First Responders Therapists in Victoria, BC
I work with those who have experienced trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, sexual trauma, and First Responders.
I am a CSAT who addresses problematic sexual behaviour, Internet Gaming Disorder, a CPTT for partners of those struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour, and I work with couples recovering from betrayal. I use Somatic Experiencing, CPT, CBT, DBT, and Prolonged Exposure, and to help individuals heal from trauma including complex trauma.
I work with those who have experienced trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, sexual trauma, and First Responders.
I am a CSAT who addresses problematic sexual behaviour, Internet Gaming Disorder, a CPTT for partners of those struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour, and I work with couples recovering from betrayal. I use Somatic Experiencing, CPT, CBT, DBT, and Prolonged Exposure, and to help individuals heal from trauma including complex trauma.
I specialize in helping athletes, military/first-responders, and other high performance populations.
Ryan has worked in embedded settings with the elite performers of the U.S. Special Operations community, helping those individuals and teams enhance readiness and excel under pressure in complex, high-stakes environments. In the domain of athletics, Ryan's experience spans collegiate, competitive youth levels including, high school, club, and development academies, as well as individuals across various types of sports. Ryan supports individuals in developing awareness, focus, and flexibility. Ryan helps individuals find balance between performance demands and personal well-being, to be successful on and off the field.
I specialize in helping athletes, military/first-responders, and other high performance populations.
Ryan has worked in embedded settings with the elite performers of the U.S. Special Operations community, helping those individuals and teams enhance readiness and excel under pressure in complex, high-stakes environments. In the domain of athletics, Ryan's experience spans collegiate, competitive youth levels including, high school, club, and development academies, as well as individuals across various types of sports. Ryan supports individuals in developing awareness, focus, and flexibility. Ryan helps individuals find balance between performance demands and personal well-being, to be successful on and off the field.
We can help children, youth and adults with assessment and treatment/counselling services for most mental health concerns. We have therapy available at a variety of cost options as we have psychologists, counsellors, social workers, doctors under supervision, and practicum student practitioners. We address issues including but not limited to trauma, mood issues, anxiety, worry, chronic pain, attentional issues, eating issues, relationships, couples therapy, play therapy, elite sports performance, childhood concerns, peri-menopause and end of life counselling, among others.
We can help children, youth and adults with assessment and treatment/counselling services for most mental health concerns. We have therapy available at a variety of cost options as we have psychologists, counsellors, social workers, doctors under supervision, and practicum student practitioners. We address issues including but not limited to trauma, mood issues, anxiety, worry, chronic pain, attentional issues, eating issues, relationships, couples therapy, play therapy, elite sports performance, childhood concerns, peri-menopause and end of life counselling, among others.
My ideal clients are individuals and couples impacted by trauma, PTSD, or relationship struggles who are ready to create change. They may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, grief, or disconnection, yet remain open to support. Many are seeking a safe, non-judgmental space to process experiences, rebuild trust, and strengthen resilience. Whether addressing painful memories, navigating workplace stress, or improving communication, they are motivated to find healing, growth, and a deeper connection with themselves and others. I specialize in trauma counselling and navigating challenges within relationships.
My ideal clients are individuals and couples impacted by trauma, PTSD, or relationship struggles who are ready to create change. They may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, grief, or disconnection, yet remain open to support. Many are seeking a safe, non-judgmental space to process experiences, rebuild trust, and strengthen resilience. Whether addressing painful memories, navigating workplace stress, or improving communication, they are motivated to find healing, growth, and a deeper connection with themselves and others. I specialize in trauma counselling and navigating challenges within relationships.
I work with military, veterans, first responders, healthcare professionals, Indigenous populations, and others facing trauma, PTSD, addictions, burnout, grief, and major life transitions.
“The two most important days in your life are the day you were born and the day you figure out why.” — Mark Twain
Therapy is not about labels or being told what to do. It is about understanding yourself, making meaningful choices, and creating lasting change. I believe people are more than their symptoms, diagnoses, or past experiences. Whether you are facing trauma, addiction, burnout, grief, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, therapy can help you better understand your story, build resilience, and move forward with greater clarity, purpose, and direction.
