Couples Counselling Therapists in Nanaimo, BC
I feel profoundly honoured to support people in their journey toward wellness. My approach is nurturing, respect-based, collaborative, strength-based, and trauma-informed. I love the richness of working with all people, but hope to focus on creating a safe space for men, middle agers, and elders. I am also passionate about working with people experiencing diverse challenges such as life transitions and aging, anxiety and depression, grief, relationship conflicts or issues, stress management and burnout, neurodiversity (adults and youth), and identity, sex and sexuality.
I feel profoundly honoured to support people in their journey toward wellness. My approach is nurturing, respect-based, collaborative, strength-based, and trauma-informed. I love the richness of working with all people, but hope to focus on creating a safe space for men, middle agers, and elders. I am also passionate about working with people experiencing diverse challenges such as life transitions and aging, anxiety and depression, grief, relationship conflicts or issues, stress management and burnout, neurodiversity (adults and youth), and identity, sex and sexuality.
I love to work with clients who want a partner in their healing. They know that the understanding and answers they are seeking are within themselves. Often my clients express a kind of anxiety - generalized to many aspects of their lives or about a specific aspect, but just as often they come to me with a more vague sense of wanting to enjoy life more or move past a feeling of dissatisfaction or apprehension that seems to "follow them" in their lives. Together, we delve into deeply exploring what that is, using body, mind and spirit as tools. My clients are motivated to experiment, explore, and reflect to find what matters most.
I love to work with clients who want a partner in their healing. They know that the understanding and answers they are seeking are within themselves. Often my clients express a kind of anxiety - generalized to many aspects of their lives or about a specific aspect, but just as often they come to me with a more vague sense of wanting to enjoy life more or move past a feeling of dissatisfaction or apprehension that seems to "follow them" in their lives. Together, we delve into deeply exploring what that is, using body, mind and spirit as tools. My clients are motivated to experiment, explore, and reflect to find what matters most.
I firmly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship as a collaboration.
Life's challenges can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone. I'm dedicated to guide you through your struggles with compassion and non-judgment. My mission is to create a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your concerns and heal the pains that have led to difficulty and dissatisfaction in your life. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or navigating life transitions, I'm here to support you. Embarking on therapy can feel vulnerable, yet it can be liberating step towards healing. I prioritize building trust and rapport, so you can feel heard, valued and understood.
I firmly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship as a collaboration.
Life's challenges can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone. I'm dedicated to guide you through your struggles with compassion and non-judgment. My mission is to create a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your concerns and heal the pains that have led to difficulty and dissatisfaction in your life. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or navigating life transitions, I'm here to support you. Embarking on therapy can feel vulnerable, yet it can be liberating step towards healing. I prioritize building trust and rapport, so you can feel heard, valued and understood.
I specialize in addiction and supporting people in relationship with alcohol and other drugs.
Hello, my name is Stephanie and I am grateful to have been working in the field of health and human services for 23 years. I am humbled to provide clinical counselling services to children, youth, adults, couples, and families. In my interactions I strive to meet people where they are at while centring safety, collaboration, trauma informed practice, cultural humility, compassion. I hold a Bachelor Degree in Social Work, Masters in Counselling Psychology and a PhD with a specialization in the field of substance use and addiction. I am a professor at a post- secondary university and teach in the areas of substance use, mental health.
I specialize in addiction and supporting people in relationship with alcohol and other drugs.
Hello, my name is Stephanie and I am grateful to have been working in the field of health and human services for 23 years. I am humbled to provide clinical counselling services to children, youth, adults, couples, and families. In my interactions I strive to meet people where they are at while centring safety, collaboration, trauma informed practice, cultural humility, compassion. I hold a Bachelor Degree in Social Work, Masters in Counselling Psychology and a PhD with a specialization in the field of substance use and addiction. I am a professor at a post- secondary university and teach in the areas of substance use, mental health.
Hi there, my name is Joy and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I am passionate about supporting those who are navigating challenges related to recent or past trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I believe it is essential to understand people’s experiences in light of their particular social, cultural, and relational contexts, and I aim to be sensitive to this in my work.
Hi there, my name is Joy and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I am passionate about supporting those who are navigating challenges related to recent or past trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I believe it is essential to understand people’s experiences in light of their particular social, cultural, and relational contexts, and I aim to be sensitive to this in my work.
