks of life and have experienced first hand relationship trauma, challenging family dynamics and the effects of addiction. I work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, infidelity, men's issues and are in blended families. I want to bring hope and personal growth to situations that seem hopeless.
Alcohol and/or drug issues take control.
I have worked many years with people from all walks of life and have experienced first hand relationship trauma, challenging family dynamics and the effects of addiction. I work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, infidelity, men's issues and are in blended families. I want to bring hope and personal growth to situations that seem hopeless.
(778) 745-5083 View (778) 745-5083
Photo of Alex Sadlowski, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Alex Sadlowski
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
6 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
We might work well together if you second-guess what you want or need. Maybe your relationships feel one-sided, or you're noticing patterns ("people-pleasing", resentment, emotional numbing) that leave you feeling disconnected from who you are. I help individuals build awareness of the dynamics in their lives so they can reclaim a sense of identity, understand where their boundaries start and end, and gain the courage to live authentically.
We might work well together if you second-guess what you want or need. Maybe your relationships feel one-sided, or you're noticing patterns ("people-pleasing", resentment, emotional numbing) that leave you feeling disconnected from who you are. I help individuals build awareness of the dynamics in their lives so they can reclaim a sense of identity, understand where their boundaries start and end, and gain the courage to live authentically.
(548) 798-0845 View (548) 798-0845
Photo of Marcus Schmaling, Counsellor, MDiv, MAC, CCC, P/EFac
Marcus Schmaling
Counsellor, MDiv, MAC, CCC, P/EFac
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I offer counselling to (1) Men in Crisis: anger, addictions, sex, apathy, midlife crisis.
Something in your life needs to change - and you know it! You’ve been pushing through, keeping the mask on… but something’s giving way. The stress, conflict, anger, and loneliness are catching up. If you’re here, it’s because carrying this alone has become too heavy. You need someone in your corner. You need a guide. If you’re stuck in one of these three places, I believe I can help you: Men in Crisis, High-Conflict Separation & Divorce, and Couples in Distress.
I offer counselling to (1) Men in Crisis: anger, addictions, sex, apathy, midlife crisis.
Something in your life needs to change - and you know it! You’ve been pushing through, keeping the mask on… but something’s giving way. The stress, conflict, anger, and loneliness are catching up. If you’re here, it’s because carrying this alone has become too heavy. You need someone in your corner. You need a guide. If you’re stuck in one of these three places, I believe I can help you: Men in Crisis, High-Conflict Separation & Divorce, and Couples in Distress.
(236) 506-4015 View (236) 506-4015
Photo of Courtney Rogers - Reach Out Counselling & Support Services, Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW, BCCSW
Reach Out Counselling & Support Services
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW, BCCSW
Kelowna, BC V1Y
He has been privileged to work in the mental health field since 2000, with a wide array of experience, and a specialization in addictions.
Courtney is a Registered Social Worker with a Master's Degree in Social Work from UBC. She has enjoyed supporting youth, adults, caregivers, and families for over 15 years in the Okanagan, and her background includes working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Developmental Disabilities. She believes that every individual has the ability for positive change, and great internal strength to discover themselves and what they need.
He has been privileged to work in the mental health field since 2000, with a wide array of experience, and a specialization in addictions.
Courtney is a Registered Social Worker with a Master's Degree in Social Work from UBC. She has enjoyed supporting youth, adults, caregivers, and families for over 15 years in the Okanagan, and her background includes working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Developmental Disabilities. She believes that every individual has the ability for positive change, and great internal strength to discover themselves and what they need.
(548) 800-1948 View (548) 800-1948
Photo of Annette Marie Adkin - PureInsights Counselling, Counsellor, RPC
PureInsights Counselling
Counsellor, RPC
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Have you been struggling with an addiction, anxiety or anger?
I have over 30 yrs. experience working with addictions, couple and family counselling, attachment based parenting, managing/understanding anger, anxiety, self esteem etc. My years of experience and training help me use many therapeutic modalities in helping individuals, couples and families understand and overcome negative patterns in their lives.
Have you been struggling with an addiction, anxiety or anger?
I have over 30 yrs. experience working with addictions, couple and family counselling, attachment based parenting, managing/understanding anger, anxiety, self esteem etc. My years of experience and training help me use many therapeutic modalities in helping individuals, couples and families understand and overcome negative patterns in their lives.
(866) 832-8648 View (866) 832-8648
Photo of Alisha Wozny, Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Alisha Wozny
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
8 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I specialize in working with addictions, anxiety/phobias, OCD, BPD, ADHD, and trauma.
“Grow through what you go through”. I like to call myself a “WHY” therapist. I believe that clients grow through their experiences starting from their “roots” (or their childhood). I believe that growing through experiences that may have stemmed from traumatic events in life or maladaptive ways of being, are the pinnacle of a therapeutic experience. I am here to guide you on your journey to self-actualization and improved mental health.
I specialize in working with addictions, anxiety/phobias, OCD, BPD, ADHD, and trauma.
“Grow through what you go through”. I like to call myself a “WHY” therapist. I believe that clients grow through their experiences starting from their “roots” (or their childhood). I believe that growing through experiences that may have stemmed from traumatic events in life or maladaptive ways of being, are the pinnacle of a therapeutic experience. I am here to guide you on your journey to self-actualization and improved mental health.
(431) 244-3720 View (431) 244-3720
Photo of Krista Giilck, Counsellor, RCC, RP(Q), MA, BSSc
Krista Giilck
Counsellor, RCC, RP(Q), MA, BSSc
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1W
I specialize in supporting individuals who struggle with substance abuse, complex PTSD, attachment injuries, relationship challenges, and low self-esteem.
My role is to help you understand these reactions with compassion rather than judgment, and to guide you in slowly rebuilding trust in yourself—with steadiness, care, and someone who truly understands the chaos beneath the surface. I use an integrative approach tailored to meet individuals' needs, as there is no "one size fits all" in therapy.
