Dual Diagnosis Therapists in V6H

I enjoy working with a diversity of clients and/or their family members who are have both mental health and substance use issues, including trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, substance or behavioral addictions, life transitions (loss, relationships, career), and mental suffering and distress.

Natascha Lawrence (she/her/hers pronouns) is a Registered Clinical Counsellor, BC Registered Play Therapist, and Certified Synergetic Play Therapist Supervisor. Natascha is a multiracial POC and first generation Canadian. Natascha specializes in working with children, youth, and adults with neurodiversity such as FASD, ASD, and ADHD. Natascha also specializes in supporting folx who have experiences complex trauma. With over 15 years of experience, Natascha has experience working with folx across different modalities. More importantly, Natascha is a caregiver to an amazing child diagnosed with FASD.

Sometimes it’s hard to notice when things aren't going well. It might be subtle signs that pop up at the end of the day. You feel like the day is going well and you’re keeping busy. But as soon as you have a moment of silence, your mind starts to cycle through things that you just don't want to think about. Do you find it hard to sit still and be at peace in these moments? Do you distract yourself as much as possible just so you don’t listen to your own thoughts? Maybe you have a hard time completing any of your important tasks? These are all normal reactions. Signals that your body is giving you to pay attention to.

My practice is inclusive and non-judgmental. I am passionate about helping clients regain a sense of hope and possibility. I'm sensitive and mindful around gender, sexual orientation, race, age, spiritual beliefs, ability, body size, cultural background or identification, relationship status, and family situation. I am dedicated to using empathy, and presence to create a safe and nurturing space that supports you to learn more about your self The relationship I seek to have with you is one that is empowering, assisting you to feel respect and compassion for yourself, so that you can make the changes you desire.

Are you grieving a loss, or suffering from bouts of Anxiety and/or Depression? Do you struggle in relationships and getting your needs met? Do you overthink things and obsess to the degree it's impacting your happiness and well being? Are you finding yourself behaving in self-destructive ways? You are not alone. I can help you get to the root of what's binding you and gain emotional relief. My expertise lies in creating nurturing, healing environments for psychotherapeutic process. Come and make conscious what may be repressed and find inner harmony and balance again. You deserve to feel hope and promise for a better future.

Hello and welcome I approach my work as a counsellor and art therapist with the philosophy that every human being is the expert in their own life, and holds an innate capacity and wisdom for healing. I like to think of therapy as a journey on which I am a fellow traveller, walking alongside you with genuine compassion, curiosity, and acceptance. I will offer support and encouragement on this journey and create a space for connection, expression, and discovery. I am particularly passionate about combining psychotherapy and art therapy to work with folks who find that words alone are limiting.

I understand how problems with sex and sexuality can have an immense negative impact on your quality of life, including your relationships, your mental health, and the way that you see yourself. But these problems are not insurmountable; treatment can be very effective. I'm a registered psychologist, and specialize in treating sexual problems and disorders. My treatment methods (CBT and ACT) are based on extensive research and clinical evidence demonstrating their effectiveness. Most importantly, my clients tell me that I put them at ease, quickly earn their trust, and make it comfortable to talk about their most intimate problems.

I am a good listener who will encourage you to reflect on what works for you, and which strategies you have tried in the past that have both worked well, or were unsuccessful. I will challenge you in good ways while delivering unconditional acceptance of your preferences and coping strategies. I will encourage you to grow, adapt, and face life’s challenges, losses, and life transitions. I work with many diverse issues relating to mental health and wellness. I also have experience with a vast range of clients from ages 4-76 years and multicultural backgrounds. I am a holistic counsellor and I use a strength based approach to psychotherapy and counselling. I am skilled cognitive therapist, and I enjoy talk therapy using client centred approaches to psychotherapy. I will hold a solution-focused, results based approach with you. There is no problem too big - or, that can’t be better managed. I work with children, teens, and adults. My (very) well behaved and highly trained dog, may be present at sessions. I now have room for new clients. I can also be reached at: Sandralee.macdonald63@gmail.com Looking forward to meeting you. I am ethical, experienced, confidential, and trustworthy.

One of the most difficult things to do in life is to ask for help. I understand that making the first call is stressful, and I am open to hearing your concerns as soon as we connect. I encompass a non judgmental approach, based on strength and resilience. I work collaboratively with my clients to empower them to make important changes in their lives. As a counselor, I support each client's own experience of their story. I take a holistic approach to understand the many layers that surround life challenges, to create connections and promote change.