Pacific Islander Therapists in Victoria, BC
Do you ever wonder who you’re expected to be in different spaces, or catch yourself thinking, “Am I too much? Not enough? Doing this all wrong?” Do you ever feel you don’t quite fit anywhere, always shifting, keeping it together, or being the steady one while everything around you keeps changing? Maybe you’re carrying expectations from your family, culture, or relationships that feel heavy, and confusing. If any of this sounds familiar, you don’t need the right words or to over-explain yourself to belong here. This is a place where you don’t have to perform or hold it all together, a space where you can be just be who you are.
Do you ever wonder who you’re expected to be in different spaces, or catch yourself thinking, “Am I too much? Not enough? Doing this all wrong?” Do you ever feel you don’t quite fit anywhere, always shifting, keeping it together, or being the steady one while everything around you keeps changing? Maybe you’re carrying expectations from your family, culture, or relationships that feel heavy, and confusing. If any of this sounds familiar, you don’t need the right words or to over-explain yourself to belong here. This is a place where you don’t have to perform or hold it all together, a space where you can be just be who you are.
I help people move from overwhelm to resilience with compassion, clarity, and over 30 years of experience
Vulnerability can feel uncomfortable, yet when seen as a transition toward confidence, self‑esteem, and resilience, it becomes healthier to move forward and seek a therapist who can support you. Finding the right fit is the most important step in easing stress. Many of us face challenges such as unhappiness, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, sleep issues, separation, divorce, trauma, relationship and parenting struggles, emotion regulation, communication, boundaries, personal growth, caregiver burden, and more.
I help people move from overwhelm to resilience with compassion, clarity, and over 30 years of experience
Vulnerability can feel uncomfortable, yet when seen as a transition toward confidence, self‑esteem, and resilience, it becomes healthier to move forward and seek a therapist who can support you. Finding the right fit is the most important step in easing stress. Many of us face challenges such as unhappiness, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, sleep issues, separation, divorce, trauma, relationship and parenting struggles, emotion regulation, communication, boundaries, personal growth, caregiver burden, and more.
I provide my patients with a safe, warm and judgment-free environment to discuss their most personal and intimate life struggles. Our sense of love and belonging is fundamental to reaching our potential. I work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families who face a range of mental health and relationship concerns including but not limited to; anxiety, depression, panic, Autism, ADHD, ADD, BPD, OCD, eating disorders, Complex/ childhood traumas, PTSD, dissociation, DID, parent-child/family conflict, parenting, self-harm, self-esteem, identity, grief & loss, addictions, burnout, Third Culture Identity & spiritual development.
I provide my patients with a safe, warm and judgment-free environment to discuss their most personal and intimate life struggles. Our sense of love and belonging is fundamental to reaching our potential. I work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families who face a range of mental health and relationship concerns including but not limited to; anxiety, depression, panic, Autism, ADHD, ADD, BPD, OCD, eating disorders, Complex/ childhood traumas, PTSD, dissociation, DID, parent-child/family conflict, parenting, self-harm, self-esteem, identity, grief & loss, addictions, burnout, Third Culture Identity & spiritual development.
As a Registered Professional Counsellor and a Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling, I look at therapy through a holistic lense, focusing on all aspects of your wellbeing. By tapping into your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, I can help you identify and understand feelings that you may be experiencing. Working together, we will cultivate new tools specific to your nature that you can then put into practice, creating the change you hope to see.
As a Registered Professional Counsellor and a Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling, I look at therapy through a holistic lense, focusing on all aspects of your wellbeing. By tapping into your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, I can help you identify and understand feelings that you may be experiencing. Working together, we will cultivate new tools specific to your nature that you can then put into practice, creating the change you hope to see.
Online Therapists
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, holding a Master’s in Counselling and a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care. I am currently pursuing my PhD in Indigenous Health. With over eight years of experience in mental health and social services, I support children, youth, adults, and families navigating complex mental health challenges, life transitions, and grief.
My approach is grounded in trauma‑informed, culturally responsive, and client-centred. I strive to create a safe, inclusive, and non‑judgmental space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, holding a Master’s in Counselling and a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care. I am currently pursuing my PhD in Indigenous Health. With over eight years of experience in mental health and social services, I support children, youth, adults, and families navigating complex mental health challenges, life transitions, and grief.
