Photo of Marion Orr, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Marion Orr
Counsellor, MA, CCC, CCS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
Change is inevitable, though rarely comfortable. We have the ability to be incredibly adaptive beings, but it can be so difficult. I believe we can improve our capacity to manage life's challenges through increased awareness of our relationships with and reactions to change. Counselling can help uncover the conditions for healing and help you learn how to create or maintain these conditions in your life. I specialize in helping individuals and families recover from the impacts of trauma, including grief, anger, anxiety, isolation, chronic pain or physical illness, relational conflict, and more.
Change is inevitable, though rarely comfortable. We have the ability to be incredibly adaptive beings, but it can be so difficult. I believe we can improve our capacity to manage life's challenges through increased awareness of our relationships with and reactions to change. Counselling can help uncover the conditions for healing and help you learn how to create or maintain these conditions in your life. I specialize in helping individuals and families recover from the impacts of trauma, including grief, anger, anxiety, isolation, chronic pain or physical illness, relational conflict, and more.
(250) 389-2819 x115 View (250) 389-2819 x115
Photo of Erin Suerink, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Erin Suerink
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V  (Online Only)
Two Spirit, Queer, and Trans clients and allies welcome! I am a settler living on the territory of the K'ómoks First Nation and I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor at Wildwood Therapy, a feminist mental health collective. I offer Feminist Therapy to support relationships of all structures and kinds, PTSD and complex trauma, anxiety & depression, parenting, identity, grief, self-esteem, addiction, and much more. If we work together, I can help you explore your mind-body connection, build your sense of confidence, and learn how to process emotions authentically.
Two Spirit, Queer, and Trans clients and allies welcome! I am a settler living on the territory of the K'ómoks First Nation and I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor at Wildwood Therapy, a feminist mental health collective. I offer Feminist Therapy to support relationships of all structures and kinds, PTSD and complex trauma, anxiety & depression, parenting, identity, grief, self-esteem, addiction, and much more. If we work together, I can help you explore your mind-body connection, build your sense of confidence, and learn how to process emotions authentically.
(226) 458-5526 View (226) 458-5526
Photo of Semra Lamky, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Victoria, BC
Semra Lamky
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, MACP, RP(Q), BS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I believe that providing clients with a nonjudgmental, supportive, and safe environment encourages self-awareness, self-exploration, and self-compassion while working together as a team when exploring their life challenges. As a bicultural woman, mother, and wife, I find managing too many roles and responsibilities challenging, which can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, and low self-esteem. I can assist you in navigating these challenges while remaining focused and engaged, working towards and achieving your life goals and authentic self.
As a therapist, I believe that providing clients with a nonjudgmental, supportive, and safe environment encourages self-awareness, self-exploration, and self-compassion while working together as a team when exploring their life challenges. As a bicultural woman, mother, and wife, I find managing too many roles and responsibilities challenging, which can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, and low self-esteem. I can assist you in navigating these challenges while remaining focused and engaged, working towards and achieving your life goals and authentic self.
(289) 460-2965 View (289) 460-2965
Photo of Monica Freudenreich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, BC
Monica Freudenreich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
Waitlist for new clients
"We are all wired for connection. It’s in our biology. As infants, our need for connection is about survival. As we grow older, connection means thriving – emotionally, physically, spiritually, and intellectually. Connection is critical because we all have the basic need to feel accepted and to believe that we belong and are valued for who we are” - Brene Brown At the core of my practice, I believe that a meaningful therapeutic connection can spark change. Talk therapy is a powerful tool to build and enhance acceptance, connection, and healing.
"We are all wired for connection. It’s in our biology. As infants, our need for connection is about survival. As we grow older, connection means thriving – emotionally, physically, spiritually, and intellectually. Connection is critical because we all have the basic need to feel accepted and to believe that we belong and are valued for who we are” - Brene Brown At the core of my practice, I believe that a meaningful therapeutic connection can spark change. Talk therapy is a powerful tool to build and enhance acceptance, connection, and healing.
(778) 784-5171 View (778) 784-5171
Photo of Linda Hay Hypnosis in Victoria, BC
Linda Hay Hypnosis
RN, BScN, CH
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8S
Do you suffer from low self esteem, lack of confidence, have stress, anxiety or panic attacks? Do you need to make changes in your life like stop smoking or vaping, lose weight , sleep better, or need help with chronic pain, phobias, or addictions? Have you ever considered Hypnotherapy? It works!! I am a retired nurse, grief educator and a hypnotherapist, certified through the National Guild of Hypnosis [NGH]. Besides hypnosis, I practice NLP and Neuroplasticity for trauma, PTSD and symptoms of illness such as Parkinson's, Stroke, and Fibromyalgia .
