Female Therapists in Powell River, BC

Photo of Sarah Quibell, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Sarah Quibell
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Powell River, BC V8A
Waitlist for new clients
Do you yearn for change, desire to understand yourself better, and have an eagerness to break free from the patterns that tether you to repeating cycles? If you answered yes, but are also plagued by self-doubt, uncertainty, and worry; you're not alone. You may find yourself longing for deeper connections, grappling with the intricacies of relationship dynamics, and a complex emotional landscape that leaves you weary and questioning your direction. In all of this, you have difficulty setting boundaries, have no time for yourself, and feel disconnected from life. You may be healing from attachment wounds. This is where I come in.
Do you yearn for change, desire to understand yourself better, and have an eagerness to break free from the patterns that tether you to repeating cycles? If you answered yes, but are also plagued by self-doubt, uncertainty, and worry; you're not alone. You may find yourself longing for deeper connections, grappling with the intricacies of relationship dynamics, and a complex emotional landscape that leaves you weary and questioning your direction. In all of this, you have difficulty setting boundaries, have no time for yourself, and feel disconnected from life. You may be healing from attachment wounds. This is where I come in.
(778) 402-9587 View (778) 402-9587
Photo of Jocelyn Wood, MA, LMFT, RCC, Counsellor
Jocelyn Wood
Counsellor, MA, LMFT, RCC
Verified Verified
Powell River, BC V8A
For over 20 years, I have practiced client centered talk therapy or psychotherapy; giving importance to the expression of emotions and the therapeutic relationship. I seek to provide a safe space for you to explore your experience of life, so you can identify what is working and what is not. Making sense of your experience can help you understand your view of yourself, of others and of the world. Accessing your emotions can help you understand what is truly meaningful to you. Together we sit with how you see things and what is deeply important to you and work to tap into your internal wisdom and healing potential.
For over 20 years, I have practiced client centered talk therapy or psychotherapy; giving importance to the expression of emotions and the therapeutic relationship. I seek to provide a safe space for you to explore your experience of life, so you can identify what is working and what is not. Making sense of your experience can help you understand your view of yourself, of others and of the world. Accessing your emotions can help you understand what is truly meaningful to you. Together we sit with how you see things and what is deeply important to you and work to tap into your internal wisdom and healing potential.
(249) 802-8251 View (249) 802-8251
Photo of Lisa Shatzky, MSW, RCC, ACS, Counsellor
Lisa Shatzky
Counsellor, MSW, RCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Powell River, BC V8A  (Online Only)
I have been privileged to work as a psychotherapist for almost thirty years and continue to be in awe of the strength and resilience and wisdom inherent in each person I meet. My role as a psychotherapist is to help you access what is inside you and heal from what has prevented you from becoming the best version of yourself. Together we will transform loss and trauma and life transitions into new hope and possibilities for a life that is psychologically rich and rewarding. Therapy is a relationship with yourself where you re-discover and cultivate the real you. It's about wellness and vitality and creating a life you love.
I have been privileged to work as a psychotherapist for almost thirty years and continue to be in awe of the strength and resilience and wisdom inherent in each person I meet. My role as a psychotherapist is to help you access what is inside you and heal from what has prevented you from becoming the best version of yourself. Together we will transform loss and trauma and life transitions into new hope and possibilities for a life that is psychologically rich and rewarding. Therapy is a relationship with yourself where you re-discover and cultivate the real you. It's about wellness and vitality and creating a life you love.
(343) 312-6648 View (343) 312-6648
Photo of Kara Fogwell, MA, RCC, RSW, Counsellor
Kara Fogwell
Counsellor, MA, RCC, RSW
Verified Verified
Powell River, BC V8A
I have been providing counselling support as to individuals, children, and their families for over 15 years. I am passionate about the change that can happen within the counselling relationship. I have a focus on trauma treatment, specifically childhood trauma and first responder support. As well I support children and youth with behavioural difficulties and their families. I spent a large portion of my career supporting children with developmental and behavioural differences. I also own a counselling firm with many associates available to offer larger group and EAP supports. Check out our services at www.vkwellness.ca.
I have been providing counselling support as to individuals, children, and their families for over 15 years. I am passionate about the change that can happen within the counselling relationship. I have a focus on trauma treatment, specifically childhood trauma and first responder support. As well I support children and youth with behavioural difficulties and their families. I spent a large portion of my career supporting children with developmental and behavioural differences. I also own a counselling firm with many associates available to offer larger group and EAP supports. Check out our services at www.vkwellness.ca.
