Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Victoria, BC

Photo of Kim Sholinder, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Kim Sholinder
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9A
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, addictions, mental health crises, and/or suicidal ideation/self-harm, and you're looking for support navigating these challenges, but you're afraid of regular talk therapy or had negative experiences in the past, I can promise you, I take a unique, person centered approach and prioritize client needs and wants from therapy. I want you to feel in charge of your counselling! I work with both adults, and children and youth and can help the family work together to meet you or your child's needs!
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, addictions, mental health crises, and/or suicidal ideation/self-harm, and you're looking for support navigating these challenges, but you're afraid of regular talk therapy or had negative experiences in the past, I can promise you, I take a unique, person centered approach and prioritize client needs and wants from therapy. I want you to feel in charge of your counselling! I work with both adults, and children and youth and can help the family work together to meet you or your child's needs!
(343) 338-3492 View (343) 338-3492
Photo of Shelley Schulberg, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Shelley Schulberg
Counsellor, MA, RCC, SEP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8P
I specialize in trauma work with youth and adults, helping individuals to process, transform, heal, and grow. I offer a non-judgemental, safe space and warm presence. I can help with low mood, mood swings, anxiety and panic, anger, PTSD, self-harming behaviours, suicidal ideation, addictions, shame, early developmental attachment trauma, stress, balance, and life transitions. I am passionate about supporting and empowering people in their walk towards living their most fulfilling life. I draw upon a range of evidence based approaches (including Somatic Experiencing and CBT), which are tailored to fit your unique needs and goals.
I specialize in trauma work with youth and adults, helping individuals to process, transform, heal, and grow. I offer a non-judgemental, safe space and warm presence. I can help with low mood, mood swings, anxiety and panic, anger, PTSD, self-harming behaviours, suicidal ideation, addictions, shame, early developmental attachment trauma, stress, balance, and life transitions. I am passionate about supporting and empowering people in their walk towards living their most fulfilling life. I draw upon a range of evidence based approaches (including Somatic Experiencing and CBT), which are tailored to fit your unique needs and goals.
(778) 400-4593 View (778) 400-4593
Photo of Sonya Boya, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Sonya Boya
Counsellor, MSc, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8R
I am experienced working with people who may be suicidal, and/or self-injurying.
In my varied practice, I see youth and adults, addressing issues ranging from mental health concerns to life transitions. I use a client-centred approach, respecting that you are the expert in your own life. The therapeutic relationship we create allows you to explore your reality to the extent that you want to, in a trusting, calm and gentle environment. I draw from a number of different therapeutic styles, suited to you as a person, your worldview and your interests (talk, art, sandtray, play). I practice from an anti-oppressive, inclusive perspective, and also provide clinical supervision for counsellors.
I am experienced working with people who may be suicidal, and/or self-injurying.
In my varied practice, I see youth and adults, addressing issues ranging from mental health concerns to life transitions. I use a client-centred approach, respecting that you are the expert in your own life. The therapeutic relationship we create allows you to explore your reality to the extent that you want to, in a trusting, calm and gentle environment. I draw from a number of different therapeutic styles, suited to you as a person, your worldview and your interests (talk, art, sandtray, play). I practice from an anti-oppressive, inclusive perspective, and also provide clinical supervision for counsellors.
(250) 589-7709 View (250) 589-7709
Photo of Jessica R Pfeffer, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Jessica R Pfeffer
Counsellor, MEM, MACP, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8P
Trained in Recognizing and Responding to Suicide Risk.
I have a Master’s of Counselling Psychology and a Master of Environmental Management. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I am passionate about working with children, youth and families, supporting them through their life pathways. My work builds on a lifetime committed to service, and working with non-profits, regional and provincial government in emergency management, conservation and environmental policy. I currently work as a clinician with individuals with eating disorders. My goal is to create a positive therapeutic environment where you feel safe, supported, and heard.
Trained in Recognizing and Responding to Suicide Risk.
I have a Master’s of Counselling Psychology and a Master of Environmental Management. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I am passionate about working with children, youth and families, supporting them through their life pathways. My work builds on a lifetime committed to service, and working with non-profits, regional and provincial government in emergency management, conservation and environmental policy. I currently work as a clinician with individuals with eating disorders. My goal is to create a positive therapeutic environment where you feel safe, supported, and heard.
(343) 313-0893 View (343) 313-0893
Photo of Sophia M Van Vuuren, Psychologist in Victoria, BC