Do you suffer from low self esteem, lack of confidence, have stress, anxiety or panic attacks? Do you need to make changes in your life like stop smoking or vaping, lose weight , sleep better, or need help with chronic pain, phobias, or addictions? Have you ever considered Hypnotherapy? It works!! I am a retired nurse, grief educator and a hypnotherapist, certified through the National Guild of Hypnosis [NGH]. Besides hypnosis, I practice NLP and Neuroplasticity for trauma, PTSD and symptoms of illness such as Parkinson's, Stroke, and Fibromyalgia .
(226) 909-2370 View (226) 909-2370
Photo of Jennifer VandenBosch, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Jennifer VandenBosch
Counsellor, MC, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
I work with individuals, couples, and families in areas such as self-acceptance, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, grief and loss, health and lifestyle issues, relationships and exploring feelings of anger, shame, and guilt and the impact on your day-to-day life. In addition, I work with couples who are struggling in their relationships and parents who are looking to improve their relationship with their children and each other. I offer pre-commitment counselling to help couples build a successful skill set for long term commitment based on dignity and respect for each other.
I work with individuals, couples, and families in areas such as self-acceptance, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, grief and loss, health and lifestyle issues, relationships and exploring feelings of anger, shame, and guilt and the impact on your day-to-day life. In addition, I work with couples who are struggling in their relationships and parents who are looking to improve their relationship with their children and each other. I offer pre-commitment counselling to help couples build a successful skill set for long term commitment based on dignity and respect for each other.
(778) 860-6759 View (778) 860-6759
Photo of Sakina Counselling and Wellness, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Sakina Counselling and Wellness
Counsellor, RPC-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW clients from ALL communities including BIPOC folks. Everyone is welcome. With over 5 years experience in human services and support, I strive to create a safe space for my clients. As a registered professional counsellor I offer a wide range of modalities to support my clients specific needs. Not sure about the counselling process, no problem! You can book a FREE 15-minute consultation to ask your questions and get some information about how it works.
Accepting NEW clients from ALL communities including BIPOC folks. Everyone is welcome. With over 5 years experience in human services and support, I strive to create a safe space for my clients. As a registered professional counsellor I offer a wide range of modalities to support my clients specific needs. Not sure about the counselling process, no problem! You can book a FREE 15-minute consultation to ask your questions and get some information about how it works.
(587) 870-2487 View (587) 870-2487
Photo of Dawn Nordin , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, BC
Dawn Nordin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8N  (Online Only)
Counselling is a unique experience. It is intimate, vulnerable and requires courage. There are infinite reasons that someone may seek counselling or therapy. Let’s face it, being human can be hard! Counselling can be effective for folks struggling to balance life with routines, relationships and responsibilities. Some folks experience severe symptoms that impact their physical, mental, social and spiritual health that is multifactoral at the root. A safe therapeutic relationship can offer you the opportunity access your wisdom without distraction while allowing your authentic emotional and spiritual self to emerge, heal and expand.
Counselling is a unique experience. It is intimate, vulnerable and requires courage. There are infinite reasons that someone may seek counselling or therapy. Let’s face it, being human can be hard! Counselling can be effective for folks struggling to balance life with routines, relationships and responsibilities. Some folks experience severe symptoms that impact their physical, mental, social and spiritual health that is multifactoral at the root. A safe therapeutic relationship can offer you the opportunity access your wisdom without distraction while allowing your authentic emotional and spiritual self to emerge, heal and expand.
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Photo of Rachel Greene, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Rachel Greene
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9B
I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT). I draw on my own personal experience and adversities, my background in Mindfulness and Meditation and extensive training from Clearmind International Institute. For the last four years, I have assisted and supported participants in numerous personal growth workshops and weekends and volunteered as a community counsellor at Esquimalt Neighbourhood House, in addition to offering individual adult and youth sessions in private practice.
I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT). I draw on my own personal experience and adversities, my background in Mindfulness and Meditation and extensive training from Clearmind International Institute. For the last four years, I have assisted and supported participants in numerous personal growth workshops and weekends and volunteered as a community counsellor at Esquimalt Neighbourhood House, in addition to offering individual adult and youth sessions in private practice.
