Family Systems Therapists in V5K
I aim to understand people within the context of biology, trauma, and family systems.
Life can be complicated no matter what your age is. Managing life transitions such as becoming a teenager or young adult, a parent, or change in any life routine can be difficult. You may be experiencing stress, anxiety, addiction, or relationship issues. Traumas and life stressors we experience can affect how we feel, think, and connect with others. I aim to help you connect with yourself and others in a way that makes you feel more content and confident in life.
I aim to understand people within the context of biology, trauma, and family systems.
Life can be complicated no matter what your age is. Managing life transitions such as becoming a teenager or young adult, a parent, or change in any life routine can be difficult. You may be experiencing stress, anxiety, addiction, or relationship issues. Traumas and life stressors we experience can affect how we feel, think, and connect with others. I aim to help you connect with yourself and others in a way that makes you feel more content and confident in life.
I work from an Adlerian, client-centred, trauma-informed, and family systems perspective.
Do you feel that life gets you going in circles, leaving you distressed, stuck, or barely holding on? You may be asking yourself: How can I deal with my constant worrying, fears or need for perfection? What can I do to better manage my kids, relate to them, or give them the guidance they need? Or how can I stop my negative thoughts, feelings, nightmares or flashbacks? If you're finding yourself grasping for answers, I'm here to say there's hope! I believe our mental health is an ongoing journey, with its ebbs and flows along life's path. As a fellow companion walking alongside you, we can work together to navigate a way forward.
I work from an Adlerian, client-centred, trauma-informed, and family systems perspective.
Do you feel that life gets you going in circles, leaving you distressed, stuck, or barely holding on? You may be asking yourself: How can I deal with my constant worrying, fears or need for perfection? What can I do to better manage my kids, relate to them, or give them the guidance they need? Or how can I stop my negative thoughts, feelings, nightmares or flashbacks? If you're finding yourself grasping for answers, I'm here to say there's hope! I believe our mental health is an ongoing journey, with its ebbs and flows along life's path. As a fellow companion walking alongside you, we can work together to navigate a way forward.
I am trained in multiple therapeutic techniques, but mostly use Internal Family Systems theory, Narrative Therapy, and the Gottman Method.
If you are wondering if your life is "on the right path," you are not alone. Support and awareness in times of change means that the change process reflects your values and hopes for life. Therapy includes understanding two kinds of stories: the external stories that are told about us (usually these are very unfair!) and the internal stories that emerge in response (usually these are overly protective!). I will help you to understand your Self and all the parts of who you are, increasing your ability to generate inner wells of autonomy, confidence and peace. With this knowledge, you're equipped to manage whatever life throws at you.
I am trained in multiple therapeutic techniques, but mostly use Internal Family Systems theory, Narrative Therapy, and the Gottman Method.
If you are wondering if your life is "on the right path," you are not alone. Support and awareness in times of change means that the change process reflects your values and hopes for life. Therapy includes understanding two kinds of stories: the external stories that are told about us (usually these are very unfair!) and the internal stories that emerge in response (usually these are overly protective!). I will help you to understand your Self and all the parts of who you are, increasing your ability to generate inner wells of autonomy, confidence and peace. With this knowledge, you're equipped to manage whatever life throws at you.
Jessica has over ten years experience as a counsellor and has assisted hundreds of clients by incorporating a combination of EMDR, Shame Resilience, CBT, Family Systems as well as other practices relevant to each client’s unique situation. She is trained and qualified to help you address many issues; specializing in Healing Shame, relationship and systemic issues in the workplace, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, communication skills and ADHD. Jessica provides you with a private, safe and nurturing environment that will empower you to turn your obstacles into opportunities, clearing the way for improved emotional health
Jessica has over ten years experience as a counsellor and has assisted hundreds of clients by incorporating a combination of EMDR, Shame Resilience, CBT, Family Systems as well as other practices relevant to each client’s unique situation. She is trained and qualified to help you address many issues; specializing in Healing Shame, relationship and systemic issues in the workplace, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, communication skills and ADHD. Jessica provides you with a private, safe and nurturing environment that will empower you to turn your obstacles into opportunities, clearing the way for improved emotional health
Andrea MacDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5K (Online Only)
Gabor Mate, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I am a Registered Master Social Worker, and am deeply passionate and grateful to serve as a therapist, offering support to individuals from all walks of life. My commitment lies in helping people delve into the core of the concerns they bring to therapy, with the aim of fostering healing, understanding, and positive change. I believe in practicing therapy from a holistic approach that explores various facets of individuals’ lives and identities. Trust and confidence are crucial elements in the counselling process, therefore I am committed to creating a space of genuine compassion, warmth, humility, and respect.
