Female Therapists in Courtenay, BC
Lisa Steels
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, BSc, IAYT-YT, PCP-IV
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Courtenay, BC V9N
Life can be chaotic and full of unexpected change! Many clients are unaware that their nervous system is overwhelmed and unregulated, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, poor sleep, hyper-vigilance and anxiety. As a somatic (body-informed) therapist, I understand how the body can hold emotions, trauma or defensiveness, which can change how people function and show up in the world. As a result, you may feel angry, stressed out, distracted or ambivalent. My work as a Firefighter and Paramedic for over 10 years, allowed me to experience and observe how highly adaptable the human body is at processing traumatic events.
Life can be chaotic and full of unexpected change! Many clients are unaware that their nervous system is overwhelmed and unregulated, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, poor sleep, hyper-vigilance and anxiety. As a somatic (body-informed) therapist, I understand how the body can hold emotions, trauma or defensiveness, which can change how people function and show up in the world. As a result, you may feel angry, stressed out, distracted or ambivalent. My work as a Firefighter and Paramedic for over 10 years, allowed me to experience and observe how highly adaptable the human body is at processing traumatic events.
Whether you are going through an extra difficult time or just wanting to maintain your mental wellness, finding someone to safely sit with can be quite empowering for you to grow and heal. Together, we can take small steps to manage your healing journey in a culturally safe, holistic, and trauma-informed space.
Whether you are going through an extra difficult time or just wanting to maintain your mental wellness, finding someone to safely sit with can be quite empowering for you to grow and heal. Together, we can take small steps to manage your healing journey in a culturally safe, holistic, and trauma-informed space.
Life can be a challenging journey at times. There are times within all of our lives where we feel stuck and unsure of ways to move forward. Working together, I can help you to learn to become an effective communicator, manage stress and grief and find solutions to manage these challenges. I have worked in the mental health field for over 15 years and believe that everyone is capable of changing their life if they want to. Working from a number of different modalities, I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental, friendly space for clients. I believe in looking at the whole person when doing our work together.
Life can be a challenging journey at times. There are times within all of our lives where we feel stuck and unsure of ways to move forward. Working together, I can help you to learn to become an effective communicator, manage stress and grief and find solutions to manage these challenges. I have worked in the mental health field for over 15 years and believe that everyone is capable of changing their life if they want to. Working from a number of different modalities, I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental, friendly space for clients. I believe in looking at the whole person when doing our work together.
Mindful Mountains is a person-first network of health professionals serving individuals in-person on Vancouver Island and virtually throughout British Columbia and Canada. We specialize in mental health, neurodiversity (such as ADHD and Autism) and chronic pain. We are a team of mental health professionals who believe in empowering wellness through knowledge, exploration and acceptance.
Mindful Mountains is a person-first network of health professionals serving individuals in-person on Vancouver Island and virtually throughout British Columbia and Canada. We specialize in mental health, neurodiversity (such as ADHD and Autism) and chronic pain. We are a team of mental health professionals who believe in empowering wellness through knowledge, exploration and acceptance.
Dr. Michelle Church
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Courtenay, BC V9N (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I’m Dr. Michelle. I am a Registered Psychologist with a PhD in Counselling Psychology from the University of Calgary. I completed my residency in Los Angeles, California where I supervised doctoral students in addition to providing psychotherapy. My practice focuses on people managing: depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and chronic health conditions. I also provide couple therapy. Lastly, I conduct psychoeducational assessments for suspected/confirmed learning disorders and ADHD for children 8-years and older and adults.
Hi! I’m Dr. Michelle. I am a Registered Psychologist with a PhD in Counselling Psychology from the University of Calgary. I completed my residency in Los Angeles, California where I supervised doctoral students in addition to providing psychotherapy. My practice focuses on people managing: depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and chronic health conditions. I also provide couple therapy. Lastly, I conduct psychoeducational assessments for suspected/confirmed learning disorders and ADHD for children 8-years and older and adults.
