Marriage Counselling Therapists in Victoria, BC

Photo of Laura Gothreau, Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Laura Gothreau
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Victoria, BC V8W
My specializations are identity (including sexual, gender, ethnic and religious), relationships/ marriage, and chronic pain and disability.
I specialize in diversity-focused therapy and understanding how you experience the world. I hone in on emotions and body awareness, while challenging thought patterns that may not be helping you. When we look at our full experience, we allow ourselves multiple opportunities for change and development.
My specializations are identity (including sexual, gender, ethnic and religious), relationships/ marriage, and chronic pain and disability.
I specialize in diversity-focused therapy and understanding how you experience the world. I hone in on emotions and body awareness, while challenging thought patterns that may not be helping you. When we look at our full experience, we allow ourselves multiple opportunities for change and development.
(672) 202-4155 View (672) 202-4155
Photo of Seth Shugar, RCC, MFT, BCC
Seth Shugar
Verified Verified
Online Only
Whether I am working with you as an individual, couple or family, as a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Marital and Family Therapist I'll give you not just my experience and expertise, but the curious and compassionate attention necessary to clarify and accomplish your goals.
What I offer is not only twelve years of counselling experience, ten years of university training (a BA and MA from McGill University, plus a 3-year Post-Masters degree in Marital and Family Therapy) but, most importantly, the felt sense that I've got your back, I'm in your corner and I'm totally dedicated to helping you get wherever you want to go.
Whether I am working with you as an individual, couple or family, as a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Marital and Family Therapist I'll give you not just my experience and expertise, but the curious and compassionate attention necessary to clarify and accomplish your goals.
What I offer is not only twelve years of counselling experience, ten years of university training (a BA and MA from McGill University, plus a 3-year Post-Masters degree in Marital and Family Therapy) but, most importantly, the felt sense that I've got your back, I'm in your corner and I'm totally dedicated to helping you get wherever you want to go.
(438) 500-0913 View (438) 500-0913
Photo of Kathleen Gingras, Psychologist, RPsych, MSc
Kathleen Gingras
Psychologist, RPsych, MSc
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
Waitlist for new clients
My training in Marital and Family Therapy offers a collaborative and systemic view.
Are you experiencing relationship difficulties? Having a hard time dealing with your family life? Suffering in silence with your distressing concerns? Whether it is an acute stressor or a long-term chronic issue it is important to know that help is within your reach. I am a professional Registered Psychologist working in beautiful Fairfield, Victoria BC and I am here to offer professional guidance. Working together we will explore how to manage life challenges with the resources you possess already.
My training in Marital and Family Therapy offers a collaborative and systemic view.
Are you experiencing relationship difficulties? Having a hard time dealing with your family life? Suffering in silence with your distressing concerns? Whether it is an acute stressor or a long-term chronic issue it is important to know that help is within your reach. I am a professional Registered Psychologist working in beautiful Fairfield, Victoria BC and I am here to offer professional guidance. Working together we will explore how to manage life challenges with the resources you possess already.
(855) 277-3124 x2 View (855) 277-3124 x2
Photo of Doug Hilton - Full Circle Healing: EMDR Therapy, Counsellor, MSc, RCC, EMDR
Full Circle Healing: EMDR Therapy
Counsellor, MSc, RCC, EMDR
Victoria, BC V9A
I also specialize in marriage and family counselling.
Using EMDR in combination with somatic approaches, I can help people to heal the areas in their lives where they feel stuck or held back by experiences from their past.
I also specialize in marriage and family counselling.
Using EMDR in combination with somatic approaches, I can help people to heal the areas in their lives where they feel stuck or held back by experiences from their past.
(778) 860-4213 View (778) 860-4213
Photo of Kara Elisabeth Wouters - Kara Wouters - Empowered Living Counselling, Counsellor
I specialize in working with clients on issues related to: grief and loss, anxiety, relationship and marital conflict, addiction, childhood trauma, body image and self-esteem, and codependency.
I equip individuals and couples with the tools and understanding needed to cope with every day and extenuating issues. I approach therapy with great respect, care and compassion. I am committed to providing a safe space without judgment. I am accepting, loving, and understand the healing power of laughter.
