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Counselling - Couples / Family
Steadfast’s counsellors employ a variety of philosophies, such as Attachment theory, Family Systems theory, Rogerian and much more. Our therapists are well trained in the Gestalt model, Emotionally Focused Therapy, new approaches to trauma, and non-violent communication, so that we can match the right counselling approach to your situation. We truly believe that you can have the kind of life and relationships you want.
Counselling - Individual
Steadfast Counselling uses online video technology created by Jane Software Inc in North Vancouver, specifically for practitioners serving their clients. It is a “peer-to-peer” audiovisual connection meaning that the traffic flows between the two users’ browsers, bypassing any servers. The call is also encrypted in transit and none of the data is stored anywhere, at any time. Plus, video, audio and chat content cannot be recorded during the call. This ensures clients’ privacy and that our online sessions are compliant with all federal and provincial privacy legislation. A link to join online video will be sent to you 30 minutes prior to your appointment..
Free Consultation
Free 15 minutes consultation with any counsellors. The purpose is for you to ask questions and find the right connection for your therapy journey.
Gabriel Ballestero RPC #4798
Gabriel Ballestero is a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC #4798) with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA). He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and a Licentiate in psychology (2009/2011) and has 15 years of psychotherapy experience with individuals, teenagers, groups and children (10+).
Treatment Philosophy and Approach
Mental health lies at the heart of our lives and becoming aware of this, in a way that motivates us, is half of the heavy lifting. Life has taught Gabriel that at times we all need more support and can benefit greatly from the services of a mental health professional to process, accept and handle our life´s challenges.
He has a humanistic -client centered- focus, exercising empathic listening and feedback informed practice in order to focus and adapt his therapy to people´s needs, priorities and strengths. Whilst some people -and sessions- require a more directive approach, others benefit from a flexible approach. A safe, non-judgmental space nurtures a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where sound professional skills empower people in their growth and transformation.
Therapeutic Modalities
Gabriel began his career working in men´s groups with men´s issues, exercising a psychodynamic-informed Gestalt and Drama Therapy approach, whilst combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and relaxation-mindfulness techniques. He later went on to develop hypnotherapy skills. In recent years he has focused on Contextual/Third Wave Behavioral Therapies, particularly; Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and DBT. He draws from these experiences to tailor treatment plans to peoples therapeutic objectives.
Areas of Practice
• Stress, Worry, Anxiety, Grief, Loss and Depression • Life Transitions, Relationship Issues • Self Esteem, Social Skills, Intimacy • Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills • Communication & Conflict Resolution • Anger Management • Men's Issues, Masculinity issues • Family Conflict, Domestic Violence • Infidelity • Couples / Relationship • Cross Cultural Issues / Conflict • Racial Identity • Compassion Fatigue • Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress, PTSD • Weight Loss • Addiction - Shopping, Gambling, Internet, Food, Workaholism • Sleep Difficulties • Thinking Disorders • Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity (ADD/ADHD) • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) • Mood Disorders • Personality DisordersEducation, Certifications and Professional Development
• Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC #4798), Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA), Canada, 2024 • Master´s in Acting, University of East London, U.K., 2019 • Diploma in Acting and Cultural Theater Promotion, National Theater Conservatoire, Costa Rica, 2016 • Licentiate in Psychology, University of Costa Rica, Costa Rica, 2011 • Bachelor’s in Psychology, University of Costa Rica, Costa Rica, 2009 • Prevention and Management of Violence and Aggression, CST Comprehensive Security Training, London, U.K., 2019 • Reiki Level 1, Costa Rica, 2014Gabriel Ballestero is a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC #4798) with the Canadian Professi... Read More
Jessica Brown RPC-C #4110
Jessica Brown is a Registered Professional Counsellor-Candidate (RPC-C #4110) with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA). In addition, she will be working with a qualified Clinical Supervisor (QCS).
A bit about me:
I was born in Lima, Peru. I grew up under my grandparents’ care as my mother was a single mom who worked long hours. During my teenage years I enjoyed writing stories and loved taking in & caring for stray dogs. Many years later, as a young adult, I met a gentle Canadian, Cody who was travelling through South America. We became good friends soon and a year later, we got married in Lima. Afterwards, I moved with him to Canada. We’ve been married now for over 17 years. At home, we have two fluffy 14-year-old bichon poodles who bring much joy into our lives.
