Therapists in Nanaimo, BC
Sarah Schermerhorn Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Hello, if you are reading this, it means you have taken the first step in your counselling journey. I stronly believe in a “come as you are” counselling approach that is centred around the belief that all individuals have the capacity for change. Whether it is a mental health concern or needing support around improving your relationships, career, and day-to-day life. As a queer woman (preferred pronouns she/her), I am passionate about movement for mood, empowering healthy bodies, self-love, and honouring the courage it takes to start the journey of healing.
Hello, if you are reading this, it means you have taken the first step in your counselling journey. I stronly believe in a “come as you are” counselling approach that is centred around the belief that all individuals have the capacity for change. Whether it is a mental health concern or needing support around improving your relationships, career, and day-to-day life. As a queer woman (preferred pronouns she/her), I am passionate about movement for mood, empowering healthy bodies, self-love, and honouring the courage it takes to start the journey of healing.
Eden Dratva
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Not accepting new clients
Currently not accepting new clients. I am a trauma-specific therapist and offer support to children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing mental health symptoms such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use or relationship difficulties. These symptoms may be rooted in trauma, abuse or wounds from the past or you may be experiencing them for the first time; no matter your circumstance, I am here to listen. I also work with new and expectant mothers who may be struggling with postpartum anxiety or depression, intrusive thoughts, rage, loss of identity, or transitioning into their new role as a caregiver.
Currently not accepting new clients. I am a trauma-specific therapist and offer support to children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing mental health symptoms such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use or relationship difficulties. These symptoms may be rooted in trauma, abuse or wounds from the past or you may be experiencing them for the first time; no matter your circumstance, I am here to listen. I also work with new and expectant mothers who may be struggling with postpartum anxiety or depression, intrusive thoughts, rage, loss of identity, or transitioning into their new role as a caregiver.
Lindy Devine Counselling
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
I have been working as a counsellor for 28 years and my work focuses on addiction and trauma issues. They often go hand in hand but not always as each person is unique. The focus of my counselling work is very respectful as I acknowledge that you know yourself best. Most people seek out counselling because they are stuck in old patterns that they have outgrown yet need help to move forward in a new, more helpful way. I appreciate the courage it takes to reach out and I will work hard to help you make the changes you need.
I have been working as a counsellor for 28 years and my work focuses on addiction and trauma issues. They often go hand in hand but not always as each person is unique. The focus of my counselling work is very respectful as I acknowledge that you know yourself best. Most people seek out counselling because they are stuck in old patterns that they have outgrown yet need help to move forward in a new, more helpful way. I appreciate the courage it takes to reach out and I will work hard to help you make the changes you need.
Catherine Franz
Counsellor, BSc, MPH, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Counselling can help individuals and couples in times of challenge by offering a judgement free space to be heard, explore solutions, and to expand perspectives and create the space for healing to occur. Clients seek counselling when they are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, relationship challenges, issues with trust and communication, infidelity and or conflict management. I believe effective therapy is relationship-driven. I invite you to start on a journey where together we face the challenges or struggles you encounter.
Counselling can help individuals and couples in times of challenge by offering a judgement free space to be heard, explore solutions, and to expand perspectives and create the space for healing to occur. Clients seek counselling when they are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, relationship challenges, issues with trust and communication, infidelity and or conflict management. I believe effective therapy is relationship-driven. I invite you to start on a journey where together we face the challenges or struggles you encounter.
Erin McPherson
Counsellor, RCC, MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9T
As a counsellor I show up just as I am and offer a genuine, heartfelt, relaxed environment with very little clinical feel. I intend to do this so that you will feel as comfortable walking into my office as you would walking into a friend’s living room. The relationship we will create together will be one of value, tailored to your individual needs and reasons for seeking therapy. I typically work with individuals ages 13 and over with various mental health concerns from struggling with day to day life from home, work, school, to relationships, high level athletes, to addiction and recovery. This is about you and your needs.