(587) 872-0950 View (587) 872-0950
Photo of Erica Dolsen, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Dolsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Powell River, BC V8A
Sexuality, intimacy, identity. Addiction and recovery. Relationships and connection. Grief and loss. So many of us wonder how to live in our skin comfortably. Who are you, and how do you want to live? The next question is how to bring that authenticity into your life, your relationships, your communication. Sometimes our bodies don't connect with our hearts and minds. Erotic and sexual diversity is a part of the human experience. If you're struggling with shame, belief patterns that no longer serve, or wondering if you're alone - there is hope.
Sexuality, intimacy, identity. Addiction and recovery. Relationships and connection. Grief and loss. So many of us wonder how to live in our skin comfortably. Who are you, and how do you want to live? The next question is how to bring that authenticity into your life, your relationships, your communication. Sometimes our bodies don't connect with our hearts and minds. Erotic and sexual diversity is a part of the human experience. If you're struggling with shame, belief patterns that no longer serve, or wondering if you're alone - there is hope.
(647) 557-3155 View (647) 557-3155
Photo of Joanne Wright, RTCc, Counsellor
Joanne Wright
Counsellor, RTCc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Powell River, BC V8A  (Online Only)
Virtual counseling provides a safe and encouraging space to discuss life's challenges, tailored to fit each individual’s needs. As a therapist I offer warm, genuine support, focusing on emotional health and relationships. I collaborate with clients to address various issues, drawing from therapeutic models like Mindful CBT, DBT, and somatic therapy. As a Christian counselor, I integrate spirituality for those interested, but welcome clients of all backgrounds. Through my unique approach, I guide clients in understanding themselves and their spiritual journey, facilitating healing and growth.
Virtual counseling provides a safe and encouraging space to discuss life's challenges, tailored to fit each individual’s needs. As a therapist I offer warm, genuine support, focusing on emotional health and relationships. I collaborate with clients to address various issues, drawing from therapeutic models like Mindful CBT, DBT, and somatic therapy. As a Christian counselor, I integrate spirituality for those interested, but welcome clients of all backgrounds. Through my unique approach, I guide clients in understanding themselves and their spiritual journey, facilitating healing and growth.
(867) 877-3952 View (867) 877-3952
Photo of Karen McGratten, MDiv, RP, RCC, Counsellor
Karen McGratten
Counsellor, MDiv, RP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powell River, BC V8A  (Online Only)
I often tell my clients that what they hear from me will be counter cultural. It is counter cultural in the sense that I talk about self-acceptance and worth regardless of size. I believe hope exists even when you can't see it, that mental health issues are not a sign of weakness and that I practice in a way that believes in change.
I often tell my clients that what they hear from me will be counter cultural. It is counter cultural in the sense that I talk about self-acceptance and worth regardless of size. I believe hope exists even when you can't see it, that mental health issues are not a sign of weakness and that I practice in a way that believes in change.
(844) 402-4097 View (844) 402-4097
Photo of Sarah Rae Fitzgibbon - SunRae Studio, Creative Wellness Center. , BFA, DKATI, Art Therapist
SunRae Studio, Creative Wellness Center.
Art Therapist, BFA, DKATI
Verified Verified
Powell River, BC V8A
When words aren't enough. . . Art Therapy uses engagement in the creative process as a tool to encourage self-exploration, and is combined with more traditional forms of counselling/therapy. It is particularly beneficial when working with children, as younger people can be less comfortable or haven’t yet developed the capability of expressing themselves with words only. Action, creativity, imagination and play are naturally more familiar forms of expression and/or communication for children. Art Therapy accesses the above modalities.
When words aren't enough. . . Art Therapy uses engagement in the creative process as a tool to encourage self-exploration, and is combined with more traditional forms of counselling/therapy. It is particularly beneficial when working with children, as younger people can be less comfortable or haven’t yet developed the capability of expressing themselves with words only. Action, creativity, imagination and play are naturally more familiar forms of expression and/or communication for children. Art Therapy accesses the above modalities.