I’ve found that growing up in Latin America has enriched my world perspective in many ways. Perhaps most importantly it has allowed me to counsel many clients who have immigrated to Canada, just like me, in their native language. Being able to offer counselling in Spanish has been particularly rewarding as communication is a powerful bridge.
Also, I am quite passionate about helping women and men who are experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, shame, grief and loss. Through counselling, my goal is to help them recognize their innate strength in the midst of pain. Another huge passion of mine involves counselling couples. Because of this, I am pursuing further training in couples’ counselling. Being able to provide couples with a safe space to heal, to hear their joint story as well as their individual stories allows me to provide them with the necessary tools that can help them overcome their struggles. My hope is to help you both find a new meaning as a couple and reconnect in a deeper way.
Being a counsellor means the world to me. I believe that to counsel is my calling and my purpose. To help people in moments of struggle and pain deeply humbles me as I recognize how as humans, we are all vulnerable to pain and suffering. Yet, there is something incredibly beautiful about walking alongside someone who needs a helping hand. I always feel honoured and deeply blessed by listening to my client’s life stories, their moments of struggle and ache as well as their moments of great breakthrough.
Through counselling I have been given the enormous privilege of witnessing the strength of the human heart. Despite your circumstances, I’d like to remind you that you are uniquely special, there is no one in the world like you. You have a purpose. If you let me, I’d like to be part of your journey as a fellow traveller who believes in you.
Jessica’s Approach in Counselling:
Jessica seeks to care for her client’s emotional, psychological and spiritual growth. My aim is to nurture your needs providing you with wholesome counsel and therapeutic tools that encourages you to live life to the fullest. My philosophical approach to counselling is eclectic and holistic in nature. I will employ a variety of techniques from various counselling models and therapies.
In addition, for clients who hold a Christian worldview and desire to receive counselling through this faith-based approach, I am happy to incorporate spiritual techniques that are in alignment with your belief system such as prayer, meditation and Bible scriptures as I was also trained in Christian Counselling.
Therapeutic Modalities:
Adlerian Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Existential Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Christian Counselling.
Education:
Counselling Diploma- Pacific Life Bible College- 2019 Registered Professional Counselor- Candidate, RPC- C #4110 with Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA) - 2020 Dynamics of Biblical Change course- Christian Counselling & Educational Foundation (CCEF) - 2021 The Mirror of Trauma Workshop, (Canadian Professional Counsellors Association)- 2022 Gottman Couples Method: Bridging the Couple Chasm- Level 1 (Present)
Jessica Brown is a Registered Professional Counsellor-Candidate (RPC-C #4110) with the Canadian P... Read More
Jennifer Harder RPC #3164
Currently, Not Taking New Clients.
Jennifer Harder is a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC #3164) with the Canadian Professional Counsellors’ Association (CPCA). She is a graduate of Clearmind International Institute with a diploma in Transpersonal Psychology and has studied at both the University of Saskatchewan (Kinesiology) and Concordia University (Contemporary Dance).
Jennifer has an inquisitive mind and an open heart. She is incredibly intuitive and empathetic. She uses her gifts and skill to work with individuals and couples to fully embrace their struggle in order to heal and grow.
Her journey into counselling came out of a relationship crisis and a deep depression. All of this on the hinge of losing her step mother to a sudden and catastrophic brain aneurism. In embracing the pain of these circumstances and the recognition of abandonment issues as a child she was propelled into self growth, healing and awakening.
Her therapeutic approach uses Bowen’s Family Systems Theory, Neuroscience, Neuro-Linguisitc Programming (NLP), and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, as well as Gestalt and Transpersonal Perspectives.
Treatment Philosophy
Jennifer believes that “we are mind, body and spirit and that when we as human beings experience deep pain and we are at our “edge” or “wall”, it is a calling for healing and a shift. She offers a loving, solid and safe place for clients as they explore this sometimes scary or unknown place.
