Substance Use Therapists in Penticton, BC
My name is Alyssa Brewer and it is an honour to be joining you today from the Syilx territory where I live, work, and play as an allied white settler. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC 19269) providing EMDR oriented counselling services virtually throughout British Columbia and in-person in Penticton. I'm passionate about blending the science of healing with sustainable and holistic approaches for body and brain wellness. My education and passion surrounds concerns associated with trauma symptoms, experiences, and conditions as well as substance use, chronic pain, and stress conditions related to frontline work.
My name is Alyssa Brewer and it is an honour to be joining you today from the Syilx territory where I live, work, and play as an allied white settler. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC 19269) providing EMDR oriented counselling services virtually throughout British Columbia and in-person in Penticton. I'm passionate about blending the science of healing with sustainable and holistic approaches for body and brain wellness. My education and passion surrounds concerns associated with trauma symptoms, experiences, and conditions as well as substance use, chronic pain, and stress conditions related to frontline work.
Andrea takes an integrated approach to therapy and has a keen interest in anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and life transitions.
Andrea is a Registered Social Worker with the British Columbia College of Social Workers (BCCSW) and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and a Masters degree in Counselling. She has over 12 years of experience working with individuals, families, and groups in the non-profit and health sectors.
Andrea takes an integrated approach to therapy and has a keen interest in anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and life transitions.
Andrea is a Registered Social Worker with the British Columbia College of Social Workers (BCCSW) and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and a Masters degree in Counselling. She has over 12 years of experience working with individuals, families, and groups in the non-profit and health sectors.
I earned a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia and a Master ‘s degree in Counselling Psychology from Athabasca University, focusing on acquiring the skills to support persons living with mental health and substance use disorders, and their affected family members. I have several years of closely supervised experience in counselling youth, adults, couples, families, and groups As well, I continue to complete continuing education credits and consult with colleagues, to remain current in psychological theory/practice and ensure the highest quality of service is provided.
I earned a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia and a Master ‘s degree in Counselling Psychology from Athabasca University, focusing on acquiring the skills to support persons living with mental health and substance use disorders, and their affected family members. I have several years of closely supervised experience in counselling youth, adults, couples, families, and groups As well, I continue to complete continuing education credits and consult with colleagues, to remain current in psychological theory/practice and ensure the highest quality of service is provided.
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.
I provide support for individuals and couples, as well as families of individuals struggling with substance use or mental health concerns.
I have been providing support for individuals struggling with mental health concerns for over a decade. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, substance abuse, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, self-harm and other emotion regulation difficulties. I hope to make people to feel safe and secure in sharing personal challenges and provide a compassionate, respectful, and non-judgmental perspective on complex struggles and coping difficulties.
I provide support for individuals and couples, as well as families of individuals struggling with substance use or mental health concerns.
I have been providing support for individuals struggling with mental health concerns for over a decade. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, substance abuse, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, self-harm and other emotion regulation difficulties. I hope to make people to feel safe and secure in sharing personal challenges and provide a compassionate, respectful, and non-judgmental perspective on complex struggles and coping difficulties.
Laurie Hollingdrake
Counsellor, RCC, CCC, MCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Penticton, BC V2A (Online Only)
Hi I’m Laurie, and I understand how lonely it can be to feel that there are things you can’t talk about with anyone in your life. I have experience working with folks who have dual diagnoses of mental health and substance use, folks questioning sexuality and gender identity, divorce, fertility issues, people working in the sex economy, stress, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and more. I hold a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, a diploma in Addictions Medicine, am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC, and am a Certified Yoga Instructor. I also provide clinical supervision to other mental health professionals.
Hi I’m Laurie, and I understand how lonely it can be to feel that there are things you can’t talk about with anyone in your life. I have experience working with folks who have dual diagnoses of mental health and substance use, folks questioning sexuality and gender identity, divorce, fertility issues, people working in the sex economy, stress, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and more. I hold a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, a diploma in Addictions Medicine, am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC, and am a Certified Yoga Instructor. I also provide clinical supervision to other mental health professionals.
