Somatic Therapists in Victoria, BC
I've run groups on Anger, Parenting, Relationships, Communication, and Men's Issues, and have undergone extensive training in somatic trauma work.
Life is beautiful. But it's also challenging, unpredictable and constantly shifting. However strong and flexible they are, everyone encounters periods of crisis when their usual coping strategies prove inadequate. Interestingly, the Chinese character for 'crisis' comprises words meaning 'danger' and 'opportunity'. Anguish serves a purpose: it catalyzes change. And though change is frequently difficult, frightening and painful, it's also necessary for growth. A crisis announces a new beginning: an opportunity to pursue a more authentic, rewarding and meaningful life. As a counsellor, I help people negotiate the dangers of a crisis, and seize the unrecognized opportunities they conceal.
I've run groups on Anger, Parenting, Relationships, Communication, and Men's Issues, and have undergone extensive training in somatic trauma work.
Life is beautiful. But it's also challenging, unpredictable and constantly shifting. However strong and flexible they are, everyone encounters periods of crisis when their usual coping strategies prove inadequate. Interestingly, the Chinese character for 'crisis' comprises words meaning 'danger' and 'opportunity'. Anguish serves a purpose: it catalyzes change. And though change is frequently difficult, frightening and painful, it's also necessary for growth. A crisis announces a new beginning: an opportunity to pursue a more authentic, rewarding and meaningful life. As a counsellor, I help people negotiate the dangers of a crisis, and seize the unrecognized opportunities they conceal.
For example, with some clients I have incorporated mindfulness, narrative, emotional-focused, and somatic therapies.
Life is stressful and at times feel difficult to manage. Having someone to talk to who is non-judgmental, validating, empathetic, as well as skilled with evidence-based strategies to assist you can be beneficial. During our first few visits my priority will be listening to your story to understand who you are and learn how you see and experience the world. Then, through inquiry, exploration, and observation we collaborate to view your challenges from various angles. Finally, we co-create a suitable path forward while ensuring you feel safe, heard, seen, and valued throughout the entire process.
For example, with some clients I have incorporated mindfulness, narrative, emotional-focused, and somatic therapies.
Life is stressful and at times feel difficult to manage. Having someone to talk to who is non-judgmental, validating, empathetic, as well as skilled with evidence-based strategies to assist you can be beneficial. During our first few visits my priority will be listening to your story to understand who you are and learn how you see and experience the world. Then, through inquiry, exploration, and observation we collaborate to view your challenges from various angles. Finally, we co-create a suitable path forward while ensuring you feel safe, heard, seen, and valued throughout the entire process.
Depending on the client's presenting issues, you'll find me employing mindfulness-based strategies, somatic/body-based interventions, cognitive and dialectical behavioural-based techniques, parts work (IFS), and emotion-focused approaches.
Welcome! I am Registered Clinical Counsellor who is passionate about supporting clients in three main areas: disordered eating/eating disorders, Neurodivergence (Autism & ADHD), and perinatal mental health.
Depending on the client's presenting issues, you'll find me employing mindfulness-based strategies, somatic/body-based interventions, cognitive and dialectical behavioural-based techniques, parts work (IFS), and emotion-focused approaches.
Welcome! I am Registered Clinical Counsellor who is passionate about supporting clients in three main areas: disordered eating/eating disorders, Neurodivergence (Autism & ADHD), and perinatal mental health.
Heartwood Counselling - Elana Angus
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
My approach integrates a caring presence with emotions-focused therapies, attachment theory, Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), somatic (body-based) therapies, EMDR, mindfulness, transpersonal approaches, radical acceptance and self compassion, and narrative therapy.
I work from a trauma-informed, healing-oriented perspective, integrating traditional teachings and modern, research-based psychotherapy. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, relationships, trauma, a crisis, or wanting something more from life, I welcome you for a free 20-minute consultation with me or another therapist in our clinic.
My approach integrates a caring presence with emotions-focused therapies, attachment theory, Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), somatic (body-based) therapies, EMDR, mindfulness, transpersonal approaches, radical acceptance and self compassion, and narrative therapy.
I work from a trauma-informed, healing-oriented perspective, integrating traditional teachings and modern, research-based psychotherapy. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, relationships, trauma, a crisis, or wanting something more from life, I welcome you for a free 20-minute consultation with me or another therapist in our clinic.