I specialize in working with clients on issues related to: grief and loss, anxiety, relationship and marital conflict, addiction, childhood trauma, body image and self-esteem, and codependency.
I equip individuals and couples with the tools and understanding needed to cope with every day and extenuating issues. I approach therapy with great respect, care and compassion. I am committed to providing a safe space without judgment. I am accepting, loving, and understand the healing power of laughter.
(548) 485-5961 View (548) 485-5961
Photo of Stephanie Dawn Hayes - Hazelnut Counselling - Stephanie Hayes , Counsellor, MA, RCC
Hazelnut Counselling - Stephanie Hayes
Counsellor, MA, RCC
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8P
I specialize in Marital and Relationship issues.
Has your relationship gone off track? Do you find yourselves getting stuck in the same patterns of conflict? Are you wanting to improve your communication with your spouse? Are you seeking more connection and intimacy? The circumstances that bring you to couples counselling are unique to your partnership and to your relationship journey. Relationships, whether in the beginning stages or long-term marriages or partnerships, can be fulfilling and rewarding. However, couples can experience challenging times at some point in their relationship where they can benefit from couples therapy.
I specialize in Marital and Relationship issues.
Has your relationship gone off track? Do you find yourselves getting stuck in the same patterns of conflict? Are you wanting to improve your communication with your spouse? Are you seeking more connection and intimacy? The circumstances that bring you to couples counselling are unique to your partnership and to your relationship journey. Relationships, whether in the beginning stages or long-term marriages or partnerships, can be fulfilling and rewarding. However, couples can experience challenging times at some point in their relationship where they can benefit from couples therapy.
(249) 487-2229 View (249) 487-2229
Photo of Richard Sayad - South Island Counselling, Counsellor, RCC
South Island Counselling
Counsellor, RCC
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8P
Our approaches address a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, addictions, trauma, low self-esteem, marital conflict, sexual, emotional or physical abuse, grief and loss, relationship challenges, life transitions, mood changes, gender identity, spiritual concerns, and more.
We draw from a variety of counselling approaches and theories, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills, Bowen Family Systems, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Practices, The Gottman Method, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Spiritual Direction, and more.
Our approaches address a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, addictions, trauma, low self-esteem, marital conflict, sexual, emotional or physical abuse, grief and loss, relationship challenges, life transitions, mood changes, gender identity, spiritual concerns, and more.
We draw from a variety of counselling approaches and theories, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills, Bowen Family Systems, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Practices, The Gottman Method, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Spiritual Direction, and more.
(250) 472-2851 x101 View (250) 472-2851 x101
Photo of Julie Lidstone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Julie Lidstone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Victoria, BC V8P
My areas of expertise include parenting support, marriage counselling, adoption and foster care, and addressing concerns such as depression and anxiety.
I am a compassionate Registered Social Worker with over 20 years of experience. I provide a safe, supportive counselling environment for clients in BC and Alberta, whether through in-person sessions in Victoria, BC, or virtually via video or phone. I have extensive training in several counselling modalities, including Gottman Method Therapy and CBT.
My areas of expertise include parenting support, marriage counselling, adoption and foster care, and addressing concerns such as depression and anxiety.
I am a compassionate Registered Social Worker with over 20 years of experience. I provide a safe, supportive counselling environment for clients in BC and Alberta, whether through in-person sessions in Victoria, BC, or virtually via video or phone. I have extensive training in several counselling modalities, including Gottman Method Therapy and CBT.
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Photo of Elizabeth Jean Scott - Liz Scott, Counsellor, MTS, MC, RCC
Liz Scott
Counsellor, MTS, MC, RCC
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8Z
I take a special interest in maternal mental health, postpartum depression and anxiety, ADHD, sleep, spirituality, parenting, marriage, and relationships issues.
Hi, I’m Liz. I am thrilled you are considering counselling. How brave. I know what it is like to reach out for help, and it is hard. Potential clients wonder: “What is counselling with you really like?” First, I promise to build a relationship with you that is based on trust and deep respect so you can bring 100% of yourself to our space. Just as you are. Second, I will be your cheerleader and coach. I am going to encourage you to the hilt, but I am also going to challenge you. Third, you are in charge! If something is not right or if you are not happy with what is happening in counselling we can switch it up.
