Therapists in British Columbia

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with youth, adults, couples and families addressing a variety of personal issues such as stress and anxiety, depression, anger, addictions, disordered eating, grief and loss, death and dying, parenting concerns and attachment issues, career and identity, life transitions, loneliness and isolation, communication, assertiveness, self-esteem, family conflict and relationship issues, domestic violence, trauma and abuse.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with youth, adults, couples and families addressing a variety of personal issues such as stress and anxiety, depression, anger, addictions, disordered eating, grief and loss, death and dying, parenting concerns and attachment issues, career and identity, life transitions, loneliness and isolation, communication, assertiveness, self-esteem, family conflict and relationship issues, domestic violence, trauma and abuse.

Hi! I’m excited to connect with you! My goal is to create a warm, non-judgmental space where you can explore and embrace your authentic self. Whether you are seeking healing, personal growth, a challenge, boundaries, or a safe place to feel understood, I’m here to offer you support with compassion, empathy, and encouragement every step. Each person’s journey is unique, so tailoring the approach (CBT, ACT, EFT, etc) to meet your needs, drawing from different therapeutic strategies to find what works best for you.
Hi! I’m excited to connect with you! My goal is to create a warm, non-judgmental space where you can explore and embrace your authentic self. Whether you are seeking healing, personal growth, a challenge, boundaries, or a safe place to feel understood, I’m here to offer you support with compassion, empathy, and encouragement every step. Each person’s journey is unique, so tailoring the approach (CBT, ACT, EFT, etc) to meet your needs, drawing from different therapeutic strategies to find what works best for you.

In our journey of life, we may encounter experiences, emotions, and patterns that make it challenging for us to feel a sense of fulfillment in life. Participating in counselling can help you navigate and process these challenges, either from the past or present moment, constructively and build a more meaningful and satisfying life with new coping strategies and skills, insight and self-awareness, and changes in behaviours/environment through in-depth exploration of self. We are all work in progress, and although it can be daunting to begin this process, it can help you find that inner spark to change how you feel about your life.
In our journey of life, we may encounter experiences, emotions, and patterns that make it challenging for us to feel a sense of fulfillment in life. Participating in counselling can help you navigate and process these challenges, either from the past or present moment, constructively and build a more meaningful and satisfying life with new coping strategies and skills, insight and self-awareness, and changes in behaviours/environment through in-depth exploration of self. We are all work in progress, and although it can be daunting to begin this process, it can help you find that inner spark to change how you feel about your life.

Leanne Downs - Jungian Analyst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Salt Spring Island, BC V8K
Waitlist for new clients
In an out of control world, we all retain the human freedom of turning our attention inwards to find meaning and clarity. We all have times when life feels out of balance and the path forward seems uncertain. Our suffering does not have to be meaningless, it can be our most profound tool for personal transformation.
In an out of control world, we all retain the human freedom of turning our attention inwards to find meaning and clarity. We all have times when life feels out of balance and the path forward seems uncertain. Our suffering does not have to be meaningless, it can be our most profound tool for personal transformation.

I strive to help individuals and families deal effectively with their concerns, either from historical events and experiences or current issues and concerns. My experience extends to children, youth, adults and seniors, with a strong focus on assisting women.
I strive to help individuals and families deal effectively with their concerns, either from historical events and experiences or current issues and concerns. My experience extends to children, youth, adults and seniors, with a strong focus on assisting women.

I work with children, youth, adults, couples and families including people from all backgrounds experiencing different challenges. I have worked with individuals struggling with relationships, intimate relationships, communication, grief, loss, addictions, substance misuse, trauma, sexual identity, coping with diagnoses, academic struggles, career challenges, body dissatisfaction, low-confidence, low-self esteem, depression, anxiety, OCD, personality disorders and bipolar. I guide my clients through the change they want to accomplish thus helping them cope better in the face of future challenges.
I work with children, youth, adults, couples and families including people from all backgrounds experiencing different challenges. I have worked with individuals struggling with relationships, intimate relationships, communication, grief, loss, addictions, substance misuse, trauma, sexual identity, coping with diagnoses, academic struggles, career challenges, body dissatisfaction, low-confidence, low-self esteem, depression, anxiety, OCD, personality disorders and bipolar. I guide my clients through the change they want to accomplish thus helping them cope better in the face of future challenges.

