Family Therapy in Victoria, BC
Narcissistic abuse? Anxious, Confused and Gaslit? Abuse in close relationships, family, friends or work, can cause anxiety, depression, divorce and loss of self. Need help navigating the unique challenges of today's world? Many of my clients are in their 20's, 30's & 40's. I help my clients recognize patterns, understand behaviours, explore difficult decisions, and gently guide them along their indivudal critical path. I listen, help heal, and assist clients move beyond the emotional issues they are experiencing. My approach is empathetic, validating, supportive, and solution-based.
Narcissistic abuse? Anxious, Confused and Gaslit? Abuse in close relationships, family, friends or work, can cause anxiety, depression, divorce and loss of self. Need help navigating the unique challenges of today's world? Many of my clients are in their 20's, 30's & 40's. I help my clients recognize patterns, understand behaviours, explore difficult decisions, and gently guide them along their indivudal critical path. I listen, help heal, and assist clients move beyond the emotional issues they are experiencing. My approach is empathetic, validating, supportive, and solution-based.
Tap into your own innate resilience and grow! Speak so your partner can really 'feel' you. I have over 24 years' experience and specialize in personal growth, relationship/ family dynamics, sexual issues, narcissism and GNM. I use a blend of NVC (compassionate connection), Imago-style and Trust Oriented Therapy. Enhance your communication skills. Polish your relationships till they gleam! Welcome to the whole of you: the rebellious, the angry,the shy,the forgotten,the lonely and more. The result? Good health and success!
Tap into your own innate resilience and grow! Speak so your partner can really 'feel' you. I have over 24 years' experience and specialize in personal growth, relationship/ family dynamics, sexual issues, narcissism and GNM. I use a blend of NVC (compassionate connection), Imago-style and Trust Oriented Therapy. Enhance your communication skills. Polish your relationships till they gleam! Welcome to the whole of you: the rebellious, the angry,the shy,the forgotten,the lonely and more. The result? Good health and success!
In my toolkit, you'll find the serenity of Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, the transformative power of EMDR, the wisdom of Bowen Family Systems Therapy, and the lightning-quick efficacy of Solution-focused Brief Therapy.
Allow me to introduce myself—I'm Vanya Malixi, a mental health alchemist on a quest to help individuals, couples, and families turn their emotional struggles into personal triumphs. My journey through the labyrinth of the mind has led me to become a Clinical Counsellor with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology, earned from the halls of Yorkville University. The fire in my heart is fuelled by a relentless passion for guiding people toward brighter mental horizons. So, whether you're seeking clarity in the chaos of your thoughts or yearning for a guiding hand through life's emotional labyrinth, I'm here to walk beside you.
In my toolkit, you'll find the serenity of Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, the transformative power of EMDR, the wisdom of Bowen Family Systems Therapy, and the lightning-quick efficacy of Solution-focused Brief Therapy.
Allow me to introduce myself—I'm Vanya Malixi, a mental health alchemist on a quest to help individuals, couples, and families turn their emotional struggles into personal triumphs. My journey through the labyrinth of the mind has led me to become a Clinical Counsellor with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology, earned from the halls of Yorkville University. The fire in my heart is fuelled by a relentless passion for guiding people toward brighter mental horizons. So, whether you're seeking clarity in the chaos of your thoughts or yearning for a guiding hand through life's emotional labyrinth, I'm here to walk beside you.
Deborah has been living and working in B.C. including Northern B.C., and the Lower Mainland for over 20 years. She currently resides in South Vancouver Island with her family, where she embraces the beautiful surroundings of the Lekwungen People’s territory. Deborah applies a strength-based and holistic approach to her clinical practice, and is trained in evidence-based individual, couples and family therapies to help children, youth, adults and families find their path toward healing and wellness.
Deborah has been living and working in B.C. including Northern B.C., and the Lower Mainland for over 20 years. She currently resides in South Vancouver Island with her family, where she embraces the beautiful surroundings of the Lekwungen People’s territory. Deborah applies a strength-based and holistic approach to her clinical practice, and is trained in evidence-based individual, couples and family therapies to help children, youth, adults and families find their path toward healing and wellness.
I also offer counselling concerning relationships: work; family (childhood and present); intimate partnerships; and friendships.
Overwhelm, stress, loss and change in our personal and professional lives; at work, at home, at play and in our relationships, is both common and very difficult to manage alone. As a registered counsellor in clinical counselling, I am certified to implement a variety of therapies, such as mindfulness based CBT, to understand and make meaning out of new or continued difficulties and changes in life.