Sophia M Van Vuuren
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8T
Children and Teens present more with anxiety, depression, cutting or anger outbursts, which needs to be addressed before they slip into a self-destructive suicidal spiral.
Psychotherapy is the confidential process where you can get insight from an experienced registered Psychologist in understanding how life-stressors can interfere with your thinking patterns, feelings, beliefs, needs, behaviour and relationships. Prolonged exposure to stress, unhappiness, conflict, trauma, abuse or problematic relationships can lead to anxiety, depression, grief, anger or other behavioural problems. Brain research clearly indicated that early psychological intervention can prevent mental and physical illnesses. Clients now have the opportunity to be proactive and learn the skills on how to protect their mental health, restore their competence and happiness and develop a strong sense of well-being and resiliency.
Children and Teens present more with anxiety, depression, cutting or anger outbursts, which needs to be addressed before they slip into a self-destructive suicidal spiral.
Psychotherapy is the confidential process where you can get insight from an experienced registered Psychologist in understanding how life-stressors can interfere with your thinking patterns, feelings, beliefs, needs, behaviour and relationships. Prolonged exposure to stress, unhappiness, conflict, trauma, abuse or problematic relationships can lead to anxiety, depression, grief, anger or other behavioural problems. Brain research clearly indicated that early psychological intervention can prevent mental and physical illnesses. Clients now have the opportunity to be proactive and learn the skills on how to protect their mental health, restore their competence and happiness and develop a strong sense of well-being and resiliency.
(778) 767-5948 View (778) 767-5948
Photo of Darlene Mathews, Registered Social Worker in Victoria, BC
Darlene Mathews
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MA, RCC, RSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8Z  (Online Only)
Vulnerability can make us feel very uncomfortable, but if we view it as a transition, into higher self-esteem/confidence & therefore more life resilience then it is much healthier to forge ahead to find a therapist who can support us. Finding the best fit in seeking a therapist is the most important step in relieving your stress. Many of us struggle with unhappiness, anxiety, depression, suicide ideation, sleep deprivation, separation, divorce, conflict resolution, trauma, relationship, and parenting issues, emotion regulation, communication and assertiveness, boundaries, personal development, caregiver burden and so much more
Vulnerability can make us feel very uncomfortable, but if we view it as a transition, into higher self-esteem/confidence & therefore more life resilience then it is much healthier to forge ahead to find a therapist who can support us. Finding the best fit in seeking a therapist is the most important step in relieving your stress. Many of us struggle with unhappiness, anxiety, depression, suicide ideation, sleep deprivation, separation, divorce, conflict resolution, trauma, relationship, and parenting issues, emotion regulation, communication and assertiveness, boundaries, personal development, caregiver burden and so much more
(226) 916-5346 View (226) 916-5346
Photo of Dawn Rabey, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Dawn Rabey
Counsellor, PhD, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R
I work with individuals who are seeking long-term depth psychotherapy. I support deep inquiry and on-going discovery of who you are, whether the draw is to access more of your creative potential, or to shift long-standing patterns that no longer serve you. It is not about perfection, but rather wholeness, which includes all parts of the Self; it is about living a full life, not a perfect life. I work with severe childhood trauma, personality disorders, dissociation, self-harm, eating disorders, suicidal ideation, and spiritual awakening. I also work with clients who are on a dedicated spiritual path.
I work with individuals who are seeking long-term depth psychotherapy. I support deep inquiry and on-going discovery of who you are, whether the draw is to access more of your creative potential, or to shift long-standing patterns that no longer serve you. It is not about perfection, but rather wholeness, which includes all parts of the Self; it is about living a full life, not a perfect life. I work with severe childhood trauma, personality disorders, dissociation, self-harm, eating disorders, suicidal ideation, and spiritual awakening. I also work with clients who are on a dedicated spiritual path.
(855) 524-0485 View (855) 524-0485
Photo of Barbara Gilmore, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Barbara Gilmore
Counsellor, RPC, MPCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8W
I focus on recognizing and managing changes in stress or mood such as anxiety, depression or suicide thoughts.
Overwhelm, stress, loss and change in our personal and professional lives; at work, at home, at play and in our relationships, is both common and very difficult to manage alone. As a registered counsellor in clinical counselling, I am certified to implement a variety of therapies, such as mindfulness based CBT, to understand and make meaning out of new or continued difficulties and changes in life.
I focus on recognizing and managing changes in stress or mood such as anxiety, depression or suicide thoughts.
Overwhelm, stress, loss and change in our personal and professional lives; at work, at home, at play and in our relationships, is both common and very difficult to manage alone. As a registered counsellor in clinical counselling, I am certified to implement a variety of therapies, such as mindfulness based CBT, to understand and make meaning out of new or continued difficulties and changes in life.
