My name is Jess (she/her), and I am an intern counsellor completing my Master’s of Arts in Counselling Psychology through Yorkville University.

It takes courage to seek support, and I feel privileged to walk alongside you in this process. In our work together, I offer a warm, safe space where you can show up exactly as you are. My approach is grounded in mindfulness, self-compassion, somatic awareness, and nervous system regulation. Together, we can explore how your thoughts, emotions, and body interact, building awareness and developing skills to meet life from a more centred place. We can also get curious about your history, relationships, communities, and broader contexts that shape your experience, while identifying your values and what feels meaningful to you.

My curiosity about the human experience and desire to support others began in my teenage years through volunteer work, both locally and abroad. In 2007, I began studying Theravada Buddhism and developed a meditation practice that has supported me throughout the years and continues to inform my work. From 2011- 2024, I practiced as a Registered Massage Therapist, where I saw firsthand how physical symptoms, emotions, and life circumstances are deeply interconnected. These experiences shape how I show up as a counsellor - grounded, curious, and offering a compassionate presence to meet you with care.

Counselling Modalities Used

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Somatic Therapy Trauma-Informed Practices Person-Centred Therapy Mindfulness-Based Interventions Compassion Focused Therapy EMDR Eco-Therapy Narrative Therapy Psychodynamic Therapy Meaning-Centred Therapy

Areas of Focus

Anxiety and depression Chronic pain and other health challenges Grief and loss Life transitions Trauma Nervous system regulation Mindfulness and self-compassion Stress and overwhelm Spiritual or existential inquiry Self-worth and self-acceptance Burnout and caregiver fatigue

My name is Jess (she/her), and I am an intern counsellor completing my Master’s of Arts in Counse... Read More

Tanis is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with extensive experience supporting individuals and families through life’s complexities. With a compassionate and client-centred approach, she combines her 20-year background in youth and family support, nutritional consulting, Reiki, and human resources with her Master’s in Counselling Psychology to bring a holistic outlook to mental health. Tanis believes we all have a personal narrative that only we are the experts in. Dedicated to providing a caring, respect-focused therapeutic experience, Tanis is passionate about supporting clients navigating major life transitions such as divorce, grief, career changes, and identity discovery. With a warm and inclusive approach, Tanis creates a safe space for exploration and growth, collaboratively supporting clients on their journey toward healing and resilience. Sessions with Tanis are often a blend of tears and laughter, vulnerability and relatability, release and learning, all leading to profound personal insights and growth. Outside counselling, Tanis can be found spending time enjoying all BC offers with her big blended family and two very spoiled cats.

Therapeutic Approaches - Narrative Therapy - Sex Therapy - Internal Family Systems - EMDR Therapy - Gottman Couples Therapy Areas of Focus - Trauma - Life transitions - Grief and loss - Sexuality - Relationships - Blended families

Tanis is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with extensive experience supporting individuals and f... Read More

Charmaine is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. She works with children, youth, and adults and is committed to providing high quality, ethically-sound care to all her clients. As a retired school counsellor, Charmaine has a strong understanding of the various opportunities and challenges young people and their caregivers encounter along their educational journey and how these might impact one’s sense of well-being. She uses a variety of tools and approaches while prioritizing each client’s needs, readiness, and comfort level. She also strives to cultivate a deep sense of self-compassion and optimism in each session. Woven throughout Charmaine’s practice is an appreciation for the role of attachment and early life experience in impacting how we are in the world, and the many opportunities for healing and growth that our inner resources can provide. Charmaine practices from an integrative, trauma-informed perspective and is trained in providing Play Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based interventions. She has a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology in addition to a Bachelor of Education and 20 years of experience as an educator. Charmaine invites anyone who might be curious about whether she would be a good fit for their needs to reach out to Sea to Tree and arrange a complimentary consult. Approaches Offered: Play Therapy (for children 6 yrs+) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Mindfulness-Based Practices Person-Centered Therapy Interpersonal Neurobiology and Trauma-Informed Areas of Focus: Grief and Loss Anxiety Depression Stress and Burnout Life Transitions Military Family Support Parenting Challenges

Charmaine is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherap... Read More

Since becoming a Registered Massage Therapist in 2001, Nina has been interested in how postural realignment can change the patterns of pain and tension throughout the body. At the heart of her practice, she utilizes these specific relationships to assist her clients to live more balanced and pain-free while relaxing, working, and being active.

Guided by her assessment, she uses Myofascial and Trigger Point methods, blended with relaxing Swedish techniques, to release restrictions and restore function.

This approach can benefit repetitive strains, headaches, neck, shoulder and knee discomfort as well as lower back pain and sciatica. She wants her clients to feel confident with their homecare and feel in control throughout their healing process, so providing education, to maintain relief, is an important element.

