Substance Use Therapists in Parksville, BC

Photo of Christopher Spencer - Awaken Counselling, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Awaken Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS) as my primary therapeutic model. My goal is to assist people to release the burdens that they carry and to foster access to their deeper Selves. I have experience working with individual's and couples with a vast array of Mental Health, Emotional, and Relational concerns. Often the people I see carry; anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, substance use, and OCD, relational stress, amongst others. My partner is an RCC and she also uses IFS and has experience treating complex trauma. Full details can be found on our website.
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS) as my primary therapeutic model. My goal is to assist people to release the burdens that they carry and to foster access to their deeper Selves. I have experience working with individual's and couples with a vast array of Mental Health, Emotional, and Relational concerns. Often the people I see carry; anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, substance use, and OCD, relational stress, amongst others. My partner is an RCC and she also uses IFS and has experience treating complex trauma. Full details can be found on our website.
(604) 337-2545 View (604) 337-2545
Photo of Eden Dratva, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Eden Dratva
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
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.
(867) 670-8317 View (867) 670-8317
Photo of Katen Jolly, MSW, BSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katen Jolly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
Ipossess expertise in working with mental health presentations, neurodiversity, and substance use challenges ranging from mild to severe.
I have a long history of social and community engagement, which are the foundations in my clinical practice. My involvement with social work has highlighted the gaps in mental health supportive interventions for individuals, children, youth, young adults and families.
Ipossess expertise in working with mental health presentations, neurodiversity, and substance use challenges ranging from mild to severe.
I have a long history of social and community engagement, which are the foundations in my clinical practice. My involvement with social work has highlighted the gaps in mental health supportive interventions for individuals, children, youth, young adults and families.
(604) 332-9901 View (604) 332-9901
Photo of Debra Kine, MA,  DSD, MAMS, RCC, Counsellor
Debra Kine
Counsellor, MA, DSD, MAMS, RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
I have dedicated the past i5 years of my life to working with First Responders. Before opening up my own practice I served as the Director of Trauma and Spiritual Care at a Treatment Centre located on Vancouver Island. I have met many people who have been my teachers. They have been struggling with PTSD, emotional dysregulation, depression, anxiety, loss of instinct of purpose. Some have been struggling with loss and grief not knowing how to grieve in a healthy manner. Others have been struggling with intense fear and self doubt knowing that change needs to happen in their lives and not knowing how to move forward.
I have dedicated the past i5 years of my life to working with First Responders. Before opening up my own practice I served as the Director of Trauma and Spiritual Care at a Treatment Centre located on Vancouver Island. I have met many people who have been my teachers. They have been struggling with PTSD, emotional dysregulation, depression, anxiety, loss of instinct of purpose. Some have been struggling with loss and grief not knowing how to grieve in a healthy manner. Others have been struggling with intense fear and self doubt knowing that change needs to happen in their lives and not knowing how to move forward.
(506) 404-2046 View (506) 404-2046
Photo of Diane Hancox, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Diane Hancox
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
Whether you think you had a 'normal' childhood or know the dysfunction you experienced, we are all wounded by not 'good enough' parenting and thus, develop coping mechanisms which do not always serve us. These adaptations result in depression, addictions, and a feeling of 'stuckness' or 'blah.' I help clients see these adaptations and underlying falsities that many of us continue to live by. As we work, meaningful insights occur and hope returns. You will gain better control of situations and learn to make more meaningful decisions in your life.
Whether you think you had a 'normal' childhood or know the dysfunction you experienced, we are all wounded by not 'good enough' parenting and thus, develop coping mechanisms which do not always serve us. These adaptations result in depression, addictions, and a feeling of 'stuckness' or 'blah.' I help clients see these adaptations and underlying falsities that many of us continue to live by. As we work, meaningful insights occur and hope returns. You will gain better control of situations and learn to make more meaningful decisions in your life.
(866) 449-1259 View (866) 449-1259
Photo of Linnea Saltel, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Linnea Saltel
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Update: In-Person in Parksville on Mondays and Thursdays starting Aug. 1st. Though making change can be hard, it can be done - part of my role is to help you navigate a path forward that is in line with what's truly important to you. I have over a decade of experience in working in various roles in mental health and social justice, and as a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I am passionate about connecting with people and guiding them in living more authentically. Some challenges that I have supported others with include trauma, anxiety, burnout, depression, and interpersonal relationships.