Weekend & Evening Availability. You might be facing a setback, and it can be hard to stay positive and not lose faith in your dreams. I know how you feel, I have been there too. I can help you create a plan to change your relationship with substances, anxiety, or a life transition, and move you towards a more fulfilling life. I offer in-person weekend sessions on saturdays and sundays, on evenings monday, thursday, and friday; and online sessions mondays and tuesdays in the afternoon.
Weekend & Evening Availability. You might be facing a setback, and it can be hard to stay positive and not lose faith in your dreams. I know how you feel, I have been there too. I can help you create a plan to change your relationship with substances, anxiety, or a life transition, and move you towards a more fulfilling life. I offer in-person weekend sessions on saturdays and sundays, on evenings monday, thursday, and friday; and online sessions mondays and tuesdays in the afternoon.

Do you reside in British Columbia? Are you 18 or older? Are you struggling with a mental health concern? The University of British Columbia Okanagan Psychology Walk-in Service offers no-cost, single-session, brief (up to 30 minute) interventions. Sessions are conducted by clinical psychology graduate student clinicians under the supervision of UBCO Faculty Registered Psychologists.
Do you reside in British Columbia? Are you 18 or older? Are you struggling with a mental health concern? The University of British Columbia Okanagan Psychology Walk-in Service offers no-cost, single-session, brief (up to 30 minute) interventions. Sessions are conducted by clinical psychology graduate student clinicians under the supervision of UBCO Faculty Registered Psychologists.

As a Registered Clinical Counsellor/Psychotherapist with 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, I use a client-centred, integrative approach to address the therapeutic goals of clients. No one should be defined by their diagnoses, and rather than placing emphasis on what is not working, I collaborate with clients to determine what actions can be taken to improve on their circumstances. All individuals exist along their own continuum of mental health, and with adequate supports and a focus on holistic well-being, every client can be nurtured towards growth and a healthier sense of self.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor/Psychotherapist with 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, I use a client-centred, integrative approach to address the therapeutic goals of clients. No one should be defined by their diagnoses, and rather than placing emphasis on what is not working, I collaborate with clients to determine what actions can be taken to improve on their circumstances. All individuals exist along their own continuum of mental health, and with adequate supports and a focus on holistic well-being, every client can be nurtured towards growth and a healthier sense of self.

My client is someone who feels stuck—whether in their relationships, their emotions, or in patterns they can’t seem to break. They may struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, or relationship challenges, often feeling overwhelmed by their emotions or unsure of how to express their needs. Many have experienced past wounds, whether from childhood, difficult relationships, or life transitions, and they long for healing, clarity, and a deeper connection with themselves and others. They want more than just coping strategies—they’re seeking real change.
My client is someone who feels stuck—whether in their relationships, their emotions, or in patterns they can’t seem to break. They may struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, or relationship challenges, often feeling overwhelmed by their emotions or unsure of how to express their needs. Many have experienced past wounds, whether from childhood, difficult relationships, or life transitions, and they long for healing, clarity, and a deeper connection with themselves and others. They want more than just coping strategies—they’re seeking real change.

Are you looking to change your mindset? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Looking for a safe space to explore your struggles, and someone to support you on your journey to optimal wellness in the mind, body and spirit? Are you ready to meet the best version of yourself? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I’m here to help. My approach is open, non-judgemental and trauma-informed, and comes from a place of deep empathy and a strong desire to help people find their best selves.
Are you looking to change your mindset? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Looking for a safe space to explore your struggles, and someone to support you on your journey to optimal wellness in the mind, body and spirit? Are you ready to meet the best version of yourself? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I’m here to help. My approach is open, non-judgemental and trauma-informed, and comes from a place of deep empathy and a strong desire to help people find their best selves.

