Therapists in Victoria, BC
In Sanskrit, the human condition is known as "PurashArth" translated as the meaning of existence. That is we all want to be happy, we work towards being happy, and we seek eternal happiness. In my practice and personal lived experience, I have observed that we all have a desire to be 'seen', and 'heard', this is how we feel included. When these three are missing, we become stuck here and do not know how to step out into our true Self. I strongly believe that once we make that choice to seek our true Self, together the therapist and client evolve toward their goals. To find that peace and joy that is not in the far distance but here.
In Sanskrit, the human condition is known as "PurashArth" translated as the meaning of existence. That is we all want to be happy, we work towards being happy, and we seek eternal happiness. In my practice and personal lived experience, I have observed that we all have a desire to be 'seen', and 'heard', this is how we feel included. When these three are missing, we become stuck here and do not know how to step out into our true Self. I strongly believe that once we make that choice to seek our true Self, together the therapist and client evolve toward their goals. To find that peace and joy that is not in the far distance but here.
Melissa Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R (Online Only)
You thought you knew exactly where you were headed in life—until one day, you didn't. Maybe you know why. Maybe you don't. All you know is that you're so tired of trying to live life by everyone else's rules. You're ready to discover your own path, without apology—to let go of the self-doubt, the critical inner voice and the fear of others’ judgment that's been holding you back. You know you are ready for something new, but you don't want to do it alone. Change feels hard and scary—but even more, you're scared of being stuck. You’re ready to start walking your own authentic path…you just need some support to make it happen.
You thought you knew exactly where you were headed in life—until one day, you didn't. Maybe you know why. Maybe you don't. All you know is that you're so tired of trying to live life by everyone else's rules. You're ready to discover your own path, without apology—to let go of the self-doubt, the critical inner voice and the fear of others’ judgment that's been holding you back. You know you are ready for something new, but you don't want to do it alone. Change feels hard and scary—but even more, you're scared of being stuck. You’re ready to start walking your own authentic path…you just need some support to make it happen.
Using a heart-led approach to counselling, I integrate self-compassion, mindfulness, and somatic movement to explore the parts of you that make up Self. Through this approach, we lovingly challenge the Ego to connect with the heart to allow more space to live authentically. Informed by my intuition and anchoring into the present moment, I take a relational approach to navigate challenges and move through suffering. By learning to understand how your mind, body, and spirit, when connected, become your superpower, we will discover that you are more resilient and capable than you think and your whole world will change.
Using a heart-led approach to counselling, I integrate self-compassion, mindfulness, and somatic movement to explore the parts of you that make up Self. Through this approach, we lovingly challenge the Ego to connect with the heart to allow more space to live authentically. Informed by my intuition and anchoring into the present moment, I take a relational approach to navigate challenges and move through suffering. By learning to understand how your mind, body, and spirit, when connected, become your superpower, we will discover that you are more resilient and capable than you think and your whole world will change.
I have a strong passion for supporting the well-being of children/youth and assisting individuals and families going through various challenges, including family transitions, relationship/family support, parenting support, depression/anxiety, self-esteem/confidence, international student support, and language/cultural differences.
I have a strong passion for supporting the well-being of children/youth and assisting individuals and families going through various challenges, including family transitions, relationship/family support, parenting support, depression/anxiety, self-esteem/confidence, international student support, and language/cultural differences.
I celebrate diversity, and seek to help individuals understand how their identities and the social world around them impact their mental wellness. My specializations are identity (including sexual, gender, ethnic and religious), relationships/marriage, and chronic pain and disability. I use a variety of tools with a foundation of nonjudgemental, affirmative therapy. Together, we will use tools that suit your strengths and needs to explore issues related to identity, self esteem, depression, anxiety, grief, interpersonal relationships, and more.
I celebrate diversity, and seek to help individuals understand how their identities and the social world around them impact their mental wellness. My specializations are identity (including sexual, gender, ethnic and religious), relationships/marriage, and chronic pain and disability. I use a variety of tools with a foundation of nonjudgemental, affirmative therapy. Together, we will use tools that suit your strengths and needs to explore issues related to identity, self esteem, depression, anxiety, grief, interpersonal relationships, and more.
Jennifer approaches therapy from a trauma-informed perspective because problems often stem from early experiences that influence present emotions, behaviors, and experiences. Anxiety, depression, relational issues, eating disorders, and emotional struggles, are examples of trauma that originate somewhere in our history. Trauma is not necessarily reserved for those who experienced accidents, first-responders, or recipients or witnesses of violent acts; trauma is often a result of receiving negative information about ourselves early on from caregivers or others in our environment.
Jennifer approaches therapy from a trauma-informed perspective because problems often stem from early experiences that influence present emotions, behaviors, and experiences. Anxiety, depression, relational issues, eating disorders, and emotional struggles, are examples of trauma that originate somewhere in our history. Trauma is not necessarily reserved for those who experienced accidents, first-responders, or recipients or witnesses of violent acts; trauma is often a result of receiving negative information about ourselves early on from caregivers or others in our environment.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia and I am happy to work with clients virtually throughout the province. I believe counselling is an important component in cultivating peace and justice in our world and I see connections to community & with nature as fundamental to our health and well-being.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia and I am happy to work with clients virtually throughout the province. I believe counselling is an important component in cultivating peace and justice in our world and I see connections to community & with nature as fundamental to our health and well-being.