Since becoming a Registered Massage Therapist in 2001, Nina has been interested in how postural ... Read More

Counselling with Alexi

Alexi (he/him) is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with over 10 years’ experience and supports folks navigating gender and sexuality, stress and burnout, relationship challenges, anxiety and depression, grief and loss, familial conflict, and life transitions. He is a parent, husband, and Queer man who works with folks to build a deep sense of relational safety, trust, and groundedness in the counselling space.

Do you have a desire to have deeper, more authentic relationships? Together, we can address what keeps us feeling disconnected from others like experiences of shame, guilt, or past relational traumas. I work with you to discover the tender, vulnerable parts of yourself and reignite your sense of zest, connection, and authenticity. People often find an increased sense of self-compassion and empowerment from our work together.

Life is ambiguous, messy, and ever-changing. I like to believe I hold space for this. I feel we often experience the most change and meaning when we feel safe and supported to explore, connect, and create new possibilities together. I am here to help you find some of the clarity and understanding that you are looking for. I work with youth (13+), individuals, couples, and families.

Services Alexi offers

Trauma-informed Feminist, anti-oppressive, & social justice lenses Queer-informed practice Strength-based & person-centered Narrative therapy Solution-focused Eco therapy Gottman Method for Couples Mindful Self-Compassion

Areas of Focus

Identity, sexuality, & gender exploration Anxiety, depression, & other mental health concerns Life transitions Men’s mental health Relationships & communication challenges Interpersonal & family conflict Cultural identity Social justice issues & navigating systemic barriers New parenthood & fatherhood Grief & loss Self-harm & suicidal ideation Stress management & burnout Substance use & harm reduction

Counselling with Alexi Alexi (he/him) is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with over 10 yea... Read More

Hi, I’m Mara!

I have had the pleasure of spending the last 10 years working with neurodivergent youth and adults in both research and hands-on experiences. The most notable takeaway from getting to know so many wonderful people is that we humans are more resilient than we give ourselves credit for. While I typically don’t make promises, I guarantee that if we work together, you WILL surprise yourself with how much you’re capable of.

As strange as it might sound, if you are exhausted, anxious, stressed, fed up with recurring symptoms, or unsure about therapy, I would love to work with you (Bonus points if you’re also navigating obsessive-compulsive challenges!) Think about how much more peace you’d have in your life if anxiety wasn’t calling all the shots. That’s the kind of space I aim to help you create. Discomfort will no longer be something to avoid; we will approach it as an opportunity to break free from vicious cycles of avoidance.

My hope is to show you that therapy doesn’t have to be like what you remember from childhood, or what you’ve seen on TV. I am not here to tell you how you’ve experienced life. I am here to listen to your heaviest pain, your biggest fear, your greatest success, and everything in between. I will guide you in exploration of your experiences and gently challenge you to build confidence to lead a fulfilling life on your own terms. And of course, if you’re into it, you can expect some humour to be a part of our work together.

Counselling Modalities Used:

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Cognitive Behavioural (CBT) Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) Internal Family Systems (IFS) Existential Narrative Person-Centered Strength-Based

Areas of Focus:

Obsessive-compulsive disorder Anxiety Life transitions Emotional regulation Self-worth Stress and burn-out Identity

Hi, I’m Mara! I have had the pleasure of spending the last 10 years working with neurodivergent ... Read More

Sean works with individuals, supporting them through a wide range of life experiences including anxiety, grief and loss, identity concerns, substance use, relational challenges, and stress related to work or identity. He has a strong interest in working with Veterans, First Responders, and Military members and is drawn to supporting people navigating the particular stresses, role shifts, and barriers to seeking help that often come with high-intensity service roles. He integrates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices throughout his work.

Sean recently completed an intensive practicum providing individual counselling to adults navigating these concerns. He supported clients through the full process from starting counselling to meeting their goals. He also brings experience from community mental health program coordination and trauma-informed, harm-reduction work with Indigenous clients.

As a newly registered clinical counsellor, Sean brings fresh training and a clear focus on creating safety while helping clients build practical tools that fit their life. He draws on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Person-Centred, Narrative, along with trauma-informed and harm-reduction approaches and culturally responsive practices. He tailors his work to each person rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach and focuses on what feels most helpful and meaningful for the client. His approach is warm, direct, and collaborative, with the goal of steady, meaningful progress at a pace that feels manageable. Sean works with adults (19+).

Services Sean provides:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) • Motivational Interviewing (MI) • Solution-Focused Therapy • Narrative Therapy • Person-Centred Therapy • Trauma-informed approaches • Harm-reduction approaches • Culturally responsive practices • Gottman Level 1-informed approaches for relational challenges

Sean takes a flexible, collaborative approach, integrating these methods in ways that honour your goals, respect your pace, and feel most supportive for you.