Update: In-Person in Parksville on Mondays and Thursdays starting Aug. 1st. Though making change can be hard, it can be done - part of my role is to help you navigate a path forward that is in line with what's truly important to you. I have over a decade of experience in working in various roles in mental health and social justice, and as a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I am passionate about connecting with people and guiding them in living more authentically. Some challenges that I have supported others with include trauma, anxiety, burnout, depression, and interpersonal relationships.
(587) 602-2896 View (587) 602-2896
Photo of Barb Gottfried, MSc, RPC, MPCC, Counsellor
Barb Gottfried
Counsellor, MSc, RPC, MPCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 30 years of experience providing counselling services to individuals (all ages), couples, families and first responders. I offer respectful, collaborative, holistic, compassionate and goal focused counselling in a safe and supportive environment. I offer a broad spectrum of services ranging from brief solution focused support to intensive psychotherapeutic support, including CBT & EMDR. I believe in the value of working collaboratively with my clients, and I have a deep respect and appreciation for diversity.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 30 years of experience providing counselling services to individuals (all ages), couples, families and first responders. I offer respectful, collaborative, holistic, compassionate and goal focused counselling in a safe and supportive environment. I offer a broad spectrum of services ranging from brief solution focused support to intensive psychotherapeutic support, including CBT & EMDR. I believe in the value of working collaboratively with my clients, and I have a deep respect and appreciation for diversity.
(778) 655-8538 View (778) 655-8538
Photo of Jennifer McRae, MC, BEd, BA CYC, Counsellor
Jennifer McRae
Counsellor, MC, BEd, BA CYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Waitlist for new clients
Perhaps you are experiencing a significant transition in your life, wanting to explore your identity, are feeling the influence of anxiety or depression, or are wanting to heal from traumatic experiences you have had. Whatever the life challenge that you are experiencing, I am committed to working collaboratively with you to access your strengths, uncover your preferred vision for living, and create the change that you are seeking.
Perhaps you are experiencing a significant transition in your life, wanting to explore your identity, are feeling the influence of anxiety or depression, or are wanting to heal from traumatic experiences you have had. Whatever the life challenge that you are experiencing, I am committed to working collaboratively with you to access your strengths, uncover your preferred vision for living, and create the change that you are seeking.
(450) 987-1068 View (450) 987-1068
Photo of David Hebb, RSW, MSW, BSW, Counsellor
David Hebb
Counsellor, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
OFFERING PHONE AND WEBCAM SERVICES ONLY. David is an experienced marriage and family therapist, with training in Brief Solution Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. I understand the challenges that individuals,couples and families may face, and believe that marriage and family therapy results in healthier, happier relationships. Our counselling sessions are goal-oriented and solution-focused. Fortitude Counselling believe that facing a challenge in life is an opportunity to challenge yourself and learn new strategies and skills to address the challenge head on.
OFFERING PHONE AND WEBCAM SERVICES ONLY. David is an experienced marriage and family therapist, with training in Brief Solution Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. I understand the challenges that individuals,couples and families may face, and believe that marriage and family therapy results in healthier, happier relationships. Our counselling sessions are goal-oriented and solution-focused. Fortitude Counselling believe that facing a challenge in life is an opportunity to challenge yourself and learn new strategies and skills to address the challenge head on.
(778) 764-2398 View (778) 764-2398
Photo of Sharon Larene Thomas - Ocean Sky Counselling Services, MA,  RCC, Counsellor
Ocean Sky Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
Anyone including individuals, couples and families in need of counselling will benefit from coming to see me. I have had many years experience working with youth and adults. The area I particularly enjoy working with is trauma, both childhood and more recent traumatic experiences such as car accidents, abuse, or other traumatic incidents. I work collaboratively with my clients to determine what their goals are and what therapy will be the most useful. I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and find this very effective in working with trauma.