A Course in Miracles states “We are never upset for the reason we think”, meaning that there are always bigger things going on under our upset that we may not be aware of. Jennifer is a present and solid alibi in those often fragile places. She comes to this practice with a multitude of experiences in life, family and education that have tested her capacity for presence, growth and awareness. Her goal is to provide a safe and loving environment for people to have full support of their struggle and gain some clarity and insight in order to live a more happier and fulfilled life!
Education and Professional Development
• Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC #3164)
• Diploma in Transpersonal Psychology, Clearmind International Institute (2012)
• University of Saskatchewan (Kinesiology)
• University of Concordia (Contemporary Dance)
• Perinatal and Post Partum Depression Course (Richmond Hospital, 2013)
• Pure Energy Level 1 (Tasha Simms, 2014)
• Relationship Boundaries Level 1 and 2 (Magicore, 2015)
• Co-Parenting Stronger (Workshop by John Paul Boyd, 2017)
Currently, Not Taking New Clients. Jennifer Harder is a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC ... Read More
Christa Huntley
(She/Her/Hers)
RTC #2885
Christa Huntley is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC#2885) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT). Christa holds a diploma in Transpersonal Therapeutic Counselling from Clearmind International Institute.
I believe that in each of our struggles, there are opportunities to discover new and deeper layers of ourselves. We all have unique experiences that shape who we are, and our mistakes do not define us.
At our core, each of us is inherently worthy of love and acceptance. I am here to walk alongside my clients exactly where they are at on their unique path, and create an environment of warmth and safety with an open, compassionate heart. I am here to help clients find balance and thrive as their authentic self, in the midst of life’s challenges.
Therapeutic Modality and Approach to Counselling
The foundation of my approach comes from a Transpersonal Therapeutic perspective. which considers that we are more than the sum of our life experiences. The foundation of my training includes Family Systems Theory, Person-Centered and Gestalt therapeutic approaches. In sessions, I may ask questions about your overall health, wellbeing and family history, in order to bring context to your current struggles. During sessions you may experience strong emotions or uncomfortable feelings. All feelings are welcome, and I will adapt my approach to meet your individual needs.
Education & Certifications
- Registered Therapeutic Counsellor with ACCT (#2885) – 2021
- Trauma-Informed Practice – Level 2 Certificate, Alyson Quinn, Trauma Informed Practice Institute – 2021
- Trauma-Informed Practice – Level 1 Certificate, Alyson Quinn, Trauma Informed Practice Institute – 2021
- Transpersonal Therapeutic Counsellor Training Program, Clearmind International – 2018-2021
- Leaders Who Inspire Development Program, Coast Capital Savings Corporate Learning – 2017
Christa Huntley is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC#2885) with the Association of Coopera... Read More
Alexa McEwen
(She/Her/Hers)
RTC #3246
Alexa McEwen (she/her), is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC #3246 ) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT) and a graduate of Clearmind International Institute with a diploma in Transpersonal Therapeutic Counselling. Alexa is a white settler of predominantly Scottish heritage located in Vancouver B.C the unceded and unsurrendered Coast Salish Territory; traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-waututh Nations.
My goal is to provide a non-judgmental space where you can process and explore your unique path. Through our work together I aspire to empower you to express your authentic self without unconscious beliefs and behaviors getting in your way. Informed by my background as a holistic nutritionist and yoga teacher, my approach integrates various facets of well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
Together, we can navigate the complexities of life and uncover the strength within you.
Areas of focus
•Trauma informed
•Disordered Eating and body image with an understanding of Anti Diet culture
•Anxiety and depression
•Relationship challenges
•Grief and Loss
•Anti Oppressive lens
Modalities
•Family Systems
•Internal Family systems
•Attachment Theory
•Person Centered
I understand the immense courage it takes to engage in vulnerable counselling work.
Throughout my life, I assumed a caretaker role in my family, striving to prove my worth and belonging through self-sacrifice. This journey led me to overlook my own emotional needs and question my deservingness of meaningful relationships without overextending myself. It’s been a transformative experience in therapy to realize that everyone, myself included, deserve support, imperfections and all. Sharing my authentic self has shown me the power of vulnerability and the joy of receiving support.