Certified Hakomi Therapist ( Somatic and Mindfulness-based Therapy)
I see counselling as a collaborative process and believe that therapy offers a chance to heal, grow, and excel in life. I am passionate about helping people see their strengths and recover from limiting beliefs that are often a result of the minor or major traumas that are a part of life. I view symptoms and undesired behaviours as wise, but outdated adaptations that can be transformed. Befriending our mind and finding self acceptance are key tenets that influence my therapy. With a strong emphasis on the therapeutic relationship, I strive to provide a safe, curious, and humorous (at times), space for your personal growth.
Certified Hakomi Therapist ( Somatic and Mindfulness-based Therapy)
I see counselling as a collaborative process and believe that therapy offers a chance to heal, grow, and excel in life. I am passionate about helping people see their strengths and recover from limiting beliefs that are often a result of the minor or major traumas that are a part of life. I view symptoms and undesired behaviours as wise, but outdated adaptations that can be transformed. Befriending our mind and finding self acceptance are key tenets that influence my therapy. With a strong emphasis on the therapeutic relationship, I strive to provide a safe, curious, and humorous (at times), space for your personal growth.
Together, we will tailor sessions to your needs/comfort level integrating counselling, Somatic Experiencing Therapy, yoga and/or martial arts to unlock those places of holding, hurting or healing in the mind, spirit and body.
Nervous system dysregulation is the top cause of many of our modern day issues. This dysregulation manifests as anxiety, poor sleeps, chronic fatigue, difficulty in relationships, struggling with motivation and so much more. Do people describe you as too sensitive or insensitive? Do little things set you off? Maybe you feel powerless to control your moods and thoughts? Rebuild your capacity. Replenish your resiliency. Find regulation in your nervous system and rediscover sound sleep, a robust immune system, motivation to realize your dreams and an improved sense of self.
Together, we will tailor sessions to your needs/comfort level integrating counselling, Somatic Experiencing Therapy, yoga and/or martial arts to unlock those places of holding, hurting or healing in the mind, spirit and body.
Nervous system dysregulation is the top cause of many of our modern day issues. This dysregulation manifests as anxiety, poor sleeps, chronic fatigue, difficulty in relationships, struggling with motivation and so much more. Do people describe you as too sensitive or insensitive? Do little things set you off? Maybe you feel powerless to control your moods and thoughts? Rebuild your capacity. Replenish your resiliency. Find regulation in your nervous system and rediscover sound sleep, a robust immune system, motivation to realize your dreams and an improved sense of self.
I am a mindfulness-based, heart-centered guide whom focuses primarily on guiding clients through emotional and nervous system regulation through Buddhist Psychology perspectives, emotion focused and somatic based approaches.
Jade Wong B.Sc., M.A., RCC.
Accepting new clients. I provide support to teens (ages 12-19) and (individual) adults (age 19+). I am available for online and telephone counselling sessions, at this time. Counselling session receipts issued for the client to submit directly to their extended health insurance coverage for cost reimbursement.
Areas of support: addictions/substance use, domestic violence support, anxiety/depression/stress, navigating work/personal/family relationships, healthy personal boundaries, regulating the nervous system, increasing emotional resilience and secure & healthy communication.
I am a mindfulness-based, heart-centered guide whom focuses primarily on guiding clients through emotional and nervous system regulation through Buddhist Psychology perspectives, emotion focused and somatic based approaches.
Jade Wong B.Sc., M.A., RCC.
Accepting new clients. I provide support to teens (ages 12-19) and (individual) adults (age 19+). I am available for online and telephone counselling sessions, at this time. Counselling session receipts issued for the client to submit directly to their extended health insurance coverage for cost reimbursement.
Areas of support: addictions/substance use, domestic violence support, anxiety/depression/stress, navigating work/personal/family relationships, healthy personal boundaries, regulating the nervous system, increasing emotional resilience and secure & healthy communication.
Utilizing methods like Somatic Experiencing, CBT, and DBT, I enjoy offering options of forms of therapy that feel right and work for you.
Life can be hard; we all need support sometimes. Warm, attentive, and easy to talk with, I work with folks facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and life transitions. Many clients come to me feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, stuck, and/or disconnected, looking for ways to heal and grow. Together, we explore tools to cope with and move through uncomfortable feelings, build capacity and resilience, and reconnect with self, others, and more pleasurable feelings.
Utilizing methods like Somatic Experiencing, CBT, and DBT, I enjoy offering options of forms of therapy that feel right and work for you.
Life can be hard; we all need support sometimes. Warm, attentive, and easy to talk with, I work with folks facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and life transitions. Many clients come to me feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, stuck, and/or disconnected, looking for ways to heal and grow. Together, we explore tools to cope with and move through uncomfortable feelings, build capacity and resilience, and reconnect with self, others, and more pleasurable feelings.
