Therapists in Nanaimo, BC
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.
What ever you may be going through, you deserve to be heard and seen. Art therapy is an invitation to use the arts to reflect, gain perspective and understand ourselves better. It is a way of being curious, empathetic, aware of ourselves and the world we live in. It can be both a place of validation and a place to challenge the ways we make sense of the world. Engaging in art in such a way allows us to grow, integrate, let go and and transform.
What ever you may be going through, you deserve to be heard and seen. Art therapy is an invitation to use the arts to reflect, gain perspective and understand ourselves better. It is a way of being curious, empathetic, aware of ourselves and the world we live in. It can be both a place of validation and a place to challenge the ways we make sense of the world. Engaging in art in such a way allows us to grow, integrate, let go and and transform.
To conceptualize therapy, the following might be a helpful picture. Several years ago, we decided to hatch our own chickens. After a couple of weeks, we candled the eggs to get a glimpse inside. The glimpse was amazing and mysterious—we could see life happening beneath the shell. This is what often happens in a counselling session; we look beneath the “shell” and get a glimpse of the mystery and complexity of the human experience. From this deeper looker inside, we have many choices and changes that are possible.
To conceptualize therapy, the following might be a helpful picture. Several years ago, we decided to hatch our own chickens. After a couple of weeks, we candled the eggs to get a glimpse inside. The glimpse was amazing and mysterious—we could see life happening beneath the shell. This is what often happens in a counselling session; we look beneath the “shell” and get a glimpse of the mystery and complexity of the human experience. From this deeper looker inside, we have many choices and changes that are possible.
I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety, and mood difficulties in adults. I have training and expertise in assessing and treating depression, extreme shyness (social anxiety), chronic worry (generalized anxiety), panic disorder, agoraphobia, health anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, specific phobias (e.g., fear of needles, flying), and body focused repetitive behaviors (e.g., skin picking). I also provide treatment for stress-related problems, low self-esteem, and difficulty coping with life events.
I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety, and mood difficulties in adults. I have training and expertise in assessing and treating depression, extreme shyness (social anxiety), chronic worry (generalized anxiety), panic disorder, agoraphobia, health anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, specific phobias (e.g., fear of needles, flying), and body focused repetitive behaviors (e.g., skin picking). I also provide treatment for stress-related problems, low self-esteem, and difficulty coping with life events.
I offer personalized therapy that is grounded in research and relationship; in-person & online; child, teen, & individual adult counselling. I want to connect you back to you. You may have experienced trauma in your life such as: unsettling events or experiences, to challenging or abusive relationships that left you feeling wounded, and alone. You may feel blocked or triggered. This may manifest as: anxiety, depression, numbness, flashbacks, trouble sleeping, addictions, or even the need to be perfect. You may find it hard to connect with others, or navigate certain situations. You just want to feel calmer and happier.
I offer personalized therapy that is grounded in research and relationship; in-person & online; child, teen, & individual adult counselling. I want to connect you back to you. You may have experienced trauma in your life such as: unsettling events or experiences, to challenging or abusive relationships that left you feeling wounded, and alone. You may feel blocked or triggered. This may manifest as: anxiety, depression, numbness, flashbacks, trouble sleeping, addictions, or even the need to be perfect. You may find it hard to connect with others, or navigate certain situations. You just want to feel calmer and happier.
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.
It is my hope that through counselling, people who struggle with life’s adversities will grow and change towards living and feeling empowerment, love, and compassion. I work with individuals on a range of areas including relationships, trauma, grief, loss, addiction, anxiety, and depression.
It is my hope that through counselling, people who struggle with life’s adversities will grow and change towards living and feeling empowerment, love, and compassion. I work with individuals on a range of areas including relationships, trauma, grief, loss, addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Congratulations on seeking counselling. You might currently be in a dark spot and hesitant to seek help. Rest assured that you are not alone in this. It takes courage to seek help and you are on your way there. I have been in your spot before and my healing journey guided me to help others overcome complex trauma. You don't need to be controlled by your past anymore. A common goal would be to reach your full potentials and be your authentic self again, you will feel lighter after processing the past and more in control of your future. Allow us to collaboratively create a non-judgmental space and move to a healthier future.