Gabor Mate, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I am a Registered Master Social Worker, and am deeply passionate and grateful to serve as a therapist, offering support to individuals from all walks of life. My commitment lies in helping people delve into the core of the concerns they bring to therapy, with the aim of fostering healing, understanding, and positive change. I believe in practicing therapy from a holistic approach that explores various facets of individuals’ lives and identities. Trust and confidence are crucial elements in the counselling process, therefore I am committed to creating a space of genuine compassion, warmth, humility, and respect.
Accessing support is a radical act of courage—a step towards positive change. At Side by Side Counselling we welcome all experiences and histories, working together to navigate the challenges of life with ease. Drawing on the approaches of transpersonal psychology, somatic modalities, Bowen family systems, Gestalt therapy and person-centered therapy, we aim to find a path of understanding and support that best suits your needs and experiences.
Accessing support is a radical act of courage—a step towards positive change. At Side by Side Counselling we welcome all experiences and histories, working together to navigate the challenges of life with ease. Drawing on the approaches of transpersonal psychology, somatic modalities, Bowen family systems, Gestalt therapy and person-centered therapy, we aim to find a path of understanding and support that best suits your needs and experiences.
I use a strength-based, solution-focused, client-centred practice that draws from Internal Family Systems.
Modern life is very challenging and there are many reasons that might have brought you here looking for counselling. Whether you are dealing with a crisis, at a crossroads, or you just want to heighten your wellbeing, the hardest step can be making the move and reaching out. We can be struggling with the challenges of daily life, big transitions, unmet expectations, difficult relationships, and past trauma. Maybe you struggle with anxiety, people pleasing, having a hard time setting boundaries and saying no. You might be using coping methods that aren’t as effective as they once were.
I use a strength-based, solution-focused, client-centred practice that draws from Internal Family Systems.
Modern life is very challenging and there are many reasons that might have brought you here looking for counselling. Whether you are dealing with a crisis, at a crossroads, or you just want to heighten your wellbeing, the hardest step can be making the move and reaching out. We can be struggling with the challenges of daily life, big transitions, unmet expectations, difficult relationships, and past trauma. Maybe you struggle with anxiety, people pleasing, having a hard time setting boundaries and saying no. You might be using coping methods that aren’t as effective as they once were.
I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor with advanced training in Bowen family systems therapy and Gottman method couples therapy.
Welcome! I believe that within each of us lies a wealth of inner strengths and untapped resources that can be used to make profound changes in our own lives. My aim is to empower you to find and utilize these abilities effectively. Through our collaborative efforts, I can help you establish a solid foundation for your journey towards self-discovery, growth and fulfillment. My primary focus is on supporting and guiding adults and couples through the complexities of dating and marital challenges, family conflicts, life transitions, stress, anxiety and depression.
I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor with advanced training in Bowen family systems therapy and Gottman method couples therapy.
Welcome! I believe that within each of us lies a wealth of inner strengths and untapped resources that can be used to make profound changes in our own lives. My aim is to empower you to find and utilize these abilities effectively. Through our collaborative efforts, I can help you establish a solid foundation for your journey towards self-discovery, growth and fulfillment. My primary focus is on supporting and guiding adults and couples through the complexities of dating and marital challenges, family conflicts, life transitions, stress, anxiety and depression.
Your current circumstances don't dictate where you'll end up. They serve as a starting point for change. We all have the potential to move forward, sometimes having support is the key to getting there. My counselling approach is collaborative and straightforward with a touch of humour. Using a blend of your personal experiences and life context with evidence-based practices such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and family systems we pinpoint your strengths and build positive coping skills to help you reach your goals.