I work with military, veterans, first responders, healthcare professionals, Indigenous populations, and others facing trauma, PTSD, addictions, burnout, grief, and major life transitions.
“The two most important days in your life are the day you were born and the day you figure out why.” — Mark Twain
Therapy is not about labels or being told what to do. It is about understanding yourself, making meaningful choices, and creating lasting change. I believe people are more than their symptoms, diagnoses, or past experiences. Whether you are facing trauma, addiction, burnout, grief, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, therapy can help you better understand your story, build resilience, and move forward with greater clarity, purpose, and direction.
With nearly two decades of experience supporting first responders, I understand the unique pressures of high-stress environments.
Each person’s path is unique, and so is the way we move through challenges. Whether you are facing stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, or life transitions, you don’t have to navigate it on your own. I offer a collaborative, compassionate space where your experiences are met with openness and respect.
With nearly two decades of experience supporting first responders, I understand the unique pressures of high-stress environments.
Each person’s path is unique, and so is the way we move through challenges. Whether you are facing stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, or life transitions, you don’t have to navigate it on your own. I offer a collaborative, compassionate space where your experiences are met with openness and respect.
I work with adults experiencing the effects of trauma, including survivors of sexualized and domestic violence, and first responders and front-line workers exposed to occupational stress and critical incidents.
I draw from several evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, narrative therapy and somatic approaches. My work is also informed by attachment theory and a focus on the role of relationships in supporting change. Overall, my approach is integrative and compassion-focused.
I work with adults experiencing the effects of trauma, including survivors of sexualized and domestic violence, and first responders and front-line workers exposed to occupational stress and critical incidents.
I draw from several evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, narrative therapy and somatic approaches. My work is also informed by attachment theory and a focus on the role of relationships in supporting change. Overall, my approach is integrative and compassion-focused.
Having worked previously as a Kinesiologist, Physical Therapist, Firefighter, and as a Psychologist (12 years), I consider my approach to be that of a personal trainer for stress management and to optimize areas of Mind, Body, and Spiritual wellbeing.
Keep in mind that where your attention goes, energy flows. And, from a neurophysiological perspective, nerves that fire together will wire together. My goal is to teach you fundamental techniques that will be tools in your wellness toolbox and can be utilized in your everyday life for rehab and general well-being.
Having worked previously as a Kinesiologist, Physical Therapist, Firefighter, and as a Psychologist (12 years), I consider my approach to be that of a personal trainer for stress management and to optimize areas of Mind, Body, and Spiritual wellbeing.
Keep in mind that where your attention goes, energy flows. And, from a neurophysiological perspective, nerves that fire together will wire together. My goal is to teach you fundamental techniques that will be tools in your wellness toolbox and can be utilized in your everyday life for rehab and general well-being.
You're used to holding everything together and lately that feels heavier than it should. Maybe you are exhausted, overwhelmed or stuck in patterns you cant seem shift.
You're used to holding everything together and lately that feels heavier than it should. Maybe you are exhausted, overwhelmed or stuck in patterns you cant seem shift.
Come as you are. I believe in every person’s innate capacity for healing, and I’m deeply honoured to support you through the complexities of being human. The adults I support are often navigating challenges related to relationships & boundaries, the impacts of trauma, emotional regulation, life transitions, stress & overwhelm, self-worth & self-esteem, anxiety & depression, and grief & loss. Together, we’ll create a grounded, compassionate space where you feel seen, heard, supported, and deeply cared for. My intention is to help you reconnect with yourself, honour your needs, and move toward meaningful growth, healing, and change.
Come as you are. I believe in every person’s innate capacity for healing, and I’m deeply honoured to support you through the complexities of being human. The adults I support are often navigating challenges related to relationships & boundaries, the impacts of trauma, emotional regulation, life transitions, stress & overwhelm, self-worth & self-esteem, anxiety & depression, and grief & loss. Together, we’ll create a grounded, compassionate space where you feel seen, heard, supported, and deeply cared for. My intention is to help you reconnect with yourself, honour your needs, and move toward meaningful growth, healing, and change.