Stephanie McAlister
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Penticton, BC V2A (Online Only)
I am a registered clinical counsellor and have been working as a counsellor since 2020. I offer clients a supportive place to be heard, validated, and to personally reflect. I believe that there are many life experiences that bring individuals into counselling. I am looking for clients who want to see a change in their lives, want to better understand themselves, and who want to heal from the challenges life has thrown at them. I enjoy meeting my clients where they are at and supporting them along their journey. I work with adults, families, couples, and youth.
I am a registered clinical counsellor and have been working as a counsellor since 2020. I offer clients a supportive place to be heard, validated, and to personally reflect. I believe that there are many life experiences that bring individuals into counselling. I am looking for clients who want to see a change in their lives, want to better understand themselves, and who want to heal from the challenges life has thrown at them. I enjoy meeting my clients where they are at and supporting them along their journey. I work with adults, families, couples, and youth.
With intention and deliberate effort to build respectful relationship and trust with the Original Peoples of the unceded lands of the Syilx Okanagan territory, we acknowledge we are uninvited guests on these lands. We have a personal and professional responsibility to uphold the Calls to Action outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, with the goal to transition from ally to accomplice, ensuring the truth of the ongoing generational trauma of residential schools, the sixties scoop, MMIWG&Two-Spirited, and systemic racism is shared, never diluted, and never forgotten. Heartways commits to cultural safety.
With intention and deliberate effort to build respectful relationship and trust with the Original Peoples of the unceded lands of the Syilx Okanagan territory, we acknowledge we are uninvited guests on these lands. We have a personal and professional responsibility to uphold the Calls to Action outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, with the goal to transition from ally to accomplice, ensuring the truth of the ongoing generational trauma of residential schools, the sixties scoop, MMIWG&Two-Spirited, and systemic racism is shared, never diluted, and never forgotten. Heartways commits to cultural safety.
For more details about me and my practice please visit my website at www.eleanoredgar.com
For more details about me and my practice please visit my website at www.eleanoredgar.com
My first exposure to counselling came through my experiences as a high school teacher. I taught Social Studies, Psychology, Law, English, Career Education and even a cooking class. Beyond my teaching duties, I was involved in the choir, athletics, and the school drama productions – I was a veritable Swiss Army Knife of education! But, most importantly, I talked to and heard from the kids. I heard from their parents, and I heard from my colleagues as they expressed their day-to-day professional and personal frustrations. I loved teaching, but at some point, my career path shifted from lecturing to listening. I became a counsellor.
My first exposure to counselling came through my experiences as a high school teacher. I taught Social Studies, Psychology, Law, English, Career Education and even a cooking class. Beyond my teaching duties, I was involved in the choir, athletics, and the school drama productions – I was a veritable Swiss Army Knife of education! But, most importantly, I talked to and heard from the kids. I heard from their parents, and I heard from my colleagues as they expressed their day-to-day professional and personal frustrations. I loved teaching, but at some point, my career path shifted from lecturing to listening. I became a counsellor.
I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health & Human Services and have proudly served as a Registered Clinical Counsellor since 1989. In addition to my professional pursuits, I have also contributed significantly to the field of counselling and psychology through my authorship of several books and facilitating online resources on the important topics of PTSD, authenticity, and addiction. Furthermore, my passion for continuous growth and knowledge has led me to actively participate in countless work-related seminars and workshops, both as an attendee and presenter.
I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health & Human Services and have proudly served as a Registered Clinical Counsellor since 1989. In addition to my professional pursuits, I have also contributed significantly to the field of counselling and psychology through my authorship of several books and facilitating online resources on the important topics of PTSD, authenticity, and addiction. Furthermore, my passion for continuous growth and knowledge has led me to actively participate in countless work-related seminars and workshops, both as an attendee and presenter.