Anyone including individuals, couples and families in need of counselling will benefit from coming to see me. I have had many years experience working with youth and adults. The area I particularly enjoy working with is trauma, both childhood and more recent traumatic experiences such as car accidents, abuse, or other traumatic incidents. I work collaboratively with my clients to determine what their goals are and what therapy will be the most useful. I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and find this very effective in working with trauma.
(778) 764-2003 View (778) 764-2003
Photo of Bronwen Rutter, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Bronwen Rutter
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained to work with individuals, couples and families, and will provide support and encouragement to achieve breakthrough for emotional and relational concerns. I also support parents to enhance skills and find greater satisfaction in raising their children. I have over twenty-five years in the counselling field and can provide a supportive, caring space for clients to share their concerns, learn effective coping strategies, begin recovery and reconnect with life.
I am trained to work with individuals, couples and families, and will provide support and encouragement to achieve breakthrough for emotional and relational concerns. I also support parents to enhance skills and find greater satisfaction in raising their children. I have over twenty-five years in the counselling field and can provide a supportive, caring space for clients to share their concerns, learn effective coping strategies, begin recovery and reconnect with life.
(778) 949-9020 View (778) 949-9020
Photo of Ron Alan Depner - The Therapy Place Counselling Group LTD, MC, RCC, Counsellor
The Therapy Place Counselling Group LTD
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
We're a group of experienced, trained, and professional counsellors who serve the mid-island area and beyond. We also provide online services for those who prefer it or for those who live outside of the geographic area. Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship turmoil? We can help!
We're a group of experienced, trained, and professional counsellors who serve the mid-island area and beyond. We also provide online services for those who prefer it or for those who live outside of the geographic area. Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship turmoil? We can help!
(250) 616-3579 View (250) 616-3579
Photo of Ron Lafleur, M, Ed, RCC, Counsellor
Ron Lafleur
Counsellor, M, Ed, RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
My view on counselling is based upon the level of trust and the quality of the connection that we are able to create together. In essence, the relationship that we develop together is key. I would wish to provide you with a safe, caring environment where you could come to feel completely heard and understood. I see my role as being more of a Guide, offering support while at the same time gently encouraging your growth by pointing out certain areas, thoughts, beliefs or behaviours that may be keeping you stuck, or that you may be unaware of.
My view on counselling is based upon the level of trust and the quality of the connection that we are able to create together. In essence, the relationship that we develop together is key. I would wish to provide you with a safe, caring environment where you could come to feel completely heard and understood. I see my role as being more of a Guide, offering support while at the same time gently encouraging your growth by pointing out certain areas, thoughts, beliefs or behaviours that may be keeping you stuck, or that you may be unaware of.
(855) 694-0493 View (855) 694-0493
Photo of Paola Lake, PhD, Psychologist
Paola Lake
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy helping individuals create positive change in their lives and dissolve barriers that interfere with personal success. Therapy provides opportunities to learn how to dissolve troublesome emotions that inter with quality of life and the ability to enjoy the present moment. As a therapist, I enjoy helping people overcome a variety of emotional difficulties, including depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, addictions, trauma, grief, pain management, low self-esteem and interpersonal problems. I help people access their inner strength to help cope with life's challenges and I provide coaching for goal achievement.
I enjoy helping individuals create positive change in their lives and dissolve barriers that interfere with personal success. Therapy provides opportunities to learn how to dissolve troublesome emotions that inter with quality of life and the ability to enjoy the present moment. As a therapist, I enjoy helping people overcome a variety of emotional difficulties, including depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, addictions, trauma, grief, pain management, low self-esteem and interpersonal problems. I help people access their inner strength to help cope with life's challenges and I provide coaching for goal achievement.
(250) 999-0508 View (250) 999-0508
Photo of Jake Sombrutzki, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Jake Sombrutzki
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with daily life, goals, or your relationship with yourself or others? Do fear, anxiety, low self-worth, setting boundaries, or anger hold you back? I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental approach focused on helping you rediscover your self-worth and innate ability to navigate life's challenges. With a background in addiction treatment and a diverse upbringing, I integrate Eastern philosophy and spirituality into my practice. I presently exclusively offer online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services.