Areas of Focus:

Sean works with clients navigating a range of challenges, including:

• Anxiety, stress, and feeling overwhelmed • Grief and loss • Identity concerns and role transitions • Occupational and service-related stress, including work with Veterans, First Responders, and Military members • Substance use and harm-reduction support • Relational challenges and patterns • Trauma and past experiences impacting present-day life • Emotional regulation and building practical coping skills • Burnout and stress related to high-intensity roles • Culturally responsive support, including with Indigenous clients

Sean works with individuals, supporting them through a wide range of life experiences including a... Read More

Eliane is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) providing individual, couple, group and family therapy for over 25 years. Eliane is also a Trauma Therapist, Family Therapist, Clinical Parent Coach and an Executive Coach. With over 17 year’s experience as a Child and Youth Mental Health clinician with the BC Public Service, Eliane has extensive training and experience in providing Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Trauma-Informed Care, and Mindfulness and Attachment Based Approaches.

Eliane believes that given a good theory or guide, even the most difficult human dilemmas can be resolved with humour and lightness of being. Her sessions can be described as lively, fun, engaging and helpful.

Working with all ages, Eliane provides individual, couple and family therapy, somatic body psychotherapy, and clinical parent coaching through a unique whole systems wisdom-based approach of learning, growth and change.

Eliane offers BCACC approved clinical supervision, training, and certified life or leadership coaching for individuals and organizations. While trained in many modalities, Eliane provides a unique combination of clinical supervision using key ideas from the disciplines of Systems Thinking & Leadership Coaching focusing on the development of the self of the therapist within systems. It is ideal for therapists who are looking to move beyond the role of expert in the room.

Eliane is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) providing individual, couple, group and family t... Read More

Hi, I’m Rod. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP), a member of the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and a member of the Canadian Society of Clinical Hypnosis (BC Division). Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re carrying a lot. My goal is to create a space that feels safe, respectful, and genuinely supportive. Whether you’re a teen trying to make sense of what’s happening, an adult feeling stuck or burnt out, or a family seeking more connection, you don’t have to do it alone. I would be honoured to walk alongside you. My approach is collaborative and trauma-informed, and I tailor therapy to each person or family I work with. I often describe therapy like tending to a wound. Together, we gently open it, look at it with care, clean what needs attention, and place a fresh bandage on it. Each session is about doing just enough work to support healing… never more than you’re ready for. Over time, the wound becomes smaller and less painful. It may leave a scar, but that scar tells a story of healing rather than harm. My role is to move at your pace, offer steady support, and help you feel grounded, so you leave sessions feeling a little lighter, clearer, and more resourced than when you arrived. As a Canadian Forces Veteran with 21 years of service, I have experienced a wide range of deployments, including Op Apollo in Afghanistan, Standing Naval Force Atlantic (NATO) in Europe, and several humanitarian missions in Canada and abroad. These experiences have given me firsthand insight into the mental health challenges faced by service members, first responders, and individuals navigating trauma, moral injury, and operational stress. I also bring a strong background in sports psychology. I have worked as a hockey scout with the Victoria Royals (WHL), Surrey Eagles (BCHL), International Scouting Services, and the BC Hockey High Performance Program. This work has given me a deep understanding of performance pressure, identity shifts, injury recovery, and the mental resilience required in high-performance environments… insights I bring directly into my counselling practice. Outside of my professional life, I have been married for over 30 years to my wife. Together, we have raised two adult children and now share our home in Sooke with our two cats, Lennie and Squiggy, and our Bernese Mountain Dog, Charlie. With an empathetic, steady, and understanding approach, I am committed to helping you build resilience and discover a path toward healing… in life and in sport.

Services Offered

I provide counselling services for teens, adults, and families, using a collaborative and individualized approach. Therapy is tailored to your needs, goals, and readiness, drawing from a range of evidence-based and trauma-informed modalities, including:

Hypnotherapy Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Dynamic Narrative Exposure Therapy Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Gottman Couples Method (Level 2) NeuroOptimal® Neurofeedback Critical Incident Group Debriefing First Responder–Focused Training

Having access to multiple therapeutic approaches allows us to work in a way that fits you, whether that means gently processing trauma, strengthening relationships, developing practical coping skills, or building resilience over time.

Areas of Focus

I support individuals, couples, and families navigating a wide range of concerns, including:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and trauma Grief and loss Anxiety and depression Crisis and suicidal thoughts Abuse of all kinds Moral injury and operational stress First responders, military members, and veterans Family challenges related to disability Caregiver support Sports performance and performance anxiety Identity shifts, burnout, and life transitions Injury recovery and return-to-play support Building resilience in high-stress and high-performance environments Men’s Health

Hi, I’m Rod. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psy... Read More

Dulcie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) providing counselling support to individuals contending with the negative impact of trauma and past impactful experiences.. She specializes in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a brief model mental health therapy tool. ART works directly to reprogram the way in which distressing memories and images are stored in the brain so that they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions. ART is proven effective in treating PTSD, phobias, grief, anxiety and depression. This process is very straightforward, using relaxing eye movements and assists individuals in moving rapidly toward resolution, growth and positive changes. Dulcie also offers Deep Brain Reorienting Therapy (DBR). DBR is a neuroscientifically guided therapeutic intervention that targets the brainstem-level neurophysiological sequence that transpired during a traumatic event and that repeats when triggered. PTSD trauma symptoms are effectively reduced.

