LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Mission, BC
My primary focus areas are couples counselling, children and youth, mediation, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, family counselling, chronic pain and traumatic brain injury, and neurodivergency.
Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light- Albus Dumbledore. I like to implement a client-centered approach whereby I take my years of experience and training to adjust a therapeutic approach to best suit each one of my clients. I have eight years of experience working with children and families with special needs, including children diagnosed with Autism, OCD, ADD, FSD, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Pain Disorders, Neurodivergency, Brain Injuries, and Anxiety.
My primary focus areas are couples counselling, children and youth, mediation, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, family counselling, chronic pain and traumatic brain injury, and neurodivergency.
Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light- Albus Dumbledore. I like to implement a client-centered approach whereby I take my years of experience and training to adjust a therapeutic approach to best suit each one of my clients. I have eight years of experience working with children and families with special needs, including children diagnosed with Autism, OCD, ADD, FSD, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Pain Disorders, Neurodivergency, Brain Injuries, and Anxiety.
I strive to be an LGBTQIA+ ally, and to respect the different cultural, political, and family social systems that everyone exits within.
Grounded in the values of transparency, humility, empathy and empowerment, my practice acknowledges that mental health injuries and difficulties are normal responses to certain situations and circumstances. Counselling experience in a university wellness centre, and in health authorities in Northern BC and Nova Scotia, has given me a strong background in working with depression, anxiety, panic, people-pleasing, various types of trauma, borderline personality and concerns common to post-secondary students including life transitions, academic demands and pressure to succeed.
I strive to be an LGBTQIA+ ally, and to respect the different cultural, political, and family social systems that everyone exits within.
Grounded in the values of transparency, humility, empathy and empowerment, my practice acknowledges that mental health injuries and difficulties are normal responses to certain situations and circumstances. Counselling experience in a university wellness centre, and in health authorities in Northern BC and Nova Scotia, has given me a strong background in working with depression, anxiety, panic, people-pleasing, various types of trauma, borderline personality and concerns common to post-secondary students including life transitions, academic demands and pressure to succeed.
I support clients with a wide range of concerns such as post-trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, values-alignment, emotional development, and matters related to self-esteem, confidence, and empowerment.
Are you looking for a therapist who will accept you for who you are, right now, without judgement? Maybe you have long-term trauma that hasn't been addressed, or have parts of yourself that feel too shameful to speak about. I, too, have been there and realize how it is to feel vulnerable. With warmth and compassion, I will help you to address the vulnerable parts of yourself and look to your inner sense of knowing to bring them to light in a way that is trauma-informed and sensitive to your needs. I believe that only you what you truly need, and I can provide a supportive atmosphere for your self-work.
I support clients with a wide range of concerns such as post-trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, values-alignment, emotional development, and matters related to self-esteem, confidence, and empowerment.
Are you looking for a therapist who will accept you for who you are, right now, without judgement? Maybe you have long-term trauma that hasn't been addressed, or have parts of yourself that feel too shameful to speak about. I, too, have been there and realize how it is to feel vulnerable. With warmth and compassion, I will help you to address the vulnerable parts of yourself and look to your inner sense of knowing to bring them to light in a way that is trauma-informed and sensitive to your needs. I believe that only you what you truly need, and I can provide a supportive atmosphere for your self-work.
Shauna Burns-Thomson
Counsellor, MSc, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mission, BC V2V (Online Only)
With a passion for lifelong learning, Shauna has completed a Master of Science in Psychology, as well as EFT Level 1 and 2 training. She has also completed supplementary training in Holistic Health Coaching, Mindfulness, Yoga, and San'yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training as well as Understanding Emergency Worker Trauma and Understanding Firefighter Culture & Trauma to support her work with first responders. Most recently, Shauna has been pursuing a PhD in the field of Clinical Sexology, with additional certifications in Somatic Sex Therapy and the Gottman method (Level 1 and 2).
With a passion for lifelong learning, Shauna has completed a Master of Science in Psychology, as well as EFT Level 1 and 2 training. She has also completed supplementary training in Holistic Health Coaching, Mindfulness, Yoga, and San'yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training as well as Understanding Emergency Worker Trauma and Understanding Firefighter Culture & Trauma to support her work with first responders. Most recently, Shauna has been pursuing a PhD in the field of Clinical Sexology, with additional certifications in Somatic Sex Therapy and the Gottman method (Level 1 and 2).