Modalities such as Somatic Experiencing , Clinical Hypnotherapy , Mindfulness, Emotional Freedom Technique, are tools we can use to work on both the mind and the body to create a life of resilience and health.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future, a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. It takes great courage to reach out and make a change. Although change can be difficult most people realize that it is often more difficult to try and stay the same. People come to therapy for many reasons but often the heart of the matter is that they want to live their "one wild and precious life" Mary Oliver Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I work gently and compassionately with you.
Modalities such as Somatic Experiencing , Clinical Hypnotherapy , Mindfulness, Emotional Freedom Technique, are tools we can use to work on both the mind and the body to create a life of resilience and health.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future, a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. It takes great courage to reach out and make a change. Although change can be difficult most people realize that it is often more difficult to try and stay the same. People come to therapy for many reasons but often the heart of the matter is that they want to live their "one wild and precious life" Mary Oliver Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I work gently and compassionately with you.
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how to navigate current challenges in your life? I work with you to create a safe and comfortable environment based on your unique needs. We will explore your hopes and goals for the counselling process. Together we will uncover what barriers are in your way, come up with new possibilities, and help you gain a fresh perspective. My approach is holistic, grounded in the somatic, attachment- focused approaches. I believe that we are all "whole" with the innate capacity to heal ourselves with gentle, caring guidance.
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how to navigate current challenges in your life? I work with you to create a safe and comfortable environment based on your unique needs. We will explore your hopes and goals for the counselling process. Together we will uncover what barriers are in your way, come up with new possibilities, and help you gain a fresh perspective. My approach is holistic, grounded in the somatic, attachment- focused approaches. I believe that we are all "whole" with the innate capacity to heal ourselves with gentle, caring guidance.
As a contemplative psychotherapist & experienced trauma counsellor, trained in family systems, developmental, somatic & creative approaches, I integrate mindfulness & compassion practices with Western counselling modalities.
Within challenge there is opportunity for growth and healing. Any crisis, while intensely difficult, can also put you in touch with your deeper yearnings and surface new strengths and resilience. Without support and guidance though, you can get stuck in painful places. Your life may feel lacking or out-of-control. You may feel overwhelming grief, depression, anxiety & panic. You may struggle to make meaning or be unsure which way to turn. When stress and suffering feel like too much to bear, please reach out for help. We will bring compassionate awareness to your challenges while nurturing your everyday wellbeing and wholeness.
As a contemplative psychotherapist & experienced trauma counsellor, trained in family systems, developmental, somatic & creative approaches, I integrate mindfulness & compassion practices with Western counselling modalities.
Within challenge there is opportunity for growth and healing. Any crisis, while intensely difficult, can also put you in touch with your deeper yearnings and surface new strengths and resilience. Without support and guidance though, you can get stuck in painful places. Your life may feel lacking or out-of-control. You may feel overwhelming grief, depression, anxiety & panic. You may struggle to make meaning or be unsure which way to turn. When stress and suffering feel like too much to bear, please reach out for help. We will bring compassionate awareness to your challenges while nurturing your everyday wellbeing and wholeness.
Meet Our Somatic Counsellors
Kaitlin McManus Psychotherapist/Counsellor
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, LPAT
4 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
I have trained in Somatic psychotherapy, Inner-child work, Energy Therapy, Attachment, Neurodiversity, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, IFS, CBT, relational practices and Active Listening.
Is anxiety taking over? I can teach you how to take back control of your life once and for all. We'll work collaboratively to bring you to a place of healing and deep connection with Self, relationships, and life itself. Through tapping into your inner strength and using evidenced based and trauma informed approaches to therapy. I will teach you the necessary tools to move past your most challenging blockages to live a more easeful and fulfilling life. Victoria's warm climate allows us to move counselling outdoors to benefit from nature's healing properties! Outside of Victoria? Online sessions are convenient and effective.
I have trained in Somatic psychotherapy, Inner-child work, Energy Therapy, Attachment, Neurodiversity, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, IFS, CBT, relational practices and Active Listening.
Is anxiety taking over? I can teach you how to take back control of your life once and for all. We'll work collaboratively to bring you to a place of healing and deep connection with Self, relationships, and life itself. Through tapping into your inner strength and using evidenced based and trauma informed approaches to therapy. I will teach you the necessary tools to move past your most challenging blockages to live a more easeful and fulfilling life. Victoria's warm climate allows us to move counselling outdoors to benefit from nature's healing properties! Outside of Victoria? Online sessions are convenient and effective.
The primary modalities I use in my therapeutic work are AEDP, EMDR and Somatic Therapies.