Two Spirit, Queer, and Trans-friendly—Accepting new clients now!
As a racialized person and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) educator, my aim is to create a culturally safe and trauma-informed space for those navigating the impacts of systemic oppression, racism, and marginalization. I work with individuals, families, and communities who seek healing, resilience, and social justice. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship struggles, I’m here to validate your experiences and support the fostering of self-compassion, healing, and sustained growth.
Two Spirit, Queer, and Trans-friendly—Accepting new clients now!
As a racialized person and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) educator, my aim is to create a culturally safe and trauma-informed space for those navigating the impacts of systemic oppression, racism, and marginalization. I work with individuals, families, and communities who seek healing, resilience, and social justice. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship struggles, I’m here to validate your experiences and support the fostering of self-compassion, healing, and sustained growth.
My background is in cancer care, addiction, and workplace stress, with experience in mood concerns (depression, anxiety), loss and grief (death, pet loss, unexpected life transitions, identity crises), health and illness (health anxiety, chronic pain), addiction (substance use, recovery, behavioural), and trauma (childhood, veterans, first responders).
Feeling overwhelmed by frustrated needs, responsibilities, being overlooked in love or work, losing someone important, health concerns, or a relentless inner critic? Does this lead to sadness, despair, rage, dread, or shame that feels too heavy to bear? Do you cope by numbing, lashing out at loved ones, engaging in addictive behaviours, socially isolating, or avoiding what matters? We can grow weary managing life's challenges alone, yet asking for help is hard. I can lend a hand supporting you to face pain and find meaning in troubled times, lightening the load so you can spread your wings to find more room for joy in your life.
My background is in cancer care, addiction, and workplace stress, with experience in mood concerns (depression, anxiety), loss and grief (death, pet loss, unexpected life transitions, identity crises), health and illness (health anxiety, chronic pain), addiction (substance use, recovery, behavioural), and trauma (childhood, veterans, first responders).
Feeling overwhelmed by frustrated needs, responsibilities, being overlooked in love or work, losing someone important, health concerns, or a relentless inner critic? Does this lead to sadness, despair, rage, dread, or shame that feels too heavy to bear? Do you cope by numbing, lashing out at loved ones, engaging in addictive behaviours, socially isolating, or avoiding what matters? We can grow weary managing life's challenges alone, yet asking for help is hard. I can lend a hand supporting you to face pain and find meaning in troubled times, lightening the load so you can spread your wings to find more room for joy in your life.
If what defines you no longer fits, who are you now? You may be grieving a faith, community, or identity that once gave you clarity. You’re questioning beliefs you were taught not to question. You feel guilt when you set boundaries or disappoint someone. You feel uneasy around authority. Desire feels dangerous. You know what you don’t want, but are unsure what you do want. Beneath the competence is a longing to feel steady and grounded in who you are - not performing, not rebelling, just solid.
If what defines you no longer fits, who are you now? You may be grieving a faith, community, or identity that once gave you clarity. You’re questioning beliefs you were taught not to question. You feel guilt when you set boundaries or disappoint someone. You feel uneasy around authority. Desire feels dangerous. You know what you don’t want, but are unsure what you do want. Beneath the competence is a longing to feel steady and grounded in who you are - not performing, not rebelling, just solid.
Anne-Marie Armour
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
Waitlist for new clients
I am an RSW & RCC offering traditional talk and specialized therapies. I provide Psilocybin, MDMA, and Ketamine-Assisted Therapy to clients who have been granted legal access by Health Canada, as well as psychedelic preparation and integration therapy to the broader public as a harm reduction measure. For clients seeking rapid recovery from trauma and other mental health conditions, I offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a highly effective memory reconsolidation procedure. I also have a passion for working with people who use substances from a harm reduction philosophy which includes abstinence if that is one's stated goal.
