Addiction Therapists in Nanaimo, BC
It is my hope that through counselling, people who struggle with life’s adversities will grow and change towards living and feeling empowerment, love, and compassion. I work with individuals on a range of areas including relationships, trauma, grief, loss, addiction, anxiety, and depression.
It is my hope that through counselling, people who struggle with life’s adversities will grow and change towards living and feeling empowerment, love, and compassion. I work with individuals on a range of areas including relationships, trauma, grief, loss, addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Understanding the need for change is a big first step. Then getting the energy and nerve to find a therapist and make that first appointment can seem insurmountable. Congratulations on making it this far! Issues with emotional regulation, interpersonal communication/skills, and problematic substance use can derail our best attempts at a satisfying life. Using an individualized and integrated approach of DBT and Talk Therapy with the cheer of Solution Focused, we can work together to understand how your biology, environment and psychology can be readapted to help reach your goals. There will be infographics and worksheets! (Yay?)
Understanding the need for change is a big first step. Then getting the energy and nerve to find a therapist and make that first appointment can seem insurmountable. Congratulations on making it this far! Issues with emotional regulation, interpersonal communication/skills, and problematic substance use can derail our best attempts at a satisfying life. Using an individualized and integrated approach of DBT and Talk Therapy with the cheer of Solution Focused, we can work together to understand how your biology, environment and psychology can be readapted to help reach your goals. There will be infographics and worksheets! (Yay?)
Additionally I am a sex addiction specialist (CSAT), focussing on the addict as well as partner trauma.
Working with others is my life's passion. It stems from my sincere desire to help people develop insight into their lives and the relationships they are connected through. Culturally sensitive, empathetic, compassionate but direct, I am regarded as non-judgmental and accepting. My professional background is in mental health, addictions, as well as working with couples/families affected by systemic issues. Together we will foster effective communication skills, self-care, health, future goals and building of respectful relationships. It is my sincere pleasure to be part of someone's journey to find deeper meaning in their lives
Additionally I am a sex addiction specialist (CSAT), focussing on the addict as well as partner trauma.
Working with others is my life's passion. It stems from my sincere desire to help people develop insight into their lives and the relationships they are connected through. Culturally sensitive, empathetic, compassionate but direct, I am regarded as non-judgmental and accepting. My professional background is in mental health, addictions, as well as working with couples/families affected by systemic issues. Together we will foster effective communication skills, self-care, health, future goals and building of respectful relationships. It is my sincere pleasure to be part of someone's journey to find deeper meaning in their lives
I hold a master of arts in counseling psychology and a graduate diploma in addiction treatment and prevention, a bachelor's degree in public health, and several certificates such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT), Gottman couples therapy Level one and two.
Congratulations on seeking counselling. You might currently be in a dark spot and hesitant to seek help. Rest assured that you are not alone in this. It takes courage to seek help and you are on your way there. I have been in your spot before and my healing journey guided me to help others overcome complex trauma. You don't need to be controlled by your past anymore. A common goal would be to reach your full potentials and be your authentic self again, you will feel lighter after processing the past and more in control of your future. Allow us to collaboratively create a non-judgmental space and move to a healthier future.
I hold a master of arts in counseling psychology and a graduate diploma in addiction treatment and prevention, a bachelor's degree in public health, and several certificates such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT), Gottman couples therapy Level one and two.
Congratulations on seeking counselling. You might currently be in a dark spot and hesitant to seek help. Rest assured that you are not alone in this. It takes courage to seek help and you are on your way there. I have been in your spot before and my healing journey guided me to help others overcome complex trauma. You don't need to be controlled by your past anymore. A common goal would be to reach your full potentials and be your authentic self again, you will feel lighter after processing the past and more in control of your future. Allow us to collaboratively create a non-judgmental space and move to a healthier future.
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.
Elizabeth Loudon
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9X (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I can offer you evidence based therapeutic techniques to deliver a proven program of addiction and sex addiction treatment developed by Dr, Patrick Carnes.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with a masters degree in counselling from City University. I have been a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) since 2018. I have spent the last 21 years working in inpatient, outpatient and in private practice settings treating individuals with problematic sexual behaviors, substance misuse/dependance and other addictive behaviors. I have extensive experience working with multiple addictions, trauma, family of origin and related mental health issues in both individual and group psychotherapy. I am especially passionate about helping clients discover and reclaim true intimacy.
I can offer you evidence based therapeutic techniques to deliver a proven program of addiction and sex addiction treatment developed by Dr, Patrick Carnes.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with a masters degree in counselling from City University. I have been a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) since 2018. I have spent the last 21 years working in inpatient, outpatient and in private practice settings treating individuals with problematic sexual behaviors, substance misuse/dependance and other addictive behaviors. I have extensive experience working with multiple addictions, trauma, family of origin and related mental health issues in both individual and group psychotherapy. I am especially passionate about helping clients discover and reclaim true intimacy.