I take a special interest in maternal mental health, postpartum depression and anxiety, ADHD, sleep, spirituality, parenting, marriage, and relationships issues.
Hi, I’m Liz. I am thrilled you are considering counselling. How brave. I know what it is like to reach out for help, and it is hard. Potential clients wonder: “What is counselling with you really like?” First, I promise to build a relationship with you that is based on trust and deep respect so you can bring 100% of yourself to our space. Just as you are. Second, I will be your cheerleader and coach. I am going to encourage you to the hilt, but I am also going to challenge you. Third, you are in charge! If something is not right or if you are not happy with what is happening in counselling we can switch it up.
(289) 277-8784 View (289) 277-8784
Photo of Geoff Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, RCSW, RCC
Geoff Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, RCSW, RCC
Victoria, BC V8R
For couples, I incorporate the Gottman Method to help overcome marital blocks and restore intimacy.
In couples therapy, I use the Gottman Method to create a safe space for resolving conflicts and reconnecting emotionally. Individually, I offer Acceptance Therapy, CBT, and a person-centered approach to help you process feelings and develop skills for personal and relational growth. Let's work towards building the life and relationships you really need.
For couples, I incorporate the Gottman Method to help overcome marital blocks and restore intimacy.
In couples therapy, I use the Gottman Method to create a safe space for resolving conflicts and reconnecting emotionally. Individually, I offer Acceptance Therapy, CBT, and a person-centered approach to help you process feelings and develop skills for personal and relational growth. Let's work towards building the life and relationships you really need.
(778) 765-8912 View (778) 765-8912
Photo of Karen Olender Kipnis, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, RMFT, RCC
Karen Olender Kipnis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, RMFT, RCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Please enquire with your insurance company if they cover psychotherapy with an RCC (Registered Clinical Counselor) or an RMFT (Registered Marriage Family Therapist).
I offer counseling services to individuals, couples and adolescents on Salt Spring Island and virtually across Canada and the United States. My work is personal, compassionate and direct. I stay close to my client’s experience, without judgment, pointing towards opportunities for growth. Life presents us all with challenges and sometimes we need help facing them. We often need a mirror to help us understand how to change outdated behaviors that are just not working or resolve inner conflicts that are keeping us from living a fulfilling life.
Please enquire with your insurance company if they cover psychotherapy with an RCC (Registered Clinical Counselor) or an RMFT (Registered Marriage Family Therapist).
I offer counseling services to individuals, couples and adolescents on Salt Spring Island and virtually across Canada and the United States. My work is personal, compassionate and direct. I stay close to my client’s experience, without judgment, pointing towards opportunities for growth. Life presents us all with challenges and sometimes we need help facing them. We often need a mirror to help us understand how to change outdated behaviors that are just not working or resolve inner conflicts that are keeping us from living a fulfilling life.
(778) 767-2217 View (778) 767-2217
Photo of Fiona Walker, Counsellor, MSc, BScPN, BScN, BSc, RCC
Fiona Walker
Counsellor, MSc, BScPN, BScN, BSc, RCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Fiona holds a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy/Counselling, a Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Mental Health Studies.
Fiona emigrated from the UK with her family to the Okanagan in 2007, where she is a grateful settler on the lands of the Okanagan Syilx people and enjoys spending time engaging in the emerging vibrant cultural scene in the area, including the many festivals and music events, markets, culinary experiences, and local theatre productions. Fiona takes a systemic approach to her clinical work, focusing on promoting connection and strengthening bonds with the belief that this fosters physical and emotional wellbeing and cultivates resiliency. For over 20 years she has worked with individuals and families in various mental health settings.
Fiona holds a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy/Counselling, a Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Mental Health Studies.
Fiona emigrated from the UK with her family to the Okanagan in 2007, where she is a grateful settler on the lands of the Okanagan Syilx people and enjoys spending time engaging in the emerging vibrant cultural scene in the area, including the many festivals and music events, markets, culinary experiences, and local theatre productions. Fiona takes a systemic approach to her clinical work, focusing on promoting connection and strengthening bonds with the belief that this fosters physical and emotional wellbeing and cultivates resiliency. For over 20 years she has worked with individuals and families in various mental health settings.