(587) 742-1585 View (587) 742-1585
Photo of Sara Klinkhamer, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Sara Klinkhamer
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Not Verified Not Verified
Powell River, BC V8A
Sara has a background of working on the downtown eastside in Vancouver for more than 10 years, which has given her much experience working with addiction and mental health issues, particularly trauma issues. Sara has also worked in both residential and outpatient settings as a concurrent disorder counsellor. Her strong belief in the worth of each individual, optimism in the face of adversity, as well as respect for autonomy and dignity, has served her well in this work.
Sara has a background of working on the downtown eastside in Vancouver for more than 10 years, which has given her much experience working with addiction and mental health issues, particularly trauma issues. Sara has also worked in both residential and outpatient settings as a concurrent disorder counsellor. Her strong belief in the worth of each individual, optimism in the face of adversity, as well as respect for autonomy and dignity, has served her well in this work.
(844) 611-0670 View (844) 611-0670
Photo of Jessica Card, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Jessica Card
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powell River, BC V8A  (Online Only)
I presently exclusively offer online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services. I'm dedicated to championing transformative change for those seeking a richer quality of life. Navigating life's challenges, be it with youth or adults, CNM relationships, family dynamics, or facing grief, trauma, anxiety, or depression, demands expertise. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or grappling with personal or relational difficulties, know that you're not alone. I bring empathy, understanding every journey's uniqueness. My approach is rooted in nonjudgmental, social justice, and equity principles.
I presently exclusively offer online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services. I'm dedicated to championing transformative change for those seeking a richer quality of life. Navigating life's challenges, be it with youth or adults, CNM relationships, family dynamics, or facing grief, trauma, anxiety, or depression, demands expertise. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or grappling with personal or relational difficulties, know that you're not alone. I bring empathy, understanding every journey's uniqueness. My approach is rooted in nonjudgmental, social justice, and equity principles.
(226) 770-4067 View (226) 770-4067
Photo of Quyn Le Erichsen - Quyn Lê Therapy, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Quyn Lê Therapy
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powell River, BC V8A
Do you want to heal from trauma or childhood wounds? Or perhaps you want to overcome anxiety, depression and other emotional issues? Or maybe your life is good, and you want to be more successful and increase abundance in all areas of your life! Let Quyn, a gifted therapist and coach, guide you to achieve what's really important to you! With powerful EMDR therapy, hypnotherapy, CBT and more, you can expect to experience healing and transformation in-person or online. Suffer no more! Let us begin your incredible journey of self-discovery! Reach out to Quyn NOW!
Do you want to heal from trauma or childhood wounds? Or perhaps you want to overcome anxiety, depression and other emotional issues? Or maybe your life is good, and you want to be more successful and increase abundance in all areas of your life! Let Quyn, a gifted therapist and coach, guide you to achieve what's really important to you! With powerful EMDR therapy, hypnotherapy, CBT and more, you can expect to experience healing and transformation in-person or online. Suffer no more! Let us begin your incredible journey of self-discovery! Reach out to Quyn NOW!
(778) 548-7345 View (778) 548-7345
Photo of Michelle Patterson, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Michelle Patterson
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Powell River, BC V8A
Waitlist for new clients
I have 20 years experience working with adolescents & adults (incl. couples) dealing with a variety of mood/anxiety problems, trauma, & relationship difficulties. I provide a structured space to help you explore and identify challenges, and experience different ways of being. Good therapy is not just talking about problems; it requires sorting through layers of emotion, understanding how you protect yourself from emotional pain; identifying & challenging negative thoughts/beliefs; and identifying personal strengths & resources.
I have 20 years experience working with adolescents & adults (incl. couples) dealing with a variety of mood/anxiety problems, trauma, & relationship difficulties. I provide a structured space to help you explore and identify challenges, and experience different ways of being. Good therapy is not just talking about problems; it requires sorting through layers of emotion, understanding how you protect yourself from emotional pain; identifying & challenging negative thoughts/beliefs; and identifying personal strengths & resources.
(778) 766-5493 View (778) 766-5493
Photo of Deborah M Joyce - Beaufort Counselling & Consulting, MA,  MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Beaufort Counselling & Consulting
Counsellor, MA, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
Powell River, BC V8A
Anxiety and depression are common issues in my practice and they can be the underlying condition in many situations. They can affect relationships, parenting, work performance, family dynamics to name a few. Therapy can assist with problem solving and gaining a better understanding of the behaviours that are causing difficulties in life. Some of my work involves life coaching and I am also a divorce coach. I offer expertise and support in the overwhelming process of separation and the difficulties involved in supporting children through divorce and separation.