Dr. Kelly McManus has a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing for over 12 years in various mental health settings as a Psychologist and as Registered Clinical Counsellor. Dr. McManus also has a Masters Degree in Education. She works with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. She uses integrative, strengths-focused, evidenced-based therapy. Her education includes theory and practice in the major approaches in Psychology including Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioural, and Narrative. Dr. McManus tailors her approach to your particular needs, goals, and preferences. Dr. McManus also takes ICBC and Veteran's Affairs clients.
Dr. Kelly McManus has a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing for over 12 years in various mental health settings as a Psychologist and as Registered Clinical Counsellor. Dr. McManus also has a Masters Degree in Education. She works with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. She uses integrative, strengths-focused, evidenced-based therapy. Her education includes theory and practice in the major approaches in Psychology including Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioural, and Narrative. Dr. McManus tailors her approach to your particular needs, goals, and preferences. Dr. McManus also takes ICBC and Veteran's Affairs clients.
Welcome & thank you for reading about my practice. As a psychotherapist, my aim is to provide a compassionate space, help bolster your inner strength and learn new skills so you can create the life you want to live. Psychoeducation is a cornerstone of my practice, which can help you to build greater self-awareness and implement effective life strategies. I work with individuals and couples to navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, substance misuse, difficulties with personality, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, self-esteem, chronic pain and trauma.
Welcome & thank you for reading about my practice. As a psychotherapist, my aim is to provide a compassionate space, help bolster your inner strength and learn new skills so you can create the life you want to live. Psychoeducation is a cornerstone of my practice, which can help you to build greater self-awareness and implement effective life strategies. I work with individuals and couples to navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, substance misuse, difficulties with personality, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, self-esteem, chronic pain and trauma.
Emma Munroe
Pre-Licensed Professional, BCACC-S, BEd, BFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Courtenay, BC V9N
I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, burnout, low self-esteem, life changes, relationship and parenting challenges, attachment insecurity, and complex trauma. My practice is inclusive, welcoming individuals with diverse cultural influences and values. Through empathic presence, insight, and a secure therapeutic relationship, we will seek to identify patterns of relating to self, others, and the world. Together we will work to adapt patterns that no longer serve you, deepening your capacity for intimacy, resilience, self-regulation, and awareness.
I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, burnout, low self-esteem, life changes, relationship and parenting challenges, attachment insecurity, and complex trauma. My practice is inclusive, welcoming individuals with diverse cultural influences and values. Through empathic presence, insight, and a secure therapeutic relationship, we will seek to identify patterns of relating to self, others, and the world. Together we will work to adapt patterns that no longer serve you, deepening your capacity for intimacy, resilience, self-regulation, and awareness.
Diane Brussell
Counsellor, MA, RCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Courtenay, BC V9N (Online Only)
We cannot change the events or situations of our past, but we can absolutely be free from being chronically impacted, and compacted by our history. You are entitled to all of your feelings and they are an integral part of healing and living a healthy life. If you are ready to move what you are holding to a new place, I am here to support that process. You can find your voice, unpack your story, be seen and heard, I bring tools and support to make the changes you would like to make, so that you can embrace your life with love and enthusiasm. In my mind, everyone who survived their story and makes it to counselling is a superhero.
We cannot change the events or situations of our past, but we can absolutely be free from being chronically impacted, and compacted by our history. You are entitled to all of your feelings and they are an integral part of healing and living a healthy life. If you are ready to move what you are holding to a new place, I am here to support that process. You can find your voice, unpack your story, be seen and heard, I bring tools and support to make the changes you would like to make, so that you can embrace your life with love and enthusiasm. In my mind, everyone who survived their story and makes it to counselling is a superhero.
With a focus on individuals, couples and families, I work with you to resolve overwhelm, distressing emotions, anxiety, depression, relationship breakdown, conflict, infidelity, difficult behaviours, and trauma. Empowering you to feel a greater sense of well-being, fulfillment, and meaningful connection (with yourself and your partner).