Dulcie has a Masters in Counselling Psychology and is trained in ART and mindfulness-based therapies. She supports adult to embrace challenge, nurture growth and live a life of meaning.

She works with adults and couples.

Services Dulcie offers:

Accelerated Resolution Therapy Deep Brain Reorienting Therapy Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Gottman Method Couple Therapy

Areas of treatment focus include:

Trauma; PTSD Depression Anxiety Grief Relationship conflict

Dulcie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) providin... Read More

Hi, I’m Alyson (she/her), a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Registered Social Worker (RSW). I hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and have experience supporting children, youth, and adults across both hospital and community settings.

I know that reaching out for therapy isn’t always easy, especially if you’re used to being the one who holds everything together. My goal is to offer a space that feels genuine, relaxed, and comfortable enough for you to show up as you are.

My approach is collaborative and down-to-earth. Together, we’ll make sense of what’s going on and find ways forward that feel realistic in your day-to-day life. My work is grounded in a client-centred, strengths-based approach, and I draw from therapies like CBT, ACT, and EMDR depending on what fits best for you.

Outside of work, you’ll usually find me with my dog, Honey, typically near the ocean or out on a walk. Getting outside, slowing things down, and feeling connected are things I value in my own life, and I often bring them into the work I do with clients as well.

If you’re thinking about starting therapy, I’d be happy to connect and see if it feels like a good fit for you.

Services Alyson Provides:

EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Solution-Focused Therapy Narrative Therapy Mindfulness-Based Approaches

Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, I integrate these methods based on your goals, your pace, and what feels most supportive for you.

Areas I Support

I work with individuals navigating a range of challenges, including:

Anxiety, stress, and feeling overwhelmed Depression and low mood Self-worth, inner critic, and negative self-talk Relationship challenges and patterns Life transitions and navigating uncertainty Grief and loss Trauma and past experiences impacting present-day life Emotional regulation and coping skills Burnout, caregiver stress, and compassion fatigue Chronic pain, health concerns, and adjusting to medical diagnoses Supporting healthcare workers and helping professionals

Hi, I’m Alyson (she/her), a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Registered Social Worker (RS... Read More

My name is Jorden (she/her,) and I am Registered Clinical Counsellor. I have several years of experience working in both social services and as a first responder. My background consists mainly of working with those in crisis or emergency situations, and I value seeing and experiencing how we show up for one another in challenging times. I also appreciate the way we show up for each other may look different to different people, and it is my responsibility as a counsellor to ensure that you have a safe space in which I can support you and your needs.

My approach to counselling is client-centred, as you are the expert in your own needs and abilities, and it is my role to assist you in expressing and embodying your authentic self. I believe that our mental well-being is a vital part of overall health, and it is my goal as a counsellor to support you in navigating your own wellness journey. Together, we will explore your narrative with a lens of curiosity, self-compassion, and resilience.

In my personal time I enjoy sharing adventures with my partner and our dog, slow mornings in the garden with a good cup of coffee, and consuming an alarming amount of fantasy and romance novels. I work with individuals age 12+, including couples, siblings, families, and groups in whatever format feels best for you.

Services Jorden offers:

Jorden provides counselling services in-person or online, and integrates modalities from EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) Gottman Couples Therapy Narrative Therapy Person-Centred Therapy Emotion Focused Therapy Trauma Informed Approach Somatic Approach

Areas of Focus:

Trauma First Responder mental health Anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns ADHD Relationship & Family Struggles Life transitions Grief & Loss

My name is Jorden (she/her,) and I am Registered Clinical Counsellor. I have several years of exp... Read More

Dr. Maddy is a dedicated chiropractor committed to providing gentle, evidence based, and patient-centered care for individuals seeking lasting improvement in their health and daily function.

Growing up in Sooke, Maddy received her undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Victoria and Maddy spent several years working as a support worker for individuals with traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. From there, she earned her Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine from the University of Western States in Portland, OR. With a strong focus on understanding the full picture of each patient’s experience, Dr. Maddy begins every course of care with a thorough history, assessment and comprehensive physical exam, ensuring that treatment plans are thoughtfully tailored to each person’s unique goals.

Drawing from extensive training in multiple therapeutic modalities—including chiropractic adjustments, soft-tissue techniques, myofascial release, and active rehabilitation—Dr. Maddy creates customized treatment plans designed to improve movement, reduce discomfort, and promote long-term function.

Dr. Maddy has a particular passion for working with individuals living with persistent pain and complex health conditions, offering a supportive, affirming, and collaborative approach to care. She prioritizes open communication and shared decision-making, partnering with patients (and when appropriate, other healthcare providers) to ensure that every aspect of care aligns with the patient’s values, comfort, and goals. Whether helping someone return to activities they love, manage a long-standing condition, or build confidence in their movement, Dr. Maddy is dedicated to creating a safe, empowering environment where patients feel heard, supported, and genuinely cared for.