I draw from a range of trauma-informed approaches, anchored by my training in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), which is based on the idea that we are able to “undo our aloneness” and access our natural healing tendency from the safety of a secure relationship.
I work with humans around issues such as anxiety, relational trauma, self-criticism, low self-worth, and struggles navigating connection and conflict, as well as the tension between self-protection and growth. Common concerns that bring people to me include social and other forms of anxiety, low mood, eating and body image concerns, parenting challenges, and communication/ relationship issues. I see teens, adults, and couples in my practice.
I draw from a range of trauma-informed approaches, anchored by my training in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), which is based on the idea that we are able to “undo our aloneness” and access our natural healing tendency from the safety of a secure relationship.
I work with humans around issues such as anxiety, relational trauma, self-criticism, low self-worth, and struggles navigating connection and conflict, as well as the tension between self-protection and growth. Common concerns that bring people to me include social and other forms of anxiety, low mood, eating and body image concerns, parenting challenges, and communication/ relationship issues. I see teens, adults, and couples in my practice.
I enjoy supporting clients with many challenges they may be facing, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and career/life transitions.
How often do you compare yourself to others? There is so much pressure that we need to be more—more successful, more attractive, more everything. This constant pressure often leads to a sense of inadequacy. But here is the thing, babies don’t compare themselves to others; they are simply confident in their worth. So what changes as we grow? This is where therapy can be a powerful tool. It offers an opportunity to explore the roots of the ingrained beliefs and the impact of familial and societal patterns. While developing a stronger sense of self-worth therapy empowers us to affirm we are more than enough—just as we are.
I enjoy supporting clients with many challenges they may be facing, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and career/life transitions.
How often do you compare yourself to others? There is so much pressure that we need to be more—more successful, more attractive, more everything. This constant pressure often leads to a sense of inadequacy. But here is the thing, babies don’t compare themselves to others; they are simply confident in their worth. So what changes as we grow? This is where therapy can be a powerful tool. It offers an opportunity to explore the roots of the ingrained beliefs and the impact of familial and societal patterns. While developing a stronger sense of self-worth therapy empowers us to affirm we are more than enough—just as we are.
In a very casual and relaxed atmosphere, I help individuals and couples explore life from a new and different perspective.
Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you get frustrated at your partner, your mother, your co-workers or your boss? Have you thought that if you moved jobs, or countries, or changed your relationship that life would change; only to realize that you are having the same experience all over again? Sometimes we wish that people would just do what we want them to or be a certain way so that we can feel better. Often we think our relationships need to change when change must really begin within ourselves. If you are ready to look at who you are in your relationships, I'm here to help you discover who that is and why!
In a very casual and relaxed atmosphere, I help individuals and couples explore life from a new and different perspective.
Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you get frustrated at your partner, your mother, your co-workers or your boss? Have you thought that if you moved jobs, or countries, or changed your relationship that life would change; only to realize that you are having the same experience all over again? Sometimes we wish that people would just do what we want them to or be a certain way so that we can feel better. Often we think our relationships need to change when change must really begin within ourselves. If you are ready to look at who you are in your relationships, I'm here to help you discover who that is and why!
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.
Contact me for info about Intensive Couples Therapy, improve your relationship at a private retreat for you.
Turn relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and stress downside-up and stop repeating the same troublesome patterns. I am an experienced counsellor who can help you turn problems into solutions, getting you the tools you need to make real changes, starting now. Doing more than just listen, I help you deal with problems and underlying causes so that you can gain relief now and for the future. Life is better with help: I can help with relationships, infidelity, trust, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, sex issues, panic, addictions, anger, trauma, grief, and more. Frowns really can turn into smiles.
Contact me for info about Intensive Couples Therapy, improve your relationship at a private retreat for you.
Turn relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and stress downside-up and stop repeating the same troublesome patterns. I am an experienced counsellor who can help you turn problems into solutions, getting you the tools you need to make real changes, starting now. Doing more than just listen, I help you deal with problems and underlying causes so that you can gain relief now and for the future. Life is better with help: I can help with relationships, infidelity, trust, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, sex issues, panic, addictions, anger, trauma, grief, and more. Frowns really can turn into smiles.
Barb N. Aronchick-Zachernuk
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MEd, CCC, RCC, RPTSCPT
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Having worn the hats of teacher, special needs advocate, workshop and group leader, mental health worker, consultant, and clinical supervisor- I have learned the value of creating relationship first, and allowing the client to lead the process.