Education
2023 Internal Family Systems Master Class: Experience IFS in Action with Complex Trauma and PTSD
2022 Heal Your Relationship With Food Intro To Intuitive Eating with Tiffany Roe
2020-2023 Clearmind international Diploma in Transpersonal counselling
2015 Karma Teachers 200hr Yoga teacher training
2012-2014 Canadian school of Holistic Nutrition Diploma in Holistic Nutrition
2005-2008 Vancouver Community College - Diploma in Classical Voice
Alexa McEwen (she/her), is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC #3246 ) with the Association ... Read More
Patrick McGill MTC #2490
Patrick McGill (he/him) is a Master Therapeutic Counsellor (MTC #2490) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT). He is a graduate of Clearmind International Institute with a diploma in Transpersonal Therapeutic Counselling.
Patrick is a client-centered, experiential counsellor who takes an integrative approach to anxiety, stress, grief and loss, couples’ issues, anger, and trauma. He has experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds as well as the LGBTQ2S+ community.
I’ve worked with individuals, families, couples, and youth. I have trained in Family Systems Theory, Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP).
For 4 years I worked for Clearmind International Institute as Director of workshops where I support people in group work and students of the Counsellor Training Program, a 3-year counsellor training program, and as a facilitator.
I offer an open heart, compassion, and inquisitive mind in counselling to help identify where the struggles in life arise, in areas, patterns and dynamics that show up, where people get stuck, stuck on a loop that doesn’t allow someone to live their life to the fullest.
About Myself
I was led into counselling in a large part from my own personal and family experiences. I had a feeling of wanting more, that I was just going through the motions of life, not being true to myself and my abilities. Lacking fulfillment, purpose, joy and expecting to find it from my family, relationships, friends, all while not giving it to myself. That brought me to take steps to discover and look at my life and who I wanted to be in it. I got support and started learning about grief, loss and change and how to deal, how to cope and feel and be me in all of it. Learning that each individual struggle is unique and sacred and that it cannot be rushed, and our bodies need to feel and learn our way through these experiences.
Treatment Philosophy My vision is to support clients to discover their fullest potential, to believe in their abilities, to strengthen that self-trust and confidence in their lives. With that, they will be able to:
respond and remember the truth and trust in themselves when those struggles of life show up–love, loss, grief and change, and express it in a healthy way, not holding on to it and have it negatively affect their relationship with themselves and the others around them, but learn and have the tools to cope and express. In counselling, we start to heal the beliefs that keep each and every one of us separate, and we walk towards intimacy and connection. In life, there is no guide or manual, therefore, sessions do not follow a prescribed formula–they are a process, and it is you that sets the curriculum and the pace. I am there to support and facilitate you reaching your goals.
In counselling, it is my belief that it is a process in which everyone needs to show up fully and be accountable for the success of their goals. And my commitment, to my clients and myself, is that them attaining their life’s goals is as important to me as it is to them–that I’m here supporting them through their journey inward to a discovery of peace and freedom in their lives.
I believe that no one has to struggle alone, that one of the bravest things anyone can do is to reach out and ask for support around their struggles.
I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental presence that supports you in exploring what you need in order for you to expand and reclaim the past, and find your own direction from the inside. I’m here, being with you, when you feel you’ve reached your wall or edge.
Areas of Practice
Worry and Anxiety
Depression
Suicide and Crisis Intervention
Grief and Loss Counselling
Anger Management
Trauma and PTSD
Sexual Abuse/Rape
Family Counselling
Substance Abuse
Self-esteem Issues
Spiritual Crisis and Awakening
Relationship/Marriage/Couples Counselling
Approaches Used
Bowen’s Family Systems Theory
Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP)
Transpersonal Therapeutic Counselling
Attachment-Based Therapy
Mindfulness and Somatic Therapy
Gestalt Therapy
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
Solution-Focused Therapy
Acceptance Therapy
Self-Compassion Therapy
Breathwork Therapy
Education
Level 1 AEDP Therapist, AEDP Immersion, The AEDP Institute – 2022
AEDP for couples: Transforming Relationships through Healing Relational Deprivation and Trauma” David Mars – 2019
Polyamory – Couples and Family Dynamics with David Mars – 2019
Transpersonal Therapeutic Counsellor Training Program, Clearmind International – 2015-2018
Patrick McGill (he/him) is a Master Therapeutic Counsellor (MTC #2490) with the Association of Co... Read More
Nate Torhjelm MTC #2443
Nate Torhjelm is a Master Therapeutic Counsellor with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT). Registration number 2443. He is a graduate of Clearmind International Institute with a diploma in Transpersonal Therapeutic Counselling.