Your current circumstances don't dictate where you'll end up. They serve as a starting point for change. We all have the potential to move forward, sometimes having support is the key to getting there. My counselling approach is collaborative and straightforward with a touch of humour. Using a blend of your personal experiences and life context with evidence-based practices such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and family systems we pinpoint your strengths and build positive coping skills to help you reach your goals.
Shirley Lai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5K (Online Only)
Her work with individual/families are informed by family systems theory, attachment theory and trauma-informed practice.
Shirley has over 25 years of experiences working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families in government funded programs and employee assistance programs. She specialized in supporting clients to overcome emotional problems (anxieties, low mood, depression etc.), relationship issues, parenting challenges, couple problems etc. She uses a variety of modalities such as EFT, EFFT, CBT, DBT and Narrative Therapy when working with clients. She believes that her client has the ability and resources to get better if they are given the support they need.
Her work with individual/families are informed by family systems theory, attachment theory and trauma-informed practice.
Shirley has over 25 years of experiences working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families in government funded programs and employee assistance programs. She specialized in supporting clients to overcome emotional problems (anxieties, low mood, depression etc.), relationship issues, parenting challenges, couple problems etc. She uses a variety of modalities such as EFT, EFFT, CBT, DBT and Narrative Therapy when working with clients. She believes that her client has the ability and resources to get better if they are given the support they need.
My work is informed by several models; specifically, Emotion Focused Family Therapy, CBT, trauma-informed approaches, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, DBT and RO-DBT.
I deeply appreciate the journey toward health for people struggling with their mental health and the need for caregivers around them to support the process. I honor time with caregivers and enjoy this part of the process. When working with trauma and other mental health challenges I work at the pace of the client, to facilitate healing and growth using a variety of techniques and tools. Another part of my work that I truly enjoy is the supervision aspect with either new clinicians, or experienced clinicians desiring support, recovery from burnout, or rediscovering joy.
My work is informed by several models; specifically, Emotion Focused Family Therapy, CBT, trauma-informed approaches, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, DBT and RO-DBT.
I deeply appreciate the journey toward health for people struggling with their mental health and the need for caregivers around them to support the process. I honor time with caregivers and enjoy this part of the process. When working with trauma and other mental health challenges I work at the pace of the client, to facilitate healing and growth using a variety of techniques and tools. Another part of my work that I truly enjoy is the supervision aspect with either new clinicians, or experienced clinicians desiring support, recovery from burnout, or rediscovering joy.
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We draw from a variety of different counselling approaches and theories including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills, Bowen Family Systems, Internal Family Systems, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness Based Practices, The Gottman Method, Spiritual Direction and so much more.
South Island Counselling is a team of Registered Clinical Counsellors and Canadian Certified Counsellors, who offer counselling services to individuals, couples and families in the Greater Victoria area. We can offer a unique experience to our clients as we have 10 clinical counsellors who can be matched to your specific needs. Our approaches can help with anxiety, depression, stress, addictions, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, marital conflict, sexual, emotional or physical abuse, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, mood changes, gender identity, spiritual concerns and so much more.
We draw from a variety of different counselling approaches and theories including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills, Bowen Family Systems, Internal Family Systems, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness Based Practices, The Gottman Method, Spiritual Direction and so much more.
South Island Counselling is a team of Registered Clinical Counsellors and Canadian Certified Counsellors, who offer counselling services to individuals, couples and families in the Greater Victoria area. We can offer a unique experience to our clients as we have 10 clinical counsellors who can be matched to your specific needs. Our approaches can help with anxiety, depression, stress, addictions, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, marital conflict, sexual, emotional or physical abuse, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, mood changes, gender identity, spiritual concerns and so much more.
I believe in genuine connection with my clients, and I use an approach centred on relationships, bringing in techniques based on Gestalt, Bowen’s Family Systems Theory, Transpersonal Psychology, AEDP, Somatic, and Experiential Therapy (among others).