I also offer counselling concerning relationships: work; family (childhood and present); intimate partnerships; and friendships.
Overwhelm, stress, loss and change in our personal and professional lives; at work, at home, at play and in our relationships, is both common and very difficult to manage alone. As a registered counsellor in clinical counselling, I am certified to implement a variety of therapies, such as mindfulness based CBT, to understand and make meaning out of new or continued difficulties and changes in life.
Alexandra Rose Szwender
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA BEd , MCAP, CCC (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
Hello. I am delighted to meet with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns. My specialties and greatest areas of experience include ADHD, anxiety, school issues or behavioural issues, family dynamics (child/parent relations), as well as LGBTQA2+ related issues. I work with all age groups, but mainly children and youth, along with their parents.
Hello. I am delighted to meet with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns. My specialties and greatest areas of experience include ADHD, anxiety, school issues or behavioural issues, family dynamics (child/parent relations), as well as LGBTQA2+ related issues. I work with all age groups, but mainly children and youth, along with their parents.
I offer sessions in-person and online and welcome you to reach out to begin the first steps towards creating the change you or your family are hoping for.
I have over ten years experience working with children, teens, parents and families to help overcome a wide variety of challenges. My primary areas of focus include working with eating disorders, technology addiction, parenting difficulties, and women's issues.
I offer sessions in-person and online and welcome you to reach out to begin the first steps towards creating the change you or your family are hoping for.
I have over ten years experience working with children, teens, parents and families to help overcome a wide variety of challenges. My primary areas of focus include working with eating disorders, technology addiction, parenting difficulties, and women's issues.
Has your family been impacted by grief, loss, mental health challenges or life transitions? Have you or a family member witnessed or experienced interpersonal violence or trauma? As a registered clinical counselor and art therapist, I support children, youth, adults, and caregivers to bridge connections by exploring these issues with safety and acceptance. My approach to counselling is relational, client-centered and trauma informed, and I utilize evidence-based modalities from my training in art therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy and somatic attachment therapy.
Has your family been impacted by grief, loss, mental health challenges or life transitions? Have you or a family member witnessed or experienced interpersonal violence or trauma? As a registered clinical counselor and art therapist, I support children, youth, adults, and caregivers to bridge connections by exploring these issues with safety and acceptance. My approach to counselling is relational, client-centered and trauma informed, and I utilize evidence-based modalities from my training in art therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy and somatic attachment therapy.
My approach is influenced by person-centered counselling, CBT, EFFT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, play therapy, Jungian psychology and expressive arts therapy.
I work with children, teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem and relational difficulties. My goal is to provide my clients with a space that supports them to tolerate and express big feelings, explore their inner experiences, and work towards their goals in life. Together we develop a tool-kit of skills and practices that will support their mental wellbeing so they can follow their passions, have deep and meaningful relationships, and grow their resilience to navigate the complexity and fullness of life.
My approach is influenced by person-centered counselling, CBT, EFFT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, play therapy, Jungian psychology and expressive arts therapy.
I work with children, teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem and relational difficulties. My goal is to provide my clients with a space that supports them to tolerate and express big feelings, explore their inner experiences, and work towards their goals in life. Together we develop a tool-kit of skills and practices that will support their mental wellbeing so they can follow their passions, have deep and meaningful relationships, and grow their resilience to navigate the complexity and fullness of life.
David A Burns
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, MA, ICADC, CCS-AC, CCAC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A
Is addiction is complicating your life? And your busy career, family and lifestyle won’t give you time to get better? We will help you to regain control of your chaos, reset your roadmap and get you back on track. We can also help when your life is affected by someone else’s addiction. We are evidence-based, confidential and effective.
Is addiction is complicating your life? And your busy career, family and lifestyle won’t give you time to get better? We will help you to regain control of your chaos, reset your roadmap and get you back on track. We can also help when your life is affected by someone else’s addiction. We are evidence-based, confidential and effective.
Charis Santiago
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome. How brave and courageous to explore newness for yourself. My name is Charis Santiago and I am a 2nd generation Filipina-Canadian therapist who provides relational analytic counselling services in Victoria, BC and telehealth. I am passionate about working with you surrounding a wide range of mental health issues. My specialties include working with issues of trauma and sexual abuse, racial/ethnic and identity development, issues with family, play therapy, addiction and mood disorders.
