Therapists in Nanaimo, BC
Wanting to create a better life rather than settling for status quo, just getting by while filled with anxiety and feelings of hopeless; coping with excess food, drugs or alcohol. It takes courage and tremendous willingness to begin a path of change and it is an honour and a joy to walk with people on their journey toward wholeness. My work with people often leaves me in awe of the strength of the human spirit as I witness them overcome trauma and self-destructive behaviours and move toward their dreams while embracing their authentic self.
Wanting to create a better life rather than settling for status quo, just getting by while filled with anxiety and feelings of hopeless; coping with excess food, drugs or alcohol. It takes courage and tremendous willingness to begin a path of change and it is an honour and a joy to walk with people on their journey toward wholeness. My work with people often leaves me in awe of the strength of the human spirit as I witness them overcome trauma and self-destructive behaviours and move toward their dreams while embracing their authentic self.
I work with humans around issues such as anxiety, relational trauma, self-criticism, low self-worth, and struggles navigating connection and conflict, as well as the tension between self-protection and growth. Common concerns that bring people to me include social and other forms of anxiety, low mood, eating and body image concerns, parenting challenges, and communication/relationship issues. I see teens, adults, and couples in my practice.
I work with humans around issues such as anxiety, relational trauma, self-criticism, low self-worth, and struggles navigating connection and conflict, as well as the tension between self-protection and growth. Common concerns that bring people to me include social and other forms of anxiety, low mood, eating and body image concerns, parenting challenges, and communication/relationship issues. I see teens, adults, and couples in my practice.
Congratulations on seeking counselling. You might currently be in a dark spot and hesitant to seek help. Rest assured that you are not alone in this. It takes courage to seek help and you are on your way there. I have been in your spot before and my healing journey guided me to help others overcome complex trauma. You don't need to be controlled by your past anymore. A common goal would be to reach your full potentials and be your authentic self again, you will feel lighter after processing the past and more in control of your future. Allow us to collaboratively create a non-judgmental space and move to a healthier future.
Congratulations on seeking counselling. You might currently be in a dark spot and hesitant to seek help. Rest assured that you are not alone in this. It takes courage to seek help and you are on your way there. I have been in your spot before and my healing journey guided me to help others overcome complex trauma. You don't need to be controlled by your past anymore. A common goal would be to reach your full potentials and be your authentic self again, you will feel lighter after processing the past and more in control of your future. Allow us to collaboratively create a non-judgmental space and move to a healthier future.
I help adults make sense of what triggers their own reactivity with their kids, where that came from, how it plays out in their relationships and how to tame those triggers to break the cycle of authoritarian and shame based parenting. It is hard work making those changes but I truly believe it’s never too late to repair those relationships. Using EMDR, I help clients process past childhood memories that hold those negative reactions, so that we can heal and parent from a more empathetic and respectful place. I truly believe that the hardest part of parenting is undoing the hardwiring we experienced during our own childhood.
I help adults make sense of what triggers their own reactivity with their kids, where that came from, how it plays out in their relationships and how to tame those triggers to break the cycle of authoritarian and shame based parenting. It is hard work making those changes but I truly believe it’s never too late to repair those relationships. Using EMDR, I help clients process past childhood memories that hold those negative reactions, so that we can heal and parent from a more empathetic and respectful place. I truly believe that the hardest part of parenting is undoing the hardwiring we experienced during our own childhood.
Tanglewood Counselling Services
Counsellor, MACP, BSW, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
If you are feeling overwhelmed with the stress of anxiety, overthinking, workplace burnout, lack of confidence, life transitions, relationship conflict, family dysfunction, etc., get in touch and we can make a care plan to match your specific needs. Talk therapy can help you untangle your thoughts and clear your mind. You can also receive feedback and talk out options and possible solutions to your problems with someone who does not have a personal stake in your choices. I am here for you so we will focus on what is important to you. You might decide to incorporate some new tools and practices to make positive changes going forward.
If you are feeling overwhelmed with the stress of anxiety, overthinking, workplace burnout, lack of confidence, life transitions, relationship conflict, family dysfunction, etc., get in touch and we can make a care plan to match your specific needs. Talk therapy can help you untangle your thoughts and clear your mind. You can also receive feedback and talk out options and possible solutions to your problems with someone who does not have a personal stake in your choices. I am here for you so we will focus on what is important to you. You might decide to incorporate some new tools and practices to make positive changes going forward.