As a counsellor I show up just as I am and offer a genuine, heartfelt, relaxed environment with very little clinical feel. I intend to do this so that you will feel as comfortable walking into my office as you would walking into a friend’s living room. The relationship we will create together will be one of value, tailored to your individual needs and reasons for seeking therapy. I typically work with individuals ages 13 and over with various mental health concerns from struggling with day to day life from home, work, school, to relationships, high level athletes, to addiction and recovery. This is about you and your needs.
Pauline Goh
Counsellor, MA, RCC, FOT
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Not accepting new clients
Do you find yourself repeating a cycle over and over again? Have you been reacting and feeling triggered? Or noticing blocks in the way of the life you want? Researching about what help is available is your first step. My psychotherapy work is not informed by a diagnostic lens with labels; rather, it references the client as a "whole" being on their own unique human journey. I feel privileged to be able to accompany my clients to witness what is in the "here and now," to help with the healing and unfolding process, and to deepen their awareness and consciousness. First Nations clients who qualify for FNHA services attend for free.
Do you find yourself repeating a cycle over and over again? Have you been reacting and feeling triggered? Or noticing blocks in the way of the life you want? Researching about what help is available is your first step. My psychotherapy work is not informed by a diagnostic lens with labels; rather, it references the client as a "whole" being on their own unique human journey. I feel privileged to be able to accompany my clients to witness what is in the "here and now," to help with the healing and unfolding process, and to deepen their awareness and consciousness. First Nations clients who qualify for FNHA services attend for free.
Danika Bazant
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
I work with individuals 18+ navigating interpersonal issues, life transitions and processing trauma. My approach is personable and relational, and I will help you get to the root of what is bothering you and assist you in addressing it in a direct way.
I work with individuals 18+ navigating interpersonal issues, life transitions and processing trauma. My approach is personable and relational, and I will help you get to the root of what is bothering you and assist you in addressing it in a direct way.
Sean Cameron
Registered Social Worker, RCC, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9T (Online Only)
I offer depth psychotherapy that honours healing, change, and the need for results to clients across Canada. I help my clients discover and confront inner truths that both drive their behaviour and hold the keys to their freedom.
I offer depth psychotherapy that honours healing, change, and the need for results to clients across Canada. I help my clients discover and confront inner truths that both drive their behaviour and hold the keys to their freedom.
Autumn Fowler
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9T
You’re a new parent whose relationship before kids is a distant memory. You don’t know how the happy vision of starting a family together turned into arguing about packing diaper bags and lunches and silent evenings on opposite sides of the couch. You don’t have energy to go on a date let alone take care of yourself. In fact, I bet you’re reading this profile during the few moments that your tiny humans are asleep.You’re exhausted, and you don’t know how you will find time to dedicate towards therapy, but you know something has to change. If it doesn’t, you’re worried about the consequences for your relationship or your children.
You’re a new parent whose relationship before kids is a distant memory. You don’t know how the happy vision of starting a family together turned into arguing about packing diaper bags and lunches and silent evenings on opposite sides of the couch. You don’t have energy to go on a date let alone take care of yourself. In fact, I bet you’re reading this profile during the few moments that your tiny humans are asleep.You’re exhausted, and you don’t know how you will find time to dedicate towards therapy, but you know something has to change. If it doesn’t, you’re worried about the consequences for your relationship or your children.
Gina Janzen Psychology Services
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
I have been working as a registered psychologist since 2008. It's important to me to create a safe, caring respectful environment where anyone, no matter who they are, feels welcome. The relationship between us is one of the most important factors in determining how helpful counselling with me will be. Clients often come to me with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, difficulties with life transitions, and grief or loss. We will work together to develop a plan to deal effectively with the issues that bring you to see me. (Can also contact by Fax: 250.984.0859)
I have been working as a registered psychologist since 2008. It's important to me to create a safe, caring respectful environment where anyone, no matter who they are, feels welcome. The relationship between us is one of the most important factors in determining how helpful counselling with me will be. Clients often come to me with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, difficulties with life transitions, and grief or loss. We will work together to develop a plan to deal effectively with the issues that bring you to see me. (Can also contact by Fax: 250.984.0859)
Geraldine Potter
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. If you are feeling like life’s challenges are stressing you out, and getting in the way of you being the person you want to be, then you have come to the right place. I can support you to a place of calm and help enact lasting change so you can know yourself as peaceful, complete, and safe. Problems can appear insurmountable, and our ability to find a way through alone daunting. I can help you to tap into yourself and find a renewed sense that change is achievable.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. If you are feeling like life’s challenges are stressing you out, and getting in the way of you being the person you want to be, then you have come to the right place. I can support you to a place of calm and help enact lasting change so you can know yourself as peaceful, complete, and safe. Problems can appear insurmountable, and our ability to find a way through alone daunting. I can help you to tap into yourself and find a renewed sense that change is achievable.
15 Second Videos
Autumn Fowler
Strength Counselling Services
Chrissandra Unger, Counsellor & Expressive Arts
Carolyn Clarke Programs
Meghan Marr
J. Woychuk Counselling and Psychotherapy
Maureen Manning
Breath Control Therapy
Kathryn Joy Atkinson
Denea Maughan
Alice Curitz
Liam Murray
Dean Henry Laviolette
Sutton Counselling and Coaching
Sharon Lindsay
Janice Michieli Counselling Services
Veronique Rioux
Faye Shedletzky
Chad Northcott
Trishia Unrau
Lauren Aebig
Marie J Landry
Melissa Davies
Suha Nouri Sagban
Earl Blacklock
Tara Watters
The ADHD & Relationship Centre
Lindsay Haverslew
Healthy Relationships BC
Graham Bleasdale
Surrender To Hope Counselling
Chloe McKinley
Sarah Lambert
Michael McNally
Megan Gasparotto
Amani Counselling Services
Beverly M Stretch
Mark Giesbrecht
Leslie Sanderson
Ross Jenkins
Tanya Rolfe
Simone Duff
Robin Jacobs
Sonder Haven Counselling
Strength Counselling Services
Anja Hess
Womb Wellness
Timothy J Pare
Helen Beynon
Russell Stagg
Erin Kristine Todsen
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Life is hard to enjoy when you're not getting through to your kids, spouse or family. Maybe you miss being carefree and less snappy. The family is disconnected and everyone is doing their own thing. It's difficult to get motivated to come together and when you do, it doesn't go well. Handling typical life challenges is difficult and no one is listening. No wonder your fuse is short and the kids are quick to yell or cry. It's like there's a pattern that can't be stopped. Feeling overwhelmed is normal in this situation. This is hard and we can start to make sense of things so you can feel better!
Life is hard to enjoy when you're not getting through to your kids, spouse or family. Maybe you miss being carefree and less snappy. The family is disconnected and everyone is doing their own thing. It's difficult to get motivated to come together and when you do, it doesn't go well. Handling typical life challenges is difficult and no one is listening. No wonder your fuse is short and the kids are quick to yell or cry. It's like there's a pattern that can't be stopped. Feeling overwhelmed is normal in this situation. This is hard and we can start to make sense of things so you can feel better!
Cady Redford
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
As human beings, it is inevitable that we will be challenged to navigate our way through hardships and obstacles of life. The process of self-discovery and healing can feel complicated and overwhelming. Allow me to acknowledge your perspective and help you in identifying your needs, sense of direction, and steps toward self-empowerment. I believe that collaborating with individuals is the most effective way to promote healing, increased self-awareness, and emotional growth. If you are ready to invest in yourself and your wellness, let’s take that step together.
As human beings, it is inevitable that we will be challenged to navigate our way through hardships and obstacles of life. The process of self-discovery and healing can feel complicated and overwhelming. Allow me to acknowledge your perspective and help you in identifying your needs, sense of direction, and steps toward self-empowerment. I believe that collaborating with individuals is the most effective way to promote healing, increased self-awareness, and emotional growth. If you are ready to invest in yourself and your wellness, let’s take that step together.
Michelle Gilligan
Licensed Professional Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
It is part of being human to at times feel stressed, stuck, overwhelmed, or discouraged - wanting some kind of change but finding that things stay the same in spite of our efforts. There are understandable reasons for this. We have a human mind that tries to keep us safe but can limit us to seeing things in the same old ways. We inhabit a human body with a complex nervous system. We live in relationship with other people and have developed patterns of relating. We may have had difficult experiences that have put our mind and body into a “protective mode”. And with support, we have great capacity for healing and growth.