My approach is grounded in trauma‑informed, culturally responsive, and client-centred. I strive to create a safe, inclusive, and non‑judgmental space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself or others? Are you carrying the weight of anxiety, low mood, past experiences, or ongoing stress that feels hard to manage alone? Adolescents, teens, and adults may struggle with the impacts of trauma, addiction, or systemic challenges, leaving them unsure where to begin. Wanting a space to feel heard, supported, and understood is natural. You don’t have to have everything figured out to begin moving toward clarity, balance, and connection.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself or others? Are you carrying the weight of anxiety, low mood, past experiences, or ongoing stress that feels hard to manage alone? Adolescents, teens, and adults may struggle with the impacts of trauma, addiction, or systemic challenges, leaving them unsure where to begin. Wanting a space to feel heard, supported, and understood is natural. You don’t have to have everything figured out to begin moving toward clarity, balance, and connection.
Challenges are inevitable in this life, but they can be managed with the help of family, friends or sometimes professionals. My life mission is to be of service to people who are suffering. I strive to create a counselling space in which my clients feel at ease with being able to share their stories. I truly believe in the possibility of people being able to move through their pain, in order to live happier and healthier lives.
Challenges are inevitable in this life, but they can be managed with the help of family, friends or sometimes professionals. My life mission is to be of service to people who are suffering. I strive to create a counselling space in which my clients feel at ease with being able to share their stories. I truly believe in the possibility of people being able to move through their pain, in order to live happier and healthier lives.
As a long-time advocate for people struggling with addiction and mental health, I am deeply passionate about helping clients process their emotions and achieve their goals. My focus is specifically on assisting Asian clients of all backgrounds and genders. I am dedicated to providing a safe, judgment-free space for individuals to begin their healing journey.
As a long-time advocate for people struggling with addiction and mental health, I am deeply passionate about helping clients process their emotions and achieve their goals. My focus is specifically on assisting Asian clients of all backgrounds and genders. I am dedicated to providing a safe, judgment-free space for individuals to begin their healing journey.
someone who may be experiencing anxiety, self-doubt, high stress, or relationship challenges, often while appearing capable and put-together on the outside. Many are navigating complex family dynamics, cultural expectations, or immigration and bicultural experiences. They want to understand where their patterns come from and make sense of their experiences with more clarity and self-compassion. At the same time, they are seeking support in moving forward — feeling more grounded, confident, and intentional in their choices, relationships, and sense of self.
someone who may be experiencing anxiety, self-doubt, high stress, or relationship challenges, often while appearing capable and put-together on the outside. Many are navigating complex family dynamics, cultural expectations, or immigration and bicultural experiences. They want to understand where their patterns come from and make sense of their experiences with more clarity and self-compassion. At the same time, they are seeking support in moving forward — feeling more grounded, confident, and intentional in their choices, relationships, and sense of self.
Shelley Ugyan, RRC, is an acclaimed author, speaker and has over 25 years experience in mental and holistic health. Her evidence based tools including Cognitive Behavioural reconditioning as well as psychodynamic, relational and hypnosis approaches set you on a path to direct healing, starting immediately in the first 80 minute session. Her approach is genuine, empowering and powerful. Healing is probable, and happens as a result of conscious daily actions and unconscious dynamics that shift as a result of this process. Shelley is known for her groundbreaking therapeutic work in anxiety ( adults/children) and couples counselling.
Shelley Ugyan, RRC, is an acclaimed author, speaker and has over 25 years experience in mental and holistic health. Her evidence based tools including Cognitive Behavioural reconditioning as well as psychodynamic, relational and hypnosis approaches set you on a path to direct healing, starting immediately in the first 80 minute session. Her approach is genuine, empowering and powerful. Healing is probable, and happens as a result of conscious daily actions and unconscious dynamics that shift as a result of this process. Shelley is known for her groundbreaking therapeutic work in anxiety ( adults/children) and couples counselling.
I am a psychotherapist (he/him) specializing in working with marginalized individuals, including gay, bi, queer men, masculine-identifying people, and people of color who have experienced discrimination, sexual or physical assault, or interpersonal challenges. I help clients deepen their self-understanding, develop healthier responses, and foster trust and authentic connections in their relationships.
I am a psychotherapist (he/him) specializing in working with marginalized individuals, including gay, bi, queer men, masculine-identifying people, and people of color who have experienced discrimination, sexual or physical assault, or interpersonal challenges. I help clients deepen their self-understanding, develop healthier responses, and foster trust and authentic connections in their relationships.
If you are struggling with a loss of direction or purpose, and want to rejuvenate life with renewed purpose, facing death or about to lose a loved one, I will work with you to find peace and broader meanings so you can carry on with joy and loving memories. I believe that everyone has the potential to grow beyond their current limits regardless of what they are struggling with i.e. addiction, relationship, life-transitions, or meaninglessness etc.
If you are struggling with a loss of direction or purpose, and want to rejuvenate life with renewed purpose, facing death or about to lose a loved one, I will work with you to find peace and broader meanings so you can carry on with joy and loving memories. I believe that everyone has the potential to grow beyond their current limits regardless of what they are struggling with i.e. addiction, relationship, life-transitions, or meaninglessness etc.