Welcome. How brave and courageous to explore newness for yourself. My name is Charis Santiago and I am a 2nd generation Filipina-Canadian therapist who provides relational analytic counselling services in Victoria, BC and telehealth. I am passionate about working with you surrounding a wide range of mental health issues. My specialties include working with issues of trauma and sexual abuse, racial/ethnic and identity development, issues with family, play therapy, addiction and mood disorders.
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I am the owner and founder of the Child & Family Therapy Centre Victoria. My current practice is focused on supporting children, youth, and families where the primary concern is Anxiety or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I also provide counselling support to parents with children of all ages to address developmental and behavioral concerns. Involvement of parents and caregivers in the therapy process is an essential part of my practice.
I am the owner and founder of the Child & Family Therapy Centre Victoria. My current practice is focused on supporting children, youth, and families where the primary concern is Anxiety or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I also provide counselling support to parents with children of all ages to address developmental and behavioral concerns. Involvement of parents and caregivers in the therapy process is an essential part of my practice.
Founder and Registered Clinical Counsellor of Pediatric Power Play. The clients I serve are typically between the ages of 3 and 19. However, I work from a family systems lens, which operates on creating consistency and allowing my clients to include their parents or have separate therapeutic relationships with them. The needs and goals of each client vary between building confidence, emotional regulation, coping strategies, relationships, and so much more. One thing in common for all my clients is allowing them space to explore and navigate to find their identity and support them in accomplishing any change.
Founder and Registered Clinical Counsellor of Pediatric Power Play. The clients I serve are typically between the ages of 3 and 19. However, I work from a family systems lens, which operates on creating consistency and allowing my clients to include their parents or have separate therapeutic relationships with them. The needs and goals of each client vary between building confidence, emotional regulation, coping strategies, relationships, and so much more. One thing in common for all my clients is allowing them space to explore and navigate to find their identity and support them in accomplishing any change.
I am committed to supporting you to find the growth you are seeking, whether at the level of your personal, relationship, family or spiritual life.
You may be struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship difficulties, anger or other difficult emotions, reaction to trauma, parenting or caring for other dependents. As a skilled and compassionate counselor, I can help by supporting you in cultivating kindness to yourself, finding new and more helpful patterns of thought and behavior, and creating a more satisfying and fulfilling life.
I am committed to supporting you to find the growth you are seeking, whether at the level of your personal, relationship, family or spiritual life.
You may be struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship difficulties, anger or other difficult emotions, reaction to trauma, parenting or caring for other dependents. As a skilled and compassionate counselor, I can help by supporting you in cultivating kindness to yourself, finding new and more helpful patterns of thought and behavior, and creating a more satisfying and fulfilling life.
In addition, provide family counselling.
I believe in a non-judgemental person centered form of counselling. In particular, I work with children and youth who identify as neurodivergent. Together with parent(s)/and/or caregiver(s) I provide support and care for the daunting challenges that can occur when a person is neurodivergent. I have been working in the school system for over 21 years. I have experience working with children and youth from ages 5-17 as a support teacher and school counsellor. I understand the importance of providing a safe, caring, and secure relationship with all students but particularly with neurodiverse children.
In addition, provide family counselling.
I believe in a non-judgemental person centered form of counselling. In particular, I work with children and youth who identify as neurodivergent. Together with parent(s)/and/or caregiver(s) I provide support and care for the daunting challenges that can occur when a person is neurodivergent. I have been working in the school system for over 21 years. I have experience working with children and youth from ages 5-17 as a support teacher and school counsellor. I understand the importance of providing a safe, caring, and secure relationship with all students but particularly with neurodiverse children.
What a time we are all having right now! How are you doing? Something is bothering you – which is why you’re here. You have a lot going on, time is something that you have no problem filling, in fact, slowing down & quieting your constantly moving brain can pose a challenge. Maybe you’re concerned about your child; you thought it was going to get better, but it hasn’t & now you worry it’s going to get worse. You need help. You want solutions – for yourself, your child/teen & your family. You’ve consulted family, friends, Oprah & your Instagram feed & you’ve run out of ideas. It’s time for a change.
What a time we are all having right now! How are you doing? Something is bothering you – which is why you’re here. You have a lot going on, time is something that you have no problem filling, in fact, slowing down & quieting your constantly moving brain can pose a challenge. Maybe you’re concerned about your child; you thought it was going to get better, but it hasn’t & now you worry it’s going to get worse. You need help. You want solutions – for yourself, your child/teen & your family. You’ve consulted family, friends, Oprah & your Instagram feed & you’ve run out of ideas. It’s time for a change.