Dr. Maddy is a dedicated chiropractor committed to providing gentle, evidence based, and patient-... Read More

Hello and welcome! My name is Briana, I am an Intern Clinical Counsellor here at Sea to Tree. It is a privilege to support individuals in such meaningful and personal ways during this chapter of their lives. A little about me: I was born and raised in a large family here on Vancouver Island and I feel incredibly grateful to call this beautiful place home. At the same time, I recognize that I live and work on the unceded territories of the Coast Salish and Nuu-chah-nulth people, primarily T’Sou-ke, Scia’new, Pacheedaht, and Songhees Nations. These are not the lands of my ancestors, who came from Norway, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Prussia. I acknowledge the ongoing impacts of colonization and I am committed to lifelong learning and unlearning. Both personally and professionally, as I strive to support equity, justice, and inclusive care.

For the past 10 years, I’ve been a Registered SociaL Worker (RSW) with the BC Association of Social Workers. In that time, I’ve worked in a non-profit setting offering programing and counseling to women and gender-diverse individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse and gender-based violence. At Sea to Tree, I look forward to working with individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences.

Counselling is something I genuinely love. It is a deep honour to hear people’s stories and to witness their journeys. I believe everyone deserves a safe, non-judgemental space to be heard and supported. My approach is collaborative and grounded in evidence-based practices. I aim to be flexible, open to feedback, and responsive to your needs as they evolve.

When I’m not counselling, I enjoy time with my loved ones and being in nature. I feel immense gratitude for the opportunity to live on Vancouver Island. The beauty, strength, and resilience of nature are things that continue to inspire and ground me.

Services I offer:

I provide integrative therapy, a flexible and personalized approach that draws from multiple therapeutic modalities to best support your unique needs.

Specialised Training in: - Strengths-Based Therapy - Person-Centered Therapy - Trauma-Informed Counselling - Somatic Experiencing (Levels 1, 2, & 3) - Walk and Talk Therapy - Internal Family Systems (IFS) Informed Therapy - Anti-Oppressive Practice

Modalities I Commonly Incorporate: - Narrative Therapy - Mindfulness-Based Approaches - Solution Focused Therapy -Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - Response Based Practice - Queer Informed Practice - Multicultural Informed Counselling

Areas of Focus: - Trauma (all forms) - Depression & anxiety - Stress & overwhelm - Grief & loss - Life transitions - Gender based violence - Workplace conflict - Compassion fatigue - Boundaries & communication - Relationships - Parenting support - Building community & connection - Chronic pain & health challenges - Navigating adult ADHD - Self worth & self acceptance - Exploring direction & purpose

Availability:

I offer in- person and walk and talk sessions in Sooke and virtual sessions across British Columbia.

Coverage: - RSW’s are covered through some insurance programs - WIRTH - Sea to Tree Foundation - Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP)

Hello and welcome! My name is Briana, I am an Intern Clinical Counsellor here at Sea to Tree. It ... Read More

Tara works with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan, supporting people through a wide range of life experiences including trauma, grief and loss, relationship and family challenges, marginalization, substance use, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.

Tara brings extensive experience working alongside first responders and those in high-impact environments, including five years in air ambulance land transfers and as a volunteer firefighter. She has expertise and supports members of the RCMP, WorkSafeBC, and BCEHS Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) teams. Additionally, her husband is a former paramedic, and her son is a serving BCEHS paramedic, giving her a lived, personal understanding of the culture, demands, and emotional realities of emergency services life.

Additionally, Tara is an EMDR Consultant, Gottman Level 3 trained, and trained in sex therapy and critical incident response. She is passionate about supporting clinicians working in complex, high-stress, and emotionally demanding roles. Her approach is collaborative and client-centered, drawing from a blend of strength-based, response-based, solution-focused, eco-therapy, mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), systemic, and trauma-informed. She tailors her work to each person, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach and focuses on what feels most helpful and meaningful for the client.

Tara is an Approved Clinical Supervisor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. In this role, she supports clinicians in growing their confidence, skills, and clinical identity through a reflective and collaborative supervision process. Her approach is supportive, practical, and grounded in real-world clinical work, with attention to both professional development and personal sustainability. Supervision is offered to individuals, dyads, and groups, with an emphasis on creating a safe, respectful space for learning, reflection, and professional growth.

Tara works with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan, supporting people through... Read More

Hello, I’m Melissa (she/her), an Intern Counsellor at Sea to Tree Health & Wellness completing my Master of Counselling Psychology at Athabasca University and working toward registration with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals navigating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, substance use, and the impacts of difficult life experiences. My approach is collaborative, strengths-focused, and grounded in the belief that every person carries innate wisdom and resilience.