Human beings are complicated-so often we attempt to reach out to others using words to express our thoughts, our emotions, and our behaviours. With children/youth, we see additional communication barriers because of fewer words and limited life experiences. Being part of a family system should bring safety and emotional support but sometimes this is not possible without help. My work is to enable us to become partners in the process of change- discovering strengths, new awareness and building on this. Imagine my holding up a mirror for you, so that with each session, you are able to discover and appreciate more of who you truly are.
Having worn the hats of teacher, special needs advocate, workshop and group leader, mental health worker, consultant, and clinical supervisor- I have learned the value of creating relationship first, and allowing the client to lead the process.
Human beings are complicated-so often we attempt to reach out to others using words to express our thoughts, our emotions, and our behaviours. With children/youth, we see additional communication barriers because of fewer words and limited life experiences. Being part of a family system should bring safety and emotional support but sometimes this is not possible without help. My work is to enable us to become partners in the process of change- discovering strengths, new awareness and building on this. Imagine my holding up a mirror for you, so that with each session, you are able to discover and appreciate more of who you truly are.
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If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, suicidal thoughts, self-harming, relationship or family issues, or other life challenges, I am here to listen and walk with you through this time.
Hello, my name is Monique Hendricks, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in B.C. I help people of all ages who are dealing with anxiety, depression, overthinking, self-confidence, grief and loss, and relationship/family challenges. My practice is guided through a trauma-focused lens, and I integrate a variety of counselling approaches depending on your therapy needs. With your consent, I will incorporate aspects of mindfulness and somatic-sensory (physical) awareness into the space of wellness that we create together.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, suicidal thoughts, self-harming, relationship or family issues, or other life challenges, I am here to listen and walk with you through this time.
Hello, my name is Monique Hendricks, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in B.C. I help people of all ages who are dealing with anxiety, depression, overthinking, self-confidence, grief and loss, and relationship/family challenges. My practice is guided through a trauma-focused lens, and I integrate a variety of counselling approaches depending on your therapy needs. With your consent, I will incorporate aspects of mindfulness and somatic-sensory (physical) awareness into the space of wellness that we create together.
Chris has a caring and non-judgmental way of relating which creates a safe and effective therapeutic relationship.
Providing help for: Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Addictions, Personal Growth, Abuse, Parenting, Anger Management, Stress, Guilt, Insomnia, Family, Trauma, Spiritual...
Chris has a caring and non-judgmental way of relating which creates a safe and effective therapeutic relationship.
Providing help for: Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Addictions, Personal Growth, Abuse, Parenting, Anger Management, Stress, Guilt, Insomnia, Family, Trauma, Spiritual...
Jessica MacKay - Harmony Health and Wellness
Counsellor, MA, RCC, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9T
I offer compassionate, insightful counselling and care for individuals, couples and families requiring support for: mental health, nutritional or physical health goals, Therapeutic Yoga and more.
Everyone has a unique approach to discovering wellness in their life. I believe we need balance between physical, mental, emotional, behavioral and spiritual health, and each of these areas requires care and attention to thrive. By reaching out to talk about stress, feelings, emotions, thoughts and other factors influencing our health, we give ourselves the ability to make necessary change, and to empower autonomous decision-making, creating happiness for ourselves. If you feel stuck, stressed, unfulfilled, or experience relationship difficulties or require support in finding happiness and health, begin your journey to health today.
I offer compassionate, insightful counselling and care for individuals, couples and families requiring support for: mental health, nutritional or physical health goals, Therapeutic Yoga and more.
Everyone has a unique approach to discovering wellness in their life. I believe we need balance between physical, mental, emotional, behavioral and spiritual health, and each of these areas requires care and attention to thrive. By reaching out to talk about stress, feelings, emotions, thoughts and other factors influencing our health, we give ourselves the ability to make necessary change, and to empower autonomous decision-making, creating happiness for ourselves. If you feel stuck, stressed, unfulfilled, or experience relationship difficulties or require support in finding happiness and health, begin your journey to health today.
Struggling with self-criticism, shame, low self-esteem, stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, eating disorders, family conflict, relationship struggles, life changes or grief? Needing support, new skills or help for moving forward? You deserve to find more peace and well-being. I can help. Together we will explore what is getting the way, heal what needs to be healed, feel what needs to be felt and learn what needs to be learned.