As a therapist specializing in trauma-informed care and a Health & Wellness Coach, my focus is on cultivating confidence, self-awareness, and empowerment in my clients. Whether through a light-hearted approach or a deeper exploration, I strive to enhance understanding of the emotions that shape the narratives we construct about ourselves and the world. I encourage clients to view their lives through intentional lenses, prompting reflection on how their choices and perspectives align with their goals and values.
I believe in genuine connection with my clients, and I use an approach centred on relationships, bringing in techniques based on Gestalt, Bowen’s Family Systems Theory, Transpersonal Psychology, AEDP, Somatic, and Experiential Therapy (among others).
As a therapist specializing in trauma-informed care and a Health & Wellness Coach, my focus is on cultivating confidence, self-awareness, and empowerment in my clients. Whether through a light-hearted approach or a deeper exploration, I strive to enhance understanding of the emotions that shape the narratives we construct about ourselves and the world. I encourage clients to view their lives through intentional lenses, prompting reflection on how their choices and perspectives align with their goals and values.
Lucy Luo
MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5K (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate various modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Polyvagal theory.
Hello and Welcome! Each of us comes to therapy and healing work with our own unique story, with challenges and adversities that was beyond our control. This can leave us feeling lost, alone, stuck and spiraling out of control. I have worked in clinical counselling and social work over the last 10 years with individual and families experiencing significant challenges. With a person-centered and holistic approach, I hope to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions and experiences. I strive to empower you to find your innate strength, resilience and wisdom.
I integrate various modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Polyvagal theory.
Hello and Welcome! Each of us comes to therapy and healing work with our own unique story, with challenges and adversities that was beyond our control. This can leave us feeling lost, alone, stuck and spiraling out of control. I have worked in clinical counselling and social work over the last 10 years with individual and families experiencing significant challenges. With a person-centered and holistic approach, I hope to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions and experiences. I strive to empower you to find your innate strength, resilience and wisdom.
Somatic techniques, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Hypnotherapy offer tools to invite deep, lasting shifts.
Ever feel stuck in a loop of frustrating patterns? Long for meaningful connection, but get lost in estrangement or conflict? Wonder why that joyful ease you occasionally glimpse feels buried under a sludge of anxiety, numbness, or anger? No matter how many "new leaves" we turn over — we find ourselves sinking back into the familiar muck. Here we go again! It's not just in your head. Pain and anxiety get encoded and frozen in the physical body, along with all the feelings it's not okay to feel. By adulthood, our nervous systems are hardwired to survive the situation we grew up in – and can get stuck there, replaying the same script.
Somatic techniques, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Hypnotherapy offer tools to invite deep, lasting shifts.
Ever feel stuck in a loop of frustrating patterns? Long for meaningful connection, but get lost in estrangement or conflict? Wonder why that joyful ease you occasionally glimpse feels buried under a sludge of anxiety, numbness, or anger? No matter how many "new leaves" we turn over — we find ourselves sinking back into the familiar muck. Here we go again! It's not just in your head. Pain and anxiety get encoded and frozen in the physical body, along with all the feelings it's not okay to feel. By adulthood, our nervous systems are hardwired to survive the situation we grew up in – and can get stuck there, replaying the same script.
I use an eclectic evidence-based approach to address mental health concerns, blending CBT, DBT, IFS, Attachment Theory, Family Systems, and other therapeutic modalities to help you achieve your goals.
Do you feel bogged down by intense anxiety or stress? Do you feel hopeless or depressed about your life? Are the relationships in your life toxic or filled with tension? Does addiction have a tight grip on your life? Do you feel chained to the past and due to trauma? If you relate to any of those questions and would like help navigating difficult emotions, thoughts, behaviours, relationships, or trauma, come talk to me. I have been trained by some of the leading experts in the field of psychotherapy such as Dr Gabor Mate and Dr Patrick Carnes, and I would be honoured to be a part of your journey to help you achieve your goals.
I use an eclectic evidence-based approach to address mental health concerns, blending CBT, DBT, IFS, Attachment Theory, Family Systems, and other therapeutic modalities to help you achieve your goals.
