Therapists in V8W
I’m committed to walking alongside you as we navigate the difficult struggles you’re facing. I know how hard it can be to reach out for help, and having faced my own challenges, I understand the importance of feeling heard, supported, and accepted without judgment. Let’s work together to move toward meaningful change.
I’m committed to walking alongside you as we navigate the difficult struggles you’re facing. I know how hard it can be to reach out for help, and having faced my own challenges, I understand the importance of feeling heard, supported, and accepted without judgment. Let’s work together to move toward meaningful change.
Flora Pagan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
Not accepting new clients
Many of us struggle with emotional experiences that knock us off our feet. Low mood and chronic stress; difficulty with trust and relationships; and difficulty with overwhelm, focus, or organization are painful and isolating experiences. Unfortunately, we’re surrounded with messaging that if only we tried harder, we could think or act our way out of these experiences - leaving us feeling even more alone or frustrated if things don’t change.
Many of us struggle with emotional experiences that knock us off our feet. Low mood and chronic stress; difficulty with trust and relationships; and difficulty with overwhelm, focus, or organization are painful and isolating experiences. Unfortunately, we’re surrounded with messaging that if only we tried harder, we could think or act our way out of these experiences - leaving us feeling even more alone or frustrated if things don’t change.
Monika Brandstaetter
Licensed Professional Counsellor, PhD, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
In my practice, I work with adults struggling with various issues from anxiety, depression and eating issues, to trauma, grief and relationship difficulties. We all have our own history of experiences, and we tend to react in specific ways under stress. While our response was likely our best option in the past, it may not be adaptive now. I can help you resolve past traumas, learn to accept what is, and move forward from there - developing ways to a fuller and more satisfying life.
In my practice, I work with adults struggling with various issues from anxiety, depression and eating issues, to trauma, grief and relationship difficulties. We all have our own history of experiences, and we tend to react in specific ways under stress. While our response was likely our best option in the past, it may not be adaptive now. I can help you resolve past traumas, learn to accept what is, and move forward from there - developing ways to a fuller and more satisfying life.
I recognize that you are the expert in your own life and my goal is to help you uncover your own strengths, wisdom, and expertise. I offer my training and experience and together we work to address the challenges that bring you in as well as whatever arises in the process. In session, I am deeply interested in your experience in the present moment and will encourage you to shift focus from in-the-head toward body-based wisdom and healing. Working experientially, relationally, and somatically, I encourage and accompany clients to explore difficult emotions and experiences.
I recognize that you are the expert in your own life and my goal is to help you uncover your own strengths, wisdom, and expertise. I offer my training and experience and together we work to address the challenges that bring you in as well as whatever arises in the process. In session, I am deeply interested in your experience in the present moment and will encourage you to shift focus from in-the-head toward body-based wisdom and healing. Working experientially, relationally, and somatically, I encourage and accompany clients to explore difficult emotions and experiences.
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.
Accepting new clients; online booking available. Looking for a warm, non-judgmental therapist to support your growth? I offer evidence-based therapies to help my clients experience wellbeing and "come back" to themselves. I encourage my clients to recognize what's happening within them, and to use that awareness to grow towards fulfillment. Issues that I often work with include overcoming anxiety, finding purpose, bolstering self esteem, and improving relationships with others and with one's self.
Accepting new clients; online booking available. Looking for a warm, non-judgmental therapist to support your growth? I offer evidence-based therapies to help my clients experience wellbeing and "come back" to themselves. I encourage my clients to recognize what's happening within them, and to use that awareness to grow towards fulfillment. Issues that I often work with include overcoming anxiety, finding purpose, bolstering self esteem, and improving relationships with others and with one's self.
Are you looking to improve your relationship? Communicate better? Find a life-partner? Navigate the ups-and-downs of dating? Deal with a difficult break-up? Pivot out of a break-down? Heal and grow after adversity? Make a tough decision? Manage your emotions more skillfully? Bring your family back together? Experience more joy, zest and inner peace? Whether I am working with you as an individual, couple or family, as a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Marital and Family Therapist I'll give you not just my experience and expertise, but the curious and compassionate attention necessary to clarify and accomplish your goals.