Anxiety and depression are common issues in my practice and they can be the underlying condition in many situations. They can affect relationships, parenting, work performance, family dynamics to name a few. Therapy can assist with problem solving and gaining a better understanding of the behaviours that are causing difficulties in life. Some of my work involves life coaching and I am also a divorce coach. I offer expertise and support in the overwhelming process of separation and the difficulties involved in supporting children through divorce and separation.
(778) 901-2282 View (778) 901-2282
Photo of Cora Bilsker - Nested Heart Counselling, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Nested Heart Counselling
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powell River, BC V8A
I launched Nested Heart Counselling in 2013 in response to a call from the local polyamorous community saying how challenging it was to find mental health support that didn’t require further education about unconventional identities. I have collected a group of counsellors with similar values, experience and training as myself across BC. Roxanna, Morgan, Erica, Katree, Chelsey and Christina all have availability right now for new individual clients. We often have a practicum student who has reduced cost counselling sessions available in Victoria and online. You can explore their extensive bios on our website.
I launched Nested Heart Counselling in 2013 in response to a call from the local polyamorous community saying how challenging it was to find mental health support that didn’t require further education about unconventional identities. I have collected a group of counsellors with similar values, experience and training as myself across BC. Roxanna, Morgan, Erica, Katree, Chelsey and Christina all have availability right now for new individual clients. We often have a practicum student who has reduced cost counselling sessions available in Victoria and online. You can explore their extensive bios on our website.
(873) 300-4732 View (873) 300-4732
Photo of Vanessa Liston Marie, MA, MC, CCC, Counsellor
Vanessa Liston Marie
Counsellor, MA, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
Powell River, BC V8A
Waitlist for new clients
I envision life as a journey that is influenced by our experiences, our relationships with others, and our personal, societal, and cultural stories. As a therapist, I believe my role is to join you on your journey for a stretch, as a kind of wilderness guide who may be able to point out unrecognized phenomena, different perspectives, and highlight your strengths and values as they relate to your journey. The goals and direction are yours, and together, we will create a plan that's right for you. Coming to counselling is hugely courageous; I commend you on beginning your search for a therapist who will be a good fit for your goals.
I envision life as a journey that is influenced by our experiences, our relationships with others, and our personal, societal, and cultural stories. As a therapist, I believe my role is to join you on your journey for a stretch, as a kind of wilderness guide who may be able to point out unrecognized phenomena, different perspectives, and highlight your strengths and values as they relate to your journey. The goals and direction are yours, and together, we will create a plan that's right for you. Coming to counselling is hugely courageous; I commend you on beginning your search for a therapist who will be a good fit for your goals.
(604) 747-4834 View (604) 747-4834
Photo of Corinna Killeen | Grief And Loss, RTC, Counsellor
Corinna Killeen | Grief And Loss
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Powell River, BC V8A
Accepting new clients online and in- person . Are you feeling overwhelmed with grief? I offer non-judgemental, down to earth sessions where you can come to be heard, to talk about what's really happening for you. I have experienced a great deal of grief, trauma and anxiety in my own life. Which included a car accident and the death of my younger brother due to complications with kidney disease. I know how hard it is to try be strong all the time and to try to do it all alone. Reaching out for support is brave. You don't have to do it all alone anymore.
Accepting new clients online and in- person . Are you feeling overwhelmed with grief? I offer non-judgemental, down to earth sessions where you can come to be heard, to talk about what's really happening for you. I have experienced a great deal of grief, trauma and anxiety in my own life. Which included a car accident and the death of my younger brother due to complications with kidney disease. I know how hard it is to try be strong all the time and to try to do it all alone. Reaching out for support is brave. You don't have to do it all alone anymore.
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Online Therapists

Photo of Davina Ma, MSW, RCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Davina Ma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5T  (Online Only)
“Stress doesn’t cause burnout. Capitalism and white supremacy does” - Jenn Mullan. Are you a member of a marginalized community - BIPOC, LGBTQ+, women, people with mental health issues? Have you been struggling with people pleasing, imposter syndrome, caregiver fatigue, and/or coming to terms with a mental health diagnosis? It is exhausting to exist in a world that was not built for us. You matter, and you deserve to be heard in a safe space that does not blame you for not doing or being enough. With an anti-oppressive and decolonial approach, I support people of marginalized identities to process their grief and honour their rage.