Congratulations on seeking counselling. You might currently be in a dark spot and hesitant to seek help. Rest assured that you are not alone in this. It takes courage to seek help and you are on your way there. I have been in your spot before and my healing journey guided me to help others overcome complex trauma. You don't need to be controlled by your past anymore. A common goal would be to reach your full potentials and be your authentic self again, you will feel lighter after processing the past and more in control of your future. Allow us to collaboratively create a non-judgmental space and move to a healthier future.
People are my passion. I am honoured to work with you on your journey to find healing, resolution, and strength in those places we get stuck sometimes. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families with past trauma (abuse, PTSD), relationship issues (couples, parenting), mental health (stress, anxiety, panic, etc), and life transitions (men's issues, work, etc). I specialize in tailoring counselling to meet you where you're at.
People are my passion. I am honoured to work with you on your journey to find healing, resolution, and strength in those places we get stuck sometimes. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families with past trauma (abuse, PTSD), relationship issues (couples, parenting), mental health (stress, anxiety, panic, etc), and life transitions (men's issues, work, etc). I specialize in tailoring counselling to meet you where you're at.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. If you are feeling like life’s challenges are stressing you out, and getting in the way of you being the person you want to be, then you have come to the right place. I can support you to a place of calm and help enact lasting change so you can know yourself as peaceful, complete, and safe. Problems can appear insurmountable, and our ability to find a way through alone daunting. I can help you to tap into yourself and find a renewed sense that change is achievable.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. If you are feeling like life’s challenges are stressing you out, and getting in the way of you being the person you want to be, then you have come to the right place. I can support you to a place of calm and help enact lasting change so you can know yourself as peaceful, complete, and safe. Problems can appear insurmountable, and our ability to find a way through alone daunting. I can help you to tap into yourself and find a renewed sense that change is achievable.
I work with families youth and adults who are struggling and wanting to find ways to make improvements. It is my role to assist you in developing clear goals and implementing practical and effective strategies for positive change.
I work with families youth and adults who are struggling and wanting to find ways to make improvements. It is my role to assist you in developing clear goals and implementing practical and effective strategies for positive change.
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Simplicity, gratitude, love and service are my guiding principles. I utilize the Satir Model (Virginia Satir et al) to help clients cultivate personal awareness, internal resources, change and healthy relationship with self and others. I promote and model balanced lifestyle including; contemplation, exercise, solitude, ceremony and connection. I have demonstrated passion and enthusiasm for helping people heal for over 35 years as a youth worker, addictions counsellor and social worker.
Simplicity, gratitude, love and service are my guiding principles. I utilize the Satir Model (Virginia Satir et al) to help clients cultivate personal awareness, internal resources, change and healthy relationship with self and others. I promote and model balanced lifestyle including; contemplation, exercise, solitude, ceremony and connection. I have demonstrated passion and enthusiasm for helping people heal for over 35 years as a youth worker, addictions counsellor and social worker.
I am a registered Social Worker with the BCCSW and BCASW with a Master's of Social Work. I have completed a post-graduate Certificate in Complex Trauma. In my practice, I utilize CBT, Solution Focused, Person-Centered and Motivational Interviewing techniques to support and inform change. I have extensive experience working with children and youth and I incorporate play, activity, art, nature, movement and activities into my sessions. Other areas of focus are working with men around communication skills, relationships and regulation of emotions as well as couples and individual counselling.
I am a registered Social Worker with the BCCSW and BCASW with a Master's of Social Work. I have completed a post-graduate Certificate in Complex Trauma. In my practice, I utilize CBT, Solution Focused, Person-Centered and Motivational Interviewing techniques to support and inform change. I have extensive experience working with children and youth and I incorporate play, activity, art, nature, movement and activities into my sessions. Other areas of focus are working with men around communication skills, relationships and regulation of emotions as well as couples and individual counselling.
Laurie Larkin-Boyle is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Art Therapist. As a former teacher, she has 20 years experience working with children and youth. Laurie offers individual counselling for children and youth as well as art therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. Her therapeutic approach is client-centered and tailored to the individual needs of each client.
Laurie Larkin-Boyle is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Art Therapist. As a former teacher, she has 20 years experience working with children and youth. Laurie offers individual counselling for children and youth as well as art therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. Her therapeutic approach is client-centered and tailored to the individual needs of each client.