Are you looking to improve your relationship? Communicate better? Find a life-partner? Navigate the ups-and-downs of dating? Deal with a difficult break-up? Pivot out of a break-down? Heal and grow after adversity? Make a tough decision? Manage your emotions more skillfully? Bring your family back together? Experience more joy, zest and inner peace? Whether I am working with you as an individual, couple or family, as a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Marital and Family Therapist I'll give you not just my experience and expertise, but the curious and compassionate attention necessary to clarify and accomplish your goals.
Working with me is a process of honestly confronting our internal world in a non-judgemental way. Together we can work towards authenticity and a genuine relationship with ourselves and others. Counselling entails finding ways to manage our experiences while changing the underlying issues that perpetuate them. Sometimes, growth means overcoming obstacles through practical work, and sometimes it making sense of our challenges within the broader unfolding of our lives. For affordable counselling options, I supervise Master-level counselling interns through yourpathcounselling.ca
Working with me is a process of honestly confronting our internal world in a non-judgemental way. Together we can work towards authenticity and a genuine relationship with ourselves and others. Counselling entails finding ways to manage our experiences while changing the underlying issues that perpetuate them. Sometimes, growth means overcoming obstacles through practical work, and sometimes it making sense of our challenges within the broader unfolding of our lives. For affordable counselling options, I supervise Master-level counselling interns through yourpathcounselling.ca
Currently Accepting Clients! - Are you an LGBTQ2SIA+ identifying person needing help with anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, or trauma? Are you trying to find your sexuality or gender identity? I am a disabled polyamorous, transgender woman (and general queer person) who understands the community and our experiences in the world. In my practice, I primarily counsel LGBTQ2+ people (and couples) who are finding their path and resolving trauma. I also offer regular DBT Skills Groups, which have been very helpful for many people.
Currently Accepting Clients! - Are you an LGBTQ2SIA+ identifying person needing help with anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, or trauma? Are you trying to find your sexuality or gender identity? I am a disabled polyamorous, transgender woman (and general queer person) who understands the community and our experiences in the world. In my practice, I primarily counsel LGBTQ2+ people (and couples) who are finding their path and resolving trauma. I also offer regular DBT Skills Groups, which have been very helpful for many people.
Hello There! I am a somatic, experiential and relational therapist. I use AEDP (Accellerated Experiential Dynamic Processing) and Hakomi. I work with attachment (relationships), trauma (religious, family & relationship), and lots of different mood struggles. I love spending time dancing, watching comedians, and spending time with my family people. I work to hold a space where you can be your true self and feel accepted by my true self. I enjoy helping individuals, friends and family dyads work through conflict, grief, and attachment healing. I love this work and have a caring, playful, and present energy. I am queer and bigender.
Hello There! I am a somatic, experiential and relational therapist. I use AEDP (Accellerated Experiential Dynamic Processing) and Hakomi. I work with attachment (relationships), trauma (religious, family & relationship), and lots of different mood struggles. I love spending time dancing, watching comedians, and spending time with my family people. I work to hold a space where you can be your true self and feel accepted by my true self. I enjoy helping individuals, friends and family dyads work through conflict, grief, and attachment healing. I love this work and have a caring, playful, and present energy. I am queer and bigender.
I am committed to seeing people as more than just the problems they may be struggling with. I value conversations that allow the richness of people's lives to become more visible and accessible to them. After more than 20 years of practice, I continue to feel privileged to accompany people as they sort out life's difficulties. I see adults across the life span in relation to a range of life concerns, including: depression; anxiety; work-life balance; disordered eating and body image difficulties; sexual, interpersonal and workplace trauma; relationship issues; grief and loss; life transitions and identity questions.