Thank you for making the courageous step to seek therapy. I am passionate about supporting children (8+) and parents, youths and adults with concerns related to OCD and anxiety, but also offer support to individuals who are dealing with stress, panic, grief, loss, heartbreak, trauma, depression and life transitions. I am trained to provide specialized I-CBT treatment for OCD and have helped many clients to take charge of their OCD and anxiety. I have experience working with diverse populations, and I welcome folks from all walks of life to connect with me.
Thank you for making the courageous step to seek therapy. I am passionate about supporting children (8+) and parents, youths and adults with concerns related to OCD and anxiety, but also offer support to individuals who are dealing with stress, panic, grief, loss, heartbreak, trauma, depression and life transitions. I am trained to provide specialized I-CBT treatment for OCD and have helped many clients to take charge of their OCD and anxiety. I have experience working with diverse populations, and I welcome folks from all walks of life to connect with me.

Hello! I'm Sian Trombley, a certified clinical counsellor and certified elementary teacher. with over twenty years of experience in various roles including school counsellor, administrator, and educational consultant. I am also the founder of www.thrivefamilycourses.com, a company dedicated to offering innovative online courses designed to help families thrive. As a teacher, I leverage my extensive background in education and counselling to enrich my work as a therapist and to develop the courses I offer at Thrive Family Co. My process-based approach to therapy is distinctly creative and personalized.
Hello! I'm Sian Trombley, a certified clinical counsellor and certified elementary teacher. with over twenty years of experience in various roles including school counsellor, administrator, and educational consultant. I am also the founder of www.thrivefamilycourses.com, a company dedicated to offering innovative online courses designed to help families thrive. As a teacher, I leverage my extensive background in education and counselling to enrich my work as a therapist and to develop the courses I offer at Thrive Family Co. My process-based approach to therapy is distinctly creative and personalized.

I help my clients in the process of grief, trauma, life transitions and burnout. By integrating modalities such as Mindfulness, DBT, Somatic therapy and Internal Family Systems we are able to look at all aspects of the human experience. We can explore the impact these experiences have in your day-to-day life and the big picture. We will create an individualized and well-balanced approach to therapy by focusing on how you've been impacted, and develop tools and resources to support you in moving forward.
I help my clients in the process of grief, trauma, life transitions and burnout. By integrating modalities such as Mindfulness, DBT, Somatic therapy and Internal Family Systems we are able to look at all aspects of the human experience. We can explore the impact these experiences have in your day-to-day life and the big picture. We will create an individualized and well-balanced approach to therapy by focusing on how you've been impacted, and develop tools and resources to support you in moving forward.

I work with people on a variety of issues including relationships, PTSD, phobias, anxieties, sleep issues, eating disorders and grief and loss etc through hypnotherapy and counseling work. I also do past life regressions and use family constellation philosophy for people who are ready and open to that. I am formally trained by Dr Brain.Weiss in PLRT and also have on going training in Family constellation with Hellinger school based in Germany. I translated Bert. Hellinger's books from English into Chinese (the developer of family constellation) "looking into the souls of children" and the book "an education for our time".
I work with people on a variety of issues including relationships, PTSD, phobias, anxieties, sleep issues, eating disorders and grief and loss etc through hypnotherapy and counseling work. I also do past life regressions and use family constellation philosophy for people who are ready and open to that. I am formally trained by Dr Brain.Weiss in PLRT and also have on going training in Family constellation with Hellinger school based in Germany. I translated Bert. Hellinger's books from English into Chinese (the developer of family constellation) "looking into the souls of children" and the book "an education for our time".

I’ve had a passion for helping others as long as I can remember, and would be honoured to support you in navigating the unavoidable challenges of life. I understand that seeking help can be a vulnerable experience, which is why I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and supported. I have worked with a diverse range of client populations, including children, families, adults, and seniors, who struggled with concerns such as anxiety and depression, stress, chronic health conditions, life transitions, and relationship concerns.
I’ve had a passion for helping others as long as I can remember, and would be honoured to support you in navigating the unavoidable challenges of life. I understand that seeking help can be a vulnerable experience, which is why I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and supported. I have worked with a diverse range of client populations, including children, families, adults, and seniors, who struggled with concerns such as anxiety and depression, stress, chronic health conditions, life transitions, and relationship concerns.