I am an RSW & RCC offering traditional talk and specialized therapies. I provide Psilocybin, MDMA, and Ketamine-Assisted Therapy to clients who have been granted legal access by Health Canada, as well as psychedelic preparation and integration therapy to the broader public as a harm reduction measure. For clients seeking rapid recovery from trauma and other mental health conditions, I offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a highly effective memory reconsolidation procedure. I also have a passion for working with people who use substances from a harm reduction philosophy which includes abstinence if that is one's stated goal.
Are you tired of struggling to produce change or spending all your time managing your difficulties? I enjoy working with a broad range of individuals to efficiently identify and treat mental health conditions and achieve their goals. I am passionate about working with people who are wanting to overcome trauma reactions of all kinds. Every session will provide you with new skills, personal insight, or fundamental experiential change. I strive to establish lasting and rewarding progress. I am warm and supportive and use evidence based techniques to identify and change the experiences that led my clients to their current distress.
Are you tired of struggling to produce change or spending all your time managing your difficulties? I enjoy working with a broad range of individuals to efficiently identify and treat mental health conditions and achieve their goals. I am passionate about working with people who are wanting to overcome trauma reactions of all kinds. Every session will provide you with new skills, personal insight, or fundamental experiential change. I strive to establish lasting and rewarding progress. I am warm and supportive and use evidence based techniques to identify and change the experiences that led my clients to their current distress.
Life can bring difficult and unexpected experiences that can leave us feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure of how to move forward. In our work together, you don’t have to hide the parts of yourself that feel messy, tender, or painful. I’m here to sit with you in those moments, to hold space for your raw and honest experiences, and to support you at a pace that feels safe. As you’re ready, we’ll move forward together, reconnecting you with your many strengths, deepening your self‑understanding, and stepping toward a sense of acceptance, clarity, and inner peace.
Life can bring difficult and unexpected experiences that can leave us feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure of how to move forward. In our work together, you don’t have to hide the parts of yourself that feel messy, tender, or painful. I’m here to sit with you in those moments, to hold space for your raw and honest experiences, and to support you at a pace that feels safe. As you’re ready, we’ll move forward together, reconnecting you with your many strengths, deepening your self‑understanding, and stepping toward a sense of acceptance, clarity, and inner peace.
I warmly welcome all clients ages 19 years and older who are hoping to connect with a counsellor who can push you out of your comfort zone. Research tells us that the most effective counsellor is the one you have the best rapport with; I work best with clients who like setting goals - no matter how big or small - and want to be challenged to grow (gently and with the utmost care, of course). I offer a structured approach with a clear treatment plan that we collaborate on together and treat as a living document as your needs grow and change throughout the course of therapy.
I warmly welcome all clients ages 19 years and older who are hoping to connect with a counsellor who can push you out of your comfort zone. Research tells us that the most effective counsellor is the one you have the best rapport with; I work best with clients who like setting goals - no matter how big or small - and want to be challenged to grow (gently and with the utmost care, of course). I offer a structured approach with a clear treatment plan that we collaborate on together and treat as a living document as your needs grow and change throughout the course of therapy.
I've worked as a paramedic for over 13 years and in this process have developed an ability to accompany people in their darkest moments, providing a calm and grounding source of connection.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted from trying to hold everything together. Life’s journey can be beautiful—but also incredibly hard, filled with moments that leave us questioning our worth, our direction, or our capacity to keep going. If you’re here, it means you’re ready for something to shift.
Whether you’re navigating the echoes of trauma, the weight of anxiety or depression, or the complexities of relationships, you don’t have to face it on your own. You deserve a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported—where you can explore your story at your own pace and begin to move toward healing.
I've worked as a paramedic for over 13 years and in this process have developed an ability to accompany people in their darkest moments, providing a calm and grounding source of connection.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted from trying to hold everything together. Life’s journey can be beautiful—but also incredibly hard, filled with moments that leave us questioning our worth, our direction, or our capacity to keep going. If you’re here, it means you’re ready for something to shift.