I am committed to seeing people as more than just the problems they may be struggling with. I value conversations that allow the richness of people's lives to become more visible and accessible to them. After more than 20 years of practice, I continue to feel privileged to accompany people as they sort out life's difficulties. I see adults across the life span in relation to a range of life concerns, including: depression; anxiety; work-life balance; disordered eating and body image difficulties; sexual, interpersonal and workplace trauma; relationship issues; grief and loss; life transitions and identity questions.
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I offer psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments primarily for children to young adults. I specialize in learning disorders, ADHD, executive function challenges, as well as the impact of complex developmental and neurological issues on learning and behavior. I do not provide diagnostic assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorders, however I believe that a comprehensive assessment to outline how an individual on the spectrum learns best can be extremely helpful.
I offer psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments primarily for children to young adults. I specialize in learning disorders, ADHD, executive function challenges, as well as the impact of complex developmental and neurological issues on learning and behavior. I do not provide diagnostic assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorders, however I believe that a comprehensive assessment to outline how an individual on the spectrum learns best can be extremely helpful.
Welcome! As a counsellor, I’m committed to walking alongside you on your path towards healing and self-discovery. Whether you’re facing overwhelming emotions or struggling with relationship dynamics, I am here to support you every step of the way. I bring a compassionate and empathetic approach to our sessions, aiming to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences freely.
Welcome! As a counsellor, I’m committed to walking alongside you on your path towards healing and self-discovery. Whether you’re facing overwhelming emotions or struggling with relationship dynamics, I am here to support you every step of the way. I bring a compassionate and empathetic approach to our sessions, aiming to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences freely.
My passion is discussing emotions, relationships, life and its purpose. My clients tend to be stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated and want individualized strategies to regain traction in lives. Traumas, doubts, fears, and relationships are common challenges being faced, where we align insights and practices to optimize development. Whether processing the past, navigating the present, or planning for the future, we explore the depths of the experience and arrive with greater understandings of Self.
My passion is discussing emotions, relationships, life and its purpose. My clients tend to be stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated and want individualized strategies to regain traction in lives. Traumas, doubts, fears, and relationships are common challenges being faced, where we align insights and practices to optimize development. Whether processing the past, navigating the present, or planning for the future, we explore the depths of the experience and arrive with greater understandings of Self.
PRYSM - Couples Counselling & Men's Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
Do you struggle with a challenging relationship that affects your ability to feel seen, heard, and validated? Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and lost by patterns of arguing, defensiveness, and lack of closeness in your relationship? Do you question whether things will ever get better? Today more than ever, couples are feeling anxious and uncertain about overcoming their relationship challenges, moving past resentment, and if there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I believe it is possible to improve any relationship and that wounds in high stakes relationships can be healed.
Do you struggle with a challenging relationship that affects your ability to feel seen, heard, and validated? Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and lost by patterns of arguing, defensiveness, and lack of closeness in your relationship? Do you question whether things will ever get better? Today more than ever, couples are feeling anxious and uncertain about overcoming their relationship challenges, moving past resentment, and if there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I believe it is possible to improve any relationship and that wounds in high stakes relationships can be healed.
Overwhelm, uncertainty, confusion, conflict, anxiety, despair and dread - if this is your reality right now, you're not alone. We're all longing for a sense of connection, possibility, and hope in the face of the tsunami of injustice, trauma and loss we've all been living through for so long. Stress levels higher than the price of a Vancouver condo, rights and freedoms under attack from all sides and catastrophe looming around every corner - how do we face the mess we're in and still show up as the partners, parents, caregivers, creatives, healers and changemakers we long to be?
Overwhelm, uncertainty, confusion, conflict, anxiety, despair and dread - if this is your reality right now, you're not alone. We're all longing for a sense of connection, possibility, and hope in the face of the tsunami of injustice, trauma and loss we've all been living through for so long. Stress levels higher than the price of a Vancouver condo, rights and freedoms under attack from all sides and catastrophe looming around every corner - how do we face the mess we're in and still show up as the partners, parents, caregivers, creatives, healers and changemakers we long to be?