Hello. I have worked in support of individuals and families for 20+ years. I will work collaboratively with you to identify personal goals, access inner-strengths and resources, and increase capacity for adaptability, resilience, and life affirming experiences of connection, calm, and joy. I work with adults and youth, offering individual, couples and family services for those seeking support with relationships, parenting, family dynamics, personal identity, grief and loss, aging, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and neurodivergent and learning/school-based challenges. I offer in-person and video appointments.
Hello. I have worked in support of individuals and families for 20+ years. I will work collaboratively with you to identify personal goals, access inner-strengths and resources, and increase capacity for adaptability, resilience, and life affirming experiences of connection, calm, and joy. I work with adults and youth, offering individual, couples and family services for those seeking support with relationships, parenting, family dynamics, personal identity, grief and loss, aging, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and neurodivergent and learning/school-based challenges. I offer in-person and video appointments.
Being in relationship is work and there are many factors that add stress to family life.
Relationships troubles affect us all and I am here to help guide you through the tough issues and get you back on track. Whether you have a past trauma re surfacing, sexual desire problems or intimacy issues, I am here to talk with you and give you some exercises to get you back to satisfying sex. I am an accredited sex therapist and I have 10 years of experience working with people in relationships. I also work with individuals on a host of other issues such as social anxiety or sexual preference, and gender variance. I enjoy working with an inclusive range of clients.
Being in relationship is work and there are many factors that add stress to family life.
Relationships troubles affect us all and I am here to help guide you through the tough issues and get you back on track. Whether you have a past trauma re surfacing, sexual desire problems or intimacy issues, I am here to talk with you and give you some exercises to get you back to satisfying sex. I am an accredited sex therapist and I have 10 years of experience working with people in relationships. I also work with individuals on a host of other issues such as social anxiety or sexual preference, and gender variance. I enjoy working with an inclusive range of clients.
My 15 years of experience can support you or your family in learning how to thrive not just survive.
Is your past affecting your present or your parenting? Is your child explosive or anxious? Do you wish your a startle reflex wasn't so strong? Want to explore your identities or have them understood so you can work on other issues at hand? Have you tried other therapy and is has helped but you didn't feel like you were getting enough out of it, or you have great coping skills but you want to thrive rather than cope? Maybe EMDR, Animal Assisted Interventions, Emotion Focused Family Therapy or Play Therapy is right for you!
My 15 years of experience can support you or your family in learning how to thrive not just survive.
Is your past affecting your present or your parenting? Is your child explosive or anxious? Do you wish your a startle reflex wasn't so strong? Want to explore your identities or have them understood so you can work on other issues at hand? Have you tried other therapy and is has helped but you didn't feel like you were getting enough out of it, or you have great coping skills but you want to thrive rather than cope? Maybe EMDR, Animal Assisted Interventions, Emotion Focused Family Therapy or Play Therapy is right for you!
My family has struggled with 3 generations of addiction; I understand the pain of family dysfunction, divorce, family violence, sudden death & codependency.
Hi I'm Cheryl. I have 25 yrs of experience working in the field of counselling. I only do private practice on Fridays btw 8-4:30 by phone, virtual or in-person. I encourage people to find their passion & restore their spirit while they are trying to overcome anxiety, depression, addictions, grief & loss or trauma. May-be you just lost your job, or found out a devastating family secret, or lost a pet, or your partner had an affair. No one person is the same in how we deal with loss, nor are any of us perfect. Whatever it is, I am here for you to embrace that pain, to learn how to integrate it, & find your next hopeful horizon.
My family has struggled with 3 generations of addiction; I understand the pain of family dysfunction, divorce, family violence, sudden death & codependency.
Hi I'm Cheryl. I have 25 yrs of experience working in the field of counselling. I only do private practice on Fridays btw 8-4:30 by phone, virtual or in-person. I encourage people to find their passion & restore their spirit while they are trying to overcome anxiety, depression, addictions, grief & loss or trauma. May-be you just lost your job, or found out a devastating family secret, or lost a pet, or your partner had an affair. No one person is the same in how we deal with loss, nor are any of us perfect. Whatever it is, I am here for you to embrace that pain, to learn how to integrate it, & find your next hopeful horizon.
See more therapy options for Victoria
Family Therapy Counsellors
What do family therapists do?
A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.
How long does therapy for families take to work?
Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.
How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?
You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.
Is therapy for families effective?
Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.