Struggling with self-criticism, shame, low self-esteem, stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, eating disorders, family conflict, relationship struggles, life changes or grief? Needing support, new skills or help for moving forward? You deserve to find more peace and well-being. I can help. Together we will explore what is getting the way, heal what needs to be healed, feel what needs to be felt and learn what needs to be learned.
Allius Services Inc.
Counsellor, MA, RCC-ACS, CPT, BCRPT-S
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
We also offer family therapy for couples, families, parents.
We are accepting new clients of all ages for counselling! Here at Allius Services, we support people to connect with themselves in order to better connect with others. The more we learn about our own internal world, the more we can extend greater compassion to ourselves and to those around us. At Allius, we know the path to emotional well-being comes from those small, meaningful steps we take everyday that moves us a bit closer to what and who is most important to us. Together, we can co-create a plan that moves you forward in the direction of living a more meaningful life and one that is more connected to those you care about most.
We also offer family therapy for couples, families, parents.
We are accepting new clients of all ages for counselling! Here at Allius Services, we support people to connect with themselves in order to better connect with others. The more we learn about our own internal world, the more we can extend greater compassion to ourselves and to those around us. At Allius, we know the path to emotional well-being comes from those small, meaningful steps we take everyday that moves us a bit closer to what and who is most important to us. Together, we can co-create a plan that moves you forward in the direction of living a more meaningful life and one that is more connected to those you care about most.
I see individuals, couples and families.
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 see individuals, couples and families.
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
Chances are you are struggling with what appears to be unsurmountable challenges in some form of relationship.
My ideal client has often dug themselves into a hole into which they can not get out of on their own. The issues will be related to a difficult relationship of some description, partner, family, community, finance, environment, financial, and certainly themselves. It is likely that their goals are uncertain and that they feel lost. Very often, my ideal client does not know what they want, but can with certainty say what they don't want.
Chances are you are struggling with what appears to be unsurmountable challenges in some form of relationship.
My ideal client has often dug themselves into a hole into which they can not get out of on their own. The issues will be related to a difficult relationship of some description, partner, family, community, finance, environment, financial, and certainly themselves. It is likely that their goals are uncertain and that they feel lost. Very often, my ideal client does not know what they want, but can with certainty say what they don't want.
Exploration of anger, relationship and historical issues to unlock potential for increased understanding of these new experiences are essential.
In a world where people are experiencing increased anxiety and isolation it is important to find a place of safety and belonging. I believe people have the resources within themselves to thrive in this ever changing and complex society and it is my responsibility to guide you through the process of finding your own strengths. I have experience working with children and youth who struggle with anxiety issues stemming from family strife, school stress and self-esteem. I do family mediation and work with clients individually or as a couple. Without relationship human beings are lost, we crave connection.
Exploration of anger, relationship and historical issues to unlock potential for increased understanding of these new experiences are essential.
In a world where people are experiencing increased anxiety and isolation it is important to find a place of safety and belonging. I believe people have the resources within themselves to thrive in this ever changing and complex society and it is my responsibility to guide you through the process of finding your own strengths. I have experience working with children and youth who struggle with anxiety issues stemming from family strife, school stress and self-esteem. I do family mediation and work with clients individually or as a couple. Without relationship human beings are lost, we crave connection.
Hello, my name is Dean Laviolette and this is a counselling practice in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada. As a proud Metis, life is both precious and beautiful, just like you. Seeking counselling is an opportunity to unearth and rediscover who you really are. My approach is to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and respect in a safe environment. Being empathetic and genuine is my commitment to quality of care to clients without being judgmental. The use of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches seem to help clients self-explore, become self-aware, and learn self-care.
Hello, my name is Dean Laviolette and this is a counselling practice in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada. As a proud Metis, life is both precious and beautiful, just like you. Seeking counselling is an opportunity to unearth and rediscover who you really are. My approach is to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and respect in a safe environment. Being empathetic and genuine is my commitment to quality of care to clients without being judgmental. The use of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches seem to help clients self-explore, become self-aware, and learn self-care.
See more therapy options for Nanaimo
Couples Counselling
Does couples counseling work?
Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.
When should a couple seek counseling?
Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.
How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?
The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.
How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?
The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.