With a focus on individuals, couples and families, I work with you to resolve overwhelm, distressing emotions, anxiety, depression, relationship breakdown, conflict, infidelity, difficult behaviours, and trauma. Empowering you to feel a greater sense of well-being, fulfillment, and meaningful connection (with yourself and your partner).
“Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do.” –Brené Brown. As your mentor or counsellor, I want to create a safe space for you to recognize and transform the life patterns of overwhelming anxiety or panic attacks, persistent stress from big life changes and events, distress from trauma, and pain from broken or disconnected relationships. Using both traditional and holistic healing methods, I'll show you how to nurture your emotional health, cultivate an inner strength and confidence, tap into love, and step into your power as a wise self-healer.
“Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do.” –Brené Brown. As your mentor or counsellor, I want to create a safe space for you to recognize and transform the life patterns of overwhelming anxiety or panic attacks, persistent stress from big life changes and events, distress from trauma, and pain from broken or disconnected relationships. Using both traditional and holistic healing methods, I'll show you how to nurture your emotional health, cultivate an inner strength and confidence, tap into love, and step into your power as a wise self-healer.
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Tanya Helle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Courtenay, BC V9N
My name is Tanya, and I would be honoured to be part of your journey towards greater wholeness, healing and connection. I completed my Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of British Columbia and have over 11 years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including community mental health counselling, outreach based social work, as well as working with LGBTQI+ communities. I am passionate about mental health and my goal as a counsellor is to help you learn to see yourself as you truly are; a person who is deeply worthy of love, belonging and joy.
My name is Tanya, and I would be honoured to be part of your journey towards greater wholeness, healing and connection. I completed my Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of British Columbia and have over 11 years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including community mental health counselling, outreach based social work, as well as working with LGBTQI+ communities. I am passionate about mental health and my goal as a counsellor is to help you learn to see yourself as you truly are; a person who is deeply worthy of love, belonging and joy.
Do you, your partner, or child struggle with ADHD; addiction; and/or emotion regulation and find it undermining your sense of wellbeing? Do you feel stuck and frustrated as you repeatedly try to move forward but slip back into old patterns? You likely know what to do but don’t do it consistently and this is wearing you down. Do you hope that your relationships and trust in yourself and your potential can improve? Those of us living with ADHD today are right to feel hopeful as we embrace our strengths while firmly believing we (and our loved ones) can change and GROW! Of course we can! I and many others are living proof of that.
Do you, your partner, or child struggle with ADHD; addiction; and/or emotion regulation and find it undermining your sense of wellbeing? Do you feel stuck and frustrated as you repeatedly try to move forward but slip back into old patterns? You likely know what to do but don’t do it consistently and this is wearing you down. Do you hope that your relationships and trust in yourself and your potential can improve? Those of us living with ADHD today are right to feel hopeful as we embrace our strengths while firmly believing we (and our loved ones) can change and GROW! Of course we can! I and many others are living proof of that.
I help my patients live the life they desire. This may take the shape of processing deep core experiences, tuning into your body and building self-awareness. Patterns that were once protective and important may no longer be serving you. I can help with relationships, life transitions or employment. Similarly, you may be seeking support for anxiety, depression or a crisis in your life. I aim to provide a culturally safe environment that is inclusive and trauma informed.
I help my patients live the life they desire. This may take the shape of processing deep core experiences, tuning into your body and building self-awareness. Patterns that were once protective and important may no longer be serving you. I can help with relationships, life transitions or employment. Similarly, you may be seeking support for anxiety, depression or a crisis in your life. I aim to provide a culturally safe environment that is inclusive and trauma informed.
Are you looking for support or someone to talk to in a time of stress or transition? Do you have life goals that seem unattainable or are feeling overwhelmed? I am here to listen and to provide you with a compassionate, safe, non-judgmental space as you process and work through the things that may be bogging you down or holding you back. I work with adults, youth, couples, families, and seniors, with focus areas of past trauma, stress management, life transitions, loss, depression, anxiety, burnout, and goal achievement.