People seek counselling for a variety of reasons and I value each and every client for their unique experiences. Change can be scary but sometimes is needed. This change can come for a variety of reasons such as sadness, pain, loss, hope, love, and determination. I admire the strength, skills, and abilities clients develop over time throughout their therapeutic process. I have worked with clients with grief and loss, addiction, depression, anxiety, body dysmorphia, building confidence, sport psychology, caregiver burnout/compassion-fatigue, sex therapy, and intimacy work. I am LGBTQIA2S+ as well as kink positive.
People seek counselling for a variety of reasons and I value each and every client for their unique experiences. Change can be scary but sometimes is needed. This change can come for a variety of reasons such as sadness, pain, loss, hope, love, and determination. I admire the strength, skills, and abilities clients develop over time throughout their therapeutic process. I have worked with clients with grief and loss, addiction, depression, anxiety, body dysmorphia, building confidence, sport psychology, caregiver burnout/compassion-fatigue, sex therapy, and intimacy work. I am LGBTQIA2S+ as well as kink positive.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Mission, BC V2V (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.
Trying to cope with the pressures and stresses of life leaves us anxious, depressed, and disconnected from ourselves and others. Many of us fall into self-sabotaging behaviours or repeat unhealthy relationships. Many of us face the limitations of psychiatric treatment and are forced to carry the weight and stigma of diagnosis. Many of us struggle simply to maintain our creativity and our sense of self against overwhelming pressures to conform or perform. We all need the chance to check in and process our feelings and reactions, to work through the struggles of our personal history, and find new and creative ways to move forward.
Trying to cope with the pressures and stresses of life leaves us anxious, depressed, and disconnected from ourselves and others. Many of us fall into self-sabotaging behaviours or repeat unhealthy relationships. Many of us face the limitations of psychiatric treatment and are forced to carry the weight and stigma of diagnosis. Many of us struggle simply to maintain our creativity and our sense of self against overwhelming pressures to conform or perform. We all need the chance to check in and process our feelings and reactions, to work through the struggles of our personal history, and find new and creative ways to move forward.
Rose Welsh
Pre-Licensed Professional, CCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission, BC V2V (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or depression, struggling to manage your emotions? Do your thoughts race and impact your sleep or focus? Do past traumas still trigger and distress you? Are you and your partner caught in constant conflict or feeling disconnected? Whether you're navigating relationship difficulties, seeking deeper intimacy, or longing for individual support, I’m here to help. I specialize in helping individuals and couples process trauma, cope with stressors, improve well-being, and create the life, relationships, and intimacy they desire.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or depression, struggling to manage your emotions? Do your thoughts race and impact your sleep or focus? Do past traumas still trigger and distress you? Are you and your partner caught in constant conflict or feeling disconnected? Whether you're navigating relationship difficulties, seeking deeper intimacy, or longing for individual support, I’m here to help. I specialize in helping individuals and couples process trauma, cope with stressors, improve well-being, and create the life, relationships, and intimacy they desire.
Kayla Claire Schuurmans
Counsellor, RCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mission, BC V2V (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Situations can come up that are overwhelming and debilitating; this does not mean you are weak or lesser than for struggling with your mental health. My approach is to work on a style of therapy most applicable to you. For these reasons and more I don't rely on one tool or model of therapy. My method is to trickle in different areas of psychology simultaneously. If something isn't working for you we implement another strategy. The goal is to get to the heart of what is distressing you and what is preventing you from living a life more in line with your goals and values.
Situations can come up that are overwhelming and debilitating; this does not mean you are weak or lesser than for struggling with your mental health. My approach is to work on a style of therapy most applicable to you. For these reasons and more I don't rely on one tool or model of therapy. My method is to trickle in different areas of psychology simultaneously. If something isn't working for you we implement another strategy. The goal is to get to the heart of what is distressing you and what is preventing you from living a life more in line with your goals and values.
Are you a youth or adult who is feeling lost? Maybe lonely and exhausted. Life can throw us many challenges and at times we don’t know how to deal with them. Are your struggles having an immense negative impact on your quality of life? Reaching out for help can feel scary and intimidating, being vulnerable takes tremendous courage, I commend you for taking the first step. You are not alone. I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor offering in-person and online services. While providing you with a safe and non-judgmental environment I can help build your self-awareness and skills to help you through this challenging time.