I specialize in supporting individuals who struggle with substance abuse, complex PTSD, attachment injuries, relationship challenges, and low self-esteem.
My role is to help you understand these reactions with compassion rather than judgment, and to guide you in slowly rebuilding trust in yourself—with steadiness, care, and someone who truly understands the chaos beneath the surface. I use an integrative approach tailored to meet individuals' needs, as there is no "one size fits all" in therapy.
(431) 341-4104 View (431) 341-4104
Photo of Steve Braun - Steve Braun Coaching & Counselling, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCRC
Steve Braun Coaching & Counselling
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCRC
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Are you successful in most areas of your life but alcohol or drugs are affecting your relationship, job or health?
I specialize in addiction recovery and personal development coaching and counselling for high functioning individuals. With over 16 years of personal sobriety and over a decade working in the field of mental health and addictions, I provide direct, action-based, 1-1 support, tools, mentorship and accountability to change your relationship with substances.
Are you successful in most areas of your life but alcohol or drugs are affecting your relationship, job or health?
I specialize in addiction recovery and personal development coaching and counselling for high functioning individuals. With over 16 years of personal sobriety and over a decade working in the field of mental health and addictions, I provide direct, action-based, 1-1 support, tools, mentorship and accountability to change your relationship with substances.
(778) 932-1978 View (778) 932-1978
Photo of Natasha Roop, Counsellor, MCP, RCC, BSc
Natasha Roop
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, BSc
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
With other individuals, we process and work through trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, life changes, and addiction/ substance abuse.
I work from a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lens, which is the foundation of my theraputic practice. Every person is different, therefore I tailor each session based on my client's needs. I take a holistic lens to my counselling practice and it is informed by my education, lived experiences, and wisdom from elders and mentors.
With other individuals, we process and work through trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, life changes, and addiction/ substance abuse.
I work from a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lens, which is the foundation of my theraputic practice. Every person is different, therefore I tailor each session based on my client's needs. I take a holistic lens to my counselling practice and it is informed by my education, lived experiences, and wisdom from elders and mentors.
View
Photo of Geordie Hart, Pre-Licensed Professional, RCC, MCP
Geordie Hart
Pre-Licensed Professional, RCC, MCP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether that's stress, anxiety, addiction, depression, burnout, relationship cycles, or a lingering sense that you’re not living in alignment with who you are.
Folks often come to me knowing something isn’t working, but have struggled to find solutions on their own. They aren’t looking for quick fixes, they want real change. My focus is on supporting you in slowing down and noticing the patterns beneath the surface, so you can navigate towards living a more fulfilling life.
Whether that's stress, anxiety, addiction, depression, burnout, relationship cycles, or a lingering sense that you’re not living in alignment with who you are.
Folks often come to me knowing something isn’t working, but have struggled to find solutions on their own. They aren’t looking for quick fixes, they want real change. My focus is on supporting you in slowing down and noticing the patterns beneath the surface, so you can navigate towards living a more fulfilling life.
View
Photo of Chris Walford - Chris Walford Counselling, Counsellor, MA , RCC, CCC
Chris Walford Counselling
Counsellor, MA , RCC, CCC
Serves Area
I have extensive experience & skills with PTSD among military/first responders & health care professionals as well as in addictions, families and navigating insurance challenges.
"We are made wise not by the recollection of our past, but by the responsibility for our future." George Bernard Shaw-- While working together there is but one expert and, ultimately, one person responsible for your life. That person is you. I consider it an honour to work alongside people who are motivated for change and moving forward in life. We are all very complex and unique I seek to help you identify and address your needs, challenges and goals from a respectful and supportive role. "Freedom is is what you do with what's been done to you." Jean-Paul Sartre
I have extensive experience & skills with PTSD among military/first responders & health care professionals as well as in addictions, families and navigating insurance challenges.
"We are made wise not by the recollection of our past, but by the responsibility for our future." George Bernard Shaw-- While working together there is but one expert and, ultimately, one person responsible for your life. That person is you. I consider it an honour to work alongside people who are motivated for change and moving forward in life. We are all very complex and unique I seek to help you identify and address your needs, challenges and goals from a respectful and supportive role. "Freedom is is what you do with what's been done to you." Jean-Paul Sartre
(778) 902-8162 View (778) 902-8162
Photo of Jeff Conners, Counsellor, MSW, RSW
Jeff Conners
Counsellor, MSW, RSW
Serves Area
I have over 25 years of counselling experience specializing in: addictions, youth, anxiety, stress, depression, men's health, separation & divorce, anger management, family conflict, crisis management & life transitions.
In a confidential & supportive environment I improve peoples quality of life by helping them feel better & meet their goals. We can do this in an office, your house or any place you feel safe in. I also do web based counselling though Zoom for those outside of Kamloops or in other remote locations. I have found that with the right health information, be it with educational media, engaging presentations or confidential & therapeutic individual sessions, that people will be comfortable to move toward health, wellness & happiness.
I have over 25 years of counselling experience specializing in: addictions, youth, anxiety, stress, depression, men's health, separation & divorce, anger management, family conflict, crisis management & life transitions.
In a confidential & supportive environment I improve peoples quality of life by helping them feel better & meet their goals. We can do this in an office, your house or any place you feel safe in. I also do web based counselling though Zoom for those outside of Kamloops or in other remote locations. I have found that with the right health information, be it with educational media, engaging presentations or confidential & therapeutic individual sessions, that people will be comfortable to move toward health, wellness & happiness.
(877) 577-8619 View (877) 577-8619

See more therapy options for Kelowna

Addiction Counsellors

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.