(778) 588-9520 x5 View (778) 588-9520 x5
Photo of Aubrey Grande-Strathdee, Counsellor, MA, RCC, LMFT
Aubrey Grande-Strathdee
Counsellor, MA, RCC, LMFT
Online Only
I enjoy providing couples and marriage counseling and working with relationships of all kinds.
My approach is centered around curiosity, possibility, and the celebration of each individual’s unique story. I offer a collaborative therapeutic environment that counters normativity and recognizes the impact of oppressive systems within our society. I utilize narrative therapy in my work, this approach will recognize your personal values and highlight your skills. I aim to assist you in exploring and strengthening the version of you that might be struggling to come to the surface.
I enjoy providing couples and marriage counseling and working with relationships of all kinds.
My approach is centered around curiosity, possibility, and the celebration of each individual’s unique story. I offer a collaborative therapeutic environment that counters normativity and recognizes the impact of oppressive systems within our society. I utilize narrative therapy in my work, this approach will recognize your personal values and highlight your skills. I aim to assist you in exploring and strengthening the version of you that might be struggling to come to the surface.
(807) 787-4821 View (807) 787-4821
Photo of Mario Spiler, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CHT, MNLP, CISM
Mario Spiler
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CHT, MNLP, CISM
Online Only
I am also a Marriage and Couples Relationship Specialist.
I am a Registered Social Worker with the BC College of Social Workers and I work with Individuals, Couples and Families. Interventions focus on acute and chronic symptomatic and characterological manifestations of anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and family conflicts, emotional dysregulation, self or other destructive behaviors, trauma & PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder and crises.
I am also a Marriage and Couples Relationship Specialist.
I am a Registered Social Worker with the BC College of Social Workers and I work with Individuals, Couples and Families. Interventions focus on acute and chronic symptomatic and characterological manifestations of anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and family conflicts, emotional dysregulation, self or other destructive behaviors, trauma & PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder and crises.
(587) 804-2699 View (587) 804-2699
Photo of Katie Nicole Lutes - Counselling the Maui Way, Counsellor, RCC, MC, BED, BA
Counselling the Maui Way
Counsellor, RCC, MC, BED, BA
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9B
Are you or your child struggling with focus? Feeling overwhelmed? Struggling with grief and loss? Is it difficult to stay still and remain calm? Does your child have endless energy? So much so that it's difficult for you to keep up and help them co-regulate? Does your child like things a certain way and struggle with changes and transitions? Do you wish life could be easier? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed with life's stressors. Not addressing the overwhelm can lead to burnout, lack of focus, anxiety and depression. We believe that by receiving nature-based counselling, we can help you overcome these obstacles.
Are you or your child struggling with focus? Feeling overwhelmed? Struggling with grief and loss? Is it difficult to stay still and remain calm? Does your child have endless energy? So much so that it's difficult for you to keep up and help them co-regulate? Does your child like things a certain way and struggle with changes and transitions? Do you wish life could be easier? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed with life's stressors. Not addressing the overwhelm can lead to burnout, lack of focus, anxiety and depression. We believe that by receiving nature-based counselling, we can help you overcome these obstacles.
(807) 809-8133 View (807) 809-8133
Photo of Venetta Elizabeth Henry, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Venetta Elizabeth Henry
Counsellor, MA, RCC
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
Trauma-informed, compassionate counselling for trauma/ptsd, depression, anxiety, and much more. I also have many years experience working with ICBC clients. With the use of many treatment approach options, my practice is effective, holistic, warm and collaborative. It takes courage to break free from this cycle and to ask for help. Together we can work towards improving your life in endless ways, resulting in a more meaningful, peaceful, and fulfilling life!
Trauma-informed, compassionate counselling for trauma/ptsd, depression, anxiety, and much more. I also have many years experience working with ICBC clients. With the use of many treatment approach options, my practice is effective, holistic, warm and collaborative. It takes courage to break free from this cycle and to ask for help. Together we can work towards improving your life in endless ways, resulting in a more meaningful, peaceful, and fulfilling life!