Katherine (M.Ed) is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Mental Health Clinician. Katherine creates a safe and nurturing space where individuals can freely express themselves and find solace. She firmly believes in the inherent resilience of the human spirit and empowers her clients to discover their own coping mechanisms and ways of relating to life’s challenges with strength and perseverance. With a deep commitment to alleviating pain, fostering growth, and providing guidance, Katherine specializes in assisting youth and adults facing concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma and emotional regulation.
Katherine (M.Ed) is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Mental Health Clinician. Katherine creates a safe and nurturing space where individuals can freely express themselves and find solace. She firmly believes in the inherent resilience of the human spirit and empowers her clients to discover their own coping mechanisms and ways of relating to life’s challenges with strength and perseverance. With a deep commitment to alleviating pain, fostering growth, and providing guidance, Katherine specializes in assisting youth and adults facing concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma and emotional regulation.
Each of us is equipped with the inner strength, wisdom, and the will to survive and even thrive despite the most difficult challenges of life. I treat you as an expert on your own life. Only you truly know where you have been; where you are now; and where you would like to be. I come alongside you to hold space, ask the right questions, and support you with the tried and tested tools of psychotherapy to guide you on your path to psychological wholeness. Thank you for considering my support in your healing journey. "These pains you feel are messengers. Listen to them." – Rumi.
Each of us is equipped with the inner strength, wisdom, and the will to survive and even thrive despite the most difficult challenges of life. I treat you as an expert on your own life. Only you truly know where you have been; where you are now; and where you would like to be. I come alongside you to hold space, ask the right questions, and support you with the tried and tested tools of psychotherapy to guide you on your path to psychological wholeness. Thank you for considering my support in your healing journey. "These pains you feel are messengers. Listen to them." – Rumi.
It is my goal to help, heal and empower clients through the challenges and uncertainties of life within a safe empathetic, culturally responsive, open, therapeutic alliance. My tailored approach is premised on making clients feel comfortable, validated, and understood and to help make sense of and resolve the anxieties and issues clients face so they can achieve their goals and live a peaceful and content life. My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Self Esteem, Stress Management, Life Coaching, Mindfulness-Based Techniques, Health and Wellness, Couples, Separation/Divorce, Trauma, Eating Issues & Emotional Empowerment.
It is my goal to help, heal and empower clients through the challenges and uncertainties of life within a safe empathetic, culturally responsive, open, therapeutic alliance. My tailored approach is premised on making clients feel comfortable, validated, and understood and to help make sense of and resolve the anxieties and issues clients face so they can achieve their goals and live a peaceful and content life. My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Self Esteem, Stress Management, Life Coaching, Mindfulness-Based Techniques, Health and Wellness, Couples, Separation/Divorce, Trauma, Eating Issues & Emotional Empowerment.
Do you struggle with anxiety, loss, or major life changes that affect your relationships, career, and day-to-day living? Do you feel overwhelmed by the thought that you should be further along or more certain about who you are? Does anxiety and stress hold you back from pursuing what you love and living the life you want? Now more than ever, people navigating major life changes, career transitions, and grief feel lost and unsure of how to find their footing. Not addressing these struggles can leave you stuck and isolated. We believe that no matter where you are starting from, moving forward is possible.
Do you struggle with anxiety, loss, or major life changes that affect your relationships, career, and day-to-day living? Do you feel overwhelmed by the thought that you should be further along or more certain about who you are? Does anxiety and stress hold you back from pursuing what you love and living the life you want? Now more than ever, people navigating major life changes, career transitions, and grief feel lost and unsure of how to find their footing. Not addressing these struggles can leave you stuck and isolated. We believe that no matter where you are starting from, moving forward is possible.
Hi i’m Chloe, a Registered Clinical Counsellor and art therapist with a Master of Counselling Psychology: Art Therapy. I believe healing happens in spaces where you don’t have to perform, explain yourself, or have everything figured out. I’m a Canadian-born Taiwanese woman, the eldest of four girls to first-generation immigrant parents.
I work from a person-centred and culturally sensitive lens, with attention to both trauma responses and the strengths you carry. I’m here to honour your lived experiences while supporting you in growing beyond the systems, narratives, or diagnoses that may have shaped you.
Hi i’m Chloe, a Registered Clinical Counsellor and art therapist with a Master of Counselling Psychology: Art Therapy. I believe healing happens in spaces where you don’t have to perform, explain yourself, or have everything figured out. I’m a Canadian-born Taiwanese woman, the eldest of four girls to first-generation immigrant parents.