Are you struggling with daily life, goals, or your relationship with yourself or others? Do fear, anxiety, low self-worth, setting boundaries, or anger hold you back? I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental approach focused on helping you rediscover your self-worth and innate ability to navigate life's challenges. With a background in addiction treatment and a diverse upbringing, I integrate Eastern philosophy and spirituality into my practice. I presently exclusively offer online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services.
(709) 702-0705 View (709) 702-0705
Photo of Nicole Dudek, MACP, CCC, Counsellor
Nicole Dudek
Counsellor, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Life can be complicated and difficult at times. We are not meant to navigate it alone. I believe you already have the inner-strength and wisdom needed to lead a hopeful and meaningful life. My goal is to help you access your inner resources in a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate therapeutic space. I practice from a person-centered perspective characterized by warmth, empathy, and acceptance. Drawing on different therapeutic modalities to fit specific needs and goals, including Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Somatic approaches.
Life can be complicated and difficult at times. We are not meant to navigate it alone. I believe you already have the inner-strength and wisdom needed to lead a hopeful and meaningful life. My goal is to help you access your inner resources in a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate therapeutic space. I practice from a person-centered perspective characterized by warmth, empathy, and acceptance. Drawing on different therapeutic modalities to fit specific needs and goals, including Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Somatic approaches.
(581) 203-0622 View (581) 203-0622
Photo of Lauren Aebig, MEd, CCC, Counsellor
Lauren Aebig
Counsellor, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
I offer personalized therapy that is grounded in research and relationship; in-person & online; child, teen, & individual adult counselling. I want to connect you back to you. You may have experienced trauma in your life such as: unsettling events or experiences, to challenging or abusive relationships that left you feeling wounded, and alone. You may feel blocked or triggered. This may manifest as: anxiety, depression, numbness, flashbacks, trouble sleeping, addictions, or even the need to be perfect. You may find it hard to connect with others, or navigate certain situations. You just want to feel calmer and happier.
I offer personalized therapy that is grounded in research and relationship; in-person & online; child, teen, & individual adult counselling. I want to connect you back to you. You may have experienced trauma in your life such as: unsettling events or experiences, to challenging or abusive relationships that left you feeling wounded, and alone. You may feel blocked or triggered. This may manifest as: anxiety, depression, numbness, flashbacks, trouble sleeping, addictions, or even the need to be perfect. You may find it hard to connect with others, or navigate certain situations. You just want to feel calmer and happier.
(579) 539-0241 View (579) 539-0241
Photo of Gillian Sutherland, MSW, RCSW, RCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gillian Sutherland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Waitlist for new clients
At Central Island Counselling, our clients will immediately find an advocate with compassion, acceptance and expertise. We provide the highest standard of private clinical counselling services to adults, youth, children and families in the Nanaimo area and beyond. We value privacy, professionalism and creativity in care. Our mission is to safely guide each client while they rediscover their internal resources. You are not alone and there is a path forward to healing.
At Central Island Counselling, our clients will immediately find an advocate with compassion, acceptance and expertise. We provide the highest standard of private clinical counselling services to adults, youth, children and families in the Nanaimo area and beyond. We value privacy, professionalism and creativity in care. Our mission is to safely guide each client while they rediscover their internal resources. You are not alone and there is a path forward to healing.
(226) 799-0835 View (226) 799-0835
Photo of Josh Drummond, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Josh Drummond
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
Today as a society there are so many stressors that we have to deal with on an individual basis such as mental illness, trauma, struggles with addiction, work and relationship stress that can impact our overall ability to function and succeed. Going through any of these struggles alone is a near impossible task and I am happy that you are looking for someone to walk along with you through life's challenges.
Today as a society there are so many stressors that we have to deal with on an individual basis such as mental illness, trauma, struggles with addiction, work and relationship stress that can impact our overall ability to function and succeed. Going through any of these struggles alone is a near impossible task and I am happy that you are looking for someone to walk along with you through life's challenges.