15 Second Videos
Alyssa Brewer
Christel Mitchell
Eleanor Edgar
Dig Counselling
Lavene Noren
Christopher Iwestel Kinman
Strength Counselling Services
Brent Hayter
Kathryn Kriitmaa
Erle Robert Jaeger
Desert Solace Counselling & Recovery
Soul Centered Counselling & Holistic Services
Counsellor, RTC, BST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Penticton, BC V2A
I work with those who are motivated, yet uncertain of their next steps. They desire or need someone trustworthy & integral to support them through their changes and growth. They are willing to put the action & effort into themselves for it. They are willing to risk stepping into the unknown. My ideal client wants a guide to their power and to move away from self-punishment. They are those who have become lost, wandering in circles of their hurt -- confused or disconnected from life in & around them - For these I am in service.
I work with those who are motivated, yet uncertain of their next steps. They desire or need someone trustworthy & integral to support them through their changes and growth. They are willing to put the action & effort into themselves for it. They are willing to risk stepping into the unknown. My ideal client wants a guide to their power and to move away from self-punishment. They are those who have become lost, wandering in circles of their hurt -- confused or disconnected from life in & around them - For these I am in service.
South Okanagan Counselling Group
Counsellor, RCC, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Penticton, BC V2A
Find Your Therapist Here ... South Okanagan Counselling is a team of ethical, compassionate, and impeccably skilled therapists that effectively partner with clients in their journey toward optimal wellbeing. Located in Penticton, servicing the South Okanagan (Summerland to Osoyoos), providing support to adults, couples, youth, families, and child counselling.
Find Your Therapist Here ... South Okanagan Counselling is a team of ethical, compassionate, and impeccably skilled therapists that effectively partner with clients in their journey toward optimal wellbeing. Located in Penticton, servicing the South Okanagan (Summerland to Osoyoos), providing support to adults, couples, youth, families, and child counselling.
I feel like I was born in the construction trades. At a young age I worked at height (Rope Access), in remote areas, and in all environments. I wanted the skills to respond to any emergency at any time, this desire lead me to pre-hospital emergency medicine (EMR), wilderness first-aid, and rope rescue training. My work and personal experiences from this time left me feeling isolated, dreading human interactions, and losing my love of learning and mastering new skills. It was this experience that compelled me to address my own mental health and further lead me to complete a Diploma in Transpersonal Counselling Psychology.
I feel like I was born in the construction trades. At a young age I worked at height (Rope Access), in remote areas, and in all environments. I wanted the skills to respond to any emergency at any time, this desire lead me to pre-hospital emergency medicine (EMR), wilderness first-aid, and rope rescue training. My work and personal experiences from this time left me feeling isolated, dreading human interactions, and losing my love of learning and mastering new skills. It was this experience that compelled me to address my own mental health and further lead me to complete a Diploma in Transpersonal Counselling Psychology.
Melanie Gale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Penticton, BC V2A
Melanie offers counselling services for youth, adults, couples and families. Her approach is client-centered from a strength-based perspective and she views the client as the expert in his or her life. Melanie's approach is eclectic and she utilizes various therapies based on client strengths, personality and desired goals. Melanie believes that with a non-judgmental, respectful, supportive therapeutic relationship, every person can create positive change in his or her life. Melanie's main orientation of practice is Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy as well as EMDR Therapy.
Melanie offers counselling services for youth, adults, couples and families. Her approach is client-centered from a strength-based perspective and she views the client as the expert in his or her life. Melanie's approach is eclectic and she utilizes various therapies based on client strengths, personality and desired goals. Melanie believes that with a non-judgmental, respectful, supportive therapeutic relationship, every person can create positive change in his or her life. Melanie's main orientation of practice is Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy as well as EMDR Therapy.
I work from a client-centered approach, where the core of my approach is a focus on building connection through trust and safety. I see what is alive for my clients and connect with other parts of their inner worlds, not just the problems they bring and share. I think it is crucial to be able to see the essence of the person and work from their strengths. I focus on my client’s purposes and intentions as the core of our relationship.