Whether you’re navigating the echoes of trauma, the weight of anxiety or depression, or the complexities of relationships, you don’t have to face it on your own. You deserve a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported—where you can explore your story at your own pace and begin to move toward healing.
Do you feel stuck in patterns that leave you anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected—from yourself or your partner.? My approach is rooted in helping you understand the patterns beneath the reactions and unhealthy coping strategies. Instead of just managing symptoms, we look at where these patterns began, what they’ve been protecting, and why they feel so hard to change. Clients tell me that our work brings clarity quickly; even in the first session. We connect the dots between past experiences and present struggles in a way that finally makes sense. I offer youth, individual, substance-use, and couples counselling in Victoria, BC.
Do you feel stuck in patterns that leave you anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected—from yourself or your partner.? My approach is rooted in helping you understand the patterns beneath the reactions and unhealthy coping strategies. Instead of just managing symptoms, we look at where these patterns began, what they’ve been protecting, and why they feel so hard to change. Clients tell me that our work brings clarity quickly; even in the first session. We connect the dots between past experiences and present struggles in a way that finally makes sense. I offer youth, individual, substance-use, and couples counselling in Victoria, BC.
Hi and welcome!
I am a queer and nonbinary Registered Clinical Counsellor and settler on Lekwungen Territory and I offer anti-oppressive and evidence-based support for PTSD and complex trauma recovery with a focus on EMDR. I also support Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ experiences, relationships, grief, workplace trauma, neurodivergence, phobias, addiction, and more.
EMDR is the most efficient route to trauma recovery, plus, you get to choose how much to disclose to me. Together, we can build your confidence to process emotions in an empowering way, connect to your intuition more deeply, and make space for you to live more authentically.
Hi and welcome!
I am a queer and nonbinary Registered Clinical Counsellor and settler on Lekwungen Territory and I offer anti-oppressive and evidence-based support for PTSD and complex trauma recovery with a focus on EMDR. I also support Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ experiences, relationships, grief, workplace trauma, neurodivergence, phobias, addiction, and more.
EMDR is the most efficient route to trauma recovery, plus, you get to choose how much to disclose to me. Together, we can build your confidence to process emotions in an empowering way, connect to your intuition more deeply, and make space for you to live more authentically.
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Why is mental health important for first responders?
As part of their work, first responders are often exposed to high levels of stress, trauma, and physical injury that can put them at a greater risk for serious mental health conditions than the general population. Conditions like PTSD, anxiety, substance use, and depression are more common in first responders, which can greatly reduce quality of life and lead to burnout, sleep disruption, and even suicidal thoughts. Therapy can offer an opportunity for first responders to process difficult on-the-job experiences and develop coping skills to better manage any mental health symptoms they may experience.
How can first responders get access to mental health support?
Many first responders can access therapy for free or at a very low cost through their employer, such as through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Workplaces may also offer or have referral recommendations for support groups, where first responders can meet with others in their profession to receive support. Individuals who would like to access mental health services outside of their employer may use their insurance benefits to see a therapist, which they can find by searching for therapists online or asking for recommendations from their primary care physician.
What type of therapy is best for first responders?
The best therapy approach depends on the mental health concerns of the client. Since many first responders struggle with trauma or PTSD, they may benefit from trauma-specific therapeutic approaches, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Exposure Therapy, or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Individuals with symptoms of anxiety, depression, or stress may alternatively benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based therapeutic approaches, which can help clients develop coping skills to manage distressing thoughts.
Can therapy for first responders help with trauma and PTSD?
Therapy can be highly effective in both treating and preventing trauma and PTSD in first responders. Typically, therapy for trauma and PTSD focuses on developing stress management skills and managing intrusive or unwanted thoughts. Therapists working with first responders often help clients strengthen their relationships and reduce harmful coping mechanisms, such as excessive substance use. Additionally, therapists assist first responders in establishing daily habits that support overall mental and physical health and enhance resilience to future stress, such as regular physical exercise, mindfulness practices, and improved eating habits.