(778) 402-1926 View (778) 402-1926
Photo of Irvine Harvey Counselling, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Irvine Harvey Counselling
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, CCC, C-DBT, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8X
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and a Certified Canadian Counsellor on Vancouver Island. I live in Sidney, BC, with my husband Daniel, our former Great Dane Luna, and our baby cats Quincy & Cleo. I have a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University (Vancouver, BC), a Certificate in Community Counselling from Vancouver Community College (Vancouver, BC), and a Degree in Physical Therapy from Angeles University (Philippines). I am a member of the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and the Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and a Certified Canadian Counsellor on Vancouver Island. I live in Sidney, BC, with my husband Daniel, our former Great Dane Luna, and our baby cats Quincy & Cleo. I have a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University (Vancouver, BC), a Certificate in Community Counselling from Vancouver Community College (Vancouver, BC), and a Degree in Physical Therapy from Angeles University (Philippines). I am a member of the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and the Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).
(778) 767-3359 View (778) 767-3359
Photo of Melissa Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, BC
Melissa Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You thought you knew exactly where you were headed in life—until one day, you didn't. Maybe you know why. Maybe you don't. All you know is that you're so tired of trying to live life by everyone else's rules. You're ready to discover your own path, without apology—to let go of the self-doubt, the critical inner voice and the fear of others’ judgment that's been holding you back. You know you're ready for something new, but you don't want to do it alone. Change feels hard and scary—but even more, you're scared of being stuck. You’re ready to start walking your own authentic path…you just need some support to make it happen.
You thought you knew exactly where you were headed in life—until one day, you didn't. Maybe you know why. Maybe you don't. All you know is that you're so tired of trying to live life by everyone else's rules. You're ready to discover your own path, without apology—to let go of the self-doubt, the critical inner voice and the fear of others’ judgment that's been holding you back. You know you're ready for something new, but you don't want to do it alone. Change feels hard and scary—but even more, you're scared of being stuck. You’re ready to start walking your own authentic path…you just need some support to make it happen.
(343) 312-9803 View (343) 312-9803
Photo of Venetta Elizabeth Henry, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Venetta Elizabeth Henry
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
Accepting New Clients- Trauma informed, compassionate and mindful counselling for trauma, depression, anxiety, and more. Is the cycle of depression or trauma leaving you feeling hopeless and lost? Is your anxiety limiting your life and causing you to suffer? I offer help and support for these issues and much more. 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!
Accepting New Clients- Trauma informed, compassionate and mindful counselling for trauma, depression, anxiety, and more. Is the cycle of depression or trauma leaving you feeling hopeless and lost? Is your anxiety limiting your life and causing you to suffer? I offer help and support for these issues and much more. 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 Chelsie Pilon, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Chelsie Pilon
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9B
Are you tired of repeating the same limiting patterns in your life? Does anxiety, overwhelm, and/or depression feel like a constant battle for you? Maybe you feel stuck, confused, or alone. I have a warm and genuine approach to counselling, and I will meet you right where you are. I believe that the pain you are experiencing is valid. I also know that you absolutely deserve the opportunity to feel understood, and to find healing.
Are you tired of repeating the same limiting patterns in your life? Does anxiety, overwhelm, and/or depression feel like a constant battle for you? Maybe you feel stuck, confused, or alone. I have a warm and genuine approach to counselling, and I will meet you right where you are. I believe that the pain you are experiencing is valid. I also know that you absolutely deserve the opportunity to feel understood, and to find healing.
(587) 874-5757 View (587) 874-5757
Photo of Jessica Card Counselling, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Jessica Card Counselling
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8N
Individual Counselling: I have experience working with adults and youth individually. This work focuses on personal growth, exploring old behaviours and patterns, and collaborating to create new ones that will serve clients better in achieving a fulfilling quality of life. Relationship Counselling: Our relationships wholeheartedly impact our lives. When the relationships that are important to us, with partners, family members, friends, peers, and co-workers are challenged and/or suffering, life is a very different experience than when our relationships are healthy & thriving. How have your experiences impacted your relationships?
Individual Counselling: I have experience working with adults and youth individually. This work focuses on personal growth, exploring old behaviours and patterns, and collaborating to create new ones that will serve clients better in achieving a fulfilling quality of life. Relationship Counselling: Our relationships wholeheartedly impact our lives. When the relationships that are important to us, with partners, family members, friends, peers, and co-workers are challenged and/or suffering, life is a very different experience than when our relationships are healthy & thriving. How have your experiences impacted your relationships?