I have particular experience supporting people navigating substance use and recovery, whether they are questioning their relationship with substances, early in recovery, or working to build a meaningful life beyond addiction. I have completed specialized training in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, an approach that helps clients clarify what they want their lives to look like and identify the strengths and resources they already have to get there. I also draw on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, with particular experience in CBT for addictions, as well as trauma-informed practices. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a brain-based therapy that can help process trauma, support recovery, and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

In my work with clients, I often incorporate nervous system regulation strategies to help people better understand and work with their stress responses. Many clients find that learning how their nervous system functions can bring both relief and practical tools for navigating anxiety, overwhelm, and difficult emotions.

I also enjoy working with neurodiverse adults, including those navigating ADHD and late diagnosis. Understanding your brain in new ways can be both empowering and challenging, and I aim to offer a space where neurodiversity is approached with curiosity, compassion, and respect.

Whether you’re hoping to explore long standing patterns, navigate life transitions, or simply feel a little better after a single conversation, I aim to meet you where you’re at and tailor support to your unique needs. I believe in making the counselling process transparent and collaborative. My goal is for people to leave each session feeling heard, supported, and equipped with something meaningful they can carry forward.

Alongside working through challenges, I am also interested in helping people move beyond surviving toward thriving—supporting clients in building resilience, strengthening relationships, and maximizing well-being and life satisfaction.

My practice is shaped by both professional experience and lived experience, which inform my deep respect for the courage it takes to reach out for help.

I feel fortunate to call Sooke home. In my spare time I enjoy swimming in the Sooke River in the summer, bundling up for winter walks at Whiffen Spit (and greeting every dog I meet along the way), attending live music, and spending time with my partner and our cat.

Services Melissa Offers

• Counselling that blends reflection, practical strategies, and nervous system regulation • Single-session, short-term, and longer-term therapy • Psychoeducation and practical skill-building • Support for life transitions, stress, and personal growth • Collaborative goal-setting and strengths-based support Modalities I Incorporate • Solution-Focused Brief Therapy • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) • CBT for Substance Use and Addictions • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) • Trauma-informed counselling • Nervous system regulation strategies • Strengths-based and recovery-oriented approaches • Psychoeducation and skill development

Areas of Focus

• Anxiety and depression • Substance use and recovery • Stress and overwhelm • Self-esteem and self-compassion • Life transitions and adjustment • Neurodiversity, including ADHD and late diagnosis in adults • Nervous system regulation and emotional resilience • Building coping skills and resilience • Maximizing wellbeing, meaning, and life satisfaction

Hello, I’m Melissa (she/her), an Intern Counsellor at Sea to Tree Health & Wellness completin... Read More

My name is Brooke Pettinger, and I am a Counsellor, Community Resource Navigator, and Equine-Assisted Therapy Practitioner. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) and have specialized training in Equine-Facilitated Counselling.

I grew up in Victoria, British Columbia, and am a true West Coaster at heart. Living surrounded by the ocean, forests, and wildlife has shaped my deep appreciation for the healing power of nature, relationships, and connection. This passion has led me to incorporate Eco-Therapy and nature-based approaches into my work whenever possible. My approach is grounded in the belief that healing happens through authentic relationships. I believe in meeting people where they are at, honouring their unique experiences, and growing alongside them as they move toward their goals. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered.

I draw from a variety of evidence-based and holistic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), client-centered therapy, Eco-Therapy, and Equine-Assisted interventions. I tailor my approach to each individual, recognizing that no two healing journeys are the same.

I specialize in the fields of addictions and mental health, supporting individuals experiencing challenges such as substance use, anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional regulation difficulties, life transitions, and recovery. Whether working in an office, in nature, or alongside horses, my goal is to help clients build on their strengths, deepen self-awareness, develop practical coping skills, and create meaningful and lasting change.

I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey toward healing, growth, and well-being.

My Approach:

I believe that healing and growth happen when we feel grounded and connected — to ourselves, to others, and to the world around us. My approach blends conversation with experiential and nature-based practices, helping you explore what balance and well-being look like for you.

I draw from several approaches to fit your unique needs, including:

∙ Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

∙ Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

∙ Humanistic and Person-Centred Therapy

∙ Experiential Therapy

∙ Motivational Interviewing

∙ Attachment Narrative Theory

Whether we’re talking through challenges, walking in nature, or exploring new perspectives, my goal is to meet you where you’re at and walk alongside you in your process of change and self-discovery.

Services I Offer

• Addiction and Recovery support for individuals and families

• Counselling and life coaching for mental wellness and personal growth

• Support navigating systems and resources (both government and private)

• Eco walks from the Shirley Yurt, combining nature and therapy for deeper grounding

• Support for individuals and families navigating disabilities

• Virtual and in-person sessions available in Sooke and Colwood

Whether you’re looking for support, clarity, or simply a place to pause and reconnect, I’d be honoured to work with you. Together, we can create space for reflection, healing, and meaningful change.

My name is Brooke Pettinger, and I am a Counsellor, Community Resource Navigator, and Equine-Assi... Read More

My name is Kris (he/him), and I am a student counsellor completing my Masters in Counselling Psychology through Yorkville University.