Do you feel bogged down by intense anxiety or stress? Do you feel hopeless or depressed about your life? Are the relationships in your life toxic or filled with tension? Does addiction have a tight grip on your life? Do you feel chained to the past and due to trauma? If you relate to any of those questions and would like help navigating difficult emotions, thoughts, behaviours, relationships, or trauma, come talk to me. I have been trained by some of the leading experts in the field of psychotherapy such as Dr Gabor Mate and Dr Patrick Carnes, and I would be honoured to be a part of your journey to help you achieve your goals.
Do you feel bogged down by intense anxiety or stress? Do you feel hopeless or depressed about your life? Are the relationships in your life toxic or filled with tension? Does addiction have a tight grip on your life? Do you feel chained to the past and due to trauma? If you relate to any of those questions and would like help navigating difficult emotions, thoughts, behaviours, relationships, or trauma, come talk to me. I have been trained by some of the leading experts in the field of psychotherapy such as Dr Gabor Mate and Dr Patrick Carnes, and I would be honoured to be a part of your journey to help you achieve your goals.
Vancouver Island Therapy
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CSAT, RSW, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9T (Online Only)
We offer individual, couples, family, child/adolescent therapy, in addition to addiction, mental health, and trauma counselling.
Vancouver Island Therapy is a full service, multi—disciplinary health clinic focused on providing multiple healing services to help you and your family. Located in Nanaimo, BC, we service many communities including; Port Alberni, Qualicum, Parksville, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Duncan to Victoria.
We offer individual, couples, family, child/adolescent therapy, in addition to addiction, mental health, and trauma counselling.
Vancouver Island Therapy is a full service, multi—disciplinary health clinic focused on providing multiple healing services to help you and your family. Located in Nanaimo, BC, we service many communities including; Port Alberni, Qualicum, Parksville, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Duncan to Victoria.
I bring decades of experience helping emergency services and health care professionals find solutions to the cumulative stress they experience every day in their jobs. Without a safe place to work through these normal reactions to abnormal events, careers can be cut short and the families of these professionals struggle as well. Together we can find solutions for work related stress and other issues such as: the impact on the families, grief and loss, addiction/recovery and enhance existing coping skills. I enjoy working with a wide range of age groups from young adult to adult.
I bring decades of experience helping emergency services and health care professionals find solutions to the cumulative stress they experience every day in their jobs. Without a safe place to work through these normal reactions to abnormal events, careers can be cut short and the families of these professionals struggle as well. Together we can find solutions for work related stress and other issues such as: the impact on the families, grief and loss, addiction/recovery and enhance existing coping skills. I enjoy working with a wide range of age groups from young adult to adult.
I support people experiencing conflict at home, depression, anxiety, addiction, co-dependency, grief, pain, fear or a general lack of motivation and fulfillment through multiple modalities.
Feeling stuck and disconnected from ourselves and our loved ones is a common human experience in this day in age. Yet, all of us have a deep longing to feel empowered and engaged, to love and be loved, and to experience a deep and meaningful life. Relationships are the core of our fulfillment, and they all start with our relationship to ourselves. However struggles are manifesting, uncovering the layers of our defenses and opening to our inner world and true selves is a courageous journey worth travelling.
I support people experiencing conflict at home, depression, anxiety, addiction, co-dependency, grief, pain, fear or a general lack of motivation and fulfillment through multiple modalities.
Feeling stuck and disconnected from ourselves and our loved ones is a common human experience in this day in age. Yet, all of us have a deep longing to feel empowered and engaged, to love and be loved, and to experience a deep and meaningful life. Relationships are the core of our fulfillment, and they all start with our relationship to ourselves. However struggles are manifesting, uncovering the layers of our defenses and opening to our inner world and true selves is a courageous journey worth travelling.
I have professional experience working with the LGBTQIA2S+, sex positive and Indigenous communities, subject areas such as terminal illnesses, grief and loss (including sudden death due to suicide and fentanyl poisonings), diverse abilities, in addition to mental health and substance use.
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.
I have professional experience working with the LGBTQIA2S+, sex positive and Indigenous communities, subject areas such as terminal illnesses, grief and loss (including sudden death due to suicide and fentanyl poisonings), diverse abilities, in addition to mental health and substance use.
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.
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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.
Most people I work with initially seek counselling as a result of some form of suffering. Sometimes this suffering is specific such as symptoms of anxiety, depression, addiction, stress or relationship issues. Other times the suffering is vague, a feeling of something being off, amiss, or worse. In either case, I meet people where they are at, either 'getting to it' (so to speak) and yet taking the time for whatever needs to unfold.
Most people I work with initially seek counselling as a result of some form of suffering. Sometimes this suffering is specific such as symptoms of anxiety, depression, addiction, stress or relationship issues. Other times the suffering is vague, a feeling of something being off, amiss, or worse. In either case, I meet people where they are at, either 'getting to it' (so to speak) and yet taking the time for whatever needs to unfold.