(888) 694-4022 View (888) 694-4022
Photo of Debbie Leung, Psychologist in Victoria, BC
Debbie Leung
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8Z
I am a Registered Psychologist and director of Wise Mind Centre, a Vancouver-based service that provides primarily cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and comprehensive dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to adolescents and adult clients and their loved ones. I work with clients who struggle with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, stress, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting difficulties, self-harm behavior, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties, and borderline personality disorder. My service could be offered in both English and Chinese.
I am a Registered Psychologist and director of Wise Mind Centre, a Vancouver-based service that provides primarily cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and comprehensive dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to adolescents and adult clients and their loved ones. I work with clients who struggle with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, stress, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting difficulties, self-harm behavior, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties, and borderline personality disorder. My service could be offered in both English and Chinese.
(877) 594-7727 View (877) 594-7727
Photo of Chiron Centre for Mental Health & Trauma Inc, Registered Social Worker in Victoria, BC
Chiron Centre for Mental Health & Trauma Inc
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9C  (Online Only)
From a very young age, I knew my purpose was to help others. I’ve dedicated my life to fighting social injustices, learning therapeutic modalities, and holding space. Between my formal education & training, and my lived experiences, I offer a unique perspective as a wounded healer and witness to support you on your journey. I strive to provide quality, professional, evidence-based clinical services to individuals who are living with complex mental health concerns, while offering collaborative trauma-informed counselling services through the lens of attachment theory.
From a very young age, I knew my purpose was to help others. I’ve dedicated my life to fighting social injustices, learning therapeutic modalities, and holding space. Between my formal education & training, and my lived experiences, I offer a unique perspective as a wounded healer and witness to support you on your journey. I strive to provide quality, professional, evidence-based clinical services to individuals who are living with complex mental health concerns, while offering collaborative trauma-informed counselling services through the lens of attachment theory.
(431) 441-3731 View (431) 441-3731
Photo of Natalie Smith, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Natalie Smith
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9A
If you have landed here, you or someone you know is in need of counselling and support. I am here to help, listen, and build a plan for change and moving forward with hope. I offer in-person, remote and nature-based, counselling services to assist clients, particularly children and teens, move towards improving their mental health, lifestyle and mindset. Our work together will hopefully develop a deeper understanding for how to develop the personal tools you need to build towards the life you want.
If you have landed here, you or someone you know is in need of counselling and support. I am here to help, listen, and build a plan for change and moving forward with hope. I offer in-person, remote and nature-based, counselling services to assist clients, particularly children and teens, move towards improving their mental health, lifestyle and mindset. Our work together will hopefully develop a deeper understanding for how to develop the personal tools you need to build towards the life you want.
(709) 800-2175 View (709) 800-2175
Photo of NW Books and Therapy, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
NW Books and Therapy
Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8X  (Online Only)
My practice is person-centered, strength-based, trauma informed. I think that each person coming to therapy is unique. Each person attempts to do the best possible with the resources available. Each person has wisdom, creativity, and strength, and is the authority in their life. Doing counselling means providing a safer space for you to tell your story. And it is a space for us to have conversations and to work together. Starting in January 2024, I will begin taking 3rd party insurance.
My practice is person-centered, strength-based, trauma informed. I think that each person coming to therapy is unique. Each person attempts to do the best possible with the resources available. Each person has wisdom, creativity, and strength, and is the authority in their life. Doing counselling means providing a safer space for you to tell your story. And it is a space for us to have conversations and to work together. Starting in January 2024, I will begin taking 3rd party insurance.
(236) 837-0280 View (236) 837-0280
Photo of Amy Moser, Psychologist in Victoria, BC
Amy Moser
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9B
Understanding the challenges of being a parent with a child who struggles in school can be overwhelming, especially when an assessment is recommended. As a Registered Psychologist specializing in child assessment and counselling, I provide clarity and support through these complex times. My practice is dedicated to helping you navigate this journey, ensuring your child receives the comprehensive care they need to thrive academically and personally. Let's work together to turn these challenges into stepping stones for success. Regenerate response