Are you a youth or adult who is feeling lost? Maybe lonely and exhausted. Life can throw us many challenges and at times we don’t know how to deal with them. Are your struggles having an immense negative impact on your quality of life? Reaching out for help can feel scary and intimidating, being vulnerable takes tremendous courage, I commend you for taking the first step. You are not alone. I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor offering in-person and online services. While providing you with a safe and non-judgmental environment I can help build your self-awareness and skills to help you through this challenging time.
Soulful Solutions Counselling & Consultancy
Counsellor, BSc Hon, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Mission, BC V2V
Sometimes life can feel hectic and overwhelming. Whether you're experiencing depression, anxiety, loneliness, addiction, divorce, injustice, stagnant decision-making, lack of coping, grief or loss, I am here to help. You seek harmony, you seek emotional equilibrium, and most of all you seek peace. I understand the intense difficulties of life you may be facing, and can help you shift from a place of suffering to a place of rational calm to help you manouvre through the storm you are feeling. In the words of Rumi, "Do not feel lonely, the entire universe is inside you," and I can help you find new opportunities to feel better.
Sometimes life can feel hectic and overwhelming. Whether you're experiencing depression, anxiety, loneliness, addiction, divorce, injustice, stagnant decision-making, lack of coping, grief or loss, I am here to help. You seek harmony, you seek emotional equilibrium, and most of all you seek peace. I understand the intense difficulties of life you may be facing, and can help you shift from a place of suffering to a place of rational calm to help you manouvre through the storm you are feeling. In the words of Rumi, "Do not feel lonely, the entire universe is inside you," and I can help you find new opportunities to feel better.
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In the world of problems, maybe none are more worth solving than those that plague children and families. Over 20 years, I have dedicated my practice to solving these problems by counselling parents, children & families and assisting them through high-conflict challenges. In March 2013, the Family Law Act changed whereby it now is rightly focused on the best interests of the child and makes it possible for families to work with a parental coordinator who has judicial authority to make legally binding decisions. This alternate dispute resolution allows for a more effective process so that children of high-conflict families are not stale mated.
In the world of problems, maybe none are more worth solving than those that plague children and families. Over 20 years, I have dedicated my practice to solving these problems by counselling parents, children & families and assisting them through high-conflict challenges. In March 2013, the Family Law Act changed whereby it now is rightly focused on the best interests of the child and makes it possible for families to work with a parental coordinator who has judicial authority to make legally binding decisions. This alternate dispute resolution allows for a more effective process so that children of high-conflict families are not stale mated.
Maybe your feeling lost, not sure who you are anymore. Starting over, empty nester, getting divorced, not nice to yourself when you make a mistake, you worry about everything. You compare yourself; you have been called a people-pleaser. You'd like to put yourself higher on your priority list, but that feels really uncomfortable. Is there something missing in your relationship like trust, intimacy or good communication? Do the same problems and arguments keep coming up? Has there been a betrayal or an affair? Do you struggle to communicate, ask for what you need and accept help from others?
Maybe your feeling lost, not sure who you are anymore. Starting over, empty nester, getting divorced, not nice to yourself when you make a mistake, you worry about everything. You compare yourself; you have been called a people-pleaser. You'd like to put yourself higher on your priority list, but that feels really uncomfortable. Is there something missing in your relationship like trust, intimacy or good communication? Do the same problems and arguments keep coming up? Has there been a betrayal or an affair? Do you struggle to communicate, ask for what you need and accept help from others?
Maureen French is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She has had a fascination of how individuals and relationships work from a young age. Maureen has over 15 years counselling experience in variety of government, community, health care / hospital and private counselling settings as well as in patient and out-patient psychiatric settings. Maureen offers counselling, support and consultation with adolescents, family and adult relationship issues. Maureen is a skilled play therapist who has worked extensively with child with complex trauma including developing and facilitating parenting programs and trauma informed programs.
Maureen French is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She has had a fascination of how individuals and relationships work from a young age. Maureen has over 15 years counselling experience in variety of government, community, health care / hospital and private counselling settings as well as in patient and out-patient psychiatric settings. Maureen offers counselling, support and consultation with adolescents, family and adult relationship issues. Maureen is a skilled play therapist who has worked extensively with child with complex trauma including developing and facilitating parenting programs and trauma informed programs.