I support clients managing emotional challenges, BPD traits, depression, OCD, perfectionism, negative internal dialogue, addiction, grief, trauma, and difficult family dynamics. Together we explore a client's history, experience, emotions, and develop better skills for managing challenges. Often old coping strategies are no longer serving the client. Developing relational intimacy with others, and more compassionate communication with self is integral to my work with individuals and families. Together we find solutions for healing and moving forward in healthy ways so clients can align more authenticly with themselves.
I support clients managing emotional challenges, BPD traits, depression, OCD, perfectionism, negative internal dialogue, addiction, grief, trauma, and difficult family dynamics. Together we explore a client's history, experience, emotions, and develop better skills for managing challenges. Often old coping strategies are no longer serving the client. Developing relational intimacy with others, and more compassionate communication with self is integral to my work with individuals and families. Together we find solutions for healing and moving forward in healthy ways so clients can align more authenticly with themselves.
Dana is trained in trauma informed care, expressive therapies, is an expert in addiction recovery, and integrates behavioural therapies into her work.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in British Columbia and a certified Drug and Alcohol Counsellor with over 15 years of counselling experience. I was born and raised on Vancouver Island and have a Bachelor in Child and Youth Care with extensive experience in children, youth and family counselling. Personal and professional experiences led me to complete a Master of Arts in Addiction Counselling at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation School of Addiction Studies. I have been mentored by, and worked alongside, the experts in addiction and mental health recovery. If you, or a loved one, is struggling, I can help.
Dana is trained in trauma informed care, expressive therapies, is an expert in addiction recovery, and integrates behavioural therapies into her work.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in British Columbia and a certified Drug and Alcohol Counsellor with over 15 years of counselling experience. I was born and raised on Vancouver Island and have a Bachelor in Child and Youth Care with extensive experience in children, youth and family counselling. Personal and professional experiences led me to complete a Master of Arts in Addiction Counselling at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation School of Addiction Studies. I have been mentored by, and worked alongside, the experts in addiction and mental health recovery. If you, or a loved one, is struggling, I can help.
Hi I'm Leia! I have experience helping others navigate trauma or distressing life experiences that are affecting their daily life and relationships. I believe connection is key for removing barriers and working through problems. I provide a non-judgmental safe space where together we can do just this. My experience includes working with youth and young adults navigating addiction, anxiety, depression, oppression, and trauma who are diverse in culture. My education in counselling is through Adler University. Through personal identity I am familiar with injury and disability culture.
Hi I'm Leia! I have experience helping others navigate trauma or distressing life experiences that are affecting their daily life and relationships. I believe connection is key for removing barriers and working through problems. I provide a non-judgmental safe space where together we can do just this. My experience includes working with youth and young adults navigating addiction, anxiety, depression, oppression, and trauma who are diverse in culture. My education in counselling is through Adler University. Through personal identity I am familiar with injury and disability culture.
I have been in the helping field for over 20 years in diverse roles including youth outreach, community work and development, teaching, school counselling, addiction treatment and grief counselling.
Counselling can be helpful If you're struggling, overwhelmed, stuck or interested in personal growth and increased self-awareness. I provide a therapeutic space and relationship that is built on transparency, kindness and genuine positive regard for the trials and tribulations of being a human being. Speaking from experience, reaching out to a counsellor can be incredibly difficult. In order to assist you with the process of finding a counsellor that is the best fit for your needs I offer a free phone consultation so that we can discuss your needs, how I work and the areas you would like to focus in our work together.
I have been in the helping field for over 20 years in diverse roles including youth outreach, community work and development, teaching, school counselling, addiction treatment and grief counselling.
Counselling can be helpful If you're struggling, overwhelmed, stuck or interested in personal growth and increased self-awareness. I provide a therapeutic space and relationship that is built on transparency, kindness and genuine positive regard for the trials and tribulations of being a human being. Speaking from experience, reaching out to a counsellor can be incredibly difficult. In order to assist you with the process of finding a counsellor that is the best fit for your needs I offer a free phone consultation so that we can discuss your needs, how I work and the areas you would like to focus in our work together.
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.
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.
As a focusing-oriented therapist (body centred), I support the healing of PTSD, complex trauma, inner child work, self esteem issues, OCD/addiction, depression and anxiety.
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.
As a focusing-oriented therapist (body centred), I support the healing of PTSD, complex trauma, inner child work, self esteem issues, OCD/addiction, depression and anxiety.
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.
See more therapy options for Nanaimo
Nearby Addiction Counsellors Searches for Nanaimo
- Duncan
- Ladysmith
- Lake Cowichan
- Mill Bay
- Nanoose Bay
- Parksville
- Port Alberni
- Qualicum Beach
- Richmond
- Salt Spring Island
- Vancouver
- West Vancouver
Addiction Counsellors
What is the best therapy for addiction?
Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.
How long does therapy for addiction take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.
How effective is drug addiction treatment?
Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.
How can you get addiction treatment for someone?
The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.