Understanding the challenges of being a parent with a child who struggles in school can be overwhelming, especially when an assessment is recommended. As a Registered Psychologist specializing in child assessment and counselling, I provide clarity and support through these complex times. My practice is dedicated to helping you navigate this journey, ensuring your child receives the comprehensive care they need to thrive academically and personally. Let's work together to turn these challenges into stepping stones for success. Regenerate response
(587) 806-4052 x250886 View (587) 806-4052 x250886
Photo of Sarah Montes, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Sarah Montes
Counsellor, BscN, MACP, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9B
Hello! I am Sarah and I live and work on the homelands of the Hul’qumi’num People. I am a trauma therapist and primarily use Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and EMDR to work with individuals on their path to a healthy and integrated life. After working in physical and mental health professions for more than 15 years, I shifted to private practice mental health counselling as a means of helping clients enhance their resilience and coping skills.  I aim to ensure a non-judgemental environment and welcome all clients, offering a safe place to tell your story. You are not alone.
Hello! I am Sarah and I live and work on the homelands of the Hul’qumi’num People. I am a trauma therapist and primarily use Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and EMDR to work with individuals on their path to a healthy and integrated life. After working in physical and mental health professions for more than 15 years, I shifted to private practice mental health counselling as a means of helping clients enhance their resilience and coping skills.  I aim to ensure a non-judgemental environment and welcome all clients, offering a safe place to tell your story. You are not alone.
(604) 227-1749 View (604) 227-1749
Photo of Kyla Bodenham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, BC
Kyla Bodenham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9B
I am a mental health counsellor in Colwood. I have a Masters in clinical social work from the University of Calgary and I am a registered social worker with the BC College of Social Workers. I have over ten years experience working with children, youth and families through various community agencies and have now created my own practice, Breakwater Counselling Services. I work with a trauma informed lens and continuously strive to create a safe and non-judgemental collaborative environment.
I am a mental health counsellor in Colwood. I have a Masters in clinical social work from the University of Calgary and I am a registered social worker with the BC College of Social Workers. I have over ten years experience working with children, youth and families through various community agencies and have now created my own practice, Breakwater Counselling Services. I work with a trauma informed lens and continuously strive to create a safe and non-judgemental collaborative environment.
(873) 363-0185 View (873) 363-0185
Photo of The ADHD & Relationship Centre, Licensed Professional Counsellor in Victoria, BC
The ADHD & Relationship Centre
Licensed Professional Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W  (Online Only)
People with ADHD are bright, empathetic, and creative. We often struggle with harnessing our uniquely wired brains to fit into a world built for neurotypicals. We know we are capable of so much more, but we're functioning well under that capacity. Examples of the issues we experience include time management, organization, remembering things and motivating ourselves to do things. Other forms of mental illness may accompany our ADHD. However, with some support, we can improve our systems for functioning in ways that are actually fun. We can also improve our intimate relationships, which makes life better all-round.
People with ADHD are bright, empathetic, and creative. We often struggle with harnessing our uniquely wired brains to fit into a world built for neurotypicals. We know we are capable of so much more, but we're functioning well under that capacity. Examples of the issues we experience include time management, organization, remembering things and motivating ourselves to do things. Other forms of mental illness may accompany our ADHD. However, with some support, we can improve our systems for functioning in ways that are actually fun. We can also improve our intimate relationships, which makes life better all-round.
(343) 312-5489 View (343) 312-5489
Photo of Dana Clavette, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Dana Clavette
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T  (Online Only)
Have you lived overseas, experienced trauma, PTSD, burn out, or would like to be living a life that you dream of? I believe in your resiliency and capacity to overcome challenges and create dynamic, transformative changes in your own life and in the world around you, no matter how big or small you want them to be. Taking the time to rest, recognize new shifts and steps can be an impactful momentum builder to help work towards the change that you would like to happen. By working through your barriers or creating a clear vision, you can bring your life into closer alignment with your dreams.
Have you lived overseas, experienced trauma, PTSD, burn out, or would like to be living a life that you dream of? I believe in your resiliency and capacity to overcome challenges and create dynamic, transformative changes in your own life and in the world around you, no matter how big or small you want them to be. Taking the time to rest, recognize new shifts and steps can be an impactful momentum builder to help work towards the change that you would like to happen. By working through your barriers or creating a clear vision, you can bring your life into closer alignment with your dreams.