My aim is help you learn more about who you are and how you work, while creating an environment of unconditional welcoming for all parts of self. Together, we’ll practice inviting the full range of your humanness—the anger, the sadness, the magic, the joy—navigating blocks to feeling as they arise. I’ll be a diligent companion, offering my compassion and care when pokey parts of self arise. Like, the one who judges, the one who minimizes, the one who disappears. And I’ll hold a mirror so you might learn to see yourself clearly, perhaps with the same care I do.
The primary modalities I use in my therapeutic work are AEDP, EMDR and Somatic Therapies.
My aim is help you learn more about who you are and how you work, while creating an environment of unconditional welcoming for all parts of self. Together, we’ll practice inviting the full range of your humanness—the anger, the sadness, the magic, the joy—navigating blocks to feeling as they arise. I’ll be a diligent companion, offering my compassion and care when pokey parts of self arise. Like, the one who judges, the one who minimizes, the one who disappears. And I’ll hold a mirror so you might learn to see yourself clearly, perhaps with the same care I do.
Through dreamwork, embodiment, and somatic therapy, we explore the socially constructed narratives that shape how we see ourselves, the world, and our relationships.
When people begin to align more closely with their true nature, it’s as if they’re unlocking new possibilities for how they live and relate to the world. It’s truly incredible to witness and be part of that process. I find deep meaning in the journey of self-discovery and personal growth, and I’m honored to support you along the way!
Through dreamwork, embodiment, and somatic therapy, we explore the socially constructed narratives that shape how we see ourselves, the world, and our relationships.
When people begin to align more closely with their true nature, it’s as if they’re unlocking new possibilities for how they live and relate to the world. It’s truly incredible to witness and be part of that process. I find deep meaning in the journey of self-discovery and personal growth, and I’m honored to support you along the way!
Using relational, somatic, and developmental psychology, attachment theory and clinical applications of neuroscience we can address the wounds and patterns that are no longer serving you.
Traumatic life events come in many forms. People feel powerless and groundless; often experiencing life on autopilot. If you experienced a traumatic event as a child or the care you received involved toxic amounts of stress, abuse or neglect, a variety of attachment wounds can interfere with your present-day relationships, parenting abilities, and general well-being. Experiencing loss, rejection, abandonment, abuse or neglect disrupts development and changes our focus to survival. There is no timeline for healing from trauma, but it is possible to recover and create the life you desire.
Using relational, somatic, and developmental psychology, attachment theory and clinical applications of neuroscience we can address the wounds and patterns that are no longer serving you.
Traumatic life events come in many forms. People feel powerless and groundless; often experiencing life on autopilot. If you experienced a traumatic event as a child or the care you received involved toxic amounts of stress, abuse or neglect, a variety of attachment wounds can interfere with your present-day relationships, parenting abilities, and general well-being. Experiencing loss, rejection, abandonment, abuse or neglect disrupts development and changes our focus to survival. There is no timeline for healing from trauma, but it is possible to recover and create the life you desire.
I am a somatic, experiential and relational therapist.
“I want to help you undo your aloneness in the face of overwhelming feeling” - Diana Foshe. We change because we experience something new not because of analysis and lecture! Using your nervous system as a guide and by connecting we will work towards feeling free and seen. I work well with big feelings and helping people express.
I am a somatic, experiential and relational therapist.
“I want to help you undo your aloneness in the face of overwhelming feeling” - Diana Foshe. We change because we experience something new not because of analysis and lecture! Using your nervous system as a guide and by connecting we will work towards feeling free and seen. I work well with big feelings and helping people express.
I rely on talk therapy, Integrated Somatic Therapy Practise (ISTP), breath work, meditation, yoga to support healing, relief of anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, grief & loss, OCD.
I am a Registered Professional Counsellor, with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association. I bring 14 years + of experience in the field of mental health. Through the lens of compassion & unconditional positive regard I support individuals to uncover old coping strategies, reveal core beliefs, release trauma/ suppressed emotions that hold one back from stepping into truth, finding joy, fulfillment and clarity. Also creating a deep connection to self, allowing for a deeper connection in all relationships. Our intimate relationships are where we have the opportunity to be witnessed, accepted, loved, & love in return.
I rely on talk therapy, Integrated Somatic Therapy Practise (ISTP), breath work, meditation, yoga to support healing, relief of anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, grief & loss, OCD.