I work from a person-centred and culturally sensitive lens, with attention to both trauma responses and the strengths you carry. I’m here to honour your lived experiences while supporting you in growing beyond the systems, narratives, or diagnoses that may have shaped you.
My expertise is in working with difficulties related to relational dynamics, especially those found in Asian/Asian North American contexts and families. In addition to having lived in Hong Kong, I've worked diverse clients in Los Angeles and Vancouver and I enjoy working with people who are hoping to make better sense of themselves and others from multiple perspectives. Former clients of mine regularly feel as though they are more aware of their "blind spots", are more free to make good life choices, and are prepared to have more fulfilling relationships overall.
My expertise is in working with difficulties related to relational dynamics, especially those found in Asian/Asian North American contexts and families. In addition to having lived in Hong Kong, I've worked diverse clients in Los Angeles and Vancouver and I enjoy working with people who are hoping to make better sense of themselves and others from multiple perspectives. Former clients of mine regularly feel as though they are more aware of their "blind spots", are more free to make good life choices, and are prepared to have more fulfilling relationships overall.
Are you working endlessly to fix everything in your life — parenting your children, pushing yourself at work, managing relationships — yet still feeling drained and lonely inside? Do you quietly long for someone who truly understands your suffering, but when reaching out, you end up receiving advice that makes you feel judged and lonely? Do you wonder what it would feel like to live a life that’s genuinely self-directed — free from pressure, expectations, and constant striving? Many people assume counselling is slow or just small talk — but in reality, it can be the most effective “quick fix” to your stress and exhaustion.
Are you working endlessly to fix everything in your life — parenting your children, pushing yourself at work, managing relationships — yet still feeling drained and lonely inside? Do you quietly long for someone who truly understands your suffering, but when reaching out, you end up receiving advice that makes you feel judged and lonely? Do you wonder what it would feel like to live a life that’s genuinely self-directed — free from pressure, expectations, and constant striving? Many people assume counselling is slow or just small talk — but in reality, it can be the most effective “quick fix” to your stress and exhaustion.
Hello, I’m here to support you in navigating life’s challenges, whether you’re facing a specific issue or looking for personal growth. I'm passionate about this; life can feel overwhelming at times, and together we can explore your concerns in a safe and compassionate space. My goal is to help you uncover new insights, find healing, and move forward with hope and surprising joy! We’ll work side by side to help you reach a place of greater clarity and well-being.
Hello, I’m here to support you in navigating life’s challenges, whether you’re facing a specific issue or looking for personal growth. I'm passionate about this; life can feel overwhelming at times, and together we can explore your concerns in a safe and compassionate space. My goal is to help you uncover new insights, find healing, and move forward with hope and surprising joy! We’ll work side by side to help you reach a place of greater clarity and well-being.
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See More Counsellors FAQ - Pacific Islander Counselling
What are the advantages of seeing a Pacific Islander therapist?
For many Pacific Islander individuals, working with a provider who shares or respects their cultural background can foster a deeper sense of trust and connection in the therapeutic process—an essential foundation for effective care. A significant barrier to mental health treatment for many Pacific Islander individuals is the stigma that may be associated with seeking therapy. A culturally aligned therapist can help reduce this stigma and normalise the therapeutic process. Pacific Islander therapists may also be especially well-equipped to address issues that affect Pacific Islander communities, such as historical trauma, intergenerational grief, and cultural identity—factors that deeply influence mental health experiences. Providers who personally identify as Pacific Islander may incorporate traditional healing practices, spiritual beliefs, and community-based approaches that align with Pacific Islander values. Additionally, Pacific Islander therapists can serve as important sources of representation within the mental health field and may be familiar with culturally relevant resources, support networks, or other trusted providers who understand the unique experiences of Pacific Islander populations. As a result, they are often well positioned to offer referrals and collaborate with other professionals, helping to ensure care that honors both clinical best practices and cultural traditions.
How to find a Pacific Islander therapist?
Psychology Today’s online directory is a useful tool for finding a Pacific Islander therapist. You can filter for providers who identify as Pacific Islander or who mention working with Pacific Islander populations and highlight cultural competence in their profiles. Look for signs such as experience with Pacific Islander communities, familiarity with cultural and spiritual practices, or a focus on trauma-informed and community-centered care. Depending on your preferences and needs, it may also be important to ask whether a provider offers telehealth, which therapeutic approaches they use, and whether they accept your insurance. If you're unable to find a therapist who personally identifies as Pacific Islander, you may also consider providers who have experience working with Pacific Islander clients or who demonstrate a clear commitment to cultural knowledge and respect for Pacific Islander values and traditions. You might also consider a blended approach—for example, seeing a therapist for talk therapy while also working with a member of the Pacific Islander community for more culturally-specific support.