(581) 221-2428 View (581) 221-2428
Photo of Lynn Redenbach, MA, PhD, RCC, Counsellor
Lynn Redenbach
Counsellor, MA, PhD, RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
I work with individuals, couples, and families who are committed to authentic and deep change in their lives and relationships. Some seek support in dealing with life's challenges such as life transitions, grief and loss, chronic pain and illness, etc. Others, are dealing with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or trauma. I also work with healthcare providers who are navigating workplace challenges and stress. In addition, I work with leaders who seek a holistic, relational neuroscience-based approach to their development and who wish to understand organizations from a complex systems perspective.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who are committed to authentic and deep change in their lives and relationships. Some seek support in dealing with life's challenges such as life transitions, grief and loss, chronic pain and illness, etc. Others, are dealing with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or trauma. I also work with healthcare providers who are navigating workplace challenges and stress. In addition, I work with leaders who seek a holistic, relational neuroscience-based approach to their development and who wish to understand organizations from a complex systems perspective.
(587) 847-0495 View (587) 847-0495
Photo of Krista Butler, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Krista Butler
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Hi, my name is Krista, I am glad you're here. I primarily work with those who struggle with anxiety, grief and loss, and chronic pain management. My goal is to establish a therapeutic relationship where clients feel safe enough to explore issues that are important to them. I bring a unique perspective as a certified yoga teacher and vipassana meditator. I believe in the importance of restoring a connection with all aspects of the self to facilitate the healing process. I work with clients one-on-one to help them find a connection between body, mind, and heart, and to rediscover the inherent wisdom that resides within the body.
Hi, my name is Krista, I am glad you're here. I primarily work with those who struggle with anxiety, grief and loss, and chronic pain management. My goal is to establish a therapeutic relationship where clients feel safe enough to explore issues that are important to them. I bring a unique perspective as a certified yoga teacher and vipassana meditator. I believe in the importance of restoring a connection with all aspects of the self to facilitate the healing process. I work with clients one-on-one to help them find a connection between body, mind, and heart, and to rediscover the inherent wisdom that resides within the body.
(672) 572-0640 View (672) 572-0640
Photo of Jan McNeill, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Jan McNeill
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Thinking of going for counselling can be a frightening thought. If you are at this stage you probably feel like your life could be better, your quality of interactions with other people could improve; you want more out of the life you have or are at your wits end in regards to some aspect of your life. Whatever the circumstance my goal is to meet you where you are at and to work together to work towards healing or a better quality of life.
Thinking of going for counselling can be a frightening thought. If you are at this stage you probably feel like your life could be better, your quality of interactions with other people could improve; you want more out of the life you have or are at your wits end in regards to some aspect of your life. Whatever the circumstance my goal is to meet you where you are at and to work together to work towards healing or a better quality of life.
(866) 212-0869 View (866) 212-0869
Photo of Jim Myklebust - Oceanside Counselling Solutions, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Oceanside Counselling Solutions
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
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.
(778) 654-4718 View (778) 654-4718
Photo of Tiffany Anderson, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Tiffany Anderson
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
I provide an open, caring environment where all parts of you are welcome. It can be so difficult to navigate all the various challenges thrown at us today, while also striving to discover our most authentic selves. Complicated emotions are part of being human, but so often we isolate ourselves with these emotions out of fear or shame. In our time together, we’ll work to relieve those stuck parts of your experience so that you can move closer to yourself and the ones you love.
I provide an open, caring environment where all parts of you are welcome. It can be so difficult to navigate all the various challenges thrown at us today, while also striving to discover our most authentic selves. Complicated emotions are part of being human, but so often we isolate ourselves with these emotions out of fear or shame. In our time together, we’ll work to relieve those stuck parts of your experience so that you can move closer to yourself and the ones you love.
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Photo of Jade Seabrook - Vancouver Island Therapy, MA, RCC, CSAT, Counsellor
Vancouver Island Therapy
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Welcome! We all love what we do and are here to help you find health, balance and peace. 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. Diverse, professional and experienced, our practitioners bring a broad range of experience into their practice with clients. We are here to help emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. Each of us has decades of experience, a unique approach
Welcome! We all love what we do and are here to help you find health, balance and peace. 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. Diverse, professional and experienced, our practitioners bring a broad range of experience into their practice with clients. We are here to help emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. Each of us has decades of experience, a unique approach
(778) 200-2900 View (778) 200-2900
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Substance Use Counsellors

How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?

In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counsellors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?

Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.

Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?

There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.