Welcome! We all love what we do and are here to help you find health, balance and peace. Vancouver Island Therapy is a full service, multi—disciplinary health clinic focused on providing multiple healing services to help you and your family. Located in Nanaimo, BC, we service many communities including; Port Alberni, Qualicum, Parksville, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Duncan to Victoria. Diverse, professional and experienced, our practitioners bring a broad range of experience into their practice with clients. We are here to help emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. Each of us has decades of experience, a unique approach
Welcome! We all love what we do and are here to help you find health, balance and peace. Vancouver Island Therapy is a full service, multi—disciplinary health clinic focused on providing multiple healing services to help you and your family. Located in Nanaimo, BC, we service many communities including; Port Alberni, Qualicum, Parksville, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Duncan to Victoria. Diverse, professional and experienced, our practitioners bring a broad range of experience into their practice with clients. We are here to help emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. Each of us has decades of experience, a unique approach
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.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
Hello, my name is Monique Hendricks, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in B.C. I help people of all ages who are dealing with anxiety, depression, overthinking, self-confidence, grief and loss, and relationship/family challenges. My practice is guided through a trauma-focused lens, and I integrate a variety of counselling approaches depending on your therapy needs. With your consent, I will incorporate aspects of mindfulness and somatic-sensory (physical) awareness into the space of wellness that we create together.
Hello, my name is Monique Hendricks, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in B.C. I help people of all ages who are dealing with anxiety, depression, overthinking, self-confidence, grief and loss, and relationship/family challenges. My practice is guided through a trauma-focused lens, and I integrate a variety of counselling approaches depending on your therapy needs. With your consent, I will incorporate aspects of mindfulness and somatic-sensory (physical) awareness into the space of wellness that we create together.
My goal is to help clients understand what they need and to reduce the stress and anxiety in their lives so they can reach their potential and feel they can manage life in a way that brings them more happiness, awareness and self acceptance.
My goal is to help clients understand what they need and to reduce the stress and anxiety in their lives so they can reach their potential and feel they can manage life in a way that brings them more happiness, awareness and self acceptance.
Today as a society there are so many stressors that we have to deal with on an individual basis such as mental illness, trauma, struggles with addiction, work and relationship stress that can impact our overall ability to function and succeed. Going through any of these struggles alone is a near impossible task and I am happy that you are looking for someone to walk along with you through life's challenges.
Today as a society there are so many stressors that we have to deal with on an individual basis such as mental illness, trauma, struggles with addiction, work and relationship stress that can impact our overall ability to function and succeed. Going through any of these struggles alone is a near impossible task and I am happy that you are looking for someone to walk along with you through life's challenges.
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Counsellor, MACP, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Waitlist for new clients
I firmly believe that each person has the potential to overcome the effects of their difficult life experiences. I am committed to walk alongside you on your path towards healing from depression, anxiety, (complex) trauma, abuse, and other mental health challenges. Providing a safe, non-judgmental environment, I tailor my methods to your needs. I love and have experience working with individuals and families from a variety of cultural backgrounds. My expertise is in supporting those struggling with traumatic experiences as well as difficulties related to cultural and relational contexts.
I firmly believe that each person has the potential to overcome the effects of their difficult life experiences. I am committed to walk alongside you on your path towards healing from depression, anxiety, (complex) trauma, abuse, and other mental health challenges. Providing a safe, non-judgmental environment, I tailor my methods to your needs. I love and have experience working with individuals and families from a variety of cultural backgrounds. My expertise is in supporting those struggling with traumatic experiences as well as difficulties related to cultural and relational contexts.
Laurie Larkin-Boyle is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Art Therapist. As a former teacher, she has 20 years experience working with children and youth. Laurie offers individual counselling for children and youth as well as art therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. Her therapeutic approach is client-centered and tailored to the individual needs of each client.
Laurie Larkin-Boyle is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Art Therapist. As a former teacher, she has 20 years experience working with children and youth. Laurie offers individual counselling for children and youth as well as art therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. Her therapeutic approach is client-centered and tailored to the individual needs of each client.
Breath Control Therapy offers breathwork techniques and breathing exercises critical for rehabilitation from both physical and psychological injury and illness but also to maintaining conditioning and improve sports performance.
Breath Control Therapy offers breathwork techniques and breathing exercises critical for rehabilitation from both physical and psychological injury and illness but also to maintaining conditioning and improve sports performance.
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 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.
In life we go through many transitions and stages of change. These changes can be positive, energizing and welcoming, and they can also produce feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, and self doubt. I believe the first step in overcoming these challenges is by discovering how our inner beliefs, identity, and habits have influenced and shaped us. One small shift in our thoughts, beliefs and behaviors can have a dramatic effect on all areas of life with lasting change. I aim to provide a safe, fun and trusting atmosphere focusing and building on a person's own strengths and past successes in rediscovery who they are and their life purpose.