Your needs come first, and given Ryan’s vast experience in the counselling arena, the emphasis on the values which come with your cultural diversity is respected and celebrated. Ryan’s commitment to your mental health and well-being is congruent with the requirements for facilitating your healing journey.
Your needs come first, and given Ryan’s vast experience in the counselling arena, the emphasis on the values which come with your cultural diversity is respected and celebrated. Ryan’s commitment to your mental health and well-being is congruent with the requirements for facilitating your healing journey.
I'm a very transparent and genuine person.
Clients who are looking for answers, looking to understand how they got to where they are, clients who struggle to control their own emotions, thoughts, or behaviour, these are the clients with whom I work the best. Having said that, I'm very adaptable to the needs of the client. If they need a teacher, I teach. If they need a listener, I listen. If they need a mentor, I mentor.
I'm a very transparent and genuine person.
Clients who are looking for answers, looking to understand how they got to where they are, clients who struggle to control their own emotions, thoughts, or behaviour, these are the clients with whom I work the best. Having said that, I'm very adaptable to the needs of the client. If they need a teacher, I teach. If they need a listener, I listen. If they need a mentor, I mentor.
Jasmine Alexander
Counsellor, MA, RPC, RCC, CCC, CCPCPR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission, BC V2V
Are you going through something emotionally painful? Experiencing anxiety, panic, depression? Struggling from addiction? I will work efficiently and effectively with you to find the root of your struggles, and with my highly specialized training, I can help you find *permanent resolution* to the emotional upset you are experiencing. Whether you have been to counselling before, or have never been to counselling, my therapeutic approach can help restore happiness and clarity in your life, regardless of how complex or upsetting your situation may be.
Are you going through something emotionally painful? Experiencing anxiety, panic, depression? Struggling from addiction? I will work efficiently and effectively with you to find the root of your struggles, and with my highly specialized training, I can help you find *permanent resolution* to the emotional upset you are experiencing. Whether you have been to counselling before, or have never been to counselling, my therapeutic approach can help restore happiness and clarity in your life, regardless of how complex or upsetting your situation may be.
In sessions, one of my goals is to be mindful and offer a safe place for clients to share personal thoughts and experiences. Being present in each moment allows me to focus on a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. This relationship then leads to us collaboratively establishing goals as well as working toward goals. I am available in Abbotsford on Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays and at Living Wellness Center in South Surrey on Wednesdays and Fridays.
In sessions, one of my goals is to be mindful and offer a safe place for clients to share personal thoughts and experiences. Being present in each moment allows me to focus on a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. This relationship then leads to us collaboratively establishing goals as well as working toward goals. I am available in Abbotsford on Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays and at Living Wellness Center in South Surrey on Wednesdays and Fridays.
It is my belief that every person has the capacity for change within. My job in walking alongside and holding space for you in your therapeutic journey is to facilitate a connection to your own inner resources to bring about your desired change. I would be honoured to work with you as you navigate the complexities of change.
It is my belief that every person has the capacity for change within. My job in walking alongside and holding space for you in your therapeutic journey is to facilitate a connection to your own inner resources to bring about your desired change. I would be honoured to work with you as you navigate the complexities of change.
As a clinical counsellor, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals through their emotional challenges. My passion for helping people stems from a profound belief in the power of holistic healing. Growing up with immigrant parents, I’ve cultivated a unique understanding of cultural diversity, enabling me to create an open and inclusive space for individuals from various backgrounds. Throughout my career, I have focused on addressing complex issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. My approach is rooted in empathy and a deep respect for each person’s unique journey.
As a clinical counsellor, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals through their emotional challenges. My passion for helping people stems from a profound belief in the power of holistic healing. Growing up with immigrant parents, I’ve cultivated a unique understanding of cultural diversity, enabling me to create an open and inclusive space for individuals from various backgrounds. Throughout my career, I have focused on addressing complex issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. My approach is rooted in empathy and a deep respect for each person’s unique journey.
See more therapy options for Mission
Nearby LGBTQ+ Counsellors Searches for Mission
- Abbotsford
- Agassiz
- Aldergrove
- Chilliwack
- Coquitlam
- Langley
- Maple Ridge
- New Westminster
- Pitt Meadows
- Port Coquitlam
- Surrey
- White Rock
LGBTQ+ Counsellors
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialised training, either during their degree programme or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalisation in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialised training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.