Do you feel stuck and unable to move forward in life? Are you struggling to better relationships with significant others? Do you feel anxious and pessimistic about the future? Is your life changing in profound ways that feel daunting and unmanageable? Life’s challenges can overwhelm us and rob us of the balance we need for maintaining personal wellness, positive relationships, and meaningful work. At times we can drown in our negative voices that keep us emotionally stuck and physically depleted. With a witnessing and compassionate therapist, we can transform you journey to one of healing, meaning, and positive connections.
Do you feel stuck and unable to move forward in life? Are you struggling to better relationships with significant others? Do you feel anxious and pessimistic about the future? Is your life changing in profound ways that feel daunting and unmanageable? Life’s challenges can overwhelm us and rob us of the balance we need for maintaining personal wellness, positive relationships, and meaningful work. At times we can drown in our negative voices that keep us emotionally stuck and physically depleted. With a witnessing and compassionate therapist, we can transform you journey to one of healing, meaning, and positive connections.

Accepting Clients. Clients often come to me experiencing heartbreak, confusion, exhaustion, brain fog, and anxiety due to grief. When they are struggling to cope with their loss and how different the world feels, they are tired of trying to explain how they feel because many people in their lives may not understand. As a therapist and a griever, I know what it’s like to try to cope in a world that has been shattered while everyone else goes about their daily lives like nothing has happened. You don't have to do this alone anymore, we can do it together.
Accepting Clients. Clients often come to me experiencing heartbreak, confusion, exhaustion, brain fog, and anxiety due to grief. When they are struggling to cope with their loss and how different the world feels, they are tired of trying to explain how they feel because many people in their lives may not understand. As a therapist and a griever, I know what it’s like to try to cope in a world that has been shattered while everyone else goes about their daily lives like nothing has happened. You don't have to do this alone anymore, we can do it together.

I am a seasoned counsellor with over 10 years of experience helping clients navigate life's challenges. With a Master's degree from the esteemed University of Mostar and years of experience as a school psychologist in elementary education, I bring a wealth of expertise to the table. I am dedicated helping people heal and thrive, understanding that each person's journey is unique. Whether you're grappling with past trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, depression or seeking personal growth, I am here to support you every step of the way.
I am a seasoned counsellor with over 10 years of experience helping clients navigate life's challenges. With a Master's degree from the esteemed University of Mostar and years of experience as a school psychologist in elementary education, I bring a wealth of expertise to the table. I am dedicated helping people heal and thrive, understanding that each person's journey is unique. Whether you're grappling with past trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, depression or seeking personal growth, I am here to support you every step of the way.

If you're here you're already considering doing a hard thing. Therapy can be made easier with the right environment for you. I view this as the biggest need of my clients - building a safe and secure relationship that enables you to do hard things.
Clients come to me for many reasons, but often it is a feeling of stuck-ness. Feeling stuck communicates a desire for change; I view stuck-ness as a very positive state full of motivation for change.
Working with me is a process of getting to know yourself better, with curiosity and compassion. Relationship with self, in a safe container, allows for you to heal yourself.
If you're here you're already considering doing a hard thing. Therapy can be made easier with the right environment for you. I view this as the biggest need of my clients - building a safe and secure relationship that enables you to do hard things.
Clients come to me for many reasons, but often it is a feeling of stuck-ness. Feeling stuck communicates a desire for change; I view stuck-ness as a very positive state full of motivation for change.
Working with me is a process of getting to know yourself better, with curiosity and compassion. Relationship with self, in a safe container, allows for you to heal yourself.
See more therapy options for British Columbia
How does your Counsellor compare?
Average cost per session
$150
Counsellors in British Columbia who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
83% | Depression |
78% | Self Esteem |
77% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Stress |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
52% | SunLife |
50% | Pacific Blue Cross |
49% | Green Shield Canada |
How Counsellors in British Columbia see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in British Columbia?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postal code, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postal code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Most Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are certified by one of the main professional associations, mainly the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), and will have a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) designation with their name. Social Workers listed in the directory must be registered members of the college specific to their province. To be listed in the directory, Psychologists must be registered with the psychological college specific to their province or territory.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Psychologists, counsellors, psychotherapists and social workers can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in Canada.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Canada could be between $100 and $200. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postal code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Professionals licensed by regulatory colleges and those certified by associations such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association are obligated to uphold client confidentiality unless there is a legal reason that requires them to disclose information. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others, or a court order, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.