In life we go through many transitions and stages of change. These changes can be positive, energizing and welcoming, and they can also produce feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, and self doubt. I believe the first step in overcoming these challenges is by discovering how our inner beliefs, identity, and habits have influenced and shaped us. One small shift in our thoughts, beliefs and behaviors can have a dramatic effect on all areas of life with lasting change. I aim to provide a safe, fun and trusting atmosphere focusing and building on a person's own strengths and past successes in rediscovery who they are and their life purpose.
Barb N. Aronchick-Zachernuk
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MEd, CCC, RCC, RPTSCPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Human beings are complicated-so often we attempt to reach out to others using words to express our thoughts, our emotions, and our behaviours. With children/youth, we see additional communication barriers because of fewer words and limited life experiences. Being part of a family system should bring safety and emotional support but sometimes this is not possible without help. My work is to enable us to become partners in the process of change- discovering strengths, new awareness and building on this. Imagine my holding up a mirror for you, so that with each session, you are able to discover and appreciate more of who you truly are.
Human beings are complicated-so often we attempt to reach out to others using words to express our thoughts, our emotions, and our behaviours. With children/youth, we see additional communication barriers because of fewer words and limited life experiences. Being part of a family system should bring safety and emotional support but sometimes this is not possible without help. My work is to enable us to become partners in the process of change- discovering strengths, new awareness and building on this. Imagine my holding up a mirror for you, so that with each session, you are able to discover and appreciate more of who you truly are.
Holly Miles
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I'm Holly (She/They). I'm glad that you found your way here. I provide individual counselling, clinical supervision and consultation in-person in Nanaimo, BC, and virtually across Canada. I have experience supporting survivors of gender-based violence, childhood relational trauma, and folks experiencing mental health changes in the postpartum period. The modalities in which I have received training include Narrative therapy, Expressive Arts therapy, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Level 1).
Hello, I'm Holly (She/They). I'm glad that you found your way here. I provide individual counselling, clinical supervision and consultation in-person in Nanaimo, BC, and virtually across Canada. I have experience supporting survivors of gender-based violence, childhood relational trauma, and folks experiencing mental health changes in the postpartum period. The modalities in which I have received training include Narrative therapy, Expressive Arts therapy, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Level 1).
My ideal client has often dug themselves into a hole into which they can not get out of on their own. The issues will be related to a difficult relationship of some description, partner, family, community, finance, environment, financial, and certainly themselves. It is likely that their goals are uncertain and that they feel lost. Very often, my ideal client does not know what they want, but can with certainty say what they don't want.
My ideal client has often dug themselves into a hole into which they can not get out of on their own. The issues will be related to a difficult relationship of some description, partner, family, community, finance, environment, financial, and certainly themselves. It is likely that their goals are uncertain and that they feel lost. Very often, my ideal client does not know what they want, but can with certainty say what they don't want.
Life's challenges can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone. I'm dedicated to guide you through your struggles with compassion and non-judgment. My mission is to create a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your concerns and heal the pains that have led to difficulty and dissatisfaction in your life. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or navigating life transitions, I'm here to support you. Embarking on therapy can feel vulnerable, yet it can be liberating step towards healing. I prioritize building trust and rapport, so you can feel heard, valued and understood.
Life's challenges can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone. I'm dedicated to guide you through your struggles with compassion and non-judgment. My mission is to create a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your concerns and heal the pains that have led to difficulty and dissatisfaction in your life. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or navigating life transitions, I'm here to support you. Embarking on therapy can feel vulnerable, yet it can be liberating step towards healing. I prioritize building trust and rapport, so you can feel heard, valued and understood.
See more therapy options for Nanaimo
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Nanaimo, BC
200+
Average cost per session
$140
Counsellors in Nanaimo, BC who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
84% | Depression |
78% | Relationship Issues |
77% | Self Esteem |
75% | Stress |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
47% | First Nations Health Authority |
44% | Green Shield Canada |
43% | Pacific Blue Cross |
How Counsellors in Nanaimo, BC see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Nanaimo?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postal code, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postal code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Most Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are certified by one of the main professional associations, mainly the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), and will have a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) designation with their name. Social Workers listed in the directory must be registered members of the college specific to their province. To be listed in the directory, Psychologists must be registered with the psychological college specific to their province or territory.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Psychologists, counsellors, psychotherapists and social workers can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in Canada.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Canada could be between $100 and $200. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postal code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Professionals licensed by regulatory colleges and those certified by associations such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association are obligated to uphold client confidentiality unless there is a legal reason that requires them to disclose information. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others, or a court order, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.