“Stress doesn’t cause burnout. Capitalism and white supremacy does” - Jenn Mullan. Are you a member of a marginalized community - BIPOC, LGBTQ+, women, people with mental health issues? Have you been struggling with people pleasing, imposter syndrome, caregiver fatigue, and/or coming to terms with a mental health diagnosis? It is exhausting to exist in a world that was not built for us. You matter, and you deserve to be heard in a safe space that does not blame you for not doing or being enough. With an anti-oppressive and decolonial approach, I support people of marginalized identities to process their grief and honour their rage.
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Photo of Amanda Hille - Wellness Renewal, MA, Counsellor
Wellness Renewal
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5S
As a counsellor, I'm passionate about helping people overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Working with individuals that are motivated and determined to make positive changes in their lives. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, or other mental health concerns that impact their day-to-day functioning. Individuals looking to reduce symptoms of distress, improve their relationships, increase self-awareness, develop coping skills, or find a greater sense of purpose. Therapy is a way for them to gain insight, and develop effective strategies for difficult emotions or situations.
As a counsellor, I'm passionate about helping people overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Working with individuals that are motivated and determined to make positive changes in their lives. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, or other mental health concerns that impact their day-to-day functioning. Individuals looking to reduce symptoms of distress, improve their relationships, increase self-awareness, develop coping skills, or find a greater sense of purpose. Therapy is a way for them to gain insight, and develop effective strategies for difficult emotions or situations.
(548) 798-0459 View (548) 798-0459
Photo of Huda Sajjad, MA, MSc, RCC, Counsellor
Huda Sajjad
Counsellor, MA, MSc, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
I offer my clients support and guidance to access and trust their inner wisdom, so that they can gain clarity on their struggles and refine their sense of purpose and direction. I also provide clients with the necessary tools to help them achieve their goals. As human beings we have a common desire to better connect with ourselves and others, and become more present and engaged with our lives. I believe that good counselling can help clients achieve insight, connection, and freedom from their personal struggles. I help clients work through struggles such as grief, depression, anxiety, relationship and family conflict.
I offer my clients support and guidance to access and trust their inner wisdom, so that they can gain clarity on their struggles and refine their sense of purpose and direction. I also provide clients with the necessary tools to help them achieve their goals. As human beings we have a common desire to better connect with ourselves and others, and become more present and engaged with our lives. I believe that good counselling can help clients achieve insight, connection, and freedom from their personal struggles. I help clients work through struggles such as grief, depression, anxiety, relationship and family conflict.
(819) 410-8562 View (819) 410-8562
Photo of Tamar Chanté, RPC, Counsellor
Tamar Chanté
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5K  (Online Only)
My intention is to help create a very safe space for my clients to explore their authentic selves and allow for genuine discovery and growth. It is important to me to build trust and rapport with my clients, and connect with them using my skills, intuition and wisdom. Each session is unique and customized according to the client’s needs and current state. I have witnessed the growth capacity and resilience that people possess to resolve their issues. My role is to help support and provide guidance as you discover your purpose, liberation, and empowerment.
My intention is to help create a very safe space for my clients to explore their authentic selves and allow for genuine discovery and growth. It is important to me to build trust and rapport with my clients, and connect with them using my skills, intuition and wisdom. Each session is unique and customized according to the client’s needs and current state. I have witnessed the growth capacity and resilience that people possess to resolve their issues. My role is to help support and provide guidance as you discover your purpose, liberation, and empowerment.
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Photo of Linda Sutton - Sutton Counselling and Coaching, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Sutton Counselling and Coaching
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9T
I specialize in the area of trauma including acute, chronic, or complex as well as the resulting grief, anxiety, depression, and addictions that may have developed. I am passionate about helping women understand that the coping mechanisms that evolved were functional and helped you survive in times of difficulty. These may now show up as patterns that hold you back and cause you to think, feel, and behave in ways that no longer serve you. I believe everyone has the capacity to heal and the ability to learn new skills to become free of overwhelming fear, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
I specialize in the area of trauma including acute, chronic, or complex as well as the resulting grief, anxiety, depression, and addictions that may have developed. I am passionate about helping women understand that the coping mechanisms that evolved were functional and helped you survive in times of difficulty. These may now show up as patterns that hold you back and cause you to think, feel, and behave in ways that no longer serve you. I believe everyone has the capacity to heal and the ability to learn new skills to become free of overwhelming fear, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
(778) 608-3643 View (778) 608-3643
Photo of Genevieve (Evi) Koehl, BSc, RN, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Genevieve (Evi) Koehl
Counsellor, BSc, RN, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z  (Online Only)
Welcome. I offer a gentle, curious and collaborative approach to counseling and mental health care. I support clients looking for a safe space to explore self-esteem, anxiety, chronic illness, relationships, identity concerns and ADHD experiences. We all need support from time to time, especially when it comes to building confidence after set-backs, trauma, loss and life transitions. I work with teens and adults who want to move past feelings of stuckness, hopelessness and anxiety to feeling more peaceful and at ease with life ahead.