Starting therapy can feel scary or uncomfortable, and reaching out is a brave first step. It takes courage to share our struggles, and I deeply respect the strength it takes to begin this journey.

Before becoming a counsellor, I worked as a paramedic and in healthcare, where I both witnessed and experienced the impact that stress, trauma, and life’s challenges can have on people. These experiences shaped my commitment to creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and not alone.

My approach is grounded in compassion and empathy, and I view therapy as a partnership. What matters most to me is that you never feel alone in the process. My role is to provide a space where you feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and emotions at your own pace. When it feels right, I’ll gently encourage new perspectives to help you grow, build resilience, and move toward your goals. I work with children ages 8 and up.

When I’m not working, you can usually find me walking my dog, out in nature, practicing yoga, or swimming in whatever lake, river, or ocean I come across.

Services Kris offers:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Internal Family Systems (IFS) Informed Practices Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) Informed Practices Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Mindfulness-based Interventions Narrative Therapy

Areas of Focus:

Trauma Anxiety Depression First Responders Medical Health Professionals Burnout and Caregiver Fatigue Boundaries and Communication Chronic Illnesses Relationships Mindfulness and self-compassion

My name is Kris (he/him), and I am a student counsellor completing my Masters in Counselling Psyc... Read More

My journey in the field of counselling started on crisis and suicide lines, while listening to the client’s sharing, I experienced for the first time the power of being present and compassionate with a client. The sense of connection and presence experienced through the therapeutic relationship was so transformative that I wanted to experience it more in different clinical settings. I have worked as a clinician for the mobile crisis response team offering services to children, adults, and their families. I have had the honor of providing mental health services in Indigenous communities throughout Southern Manitoba. I have also supported clients in recovery, and this has allowed me to understand addiction from a holistic perspective. The diversity in my roles has helped me to understand Client’s needs, learn about their resilience, and the innate power of healing.

It is interesting to reflect on the meaning of the names we have been given. My first name comes from the Latin language, which means “protector”, “servant”, “overcoming challenges”. I look forward to co-creating a safe space during our session to cultivate sharing that can blossom with the wisdom and richness of your own unique life experiences. I am honoured to support you in your journey.

I nourish my soul through nature, writing, reading and beekeeping. I hold a Bachelor of Psychology and a Bachelor of Social Work, and I am currently in the process of completing my Master of Social Work.

Counselling Modalities Used:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Strength-Based Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) NeuroOptimal® Neurofeedback Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 2) Play Therapy Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Logo- and Existential Therapies Solution-Focused Brief Therapy Family Systems Therapy

Areas of Focus:

Anxiety and depression Grief and loss Trauma and PTSD Stress Addiction Family Conflict Relationship Issues Coping Skills Anger Management Peer Relationships Life transitions Veterans First Responders Mindfulness and self-compassion Spirituality Empowerment and Insight

My journey in the field of counselling started on crisis and suicide lines, while listening to th... Read More

Emily (she/her) is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with Sea To Tree Health & Wellness. Her counselling style is driven by curiosity, compassion, and respect. She believes that each person is the expert of their own story and aims to offer a safe space free from judgement where they can share their individual experiences. Life can be challenging to navigate at times, and Emily’s goal is to assist in discovering the strength and resilience that are already within. Her interest in first responder trauma stems from work experience as a BC Wildfire call taker, Fire Dispatcher, and Firefighter, which have all added to her appreciation for the importance of mental health maintenance and support.

In her free time, Emily can be found spending time with family and is outside as much as possible hiking, running, and climbing.

Services Emily offers: Emily provides counselling in-person or online. She practices from a person-centred perspective drawing from several theoretical approaches to best meet the unique needs of each client. Some of these include:

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocesses (EMDR) Solution Focused Therapy Mindfulness based approaches Narrative Therapy Trauma Informed approach Strength-based Response-based

Areas of focus: Trauma First Responder mental health Critical Incident Stress Transition phases Grief and loss Substance use and process addiction

Emily (she/her) is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with Sea To Tree Health & Wellness.... Read More

Tyler Roach (he/him) is a grateful settler on the lands of the SENĆOŦEN speaking people. Tyler is a Registered Clinical Counsellor working at Sea to Tree. Tyler has spent the last eight years serving families in the community in the capacity of a nature playschool teacher, urban farmer, and teacher mentor with the Sooke Heartwood learning community working with children and youth ranging in age from 2 to 18 years old. Tyler’s deep connection to the soil, all living things and Soto Zen Buddhism deeply inspire his counselling practice. Tyler has also served his community working and volunteering with unhoused youth and adults, youth in corrections as well as working to support families on Income Assistance finding meaningful employment.

Tyler is a proud spouse and father of two children. In his spare time he loves going on hikes with his dog, enjoying the peace that comes from all the natural spaces of the pacific northwest and searching our local forests for unique plants and mushrooms. Tyler also spends his free time working in the garden tending to his plants, chickens, and honeybees and learning about the art of Bonsai.