Do you feel bogged down by intense anxiety or stress? Do you feel hopeless or depressed about your life? Are the relationships in your life toxic or filled with tension? Does addiction have a tight grip on your life? Do you feel chained to the past and due to trauma? If you relate to any of those questions and would like help navigating difficult emotions, thoughts, behaviours, relationships, or trauma, come talk to me. I have been trained by some of the leading experts in the field of psychotherapy such as Dr Gabor Mate and Dr Patrick Carnes, and I would be honoured to be a part of your journey to help you achieve your goals.
Just as a seed will grow into a plant, and a plant will seek water and grow towards light, there is an intrinsic capacity within all living organisms to heal and to grow, and a natural inclination to move in this direction. My practice is guided by trust in the wisdom of this inner healing intelligence. I am a holistic practitioner working in the realms of transpersonal psychotherapy and birth care, with a focus on human attachment, lifespan development, and spiritual care "from womb to tomb." Birth psychology and work with holotropic states of consciousness are areas of special interest.
Just as a seed will grow into a plant, and a plant will seek water and grow towards light, there is an intrinsic capacity within all living organisms to heal and to grow, and a natural inclination to move in this direction. My practice is guided by trust in the wisdom of this inner healing intelligence. I am a holistic practitioner working in the realms of transpersonal psychotherapy and birth care, with a focus on human attachment, lifespan development, and spiritual care "from womb to tomb." Birth psychology and work with holotropic states of consciousness are areas of special interest.
Amie Anderson & Associates Counselling Group
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5K
I tend to see many physicians, psychiatrists, residents and medical students through word of mouth referrals. I also provide clinical supervision to other counsellors. I specialize in treating trauma and adverse events but common challenges such as burnout, low mood, feelings of insecurity, self-doubt, fears of rejection, abandonment, and failure are also routine in my work. I also work with many teens, post-secondary students, indigenous youth and do couples and family work.
I tend to see many physicians, psychiatrists, residents and medical students through word of mouth referrals. I also provide clinical supervision to other counsellors. I specialize in treating trauma and adverse events but common challenges such as burnout, low mood, feelings of insecurity, self-doubt, fears of rejection, abandonment, and failure are also routine in my work. I also work with many teens, post-secondary students, indigenous youth and do couples and family work.
My goal is to provide a non-judgmental space where you can process and explore your unique path. Through our work together I aspire to empower you to express your authentic self without unconscious beliefs and behaviours getting in your way. Informed by my background as a holistic nutritionist and yoga teacher, my approach integrates various facets of well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
My goal is to provide a non-judgmental space where you can process and explore your unique path. Through our work together I aspire to empower you to express your authentic self without unconscious beliefs and behaviours getting in your way. Informed by my background as a holistic nutritionist and yoga teacher, my approach integrates various facets of well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
I'm Teak Daniel, a Registered Social Worker (MSW, RSW) who provides individual therapy in British Columbia and Ontario (virtual). My expertise lies in the areas of bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, psychosis, schizophrenia spectrum illnesses, depression and anxiety. I’ve worked exclusively in the area of psychosis and bipolar disorder for the past 13 years. I'm also a husband, a father, a former supervisor to 15+ Masters students. I am also a registered mental health provider with the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) in BC and can provide direct billing for clients with FNHA coverage.
I'm Teak Daniel, a Registered Social Worker (MSW, RSW) who provides individual therapy in British Columbia and Ontario (virtual). My expertise lies in the areas of bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, psychosis, schizophrenia spectrum illnesses, depression and anxiety. I’ve worked exclusively in the area of psychosis and bipolar disorder for the past 13 years. I'm also a husband, a father, a former supervisor to 15+ Masters students. I am also a registered mental health provider with the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) in BC and can provide direct billing for clients with FNHA coverage.
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Family Systems Counsellors
Family Systems therapists view problems within the family as the result not of particular members' behaviors, but of the family's group dynamic. The family is seen as a complex system having its own language, roles, rules, beliefs, needs and patterns. The therapist helps each individual member understand how their childhood family operated, their role in that system, and how that experience has shaped their role in the current family.