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 an... Read More

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... Read More

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..


Counselling Clinical Director - Couples / Family


Counselling Clinical Director - Individual


Counselling Supervision

Counselling supervision is strongly recommended for all counsellors. Your continued learning not only benefits you, but also benefits your clients. Most counsellors require ongoing supervision or training to maintain their standing with their licencing board. As well, the province of British Columbia is moving towards a provincial regulatory board which will include supervision for all counsell... Read More

Counselling supervision is strongly recommended for all counsellors. Your continued learning not only benefits you, but also benefits your clients. Most counsellors require ongoing supervision or training to maintain their standing with their licencing board. As well, the province of British Columbia is moving towards a provincial regulatory board which will include supervision for all counsellors as part of the criteria for entry and to maintain good standing.


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 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 Disorders

Education, 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, 2014

Gabriel Ballestero is a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC #4798) with the Canadian Professi... Read More

Melanie Behrner is a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC #2175) registered with the Canadian Professional Counsellor’s Association (CPCA). She holds a diploma in Transpersonal Counselling Psychology from Clearmind International Institute, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Simon Fraser University and a certificate in Life Coaching. She has worked as an instructor of the 3 year Practitioner’s Training Program at Clearmind International, runs support groups, and has facilitated and developed personal growth workshops for adults and youth. She works with individuals and couples in areas of relationship challenges, trauma, grief, parenting struggles and life crises.

Treatment Philosophy

Working intuitively, Melanie supports you to discover what is at the core of your current thinking & behaviors so you can access new solutions to life’s problems. Melanie has found this to be extremely effective in navigating her own challenges, including the loss of a parent, relationship issues, fertility challenges, miscarriages, adjusting to becoming a new parent and parenting struggles.

Melanie works from a transpersonal framework while using a combination of various forms of therapy including, AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy), Ego States Therapy (parts work), somatic therapy and Bowen Family Systems. Her form of practice is trauma-informed and person-centred.

Education & Professional Registrations

The Delicate Art of Transforming Hostile Angry Couples, (Ellyn Bader), 2022

Developmental model of Couples Therapy, Level 1 (Sue Diamond), 2022

Managing the Crisis of Infidelity (Ellyn Bader), 2022

Somatic Interventions for Chronic Pain and Syndromes (Peter Levine), 2022

Treating Trauma Master Series, 2022

Instructor: Practitioner’s Training Program, Clearmind International Institute, 2018-2021

Reclaiming the Core Self Through ‘Fierce Love’ (AEDP), 2021

Transform Trauma Through ‘Fierce Love’ (AEDP), 2020

Trauma: Confusion to Clarity, 2020

Positive Discipline (Parenting), 2020

Suicide Prevention Summit, 2019

Neufeld Parenting Conference, 2013, 2015

Pure Energy Level 1, 2013

Making Sense of Aggression, Neufeld Institute, 2013

Pranic Healing, Level 1, 2011

Working in Difficult Situations, 2010

Teen Journey, Rites of Passage Camp & Support Group, 2009-2010

Support group facilitator 2008-2011

Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC#2175) — Canadian Professional Counsellor’s Association, since 2007

Diploma of Transpersonal Counselling Psychology — Clearmind International Institute, 2007

Reiki Level 1, 2005

Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) — SFU, 2004

Energy Awareness Training – Duncan Hart (Ley Line Centre), 2000

Certified Life Coach — Rhodes Career College, 1999

Melanie Behrner is a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC #2175) registered with the Canadian ... Read More

Laura Bradley is a Master Therapeutic Counsellor (MTC) and a Registered Counselling Supervisor (RCS) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada. Registration number 2022. She is also a Certified Group Facilitator.

Laura has worked in the field since 1993 and she possesses a wealth of experience working with couples, individuals, and families in the areas of communication, intimacy and depression. She gathered all of her training, experience, and expertise and founded Steadfast Counselling in 2005.

For years, Laura taught two levels of Practitioner training, a three-year counselling training program with Clearmind International, where she currently sits as a member of the Educational Advisory Committee. She has developed and facilitated personal growth workshops and has considerable experience facilitating group work.

Laura is a registered supervisor with Association of Cooperative Therapists of Canada. She has completed all three levels of Competency based Framework for Effective Supervision Practice. She has more than 10 years experience as supervision counsellors and is newly qualified to teach the first level of supervision training.

Laura is also a community trainer and educator. Her main areas of expertise are marriage, relationships, anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, postpartum adjustment, family dynamics and parenting. She has appeared on City TV, was an expert guest for C-Fun radio, and has contributed to articles in The Globe and Mail and Today’s Parent in regards to postpartum and parenting issues.

Testimonials

>“She can be trusted on every level. She helped me through a very painful personal situation that could have torn my family apart. With her care, compassion and ability to guide a person through crisis by entering their world without any judgement, she helped me to find the resources to walk through my pain instead of staying stuck in it. She never gave up on me even when I felt I had given up on myself!” M.A.H.

>“I find Laura has the ability to access that inner part of me that believes in “me” and bring it forth. She asks just the right questions to make me look at myself and come to some new realization or access an inner strength that had always been within me. She always does this with compassion, caring and a great sense of humor too! She has motivated me to keep going in my schooling and motivated me to deal with my life situation in a healthier way. She has kept me on track at times when I myself forgot what my “track” actually was.” D.K.

>“Laura is compassionate and insightful, and she creates a safe space essential to the process of personal transformation.

>Laura is profoundly intuitive and seems to ask the right questions at the right time. While she is capable of taking us out of our comfort zones in order that we may face our issues directly she is respectful of boundaries and is willing to wait with us until we can gather courage to take the next step.

>I would recommend Laura to anyone seeking personal development and relationship counselling; she is one of those rare people whose energy makes the world seem instantly a better place.” K and K R.

Treatment Philosophy

My vision is to support clients in journeying inward to discover their true potential. Loss and struggles are inevitable, and it is in how we respond to them that we have the hugest impact over our quality of life.

In counselling, we start to heal the beliefs that keep each and every one of us separate, and we walk towards intimacy and connection. Sessions, therefore, 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 facilitate and support you reaching your goals.

I believe that counselling is a collaborative process, where both you and counsellor work together to meet your goals. Counselling provides a compassionate and nonjudgmental presence that supports you in exploring what you need in order to expand and to reclaim the gifts of the past, and to find your own direction from the inside. I seek to use the counselling methods that are best suited to each client’s particular needs.

My counselling approach is mainly based on philosophy from Attachment Theory, Neuroscience, Bowen Systems Theory, and Transpersonal Counselling, although I also make use of Neuro-Linguistic Processing, Gestalt and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. With couples I also use Emotionally Focused Therapy and the work of the Gottmans and Harville Hendricks.

Education & Professional Registrations

• Completed training in “Therapeutic Practices: Interventions for the Counselling Therapist, The Unconscious Inner Workings of Anxiety”, October 2017

• Completed training in “Therapeutic Practices: Interventions for the Counselling Therapist, Family Systems”, October 2017

• Completed “Experience of Awe in Psychotherapy: Working with Spirituality in AEDP”, September 2017

• Completed training in “Therapeutic Practices: Interventions for the Counselling Therapist, Divorce and Separation”, September 2017

• “Speaking to the Hearts of Men” with the B.C. Association of Clinical Counsellors, April 2017

• Completed the AEDP Immersion Course, February 2017

• Level 3: Train-the-Trainer, 2016

• Level 2: Implementation of Supervision Practice, 2016

• Level 1: Supervision Training Program for Private Practice Counsellors, 2015

• The Developmental Model of Couples Therapy with the Ellyn Bader Ph.D Couples Institute, September 2014-June 2015

• AEDP Catalyzing Secure Attachment with Benjamin Lipton LCSW, October 2013

• The Johnson-Gottman Summit, Dr. Sue Johnson, Dr. Julie Gottman & Dr. John Gottman, July 2013

• Engaging Traumatized Clients who Avoid Attachment, Closeness and Painful Feelings, with Robert Muller, Ph.D., April 2013

• A Living Systems Conference: Generation to Generation: The Interplay between Genes and Family Process, February 2012

• Core skills in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, October 2008 – May 2009

• Externship in Emotionally Focused Therapy, July 2008

• Registered Counselling Supervisor

• Registered Therapeutic Counsellor

• Master Practitioner in Counselling Psychology #2014

• Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC #2014) with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association

• 3-Year Counsellor Training Program in Applied Transpersonal Psychology from Clearmind International Institute.

• “Scared Stiff: Fast, Effective Treatment for Anxiety Disorders” with Dr. David Burns

• “Working with Couples” with Dr. Harville Hendrix Ph.D and Dr. Janis Abrahams Spring, Ph.D.

• Group Facilitator Training in post partum depression, and anxiety disorder

• Trained facilitator of The Mastery of Self Expression

• Acceptance and Mindfulness in Clinical Practice Workshop with Dr. Steven Hayes

• Level One AEDP Counsellor

I am continually updating skills by participating in community and professional workshops.

Laura Bradley is a Master Therapeutic Counsellor (MTC) and a Registered Counselling Supervisor (R... Read More

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

Josh (he/him) is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC #2981) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT) and a Counselling Therapist (CT#2736) with the Association of Counselling Therapy of Alberta (ACTA). He is a graduate of the Practitioners Training Program offered by Clearmind International Institute with a diploma in Transpersonal Therapeutic Counselling.

I am a 40-year resident of Calgary, having transplanted from Ontario with my family when I was young and feeling like I had lost all my friends and family. I would have to learn to be part of a new family while figuring out a new community. I played almost every sport I could to prove myself, while avoiding any true possibility of connection with my team or schoolmates. Which distanced me from those I loved and who cared for me.

This retreating was my norm for far too long. What finally changed for me was when I saw my partner begin to make dedicated choices that affected all aspects of our family’s relationships for the better, I knew I too, had to make a change. Years of anger, depression, and not being in control of my emotions, being “fine” needed to change. Stuffing down my emotions until they could no longer be contained, was not the ideal way to create a loving and safe environment. I began to see the difference when confronted with an issue, or a trigger, and how it was a much more beneficial to the relationship, to look at the piece I was bringing, and where it came from. Addressing the initial cause of my outbursts, I also started to take note of the little (and big) things in a relationship that need to be addressed for that relationship to flourish, 1st and foremost was honest communication. And to notice what may be little to me, may be huge to my partner or family members, and to not discount their feelings, or my own, as they are all valid.

I’ve had many roles in my life, across multiple industries and I know that some of those industries do not, or have not seen therapy as a benefit, and their staff would rather push down their emotions and anxieties for fear of looking inadequate in any way. I’ve seen people breakdown, dive into addiction and self-harm, and I want to make it known to them that they have someone that will listen and be a deeper connection for them to anchor to as we work on finding them, their own self-love and regulation tools.

Josh’s Approach I believe in real connection with my clients, and I use an approach that is centred on relationships, bringing in techniques based on Gestalt, Bowen’s Family Systems Theory, Transpersonal Psychology, AEDP, Somatic, and Experiential Therapy (among others). I intend to be a compassionate space for my clients to feel safe, seen and heard without judgement, to have them feel supported, reassured, encouraged, and sometimes literally cheered on. Our sessions will look to build their confidence, self-awareness, and their ability to enrich the relationships within their lives.

Looking at both past and current experiences, as well as Emotional Processing, we will look to uncover the origins of our thoughts and feelings, and the triggers that can cause disruption in relationship with self and others. Growing the tools for Self-Regulation in those moments, gives us opportunity to deepen our connections with the community and world around us.

Education & Professional Development Transpersonal Therapeutic Counsellor Training Program, Clearmind International Institute, 2022 Certified Educator, Keeping the Joy in Relationships, Positive Discipline Association, 2021 Certified Laughter Yoga Facilitator, Center for Mindfulness, 2021

Josh (he/him) is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC #2981) with the Association of Coopera... Read More

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

Melody Hazelton Melody Hazelton is a Master Therapeutic Counsellor (MTC #2503) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT) and a Counselling Therapist (#1055) with the Association of Counselling Therapy of Alberta (ACTA). Melody is a Certified Health & Wellness Coach, Positive Discipline Educator, and Keeping The Joy in Relationships Facilitator. Melody is a seasoned professional. She has been helping individuals, couples, and parents meet and exceed their therapy goals since 2018.

Melody was an instructor for all 3 levels of Practitioner training, a three-year counselling training program with Clearmind International from 2020 - 2023. She has also created and facilitated several personal growth workshops and classes based on Adlerian Psychology and Forward Facing principles - Empowering Parents with Positive Discipline, Keeping The Joy in Relationships, and Forward Facing Me: Personal Engagement Group.

Her main areas of expertise are addictions, anxiety, boundaries, depression, grief, life coaching, life transitions, marriage, parenting, relationships, self-esteem, self-worth, spiritual counselling, stress, trauma, and women’s issues.

Melody’s Approach and Treatment Philosophy

I view counselling as a collaborative and supportive process focused on your healing and growth. Our sessions will focus on exploring tools that will help you reach your goals, reduce stress, release past painful experiences, and improve your relationships - including the one you have with yourself! It is my intention to provide you with a safe space and emotional support. I will gently challenge you, encourage you, and celebrate your wins with you along the way. Together, we will examine the patterns that may be holding you back, and work towards creating a more meaningful, connective, and joyous life.

I practice from an anti-oppression, justice-oriented, feminist, transpersonal & relational perspective. I view us as being much bigger than the stories we tell ourselves from an egoic perspective. I believe in a holistic approach to counselling focusing on the wellness of mind, body, and spirit, paying particular attention to each client’s unique situation & needs.

Therapeutic Modalities

Adlerian Psychology, Bowen Family Systems Theory, Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Gestalt Therapy, Humanistic - Existential Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Person-Centered, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Transpersonal Psychology.

Education & Professional Development

  • Forward Facing Professional Resilience, Forward Facing Institute, 2023

  • Ethics – Informed Consent Form & Process, Dawn Psychological Services, 2023

  • Forward Facing Trauma Therapy, Forward Facing Institute, 2023

  • Documentation, ACTA, Dawn Psychological Services, 2023

  • Forward Facing Freedom, Forward Facing Institute, 2023

  • Brainspotting Therapist, Phase 2, Brainspotting International, 2023

  • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, PESI Inc., 2022

  • How to Treat High-Conflict and Conflict-Avoidant Couples, Mind, Body, Training Institute, 2022

  • Brainspotting Therapist, Phase 1, Brainspotting International, 2022

  • Treating Complex Trauma with Internal Family Systems, PESI Inc., 2022

  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) Certification Training, PESI Inc, 2022

  • Black Liberation as a Path to Collective Wellness & Healing, R. Cassidy Seminars, 2022

  • Release Stress & Trauma Through Listening To Your Body, Holistic Life Navigation, 2022

  • Emotional Freedom Techniques & Thought Field

  • Therapy (EFT/TFT tapping) Master Practitioner, The Priority Academy, 2022

  • Basic Principles of Somatic Experiencing, Somatic Experiencing International, 2022

  • Certified Positive Discipline Classroom Educator, Positive Discipline Association, 2021
  • Navigating White Privilege Constructively as a Counsellor, ACCT, 2021
  • Clinician’s Suicide Prevention Summit, PESI Inc., 2021
  • Radical Anti-Bias Education: Cultivating True Comrades in Struggle, White Awake, 2021
  • Certified Keeping the Joy in Relationships Educator, Positive Discipline Association, 2021
  • Alderian Speaker Series, 2021
  • The Art of Facilitating, 2021
  • Happy Family Conference, Mindful Parenting & Mental Awareness, 2020
  • Positive Discipline Conference & Think Tank, 2020
  • Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator, Positive Discipline Association, 2019
  • Transpersonal Therapeutic Counsellor Training Program, Clearmind International Institute, 2018
  • Bachelor of Arts, Athabasca University, 2005

Melody Hazelton Melody Hazelton is a Master Therapeutic Counsellor (MTC #2503) with the Associati... Read More

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), 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 (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

Ashar Neufeld (he/him) is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (#2669), trained in Transpersonal Counselling. He is a licensed member of the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT).

Ashar works with clients that struggle with anxiety, overwhelm, intrusive thoughts, fatigue, burnout, procrastination, people pleasing, lack of meaning and purpose, shyness, perfectionism, depression, lack of follow through, hyper-vigilance, fear of intimacy, body dysmorphia, and self-isolation. He has experience helping clients with developing healthier boundaries, considering decisions from a more self-empowered place, and in being more present in their lives.

Ashar entered into a depression in his mid to late twenties, while he was in Art School. This difficult experience led him to seek help. For the first time, he began seeing a counsellor. He found the immersion into therapy very valuable to him as it gave him the support necessary to allow him to feel what he was actually feeling; something which was very unfamiliar to him up until that point. He discovered yoga at that time, as well, which would prove to be a great catalyst for growth and resilience. One of things he discovered about this ancient method was that it was very good for providing self-regulation. Bit by bit, he started to learn how to trust himself and recognize the gifts and talents he possessed. This started to bring new found fulfillment in life and relationships. He became a teacher of yoga and meditation and then, years later, his passion for helping people led to training as a counsellor. The path of healing has been a long one that I don’t think will ever end; however, the key for me is the understanding that it can be okay if struggle shows up…that you can know your value, no matter what upset is occurring, and still have a choice in how you want to show up in the world.

Treatment Philosophy

As a trauma-informed, holistic counsellor, Ashar uses Somatic Experiencing, the shared intuition of the therapeutic relationship, Attachment Theory, Mindfulness, Strengths Based therapy, EFT, Family Systems, Parts work, tools of Yoga, and Non-dual Spirituality to help bring a more authentic and satisfying relationship within yourself and with others. Ashar believes that from wherever one is standing it is impossible to know what everything means, especially when the nervous system has become activated. For this reason he takes the approach of helping clients focus more on what is happening right now inside of them in order to gain understanding of their experience, rather than trying to understand everything that is happening around them. His goal for therapy first is to offer safety, empathy, acceptance and loving kindness. Secondly, building your capacity to receive help. Thirdly, to facilitate the understanding that whatever he is offering, it is inside you and that you can access that at any time. With this therapy, you may experience more alignment with your core values, more power to choose what you really want, and more of a sense of wellbeing through the alleviation of your presenting symptoms.

Education & Certifications

Somatic Experiencing Intermediate 1 Somatic Experiencing International, Vancouver February 2023 The Neurobiology of Attachment: NICABM Feb 2022 Trauma and Memory (online) – Peter Levine PESI Inc. September 2021 IFS Course (online) – Greater Than The Sum Of Our Parts Sounds True July 2020 Transpersonal Counselling Diploma Clearmind International Institute, Vancouver 2016-2019 Trauma, Transformation, and Integration Course   Beyond Addiction, Vancouver April 2019 Studio Yoga Teacher Kundalini Yoga Vancouver, BC & Mexico 2007-2016 Thai Massage Level 1 Alchemy & Elixir (Sharon Brown-Horton), Vancouver 2012 Sat Nam Rasayan Healing GuruDev Singh’s Tutoring 2008 – 2015 Yoga Teacher Training 500 hr KRI Institute 2007-2011 Fine Arts Emily Carr, Vancouver 1996-1997 Foundation Fine Arts Langara College, Vancouver 1994-1996 Environmental Studies (1 of 2 yrs completed) Langara College, Vancouver 1992-1993

Ashar Neufeld (he/him) is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (#2669), trained in Transpersonal C... Read More

Rhea Shroff is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT). She graduated from Clearmind International and received a Diploma in Transpersonal Therapeutic Counselling.

Born and raised in Mumbai, India, Rhea moved to Vancouver, Canada at the age of 23. She has always been interested in people’s stories. Curious to know how a person has got to where they are today. Curious to understand what has happened in that person’s life till that very moment.

Rhea’s Approach and Treatment Philosophy

Life can be challenging and, at times, overwhelming. We find ourselves stuck, wondering how to move forward. Life transitions like divorce, parenting, co-parenting, career changes, immigrating or moving can be stressful and leave us wondering how to cope. We could find ourselves in relationships, whether it be family, friendships or romantic partnerships, struggling with patterns and behaviours that do not serve us or the relationship. All of the above can be stressful creating constant rumination and anxiety that can be draining with no energy for much else. I hear you. I see you. You are not alone.

I offer you a space where you can take a breath and release some of the heavy load you are carrying. In therapy, we will journey together into self-discovery to deepen self-awareness. We will explore, uncover and unhook from behaviour patterns and belief systems that may be the source of your struggle. I will support you in understanding the root of the issue, change your relationship to it and build awareness. Accessing this inner wisdom allows you to respond rather than react building resilience and resources for the future.

My approach is holistic and trauma-informed. My therapeutic training and practice is a combination of modalities including transpersonal, person-centered, gestalt, family systems and intergenerational trauma therapy integrated with somatic and mindful techniques.

I work with you wherever you are at with an open, compassionate heart, a curious, non-judgmental presence, and an abundance of spirit to be with you in your dark places and help you find spaces to let your light shine through. I believe you have an internal strength, when accessed, can get you through circumstances that seem insurmountable.

When you forge a deeper connection with yourself it sets the foundation for discovering or re-discovering your purpose, passion and vitality which in turn, enriches your personal and professional relationships. I am here to support you in taking your next steps towards living your life to the fullest..

Areas of Focus

Anxiety, Stress, Intergenerational trauma, Life transitions, Parenting, Single-parents, Grief, Loss, Trauma, Self-esteem, Boundaries and Resilience building.

Our sessions may include talk therapy, genograms (mapping your family of origin’s inherited traumas and losses that may be holding you back), experiential processes (including inner child work), the use of breath and mindful techniques to explore sensations and feelings within your body guiding us to the underlining feeling that is at the source of your struggle/situation. Before engaging in any process, I will always ask for your permission before proceeding.

Certifications and Training

• “When the Past is Present” Healing Emotional Triggers, Limiting Beliefs and Intergenerational Trauma, Trish Walsh, Vancouver, Canada, 2021

• Advanced Training: Fathers, Mothers, Sons and Daughters—How to Work with Inundation and Rejection with The Family Constellation Institute with Mark Wolynn, San Francisco, USA, 2021

• Inherited Family Trauma Training with The Family Constellation Institute with Mark Wolynn, San Francisco, USA, 2020

• Undoing Aloneness Trauma Training Workshop, Trish Walsh & Galen Hutcheson, Vancouver, Canada, 2020

• Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program, The Centre for Mindfulness Canada, North Vancouver, Canada, 2019

• Trauma-Informed Practice - Level 2 Certificate, Alyson Quinn, Vancouver, Canada, 2019

• Trauma-Informed Practice - Level 1 Certificate, Trish Walsh & Alyson Quinn, Vancouver, Canada, 2019

• Professional Ethics, Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists, Vancouver, Canada, 2019

• Diploma in Transpersonal Therapeutic Counselling, Clearmind International Institute, Vancouver, Canada, 2019

• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Production & Design Technology, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada, 2002

• Bachelor of Commerce, H.R. College of Commerce and Economics, Bombay, India, 1996

Rhea Shroff is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor with the Association of Cooperative Counsellin... Read More

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 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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