As an RCC with Sea to Tree Tyler is honing his personal style on how he works with clients but believes strongly in meeting clients where they are at and creating a therapeutic space where we can work collaboratively to follow your lead on the journey towards healing by creating a plan that is unique to the needs of each person.

Tyler is excited to work with youth, teens, adults and seniors and is happy to find places on Forest trails, at parks or on playgrounds as well as meeting at either of our Sea to Tree Offices, online or at the Sea to Tree Yurt.

Services Tyler Offers:

Person-Centered Therapy Narrative Therapy Nature Based Therapy Play Therapy Horticulture Therapy Zen Buddhist approaches to therapy EMDR Neurofeedback

Areas of Focus:

Anxiety, Depression, Stress Life Transitions Grief and Loss Relationships and Family Support Children and Youth with Neurodivergence ADHD Gender and Sexuality Trauma

Tyler Roach (he/him) is a grateful settler on the lands of the SENĆOŦEN speaking people. Tyler is... Read More

Hello! I am a registered Social Worker currently completing my Master of Social Work at Wilfrid Laurier University. Along the way, I’ve deepened my practice through the University of Toronto’s Foundations in Mindfulness Meditation program, The Science of Happiness at the University of California, Berkeley, and a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training. These studies and trainings continue to shape the way I show up for the people I work with.

For more than 20 years, I’ve been privileged to serve in many areas of social services, including child welfare, domestic violence, youth and adult justice, community health, addictions, and anti-poverty work. These experiences have given me a deep respect for people’s resilience and the many different paths to healing.

In my practice, I draw on approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, Positive Psychology, harm reduction, Attachment Theory, and Solution-Focused Therapy. More importantly, I take a person-centred approach, meeting you where you are, and holding space for growth and change.

My focus is simple: to support you in finding and becoming the best version of yourself. As Maryam Hassan beautifully reminds us, “A healer does not heal you. A healer is someone who holds space for you while you awaken your inner healer, so that you may heal yourself.”

Together, we can explore evidence-based strategies from Positive Psychology and the Science of Happiness—practical tools and activities that nurture well-being, resilience, and hope. Whether you are moving through anxiety, depression, grief, relationship struggles, or loneliness, I will walk alongside you as you strengthen your wellness and move toward greater ease.

I believe that when we begin to notice and shift our thoughts, we open the door to changing the course of our lives. It may sound simple to say the cure for unhappiness is happiness, yet research shows that 40% of our happiness is actually within our control. That’s where our work together can begin.

Services Offered • Supporting the journey from languishing to flourishing • Emotional regulation • Mindfulness techniques, including Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction • Harm reduction and addiction support • EMDR (beginning October 2025)

Areas of Focus • Positive Psychology and the Science of Happiness • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy • Solution-Focused Brief Therapy • Strengths-based practice • Trauma-informed care

Hello! I am a registered Social Worker currently completing my Master of Social Work at Wilfrid L... Read More

Hello and welcome! I’m Julia (she/her), an intern counsellor completing my Master of Counselling at City University in Canada. I bring a background in Athletic and Exercise Therapy, a deep reverence for the wisdom of the body, and a heartfelt commitment to supporting people through meaningful and challenging life transitions.

I’m a mother of four, and my own journey through the shifts of parenthood, identity, and life transitions deeply informs my work as a counsellor. I’ve learned firsthand how complex, beautiful, and sometimes heartbreaking it can be to navigate change, and how powerful it is to find a way back to your own body, voice, and inner knowing.

Outside of counselling, I enjoy connecting with nature, by the river or ocean, or in the forest and tending to hands-on creative projects at home. I also find stillness and balance in meditation, sound practices, and moments or connection and reflection.

I approach counselling with curiosity, compassion, and authenticity, and I’m committed to walking alongside each person with care and respect. I hope to help you reconnect with yourself, reclaim your resilience, and discover a sense of belonging within your own life, your body, and the natural world around you.

I’m honoured to offer counselling that meets you where you are – with compassion, curiosity, and respect for your unique experience. My approach is grounded in trauma-informed, feminist, and strengths-based principles, and informed by Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic and narrative perspectives, and mindfulness. I also draw on nature-based and cyclical models of healing, helping you reconnect with your body, your story, and your sense of self-trust.

How I Work With Clients

• Trauma-informed, feminist, anti-oppressive, and social justice lenses • Somatic and body-based approaches • Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed • Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) trained • Mindfulness, self-compassion, and nervous system regulation • Intuitive and cyclical frameworks for healing • Eco-therapy, walk-and-talk, and nature-inspired integration • Collaborative, client-led pacing and meaning-making

Areas of Focus

• Life transitions – including relationships, career, parenthood, aging • Grief ambiguous loss, and emotional overwhelm • Postpartum adjustment, menopause, and identity reshaping • Neurodiversity-affirming support (such as ADHD and autism; life-long or late-diagnosed) • Reconnecting with intuition, values and inner resilience

Hello and welcome! I’m Julia (she/her), an intern counsellor completing my Master of Counselling ... Read More