Welcome. I offer a gentle, curious and collaborative approach to counseling and mental health care. I support clients looking for a safe space to explore self-esteem, anxiety, chronic illness, relationships, identity concerns and ADHD experiences. We all need support from time to time, especially when it comes to building confidence after set-backs, trauma, loss and life transitions. I work with teens and adults who want to move past feelings of stuckness, hopelessness and anxiety to feeling more peaceful and at ease with life ahead.
(431) 244-2262 View (431) 244-2262
Photo of Alita Dommann, MBChB, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Alita Dommann
Counsellor, MBChB, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6C
During my 15 years as a medical doctor and 4 years as a counsellor I learned that challenges are part of the human experience and we all feel stuck at some point in our lives, but also that movement and growth are always possible. I strive to provide a safe and compassionate interpersonal space where you can remove obstacles and create the life that you want.
During my 15 years as a medical doctor and 4 years as a counsellor I learned that challenges are part of the human experience and we all feel stuck at some point in our lives, but also that movement and growth are always possible. I strive to provide a safe and compassionate interpersonal space where you can remove obstacles and create the life that you want.
(782) 825-6611 View (782) 825-6611
Photo of Michele Kambolis, PhD, RCC, Counsellor
Michele Kambolis
Counsellor, PhD, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6J  (Online Only)
Dr. Michele Kambolis is an acclaimed author, speaker, and holistic therapist with 25 years of experience in the field. She holds a PhD in Mind-Body Medicine. Her evidenced-based resources will set you on a path of self-healing, inner wisdom, and profound mind-body health. Her approach is fresh, empowering, and genuine. Michele is the owner and clinical director of Harbourside Family Counseling Centre, served as Vice Chair for the B.C. Mental Health Foundation, and was twice President of the B.C. Association For Play Therapy. She is also the author of two celebrated books: When Women Rise and Generation Stressed.
Dr. Michele Kambolis is an acclaimed author, speaker, and holistic therapist with 25 years of experience in the field. She holds a PhD in Mind-Body Medicine. Her evidenced-based resources will set you on a path of self-healing, inner wisdom, and profound mind-body health. Her approach is fresh, empowering, and genuine. Michele is the owner and clinical director of Harbourside Family Counseling Centre, served as Vice Chair for the B.C. Mental Health Foundation, and was twice President of the B.C. Association For Play Therapy. She is also the author of two celebrated books: When Women Rise and Generation Stressed.
(866) 330-2975 View (866) 330-2975
Photo of Michelle Gilligan, MA, RCC, Licensed Professional Counsellor
Michelle Gilligan
Licensed Professional Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
It is part of being human to at times feel stressed, stuck, overwhelmed, or discouraged - wanting some kind of change but finding that things stay the same in spite of our efforts. There are understandable reasons for this. We have a human mind that tries to keep us safe but can limit us to seeing things in the same old ways. We inhabit a human body with a complex nervous system. We live in relationship with other people and have developed patterns of relating. We may have had difficult experiences that have put our mind and body into a “protective mode”. And with support, we have great capacity for healing and growth.
It is part of being human to at times feel stressed, stuck, overwhelmed, or discouraged - wanting some kind of change but finding that things stay the same in spite of our efforts. There are understandable reasons for this. We have a human mind that tries to keep us safe but can limit us to seeing things in the same old ways. We inhabit a human body with a complex nervous system. We live in relationship with other people and have developed patterns of relating. We may have had difficult experiences that have put our mind and body into a “protective mode”. And with support, we have great capacity for healing and growth.
(778) 761-3467 View (778) 761-3467

See more therapy options for Powell River

Female Counsellors

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.