It is part of being human to at times feel stressed, stuck, overwhelmed, or discouraged - wanting some kind of change but finding that things stay the same in spite of our efforts. There are understandable reasons for this. We have a human mind that tries to keep us safe but can limit us to seeing things in the same old ways. We inhabit a human body with a complex nervous system. We live in relationship with other people and have developed patterns of relating. We may have had difficult experiences that have put our mind and body into a “protective mode”. And with support, we have great capacity for healing and growth.
Diane Klaws
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, RSW
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9T (Online Only)
I have worked with people who have experienced intergenerational abuses who struggle with a variety of addiction. I have worked with people who struggle with anger, depression, coping, parenting styles, communication, and organization of daily tasks.
I have worked with people who have experienced intergenerational abuses who struggle with a variety of addiction. I have worked with people who struggle with anger, depression, coping, parenting styles, communication, and organization of daily tasks.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
Valerie Laura Kuilboer
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, MA, ICADC, CCAC, CCCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9T
I have 30 years of work experience in the area of substance abuse and concurrent disorders, in various roles such as Director of Clinical Services at a Residential Treatment Center, an Inpatient and Outpatient Counselor. I have extensive clinical experience working with individuals, couples and families within an outpatient clinic setting, school based prevention program, harm reduction program and a withdrawal management program. I have presented addiction workshops within both a community and university setting for the public and professional sector.
I have 30 years of work experience in the area of substance abuse and concurrent disorders, in various roles such as Director of Clinical Services at a Residential Treatment Center, an Inpatient and Outpatient Counselor. I have extensive clinical experience working with individuals, couples and families within an outpatient clinic setting, school based prevention program, harm reduction program and a withdrawal management program. I have presented addiction workshops within both a community and university setting for the public and professional sector.
Chris Walker
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
My ideal client has often dug themselves into a hole into which they can not get out of on their own. The issues will be related to a difficult relationship of some description, partner, family, community, finance, environment, financial, and certainly themselves. It is likely that their goals are uncertain and that they feel lost. Very often, my ideal client does not know what they want, but can with certainty say what they don't want.
My ideal client has often dug themselves into a hole into which they can not get out of on their own. The issues will be related to a difficult relationship of some description, partner, family, community, finance, environment, financial, and certainly themselves. It is likely that their goals are uncertain and that they feel lost. Very often, my ideal client does not know what they want, but can with certainty say what they don't want.
Zoe Olson
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9T
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC 11661) who believes passionately in the human-spirit’s ability to heal and overcome adversity when we face issues such as a mental health disorder, trauma, increase in stress, life transition or loss. At times we may have difficulty accessing our inner healing resources, thus the support of a mental health professional may be needed. It would be my honour to walk beside you on your journey to improve your mental health. I work with youth, individual adults and parents/caregivers in my practice located in Nanaimo, BC.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC 11661) who believes passionately in the human-spirit’s ability to heal and overcome adversity when we face issues such as a mental health disorder, trauma, increase in stress, life transition or loss. At times we may have difficulty accessing our inner healing resources, thus the support of a mental health professional may be needed. It would be my honour to walk beside you on your journey to improve your mental health. I work with youth, individual adults and parents/caregivers in my practice located in Nanaimo, BC.
Sarah Lake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCC, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
I work with families youth and adults who are struggling and wanting to find ways to make improvements. It is my role to assist you in developing clear goals and implementing practical and effective strategies for positive change.
I work with families youth and adults who are struggling and wanting to find ways to make improvements. It is my role to assist you in developing clear goals and implementing practical and effective strategies for positive change.
See more therapy options for Nanaimo
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Nanaimo, BC
200+
Average cost per session
$140
Counsellors in Nanaimo, BC who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
82% | Depression |
81% | Self Esteem |
79% | Relationship Issues |
78% | Stress |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
52% | First Nations Health Authority |
39% | Pacific Blue Cross |
38% | Green Shield Canada |
How Counsellors in Nanaimo, BC see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
16% | Male | |
4% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Nanaimo?
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.