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.
I approach my work through a two-eyed seeing framework, holding both western modalities and Indigenous ways of knowing, doing, and being close to my heart. My practice is decolonial, person centered and strengths based, and includes modalities such as narrative, emotion focused, and solution focused.
I approach my work through a two-eyed seeing framework, holding both western modalities and Indigenous ways of knowing, doing, and being close to my heart. My practice is decolonial, person centered and strengths based, and includes modalities such as narrative, emotion focused, and solution focused.
Life is nuanced and intricate. Occasionally things happen in our lives that we can't fully make sense of. Other times, we just need a safe space to unfold, feel heard and be understood. I work in a client-led, compassionate and inquisitive way that allows insights and deeper truths to emerge. I love helping clients uncover unmet needs and long-held desires so that they can embrace themselves more fully. I especially love to work with clients navigating non-monogamy or those exploring their gender, sexuality and neurodivergence.
Life is nuanced and intricate. Occasionally things happen in our lives that we can't fully make sense of. Other times, we just need a safe space to unfold, feel heard and be understood. I work in a client-led, compassionate and inquisitive way that allows insights and deeper truths to emerge. I love helping clients uncover unmet needs and long-held desires so that they can embrace themselves more fully. I especially love to work with clients navigating non-monogamy or those exploring their gender, sexuality and neurodivergence.
Maggie Claydon Counselling
Counsellor, RCC, PsyD, MA, BSc
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9B (Online Only)
My counselling sessions incorporate: 1) Understanding a client and a client's issue(s) in an empathic and non-judgmental space through a holistic lens (psychological, physiological, sociological and spiritual) 2) Helping clients build new skills through emotional/somatic regulation practices, changing thought patterns and processing the personal blocks to change 3) Moving through and processing old memories and patterns that aren't serving a client 4) Moving forward and creating the life that aligns for the client. Finding meaning, purpose, fulfillment and enjoyment in a new life!
My counselling sessions incorporate: 1) Understanding a client and a client's issue(s) in an empathic and non-judgmental space through a holistic lens (psychological, physiological, sociological and spiritual) 2) Helping clients build new skills through emotional/somatic regulation practices, changing thought patterns and processing the personal blocks to change 3) Moving through and processing old memories and patterns that aren't serving a client 4) Moving forward and creating the life that aligns for the client. Finding meaning, purpose, fulfillment and enjoyment in a new life!
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Heather’s experience stems from her work with survivors of abuse and trauma. She has had the honour of walking alongside children, adolescents, adults, and families as they navigate challenges arising from all forms of violence including depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, OCD, self-injury, attachment trauma, addiction, emotion dysregulation, and other concurrent mental health conditions. She views wellbeing from a systemic and intersectional feminist lens, helping clients make sense of their concerns in a way that reduces self-blame and encourages self-efficacy.
Heather’s experience stems from her work with survivors of abuse and trauma. She has had the honour of walking alongside children, adolescents, adults, and families as they navigate challenges arising from all forms of violence including depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, OCD, self-injury, attachment trauma, addiction, emotion dysregulation, and other concurrent mental health conditions. She views wellbeing from a systemic and intersectional feminist lens, helping clients make sense of their concerns in a way that reduces self-blame and encourages self-efficacy.
My goal is to honour the best in you while holistically making space for what it means to be a human on this weird, wonderful, messy, precious, sublime adventure we call life. I am mindful of the immense courage and vulnerability it takes to enlist the support of a helping professional and honour this by bringing my most authentic, present, and respectful self to each and every therapeutic interaction.
My goal is to honour the best in you while holistically making space for what it means to be a human on this weird, wonderful, messy, precious, sublime adventure we call life. I am mindful of the immense courage and vulnerability it takes to enlist the support of a helping professional and honour this by bringing my most authentic, present, and respectful self to each and every therapeutic interaction.
Within challenge there is opportunity for growth and healing. Any crisis, while intensely difficult, can also put you in touch with your deeper yearnings and surface new strengths and resilience. Without support and guidance though, you can get stuck in painful places. Your life may feel lacking or out-of-control. You may feel overwhelming grief, depression, anxiety & panic. You may struggle to make meaning or be unsure which way to turn. When stress and suffering feel like too much to bear, please reach out for help. We will bring compassionate awareness to your challenges while nurturing your everyday wellbeing and wholeness.
Within challenge there is opportunity for growth and healing. Any crisis, while intensely difficult, can also put you in touch with your deeper yearnings and surface new strengths and resilience. Without support and guidance though, you can get stuck in painful places. Your life may feel lacking or out-of-control. You may feel overwhelming grief, depression, anxiety & panic. You may struggle to make meaning or be unsure which way to turn. When stress and suffering feel like too much to bear, please reach out for help. We will bring compassionate awareness to your challenges while nurturing your everyday wellbeing and wholeness.