I work from a client-centered approach, where the core of my approach is a focus on building connection through trust and safety. I see what is alive for my clients and connect with other parts of their inner worlds, not just the problems they bring and share. I think it is crucial to be able to see the essence of the person and work from their strengths. I focus on my client’s purposes and intentions as the core of our relationship.
Nicole Johnson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Penticton, BC V2A
I believe strongly in supporting people on their personal healing journey to walk alongside them in their pursuit of balance and health. I am committed to Truth and Reconciliation and the support as an ally in Indigenous Healing. I draw from Medicine Wheel principles that look at all domains (social, emotional, physical, spiritual) in a persons life and the pursuit to balance.One of my main objectives is to support the exploration of those pieces of our lives that serve us and to develop awareness of the behaviours, responses, relationships and connections that do not. With this awareness in hand, a path of healing is established.
I believe strongly in supporting people on their personal healing journey to walk alongside them in their pursuit of balance and health. I am committed to Truth and Reconciliation and the support as an ally in Indigenous Healing. I draw from Medicine Wheel principles that look at all domains (social, emotional, physical, spiritual) in a persons life and the pursuit to balance.One of my main objectives is to support the exploration of those pieces of our lives that serve us and to develop awareness of the behaviours, responses, relationships and connections that do not. With this awareness in hand, a path of healing is established.
I offer a safe and confidential experience to help you work through your personal difficulties. I can help with substance or behavioral addictions such as sex/porn, internet, gambling, family relationships and struggles of grief and loss. Offering compassion and empathy using my expertise and experience. You will find that I am open-minded, non-judgmental and I believe that we all have the capacity to heal. Working primarily with a solution focused and cognitive way of healing, together we can create an action plan to promote progress in your healing. I look forward to working with you toward wellness and emotional freedom.
I offer a safe and confidential experience to help you work through your personal difficulties. I can help with substance or behavioral addictions such as sex/porn, internet, gambling, family relationships and struggles of grief and loss. Offering compassion and empathy using my expertise and experience. You will find that I am open-minded, non-judgmental and I believe that we all have the capacity to heal. Working primarily with a solution focused and cognitive way of healing, together we can create an action plan to promote progress in your healing. I look forward to working with you toward wellness and emotional freedom.
Christopher Iwestel Kinman
Counsellor, PhD, MSc, RCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Penticton, BC V2A (Online Only)
I have been a counsellor and family therapist for over 30 years, during that time I have worked with a rich diversity of people. Counselling and family therapy is a work that I love. I have found that people carry with them, in their own lives and networks, the strengths, the relationships, and the gifts that enable them to move through the most challenging of situations. I have found that I am able to help people find the possibilities that they need to cope with life’s various challenges.
I have been a counsellor and family therapist for over 30 years, during that time I have worked with a rich diversity of people. Counselling and family therapy is a work that I love. I have found that people carry with them, in their own lives and networks, the strengths, the relationships, and the gifts that enable them to move through the most challenging of situations. I have found that I am able to help people find the possibilities that they need to cope with life’s various challenges.
I'm Jonah, a Canadian Certified Counsellor dedicated to supporting you through life's journey. Healing and growth can take place in many different contexts, and the one I offer is that of a genuine, authentic relationship. Within each and every person, there is inherent value. There is a story waiting to be heard and a journey longing to be witnessed. My approach is to meet people where they are and create a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported throughout our work together.
I'm Jonah, a Canadian Certified Counsellor dedicated to supporting you through life's journey. Healing and growth can take place in many different contexts, and the one I offer is that of a genuine, authentic relationship. Within each and every person, there is inherent value. There is a story waiting to be heard and a journey longing to be witnessed. My approach is to meet people where they are and create a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported throughout our work together.
See more therapy options for Penticton
Nearby Substance Use Counsellors Searches for Penticton
See More Substance Use CounsellorsNearby Searches for Penticton
See More CounsellorsSubstance 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.