(581) 807-8242 View (581) 807-8242
Photo of Mountain Gate Psychotherapy, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Mountain Gate Psychotherapy
Counsellor, PhD(c), MSc, BSc
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9A
I specialize in working with adults and teenagers experiencing depression and anxiety. I also work with people experiencing trauma, spiritual crisis, relationship issues, loneliness, problems due to medication, and stress in many forms. A block of time in my practice is kept open daily for those in crisis, who cannot find adequate support through the public system. I also work with couples wishing to heal relational concerns, and those with an inclination towards spiritual practice/life. I am LGBTQ2S+ friendly and welcome people from all faith backgrounds and walks of life. Sessions are available in-person, by email, and via video.
I specialize in working with adults and teenagers experiencing depression and anxiety. I also work with people experiencing trauma, spiritual crisis, relationship issues, loneliness, problems due to medication, and stress in many forms. A block of time in my practice is kept open daily for those in crisis, who cannot find adequate support through the public system. I also work with couples wishing to heal relational concerns, and those with an inclination towards spiritual practice/life. I am LGBTQ2S+ friendly and welcome people from all faith backgrounds and walks of life. Sessions are available in-person, by email, and via video.
(306) 988-4692 View (306) 988-4692
Photo of Lesley Porterfield, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Lesley Porterfield
Counsellor, RCC, MACP, BEd, ECE
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8N
Accepting new clients (updated April 2024). Website: https://contactcoastal.ca. I will listen without judgement, and offer unconditional support. We will explore what it is you're going through in a safe environment so that you can gain better understanding and find possibilities to move forward. If an office doesn't suit you, we can meet virtually.
Accepting new clients (updated April 2024). Website: https://contactcoastal.ca. I will listen without judgement, and offer unconditional support. We will explore what it is you're going through in a safe environment so that you can gain better understanding and find possibilities to move forward. If an office doesn't suit you, we can meet virtually.
(782) 312-0140 View (782) 312-0140
Photo of Annabelle Picard, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Annabelle Picard
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R
I strongly believes that everyone is doing the best they can with the strategies they have. I am deeply committed to meeting every person where they are at and supporting them through exploration that is both collaborative and proactive in nature, towards what you deem a more fulfilling path forward. As a mother of two children, I empathizes with the emotional weight and responsibility of parenting. My practice is focused on intensifying the connection between caregiver and child and providing practical, feel-good tools and strategies. I work with children, teens, individuals and their families aged 5 plus.
I strongly believes that everyone is doing the best they can with the strategies they have. I am deeply committed to meeting every person where they are at and supporting them through exploration that is both collaborative and proactive in nature, towards what you deem a more fulfilling path forward. As a mother of two children, I empathizes with the emotional weight and responsibility of parenting. My practice is focused on intensifying the connection between caregiver and child and providing practical, feel-good tools and strategies. I work with children, teens, individuals and their families aged 5 plus.
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Suicidal Ideation Counsellors

How does therapy for suicidal ideation work?

Stress, depression, anxiety, or upsetting circumstances can give rise to suicidal thinking. Therapy can address the events at the core of an individual’s suffering. Understanding why a person may be suicidal can help the therapist and the patient discover alternative methods of coping. A person with suicidal ideation may be mired in catastrophic thinking, and treatment like cognitive behavioural therapy is a good choice for breaking such patterns. In addition, treatment such as acceptance and commitment therapy can help a person manage their distress through better emotion regulation.

Which therapies are best for suicidal ideation?

Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioural, dialectical behaviour, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioural and dialectical behaviour therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful thoughts and past traumas. These therapies help an individual tolerate distress, regulate emotions, and not act on dangerous urges.

Are there specific medications to be combined with therapy?

The use of medication for suicidal thoughts must be aligned with the underlying cause; conditions such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis may be at the root of suicidal ideation. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for symptoms, which may include antipsychotics such as aripiprazole or antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

How often and how long are therapy sessions for suicidal ideation?

As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, while others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. Still other patients, especially those with co-occurring conditions like major depression and anxiety, may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months. In some cases, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm.