Chronic Illness Therapists in Vancouver, BC
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next steps? You’re not alone. Many people struggle to find purpose, direction, or a sense of meaning in their lives. I offer personalized counselling to support you in exploring your thoughts and emotions, understanding what’s holding you back, and building clarity and confidence. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful change, helping you reconnect with what matters most. If you’re ready to live a life that feels true to you, I’m here to walk that path with you. Let’s begin the journey together.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next steps? You’re not alone. Many people struggle to find purpose, direction, or a sense of meaning in their lives. I offer personalized counselling to support you in exploring your thoughts and emotions, understanding what’s holding you back, and building clarity and confidence. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful change, helping you reconnect with what matters most. If you’re ready to live a life that feels true to you, I’m here to walk that path with you. Let’s begin the journey together.
I am also a person living with chronic illness, and I know first-hand what it is like to be dismissed by doctors, have relationship issues because of it and the journey of accepting a complicated and chronic diagnosis.
Hello!
I’m Bruna, a registered clinical counsellor assisting individuals in navigating the challenges of chronic pain, anxiety, and depression, among other concerns. As someone who also lives with chronic pain/illness, I understand firsthand the struggles that come with it. There are changes in relationships, navigating complex diagnoses and needing to adapt activities; it is not easy to go through all of that alone. In therapy, we can explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
I am also a person living with chronic illness, and I know first-hand what it is like to be dismissed by doctors, have relationship issues because of it and the journey of accepting a complicated and chronic diagnosis.
Hello!
I’m Bruna, a registered clinical counsellor assisting individuals in navigating the challenges of chronic pain, anxiety, and depression, among other concerns. As someone who also lives with chronic pain/illness, I understand firsthand the struggles that come with it. There are changes in relationships, navigating complex diagnoses and needing to adapt activities; it is not easy to go through all of that alone. In therapy, we can explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
Living in today's world is hard and complex. Psychotherapies have also evolved a lot in the past 10 years, and the timing is ripe to heal intergenerational trauma. My approach seeks to meet people where they are at and provide a deep understanding from which change can happen. I've been a therapist for 14 years and retrained in trauma therapies such as EMDR and Somatic Psychotherapy halfway through my career. I have a lot of trust in people's ability to heal and change, having witnessed these profound journeys many times.
Living in today's world is hard and complex. Psychotherapies have also evolved a lot in the past 10 years, and the timing is ripe to heal intergenerational trauma. My approach seeks to meet people where they are at and provide a deep understanding from which change can happen. I've been a therapist for 14 years and retrained in trauma therapies such as EMDR and Somatic Psychotherapy halfway through my career. I have a lot of trust in people's ability to heal and change, having witnessed these profound journeys many times.
Many people seek therapy not because something is “wrong,” but because something has shifted - and the things that used to work no longer do. My goal is to support clients in identifying patterns and behaviours that are no longer serving them, and in developing practical skills and coping strategies that move them closer to their goals and overall well-being.
I work with adults and older adults who are navigating changes in mental health, daily functioning, or overall well-being. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, with a focus on meeting you exactly where you are in your mental health journey.
Many people seek therapy not because something is “wrong,” but because something has shifted - and the things that used to work no longer do. My goal is to support clients in identifying patterns and behaviours that are no longer serving them, and in developing practical skills and coping strategies that move them closer to their goals and overall well-being.
I work with adults and older adults who are navigating changes in mental health, daily functioning, or overall well-being. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, with a focus on meeting you exactly where you are in your mental health journey.
Are you struggling with a less visible health condition, "feeling stuck", or having difficulty improving your health? I specialize in empowering persons to get "back to better living" through a practical, mindful, and holistic approach. With expertise in working with persons with concussion, long COVID, ME, perimenopause, pain, anxiety, ADHD, and executive functioning challenges. I provide the knowledge, skills, habits, and confidence to successfully self-manage and move forward. My approach is tailored to each individual, whether you are experiencing cognitive fatigue, poor sleep, issues with time management, or sensitivities.
Are you struggling with a less visible health condition, "feeling stuck", or having difficulty improving your health? I specialize in empowering persons to get "back to better living" through a practical, mindful, and holistic approach. With expertise in working with persons with concussion, long COVID, ME, perimenopause, pain, anxiety, ADHD, and executive functioning challenges. I provide the knowledge, skills, habits, and confidence to successfully self-manage and move forward. My approach is tailored to each individual, whether you are experiencing cognitive fatigue, poor sleep, issues with time management, or sensitivities.
I have a lot of experience in supporting others who are going through chronic illness or chronic pain.
Hi, I'm Liz. If you are here seeking counselling, you know that life can humble us all at certain times. If you are facing a difficult situation, I would love for you to feel heard and understood. I bring a depth of lived experience and a warm compassionate heart to my work with you. My goal is to be a safe place for you to talk in confidence about what is really going on for you. Together we can look at patterns that may be holding you back and move to greater clarity about next steps for you.
I have a lot of experience in supporting others who are going through chronic illness or chronic pain.
Hi, I'm Liz. If you are here seeking counselling, you know that life can humble us all at certain times. If you are facing a difficult situation, I would love for you to feel heard and understood. I bring a depth of lived experience and a warm compassionate heart to my work with you. My goal is to be a safe place for you to talk in confidence about what is really going on for you. Together we can look at patterns that may be holding you back and move to greater clarity about next steps for you.
Chronic illness: We would talk about your experience, what you value most, and how to get more of what you want in life.
Several times in life we are all hit with something that’s really tough. We feel terrible. We don’t like it. We want it to go away. We do a variety of things in an effort to feel better. Some of us withdraw, hide, or do other things that allow us to avoid the problem. Others speak up, attack, or try to control the situation. These things may help in the short term however, they can also create additional problems and then we find ourselves back where we began, often worse off.
Chronic illness: We would talk about your experience, what you value most, and how to get more of what you want in life.
Several times in life we are all hit with something that’s really tough. We feel terrible. We don’t like it. We want it to go away. We do a variety of things in an effort to feel better. Some of us withdraw, hide, or do other things that allow us to avoid the problem. Others speak up, attack, or try to control the situation. These things may help in the short term however, they can also create additional problems and then we find ourselves back where we began, often worse off.
Inspiring fully embodied living, I encourage connection, self-awareness, insight, growth, & transformation with individuals, couples & groups. Recognizing the interconnection between the mind & body, I take a holistic approach to counselling therapy. I view each person as a unique whole being (body, mind & spirit) influencing & influenced by our social contexts such as family, friends, work, environment, & culture. In my work, I weave collaborative conversation with creativity, tailoring my approach to the specific needs & situations of each person. With 20 years' experience as a group facilitator, I also offer therapeutic, psycho-educational & professional development workshops for individuals, couples, businesses & organizations.
Inspiring fully embodied living, I encourage connection, self-awareness, insight, growth, & transformation with individuals, couples & groups. Recognizing the interconnection between the mind & body, I take a holistic approach to counselling therapy. I view each person as a unique whole being (body, mind & spirit) influencing & influenced by our social contexts such as family, friends, work, environment, & culture. In my work, I weave collaborative conversation with creativity, tailoring my approach to the specific needs & situations of each person. With 20 years' experience as a group facilitator, I also offer therapeutic, psycho-educational & professional development workshops for individuals, couples, businesses & organizations.
I am the Founder and Clinic Director at Boundless Heart Counselling Group in Vancouver. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), I love working in private practice. I have had the opportunity to provide personalized mental health support to many clients throughout the last 18 years, first as an Occupational Therapist and then as an RCC. My vision of creating a counselling group with clinicians who are intelligent, wise, heartful, vulnerable and energized came to fruition with the amazing individuals who make up the Boundless Heart Counselling Group team. We have clinicians accepting new referrals! Contact us today!
I am the Founder and Clinic Director at Boundless Heart Counselling Group in Vancouver. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), I love working in private practice. I have had the opportunity to provide personalized mental health support to many clients throughout the last 18 years, first as an Occupational Therapist and then as an RCC. My vision of creating a counselling group with clinicians who are intelligent, wise, heartful, vulnerable and energized came to fruition with the amazing individuals who make up the Boundless Heart Counselling Group team. We have clinicians accepting new referrals! Contact us today!
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, chronic health issues and feeling stressed out? Are you experiencing life-transition and relationship issues, and feeling lost about which direction to go? I am a registered clinical counsellor and also a registered Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine. For over 10 years I have been helping people like you to heal, to handle life's challenges better. I use practical and effective approach to empower you to connect to your inner wisdom and strength. With authentic presence, compassion and perspective, I guide you to your valued path, to move toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, chronic health issues and feeling stressed out? Are you experiencing life-transition and relationship issues, and feeling lost about which direction to go? I am a registered clinical counsellor and also a registered Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine. For over 10 years I have been helping people like you to heal, to handle life's challenges better. I use practical and effective approach to empower you to connect to your inner wisdom and strength. With authentic presence, compassion and perspective, I guide you to your valued path, to move toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
With a broad base of life and work experiences, I counsel adults of all ages living with loss, trauma, mood imbalance, and anxiety. Three values guide my practice: connection, growth, and balance. A safe and trusting environment in counselling supports a therapeutic relationship, which can inspire changes in other relationships. Small changes can have a huge impact over time. Lifelong, each of us continues to develop, often learning from our mistakes and suffering. Balance is the key to health. There is healing power in the connections made between the body, heart, and mind.
With a broad base of life and work experiences, I counsel adults of all ages living with loss, trauma, mood imbalance, and anxiety. Three values guide my practice: connection, growth, and balance. A safe and trusting environment in counselling supports a therapeutic relationship, which can inspire changes in other relationships. Small changes can have a huge impact over time. Lifelong, each of us continues to develop, often learning from our mistakes and suffering. Balance is the key to health. There is healing power in the connections made between the body, heart, and mind.
My name is Serena and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC18636) with a Master of Counselling degree from City University of Seattle. In my practice, I draw upon various theoretical approaches like Narrative, CBT, and Solution Focused Therapies, along with my background in biology to ensure therapy is tailored to fit each individual client. I focus on developing safe, supportive, and collaborative relationships that promote empowerment and self-discovery.
My name is Serena and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC18636) with a Master of Counselling degree from City University of Seattle. In my practice, I draw upon various theoretical approaches like Narrative, CBT, and Solution Focused Therapies, along with my background in biology to ensure therapy is tailored to fit each individual client. I focus on developing safe, supportive, and collaborative relationships that promote empowerment and self-discovery.
I work with adults struggling with a range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, stress management, and adjustment and coping with chronic illness.
Reaching out for mental health support can be an important first step in your journey to self-improvement; thank you for considering me in this process. I am a compassionate and kind registered psychologist in BC and ON and I am currently accepting new clients. I focus on providing evidence-based treatment to support your goals and build the kind of life you want to live. I mainly use a CBT approach in treatment but also integrate other relevant therapies (DBT, ACT) as needed. I work collaboratively with clients to help them explore and accept where they are now and build practical skills to make lasting and meaningful change.
I work with adults struggling with a range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, stress management, and adjustment and coping with chronic illness.
Reaching out for mental health support can be an important first step in your journey to self-improvement; thank you for considering me in this process. I am a compassionate and kind registered psychologist in BC and ON and I am currently accepting new clients. I focus on providing evidence-based treatment to support your goals and build the kind of life you want to live. I mainly use a CBT approach in treatment but also integrate other relevant therapies (DBT, ACT) as needed. I work collaboratively with clients to help them explore and accept where they are now and build practical skills to make lasting and meaningful change.
Having completed an 8 month full time practicum at BC Cancer (Vancouver), my experience is primarily with critical and chronic illness.
My philosophy as a counsellor is founded on a collaborative approach. Together, we explore perspectives, abilities, strengths you can draw from, as well as, barriers that may be impeding, the changes you seek. We are all experts of our own lives and you possess important knowledge, skills, and abilities vital to making changes in your life. Two counselling theories I identify most with include: Narrative Therapy and Existential/Logotherapy. In 2022 I trained in EMDR. It was transcendental both experiencing it as a client and as clinician. The research behind this therapy is so robust, I have also actively integrated into practice.
Having completed an 8 month full time practicum at BC Cancer (Vancouver), my experience is primarily with critical and chronic illness.
My philosophy as a counsellor is founded on a collaborative approach. Together, we explore perspectives, abilities, strengths you can draw from, as well as, barriers that may be impeding, the changes you seek. We are all experts of our own lives and you possess important knowledge, skills, and abilities vital to making changes in your life. Two counselling theories I identify most with include: Narrative Therapy and Existential/Logotherapy. In 2022 I trained in EMDR. It was transcendental both experiencing it as a client and as clinician. The research behind this therapy is so robust, I have also actively integrated into practice.
Welcome to sdkcounselling.com. I have a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology and worked for the last 16 years in The B.C. Reproductive Mental Health Program out of Children's & Women's Hospital specializing in Perinatal & Postpartum Depression & Anxiety, including; intrusive thoughts, birth trauma, pregnancy loss, adjustment to parenthood, bonding, relationship stress. more. My therapeutic technique is varied, creative & tailored to the individual needs of each client. Recently expanded my practice ( personal experience) to include chronic health conditions; long covid, autoimmune, chronic fatigue to name a few.
Welcome to sdkcounselling.com. I have a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology and worked for the last 16 years in The B.C. Reproductive Mental Health Program out of Children's & Women's Hospital specializing in Perinatal & Postpartum Depression & Anxiety, including; intrusive thoughts, birth trauma, pregnancy loss, adjustment to parenthood, bonding, relationship stress. more. My therapeutic technique is varied, creative & tailored to the individual needs of each client. Recently expanded my practice ( personal experience) to include chronic health conditions; long covid, autoimmune, chronic fatigue to name a few.
If you are a person that has been facing a significant life challenge, a major life transition, or a change in how you thought life would look like, seeking support can be a daunting place to start. I support those who are hoping for a safe, trust-filled space to express some of the thoughts and feelings that seem too big or scary to share with others in their life. Some of these concerns I address include coping with uncertainty, processing trauma, and living with more emotional regulation and a sense of ease in the body. I am here to validate your hardship, while also fostering hope and empowerment.
If you are a person that has been facing a significant life challenge, a major life transition, or a change in how you thought life would look like, seeking support can be a daunting place to start. I support those who are hoping for a safe, trust-filled space to express some of the thoughts and feelings that seem too big or scary to share with others in their life. Some of these concerns I address include coping with uncertainty, processing trauma, and living with more emotional regulation and a sense of ease in the body. I am here to validate your hardship, while also fostering hope and empowerment.
I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor & the Owner/Director of Affirmation Wellness. I hold a Master’s of Education in Counselling Psychology from UBC & am a member in good standing with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I've spent my career serving diverse populations of youth to elder clients in higher education, non-profit & private practice settings. I also work extensively with the 2SLGBTQI+ community. In this role, I've gained experience supporting & working with people through stress, identity/sexuality concerns, depression, chronic health conditions, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma & relationship conflict.
I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor & the Owner/Director of Affirmation Wellness. I hold a Master’s of Education in Counselling Psychology from UBC & am a member in good standing with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I've spent my career serving diverse populations of youth to elder clients in higher education, non-profit & private practice settings. I also work extensively with the 2SLGBTQI+ community. In this role, I've gained experience supporting & working with people through stress, identity/sexuality concerns, depression, chronic health conditions, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma & relationship conflict.
I bring a calm and centered approach to my work, drawing from experience across diverse healthcare and community settings. I have supported adults and youth with disabilities, parents, seniors, people with chronic health conditions, neurodivergence, mental health challenges, grief, and the impacts of ableism and discrimination.
I bring a calm and centered approach to my work, drawing from experience across diverse healthcare and community settings. I have supported adults and youth with disabilities, parents, seniors, people with chronic health conditions, neurodivergence, mental health challenges, grief, and the impacts of ableism and discrimination.
Do you feel overwhelmed by food, frustrated by your body, or stuck in a cycle of restriction and guilt? Do you live with a health condition like diabetes, PCOS, or high cholesterol and feel unsure how to eat in a way that supports your well-being without becoming obsessed with “doing it right”? You’re not alone. Many people feel anxious, confused, or ashamed when it comes to food—especially when health concerns enter the picture. If you’re exhausted by all-or-nothing thinking, chronic dieting, or trying to “eat perfectly,” I can help you find another way.
Do you feel overwhelmed by food, frustrated by your body, or stuck in a cycle of restriction and guilt? Do you live with a health condition like diabetes, PCOS, or high cholesterol and feel unsure how to eat in a way that supports your well-being without becoming obsessed with “doing it right”? You’re not alone. Many people feel anxious, confused, or ashamed when it comes to food—especially when health concerns enter the picture. If you’re exhausted by all-or-nothing thinking, chronic dieting, or trying to “eat perfectly,” I can help you find another way.
I heard that the purpose of therapy is not meant to change who you are, but to become who you really are. I use evidence-based therapy to help you learn skills to better face challenges while also building insight into how these issues may have come about. I use a kind of talk therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which focuses on understanding and being open to thoughts and emotions, being aware of the present moment and your perspective in it, and deepening your values with actionable steps. I also do assessments for Family Law matters such as Section 211, Parental Capacity, and Views of the Child Reports.
I heard that the purpose of therapy is not meant to change who you are, but to become who you really are. I use evidence-based therapy to help you learn skills to better face challenges while also building insight into how these issues may have come about. I use a kind of talk therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which focuses on understanding and being open to thoughts and emotions, being aware of the present moment and your perspective in it, and deepening your values with actionable steps. I also do assessments for Family Law matters such as Section 211, Parental Capacity, and Views of the Child Reports.
See more therapy options for Vancouver
Nearby Chronic Illness Counsellors Searches for Vancouver
- Burnaby
- Coquitlam
- Delta
- New Westminster
- North Vancouver
- Pitt Meadows
- Port Coquitlam
- Port Moody
- Richmond
- Surrey
- West Vancouver
- White Rock
Chronic Illness Counsellors
How does therapy for chronic illness work?
Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.
Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?
Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.
What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?
No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.
How long does therapy for chronic illness take?
There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.