Are you a mom? Struggling with the overwhelm? Don't know who you are anymore outside of being a mom? Feeling unseen, resentful, burnt out, on autopilot or depleted? Wondering if this is what it means to be a mother? Yet desiring more - more connection, more presence, more calm. I feel you, as a mom and as a therapist who specializes in motherhood, you are not alone. Let's explore how to connect inward and how to fill yourself up so that you are giving to others from your overflow, rather than from within you.
Are you a mom? Struggling with the overwhelm? Don't know who you are anymore outside of being a mom? Feeling unseen, resentful, burnt out, on autopilot or depleted? Wondering if this is what it means to be a mother? Yet desiring more - more connection, more presence, more calm. I feel you, as a mom and as a therapist who specializes in motherhood, you are not alone. Let's explore how to connect inward and how to fill yourself up so that you are giving to others from your overflow, rather than from within you.
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).
My goal is to help clients understand what they need and to reduce the stress and anxiety in their lives so they can reach their potential and feel they can manage life in a way that brings them more happiness, awareness and self acceptance.
My goal is to help clients understand what they need and to reduce the stress and anxiety in their lives so they can reach their potential and feel they can manage life in a way that brings them more happiness, awareness and self acceptance.
I provide individual counselling to adults and adolescents struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, adverse childhood experiences, grief, guilt, shame, low self-esteem, suicide ideation, relationship and attachment injuries, communication issues, sexuality and gender identity, and a desire for personal change and growth. I believe in each individual's power to heal and thrive. I'm passionate about helping clients achieve their goals through a multi-disciplinary approach providing tools and transformational therapy. I do not discriminate based on private medical decisions.
I provide individual counselling to adults and adolescents struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, adverse childhood experiences, grief, guilt, shame, low self-esteem, suicide ideation, relationship and attachment injuries, communication issues, sexuality and gender identity, and a desire for personal change and growth. I believe in each individual's power to heal and thrive. I'm passionate about helping clients achieve their goals through a multi-disciplinary approach providing tools and transformational therapy. I do not discriminate based on private medical decisions.
Do you feel like you are unable to calm? Do you feel anxious and judged by others? Do you feel restless, irritable, and stuck in "on" mode in this ready-to-react mode? Do you have persistent negative thinking, emotional fluctuations, and repeating the same actions and patterns? Do you feel stuck and unable to lift your mood? These are among some of the many symptoms of trauma. Trauma changes the nervous system and the ability to regulate our nervous system is directly correlated with our mental health. EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Somatic therapy can help heal the nervous system, by processing and releasing trauma stored in the body.
Do you feel like you are unable to calm? Do you feel anxious and judged by others? Do you feel restless, irritable, and stuck in "on" mode in this ready-to-react mode? Do you have persistent negative thinking, emotional fluctuations, and repeating the same actions and patterns? Do you feel stuck and unable to lift your mood? These are among some of the many symptoms of trauma. Trauma changes the nervous system and the ability to regulate our nervous system is directly correlated with our mental health. EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Somatic therapy can help heal the nervous system, by processing and releasing trauma stored in the body.
If you're seeking personal growth, healing, or simply greater self-awareness, counseling may be a valuable tool for you. My approach to counseling is grounded in compassion and deep respect for my clients' unique experiences and perspectives. I am committed to building on their strengths and fostering resilience and positive change in their lives. I aim to create a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions, while developing coping skills and insights that can be applied to your daily life. I can also offer support through art and creative processes to help you better understand and express your experiences.
If you're seeking personal growth, healing, or simply greater self-awareness, counseling may be a valuable tool for you. My approach to counseling is grounded in compassion and deep respect for my clients' unique experiences and perspectives. I am committed to building on their strengths and fostering resilience and positive change in their lives. I aim to create a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions, while developing coping skills and insights that can be applied to your daily life. I can also offer support through art and creative processes to help you better understand and express your experiences.
See more therapy options for Nanaimo
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Nanaimo, BC
300+
Average cost per session
$143
Counsellors in Nanaimo, BC who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
79% | Relationship Issues |
77% | Self Esteem |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Stress |
72% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
45% | Green Shield Canada |
45% | SunLife |
44% | Pacific Blue Cross |
How Counsellors in Nanaimo, BC see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
3% | 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.