(778) 770-1258 View (778) 770-1258
Photo of Loren Sahara, Registered Social Worker, MAL, BSW, RSW
Loren Sahara
Registered Social Worker, MAL, BSW, RSW
Victoria, BC V8N
Waitlist for new clients
I support and guide you through your life’s experience and understanding of how to increase happiness and reduce suffering. Connecting ancient and modern wisdom, the process is rooted in awakening through relationships and naturally occurring growth, connection to all life, awareness of safety, trust, and your own inner wisdom by realizing answers to these 3 classic questions: Who am I? Where am I from? And Where am I going? We will explore these questions and answers through both simple and complex layers of your mental, emotional, physical and spiritual life that reinforce beliefs, choices, behaviors, feelings and experiences.
I support and guide you through your life’s experience and understanding of how to increase happiness and reduce suffering. Connecting ancient and modern wisdom, the process is rooted in awakening through relationships and naturally occurring growth, connection to all life, awareness of safety, trust, and your own inner wisdom by realizing answers to these 3 classic questions: Who am I? Where am I from? And Where am I going? We will explore these questions and answers through both simple and complex layers of your mental, emotional, physical and spiritual life that reinforce beliefs, choices, behaviors, feelings and experiences.
(249) 496-8643 View (249) 496-8643
Photo of Carin Kietaibl, Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Carin Kietaibl
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Victoria, BC V9B
Hello! I am a registered psychologist with experience working with adults, children and families. I find my work rewarding and my clients inspiring. I work from an integrated perspective to best meet client needs. I have worked in different counselling roles for over ten years, and have experience with a range of concerns, including trauma, stress, coping with life changes, depression and anxiety. I also have experience helping clients work through family relationship struggles and child behaviour concerns, and to improve life balance.
Hello! I am a registered psychologist with experience working with adults, children and families. I find my work rewarding and my clients inspiring. I work from an integrated perspective to best meet client needs. I have worked in different counselling roles for over ten years, and have experience with a range of concerns, including trauma, stress, coping with life changes, depression and anxiety. I also have experience helping clients work through family relationship struggles and child behaviour concerns, and to improve life balance.
(778) 401-0708 View (778) 401-0708
Photo of Kirk Beasse - Fairfield Psychology and Oak Bay Psychology, Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Fairfield Psychology and Oak Bay Psychology
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8S
Accepting new clients. Direct billing available! We offer counselling and assessments for people of all ages including adults, parents, caregivers, families, couples, children (10+), teens, and seniors. Our collaborative team includes Registered Psychologists (RPsych), Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC), and Registered Social Workers (RSW). Most of our services are covered by extended health benefits. We also offer low cost counselling with our Master's students ($50+). In person in Victoria and online across B.C. Weekday, weekend, and evenings available. Now with two locations at Fairfield Psychology and Oak Bay Psychology.
Accepting new clients. Direct billing available! We offer counselling and assessments for people of all ages including adults, parents, caregivers, families, couples, children (10+), teens, and seniors. Our collaborative team includes Registered Psychologists (RPsych), Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC), and Registered Social Workers (RSW). Most of our services are covered by extended health benefits. We also offer low cost counselling with our Master's students ($50+). In person in Victoria and online across B.C. Weekday, weekend, and evenings available. Now with two locations at Fairfield Psychology and Oak Bay Psychology.
(778) 949-6065 View (778) 949-6065
Photo of Alexis Winter, Psychiatric Nurse, BA, MPN, RPN, RCC
Alexis Winter
Psychiatric Nurse, BA, MPN, RPN, RCC
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
I am taking a waitlist for DBT Group and for a couple's therapy weekend intensive. Welcome to our group practice. We are here to help you build a life worth living. We believe in meeting you where you are and helping you identify what is keeping you stuck to help you feel better. We are genuinely interested in your experiences and want to support you change them.
I am taking a waitlist for DBT Group and for a couple's therapy weekend intensive. Welcome to our group practice. We are here to help you build a life worth living. We believe in meeting you where you are and helping you identify what is keeping you stuck to help you feel better. We are genuinely interested in your experiences and want to support you change them.
(431) 808-0499 View (431) 808-0499

See more therapy options for Victoria

Marriage Counselling

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.