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
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is the primary therapeutic model that we use. Our goal is to assist people to release the burdens that they carry and to foster access to their deeper Selves. We have experience working with individual's and couples with a vast array of Mental Health, Emotional, and Relational concerns. Often the people we see carry; anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, substance use, OCD, and 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.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is the primary therapeutic model that we use. Our goal is to assist people to release the burdens that they carry and to foster access to their deeper Selves. We have experience working with individual's and couples with a vast array of Mental Health, Emotional, and Relational concerns. Often the people we see carry; anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, substance use, OCD, and 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 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 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 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 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 Meena Bolla Singh, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Meena Bolla Singh
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P  (Online Only)
I presently exclusively offer online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services. As the Clinical Team Lead and Registered Social Worker, I am firmly grounded in social work values of respecting the inherent dignity and worth of a person, promoting social justice and challenging oppressive systems with the goal to decolonize mental health. I passionately lead with a trauma-informed approach, honouring each person who invites me to walk alongside their journey of healing. Working with me, you can expect to experience my sense of humour, warmth, gentle-challenging, and honesty.
I presently exclusively offer online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services. As the Clinical Team Lead and Registered Social Worker, I am firmly grounded in social work values of respecting the inherent dignity and worth of a person, promoting social justice and challenging oppressive systems with the goal to decolonize mental health. I passionately lead with a trauma-informed approach, honouring each person who invites me to walk alongside their journey of healing. Working with me, you can expect to experience my sense of humour, warmth, gentle-challenging, and honesty.
(709) 702-0705 View (709) 702-0705
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
3 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 Anita K Deneault, MA, Counsellor
Anita K Deneault
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
I have been blessed to have worked many years in the counselling/healing field with individuals of all ages. I have specialized training in working with youth. I am quite comfortable working with single and complex trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, and dissociation. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT).
I have been blessed to have worked many years in the counselling/healing field with individuals of all ages. I have specialized training in working with youth. I am quite comfortable working with single and complex trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, and dissociation. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT).
(249) 201-8173 View (249) 201-8173
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 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 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 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 Courtney Wright | Qualicum Counselling, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Wright | Qualicum Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P  (Online Only)
Current daytime availability. Direct billing available. Hello! I’m Courtney, a dedicated Registered Social Worker and Counsellor passionate about supporting individuals as they navigate the complexities of physical, mental, and emotional health. Life can throw us into challenging situations—be it social, emotional, professional or financial—and I’m here to help you confront these obstacles with resilience and hope. I believe that everyone deserves a space where they feel heard, understood, and accepted.
Current daytime availability. Direct billing available. Hello! I’m Courtney, a dedicated Registered Social Worker and Counsellor passionate about supporting individuals as they navigate the complexities of physical, mental, and emotional health. Life can throw us into challenging situations—be it social, emotional, professional or financial—and I’m here to help you confront these obstacles with resilience and hope. I believe that everyone deserves a space where they feel heard, understood, and accepted.
(226) 773-5125 View (226) 773-5125
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 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 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 Chris J Clarke, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Chris J Clarke
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P  (Online Only)
Providing help for: Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Addictions, Personal Growth, Abuse, Parenting, Anger Management, Stress, Guilt, Insomnia, Family, Trauma, Spiritual...
Providing help for: Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Addictions, Personal Growth, Abuse, Parenting, Anger Management, Stress, Guilt, Insomnia, Family, Trauma, Spiritual...
(778) 766-4468 View (778) 766-4468
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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.