Are you looking for support or someone to talk to in a time of stress or transition? Do you have life goals that seem unattainable or are feeling overwhelmed? I am here to listen and to provide you with a compassionate, safe, non-judgmental space as you process and work through the things that may be bogging you down or holding you back. I work with adults, youth, couples, families, and seniors, with focus areas of past trauma, stress management, life transitions, loss, depression, anxiety, burnout, and goal achievement.
Elly Boer Counselling & Art Therapy
Counsellor, RCC, DVATI, MC:AT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Courtenay, BC V9N
I welcome you to book a free 30-minute consultation and experience this approach for yourself.
I welcome you to book a free 30-minute consultation and experience this approach for yourself.
Do you find yourself wishing that the world would just slow down for a few moments, let you catch your breath and get your feet back underneath you? Are you wondering how things got so overwhelming and out of control? In times of transition, whether by choice or demand, we often find ourselves needing new skills to cope with our changing circumstances. Our relationships are deeply impacted by our ability to communicate our needs, desires, and boundaries, and yet we are taught so few of these skills.
Do you find yourself wishing that the world would just slow down for a few moments, let you catch your breath and get your feet back underneath you? Are you wondering how things got so overwhelming and out of control? In times of transition, whether by choice or demand, we often find ourselves needing new skills to cope with our changing circumstances. Our relationships are deeply impacted by our ability to communicate our needs, desires, and boundaries, and yet we are taught so few of these skills.
Adapting to life transitions can be overwhelming. Life-changing events often bring pain and struggle. Divorce, having a baby, loss, changing jobs, moving, getting a diagnosis, our children’s challenges – everyone needs support to deal with the resulting anxiety, frustration, anger and uncertainty. Moving forward while feeling uncertain is a very hard thing to accomplish on your own leaving us feeling stuck. By avoiding ourselves with unwanted behaviours ; anything to feel some relief in our daily lives. We want something different but then operate unknowing under the beliefs our history has handed us and have gone unexamined.
Adapting to life transitions can be overwhelming. Life-changing events often bring pain and struggle. Divorce, having a baby, loss, changing jobs, moving, getting a diagnosis, our children’s challenges – everyone needs support to deal with the resulting anxiety, frustration, anger and uncertainty. Moving forward while feeling uncertain is a very hard thing to accomplish on your own leaving us feeling stuck. By avoiding ourselves with unwanted behaviours ; anything to feel some relief in our daily lives. We want something different but then operate unknowing under the beliefs our history has handed us and have gone unexamined.
I want to help you feel less alone in this messy thing called life. As a queer therapist, I understand the importance of creating a space where you feel safe to explore your identities without the fear of judgment. Therapy can provide secure ground to land on when you find a therapist that you click with. Through my career as a registered nurse, I have been privileged to be with people during moments of immense pain and suffering. I lean into hard conversations and taboo subjects, and I am practiced at holding space. You are never "too much", and you deserve to feel seen.
I want to help you feel less alone in this messy thing called life. As a queer therapist, I understand the importance of creating a space where you feel safe to explore your identities without the fear of judgment. Therapy can provide secure ground to land on when you find a therapist that you click with. Through my career as a registered nurse, I have been privileged to be with people during moments of immense pain and suffering. I lean into hard conversations and taboo subjects, and I am practiced at holding space. You are never "too much", and you deserve to feel seen.
I am a Registered Psychologist and I work with couples at all stages of relationship, and with problems ranging from minor communication difficulties, to coping with affairs, to making decisions about whether to stay or leave. My wait list is currently closed, with the exception of couples wanting to participate in a virtual RLT Couples Experiential (live and recorded for teaching purposes).
I am a Registered Psychologist and I work with couples at all stages of relationship, and with problems ranging from minor communication difficulties, to coping with affairs, to making decisions about whether to stay or leave. My wait list is currently closed, with the exception of couples wanting to participate in a virtual RLT Couples Experiential (live and recorded for teaching purposes).
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Does it matter what gender my therapist is?
In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.
Should I see a female therapist?
Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.
Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?
Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?
It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.