With over 38 years of experience as a counsellor and psychotherapist, I can support your journey to healing and wellness in a sensitive, attuned and skillful manner. Creating a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space for you to deal with life's challenges so you can become more free as a human being and become your most authentic self. Helping you create the life you want, the relationships you want and achieving the goals that inspire you is where I can serve you best. Experienced, quaified and competent.
With over 38 years of experience as a counsellor and psychotherapist, I can support your journey to healing and wellness in a sensitive, attuned and skillful manner. Creating a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space for you to deal with life's challenges so you can become more free as a human being and become your most authentic self. Helping you create the life you want, the relationships you want and achieving the goals that inspire you is where I can serve you best. Experienced, quaified and competent.
If you are wondering if your life is "on the right path," you are not alone. Support and awareness in times of change means that the change process reflects your values and hopes for life. Therapy includes understanding two kinds of stories: the external stories that are told about us (usually these are very unfair!) and the internal stories that emerge in response (usually these are overly protective!). I will help you to understand your Self and all the parts of who you are, increasing your ability to generate inner wells of autonomy, confidence and peace. With this knowledge, you're equipped to manage whatever life throws at you.
If you are wondering if your life is "on the right path," you are not alone. Support and awareness in times of change means that the change process reflects your values and hopes for life. Therapy includes understanding two kinds of stories: the external stories that are told about us (usually these are very unfair!) and the internal stories that emerge in response (usually these are overly protective!). I will help you to understand your Self and all the parts of who you are, increasing your ability to generate inner wells of autonomy, confidence and peace. With this knowledge, you're equipped to manage whatever life throws at you.
Life can feel overwhelming and complicated when shifting into a non-monogamous way of being. It often brings up deep feelings of fear, abandonment, and jealousy both for those who are starting out and also for those who have been in an Ethically Non-Monogamous paradigm for a long time. It can feel isolating to come out as gender diverse. I’ve been supporting folks as they access gender affirming care, challenge people's expectations, find acceptance, set boundaries, and grow more comfortable in themselves and their own identities. I support folks who want to access a Queer, Trans, and Non-binary welcoming space.
Life can feel overwhelming and complicated when shifting into a non-monogamous way of being. It often brings up deep feelings of fear, abandonment, and jealousy both for those who are starting out and also for those who have been in an Ethically Non-Monogamous paradigm for a long time. It can feel isolating to come out as gender diverse. I’ve been supporting folks as they access gender affirming care, challenge people's expectations, find acceptance, set boundaries, and grow more comfortable in themselves and their own identities. I support folks who want to access a Queer, Trans, and Non-binary welcoming space.
I am honoured your journey has led you here. Welcome. Whether you’re a young adult or elder, interested in individual or partnered counselling, I can help you manage stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, and pain; improve your relationships; navigate grief and loss; and become better friends with yourself. I enjoy working with people of diverse backgrounds to situate problems in systems of influence, unveiling your inner resources by collaborating with you to connect your values and interests with your goals for meaningful transformation and life management.
I am honoured your journey has led you here. Welcome. Whether you’re a young adult or elder, interested in individual or partnered counselling, I can help you manage stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, and pain; improve your relationships; navigate grief and loss; and become better friends with yourself. I enjoy working with people of diverse backgrounds to situate problems in systems of influence, unveiling your inner resources by collaborating with you to connect your values and interests with your goals for meaningful transformation and life management.
See more therapy options for V8W
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in V8W
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Counsellors in V8W who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
85% | Self Esteem |
84% | Relationship Issues |
84% | Depression |
71% | Stress |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
44% | SunLife |
38% | Green Shield Canada |
38% | Pacific Blue Cross |
How Counsellors in V8W see their clients
82% | In Person and Online | |
18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
17% | Male | |
4% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in V8W?
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.