I am a Registered Professional Counsellor, with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association. I bring 14 years + of experience in the field of mental health. Through the lens of compassion & unconditional positive regard I support individuals to uncover old coping strategies, reveal core beliefs, release trauma/ suppressed emotions that hold one back from stepping into truth, finding joy, fulfillment and clarity. Also creating a deep connection to self, allowing for a deeper connection in all relationships. Our intimate relationships are where we have the opportunity to be witnessed, accepted, loved, & love in return.
Through Somatic Experiencing, I guide my clients to become more aware of their body sensations and how these relate to their emotional and mental states.
Do you feel overwhelmed by anxiety? Have you noticed that anxiety affects not only your emotions but also your physical well-being, creating tension or discomfort in your body?
I can help you explore personal growth, reduce tension, reconnect with your true, authentic self, and live with greater confidence and purpose. You can start to live a life that feels more aligned with your inner truth, free from the constant weight of anxiety and self-doubt. Together, we can start to regulate your nervous system, heal past wounds, and create lasting change.
Through Somatic Experiencing, I guide my clients to become more aware of their body sensations and how these relate to their emotional and mental states.
Do you feel overwhelmed by anxiety? Have you noticed that anxiety affects not only your emotions but also your physical well-being, creating tension or discomfort in your body?
I can help you explore personal growth, reduce tension, reconnect with your true, authentic self, and live with greater confidence and purpose. You can start to live a life that feels more aligned with your inner truth, free from the constant weight of anxiety and self-doubt. Together, we can start to regulate your nervous system, heal past wounds, and create lasting change.
I am currently enrolled in the 3 year Somatic Experiencing program.
Hello and welcome. I specialize in three main (often overlapping) areas: addictions, neurodivergence and complex trauma. As a therapist, my goal is to help you understand who you are and to help you make sense of what happened to you, so that you can move forward in a more conscious and intentional way. Beyond self-awareness, I believe the purpose of therapy is to transform the negative emotional patterns and beliefs that have been influencing your thoughts, behaviours and relationships.
I am currently enrolled in the 3 year Somatic Experiencing program.
Hello and welcome. I specialize in three main (often overlapping) areas: addictions, neurodivergence and complex trauma. As a therapist, my goal is to help you understand who you are and to help you make sense of what happened to you, so that you can move forward in a more conscious and intentional way. Beyond self-awareness, I believe the purpose of therapy is to transform the negative emotional patterns and beliefs that have been influencing your thoughts, behaviours and relationships.
I am trained in both Cognitive Processing Therapy and Somatic Experiencing for PTSD and trauma.
Humans are able to survive through incredible suffering and oppression – but it is exhausting to be in survival mode all the time. You have found powerful ways to survive, but perhaps they are now causing you emotional pain and suffering and you are ready to let them go... so you can start being fully present and engaged in your own life. Through connection, compassion, and non-judgment, I can help you understand and find compassion for yourself and your suffering. I will provide safe and accepting support to help you let go of what is no longer serving you and explore new possibilities for yourself and your future.
I am trained in both Cognitive Processing Therapy and Somatic Experiencing for PTSD and trauma.
Humans are able to survive through incredible suffering and oppression – but it is exhausting to be in survival mode all the time. You have found powerful ways to survive, but perhaps they are now causing you emotional pain and suffering and you are ready to let them go... so you can start being fully present and engaged in your own life. Through connection, compassion, and non-judgment, I can help you understand and find compassion for yourself and your suffering. I will provide safe and accepting support to help you let go of what is no longer serving you and explore new possibilities for yourself and your future.
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How does somatic therapy work?
Somatic therapy is a form of treatment that focuses on how the body and mind are interconnected. In this approach, physical symptoms are addressed because they may in fact signal emotional distress. Somatic therapists combine mindfulness, talk therapy, breathwork, yoga, dance, and physical manipulations of the body to help patients become more attuned to what their body is telling them.
Is EMDR a somatic therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a form of somatic therapy, as it incorporates mental and physical principles. EMDR involves remembering a traumatic experience while allowing one’s eyes to track a side-to-side visual stimulus from a therapist. This lateral eye movement is believed to diminish the painful power of the memory so that it can be discussed with a therapist.
Is somatic therapy evidence-based?
Somatic therapy has been researched and studied, and some forms of somatic therapy are found to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions. Because somatic therapy encompasses many techniques, some, such as EMDR and meditation, have been studied more than others.
What is somatic trauma therapy?
Somatic trauma therapy is based on the idea that when people experience trauma, they can become stuck in the “freeze” part of a “fight, flight, or freeze” response. In this state, trauma can manifest itself both mentally and physically—through tension in the muscles, anxiety, and stress. Popular forms of somatic trauma therapy include EMDR, sensorimotor therapy, and somatic experiencing.