I'm a compassionate, curious therapist offering trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming online counselling to individuals. Though my clients are all unique and come from a diverse range of backgrounds, I often work with autistic people, ADHD'ers, other neurodivergencies, and LGBTQIA2S+ folx - and maybe all of those in one beautiful human!
I'm a compassionate, curious therapist offering trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming online counselling to individuals. Though my clients are all unique and come from a diverse range of backgrounds, I often work with autistic people, ADHD'ers, other neurodivergencies, and LGBTQIA2S+ folx - and maybe all of those in one beautiful human!
I am currently accepting new clients with daytime availability and work with couples and individuals in my practice. Using a collaborative, supportive, and non-judgemental approach, I empower clients to work towards their goals, overcome obstacles, and create new, healthier patterns in their lives. I help a wide variety of clients with anxiety, depression, body image issues, life transitions, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, and other challenges. Please feel free to book yourself into my schedule via emmadonaldcounselling.janeapp.com or reach out to me to ask any questions and learn more about my approach!
I am currently accepting new clients with daytime availability and work with couples and individuals in my practice. Using a collaborative, supportive, and non-judgemental approach, I empower clients to work towards their goals, overcome obstacles, and create new, healthier patterns in their lives. I help a wide variety of clients with anxiety, depression, body image issues, life transitions, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, and other challenges. Please feel free to book yourself into my schedule via emmadonaldcounselling.janeapp.com or reach out to me to ask any questions and learn more about my approach!
MxN Men's Therapy Network
Pre-Licensed Professional, BScN, MACP(Q)
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9C
Kristof understands that sometimes this world leaves us feeling helpless and overwhelmed and that reaching out for help can be a difficult step. It is in these moments that Kristof's caring and approachable nature shines through. Whether you are moving through depression, anxiety, or other challenges, Kristof will work collaboratively to help you foster growth, resilience, and healing. He draws from a deep-rooted curiosity to see you for who you are while exploring your unique stories. He is inspired to help you navigate life’s struggles and challenges and to build a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Kristof understands that sometimes this world leaves us feeling helpless and overwhelmed and that reaching out for help can be a difficult step. It is in these moments that Kristof's caring and approachable nature shines through. Whether you are moving through depression, anxiety, or other challenges, Kristof will work collaboratively to help you foster growth, resilience, and healing. He draws from a deep-rooted curiosity to see you for who you are while exploring your unique stories. He is inspired to help you navigate life’s struggles and challenges and to build a fulfilling and meaningful life.
I approach therapy as a creative and collaborative process that involves the whole being of both the therapist and client. In order to lead fulfilling, joyful lives, humans need access to the intelligence available through their physical, psychological, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual selves. Trauma, shame, and fear can disrupt our ability to access and experience these aspects of self fully, and can leave us feeling dissatisfied with our lives. By working directly with clients' felt sense of their bodies, as well as their stories and their feelings, I support clients in deepening their relationship to all aspects of themselves.
I approach therapy as a creative and collaborative process that involves the whole being of both the therapist and client. In order to lead fulfilling, joyful lives, humans need access to the intelligence available through their physical, psychological, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual selves. Trauma, shame, and fear can disrupt our ability to access and experience these aspects of self fully, and can leave us feeling dissatisfied with our lives. By working directly with clients' felt sense of their bodies, as well as their stories and their feelings, I support clients in deepening their relationship to all aspects of themselves.
My goal as a Transpersonal Therapist, is to help you uncover your true potential & lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns, or negative perceptions, that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling & meaningful life. If you're looking for additional support & guidance through a challenging situation, or just ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you.
My goal as a Transpersonal Therapist, is to help you uncover your true potential & lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns, or negative perceptions, that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling & meaningful life. If you're looking for additional support & guidance through a challenging situation, or just ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you.
Tajah Olson Therapy & Coaching
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8N (Online Only)
Registered clinical counsellor. Born and raised in East Africa, currently in BC. I take pride in empowering and helping individuals to see their true potential. I understand how anxiety, trauma, life transitions, identity issues, depression, low self-esteem/confidence, lack of self-love, detachment and complicated relationships can negatively impact us from living the life we want.
Registered clinical counsellor. Born and raised in East Africa, currently in BC. I take pride in empowering and helping individuals to see their true potential. I understand how anxiety, trauma, life transitions, identity issues, depression, low self-esteem/confidence, lack of self-love, detachment and complicated relationships can negatively impact us from living the life we want.
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Number of Counsellors in Victoria, BC
800+
Average cost per session
$150
Counsellors in Victoria, BC who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
84% | Depression |
82% | Self Esteem |
78% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Stress |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
43% | Pacific Blue Cross |
43% | SunLife |
39% | Green Shield Canada |
How Counsellors in Victoria, BC see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
17% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Victoria?
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.