(709) 400-2661 View (709) 400-2661
Photo of David A Burns, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Victoria, BC
David A Burns
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, MA, ICADC, CCS-AC, CCAC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A
Is addiction is complicating your life? And your busy career, family and lifestyle won’t give you time to get better? We will help you to regain control of your chaos, reset your roadmap and get you back on track. We can also help when your life is affected by someone else’s addiction. We are evidence-based, confidential and effective.
Is addiction is complicating your life? And your busy career, family and lifestyle won’t give you time to get better? We will help you to regain control of your chaos, reset your roadmap and get you back on track. We can also help when your life is affected by someone else’s addiction. We are evidence-based, confidential and effective.
(778) 400-5231 View (778) 400-5231
Photo of Maxine (Fisher) Saunders, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Maxine (Fisher) Saunders
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, MTA, Music, Therapy
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8X
Healthy change is possible and you do not have to face challenges alone. It can be very difficult to seek help and reach out during hard times. If you are reading this then you have already taken the first step towards well being. Finding a counsellor who you feel comfortable with is an essential part of the healing process. I would be happy to talk with you. Supporting individuals, families, youth and children for over 24 years. This is the time to take the best care of ourselves and our loved ones. Triggers arise now more than ever and support is available.
Healthy change is possible and you do not have to face challenges alone. It can be very difficult to seek help and reach out during hard times. If you are reading this then you have already taken the first step towards well being. Finding a counsellor who you feel comfortable with is an essential part of the healing process. I would be happy to talk with you. Supporting individuals, families, youth and children for over 24 years. This is the time to take the best care of ourselves and our loved ones. Triggers arise now more than ever and support is available.
(250) 800-2303 View (250) 800-2303
Photo of Lea McKenzie Counselling and Wellness, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Lea McKenzie Counselling and Wellness
Counsellor, BSc, BSW, RPC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9B  (Online Only)
I offer an inclusive, non-judgemental, safe space that allows you to explore the reason(s) that have brought you to counselling.
I offer an inclusive, non-judgemental, safe space that allows you to explore the reason(s) that have brought you to counselling.
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Photo of Yvonne Paquette, Registered Social Worker in Victoria, BC
Yvonne Paquette
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8L  (Online Only)
Do you have responses that seem out of alignment with a triggering event, or emotions coming from unknown places, lingering uncomfortably long? Are you or your loved one navigating addiction, recovery, or a mental health condition? Are you curious about developments in the field of psychedelic medicine, or have questions about harm-reduction and integrative meaning making? Perhaps you are having internal conflicts with your self, your identity, allyship and settler status, or life/work direction? Or maybe you just need a confidential, nonjudgmental, supportive space to express yourself?
Do you have responses that seem out of alignment with a triggering event, or emotions coming from unknown places, lingering uncomfortably long? Are you or your loved one navigating addiction, recovery, or a mental health condition? Are you curious about developments in the field of psychedelic medicine, or have questions about harm-reduction and integrative meaning making? Perhaps you are having internal conflicts with your self, your identity, allyship and settler status, or life/work direction? Or maybe you just need a confidential, nonjudgmental, supportive space to express yourself?
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Photo of Natasha Carville, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Natasha Carville
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8X
Waitlist for new clients
"Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions"- Dalai Lama. Life can be challenging. Navigating those challenges can feel overwhelming at times, but you do not have to do it alone. Reaching out takes a tremendous amount of courage and I would be honoured to be a part of your healing journey. I believe that a strong therapeutic connection contributes greatly to healing and that it is essential to meet clients where they are at in their own personal journey and work forward together.
"Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions"- Dalai Lama. Life can be challenging. Navigating those challenges can feel overwhelming at times, but you do not have to do it alone. Reaching out takes a tremendous amount of courage and I would be honoured to be a part of your healing journey. I believe that a strong therapeutic connection contributes greatly to healing and that it is essential to meet clients where they are at in their own personal journey and work forward together.
(778) 767-2368 View (778) 767-2368
Photo of Dr. Jessica Olsen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Victoria, BC
Dr. Jessica Olsen
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8Z
If you struggle to find meaning in your life, or feel lost at the moment, I offer a gentle space to reconnect to your own inner wisdom and move forward with confidence and new hope. I feel deeply connected to working with people with intense burdens of anxiety, depression, grief, and childhood trauma.
If you struggle to find meaning in your life, or feel lost at the moment, I offer a gentle space to reconnect to your own inner wisdom and move forward with confidence and new hope. I feel deeply connected to working with people with intense burdens of anxiety, depression, grief, and childhood trauma.
(647) 697-3438 View (647) 697-3438

See more therapy options for Victoria

Compassion Focused Counsellors

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.