As a counsellor I work with individuals and couples to help unlock those stuck places that leave us running the same old patterns over and over again. I am here to support you and to help you uncover the solutions that, although they might be hidden, exist within you. The key often lies in how we view the problem. Sometimes our patterns of thought and behavior are so ingrained that without awareness, we are unable to see new options. As awareness increases, we become more capable of choosing a new perspective.
My commitment to you is to be thee with you as you work through this difficult time and help you get to the other side.
There is hope.
Currently I am a shadow facilitator/teacher with Clearmind international teaching and supporting second year students. The second year of the course is where we begin teaching about practicing one on one counselling and learning about different approaches and models for counselling. Over the years I have supported and assisted at several workshops and assisted in group therapy sessions. In my practice I use Attachment theory, Bowen’s Family systems theory, Gestalt method, person centered therapy and Transpersonal counselling.
Nate Torhjelm is a Master Therapeutic Counsellor with the Association of Cooperative Counselling ... Read More
JeeYe Yoon
(She/Her/Hers)
RTC #2881
JeeYe Yoon is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC#2881) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT). She graduated from Clearmind International and received a Diploma in Transpersonal Therapeutic Counselling.
Hi everyone! My name is JeeYe (pronounced JeeYeh or the letters G-A). I was born in South Korea and when I was 7 years old, my parents decided to immigrate to Vancouver, Canada. Moving to a new country at a young age, I faced struggles and challenges, especially around physical differences, language, and culture. Confusion arose and I often found my young self with questions circling around “Who am I?” “What am I supposed to be like?” and “Where do I fit in?”
Time and again I found myself searching for a safe place and person/people, as my home and parents were unable to secure safety for me. Then in my mid 20s, after being diagnosed with a life altering health condition, I came to therapeutic counselling. I was sitting in a place of doubt, confusion, and hopelessness. I was convinced I would be broken, incomplete and not worthy to be part of society. I viewed myself as a body and soul filled with problems. However, with time, counselling offered healing, and with courage and support, I was able to explore areas of my life with curiosity and an open mind and heart. This journey asked for patience, time, self-love, and connection. This allowed me to reconnect and reclaim parts of me that I became disconnected with. Healing brought forth a life of living, passion, and authenticity.
My belief is that we are all worthy of living a life filled with authenticity, love, and connection. We are much more than our stories and pasts.
JeeYe’s Approach
I offer you a safe space for your story to be shared, for your experiences to be seen, heard, and recognized. In therapy, you will be met with care, compassion, empathy, and genuine curiosity.
Together we can work to:
- discover what it is that is holding you back, placing you in a place of “stuckness,”
- bring awareness and an understanding to the core cause of your struggles on a mental and emotional level, and
- provide resources to help build courage and resilience as we work on examining and adopting a new pattern of thinking, feeling and living.
Therapeutic Modalities
- Transpersonal Therapy
- Gestalt Therapy
- Person-Centered Approach
- Bowen Family System Theory
- Intergenerational Trauma Therapy
All of these are combined with a experiential and holistic approach—mind, body, heart, and spirit. Mindfulness and self-compassion strategies are encouraged in our sessions.
Education & Certifications
- Somatic Trauma Healing with Abi Blakeslee, 2024
- Deb Dana’s Polyvagal Informed Therapy Master Class, 2023
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1: Bridging the Couples Chasm, 2022
- Inherited Family Trauma, Mark Wolynn, 2022
- Foundations in Somatic Abolitionism, Resmaa Menakem, 2021
- Trauma Informed Practice Training Level 1, Canadian Psychological Association, 2021
- Diploma in Transpersonal Therapeutic Counselling, Clearmind International Institute, Vancouver, Canada, 2018-2021
- Bachelor of Sciences in Nursing, British Columbia Institute of Technology , Burnaby, Canada, 2006-2009
JeeYe Yoon is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC#2881) with the Association of Cooperative... Read More
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Need Help? (604) 629 - 7108 info@steadfastcounselling.com