Find a Therapist

Vladimir Rakic

My approach is client-centered, meaning that I am well-versed in a variety of approaches including CBT, EFT, Existential, Narrative, Art and mindfulness-based, culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed and existentially-based methodologies, and utilize them to best fit my clients’ specific needs. I use these perspectives to guide men through various issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I also have a Masters and undergrad in Religious Studies, which has allowed me to travel and study with a number of spiritual leaders within Christian, Indigenous, Buddhist and Muslim communities and can incorporate this experience and wisdom into a session if the client so desires.

Julie Long

Are you feeling frustrated with having to constantly struggle with the unending cycle of being awake for hours in the middle of night, experiencing flashbacks & anxiety to wake up feeling depleted, depressed and angry? Are your relationships & work responsibilities adding to the constant stress? Maybe you’ve turned to alcohol, food, or Netflix binging to numb out the constant negativity, exhaustion & pain. Whatever has led you here, I imagine you want to figure out why this is happening so you can finally make it stop. Choosing someone to journey through the darkest corners of yourself is extremely scary. I offer free 15-minute consultations to learn to see if we’re a fit and to understand how EMDR can help. I look forward to meeting you!

Amber Jerome

Hello and welcome,

My name is Amber (she/her). I recognize that sometimes, the hardest decision about seeking support is the decision to do so, which is why I emphasize the importance of starting where each person is at. I have over 12 years experience working with people from all walks of life at various points on their journey from children, youth, adults, and families. My approach shifts to the needs of each unique person I meet; nonetheless, it aligns most closely with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, and somatic or body-based awareness. I look forward to connecting to explore if I am the right fit for your journey

Nicole Bonich

Welcome – I’m glad you’re here. I specialize in supporting men navigating disconnection and loneliness, first responders, and post-secondary students facing academic and personal challenges. My practice is rooted in empathy, resilience, and transformation. Together, we’ll explore what’s possible and help you move forward with more clarity.

Blending psychoanalytic depth and mind-body awareness, I offer space for insight, healing, and meaningful growth – where lasting change begins from within.

If you’ve found yourself here, it may be because something in your life feels tender, heavy, or uncertain – and that matters deeply. If this speaks to you, I invite you to reach out when you’re ready. You don’t have to hold it all

Empowered Wellness & Solutions

Welcome to Empowered Wellness & Solutions, where inclusive, compassionate care meets you where you are at. Our team brings together therapists from varied backgrounds, cultures, and languages, making it easier to find support that resonates with your unique experiences. We’re here to support individuals, children, youth, couples, families and communities with a range of needs-from managing stress and relationships, to trauma and grief, and even assessments and diagnosis.

At Empowered Wellness & Solutions, our approach to mental health is based on compassionate, evidence-based strategies to support and guide you in reaching your goals. Helping you reach the best version of yourself is our personal passion and vision.

Island Clinical Counselling Parksville

At Island Clinical Counselling, we create a welcoming, non-judgmental space where you can feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether you’re facing overwhelming stress, navigating deep loss, or seeking personal growth, our compassionate team of experienced counsellors is here to walk alongside you. Together, we’ll explore your strengths, build resilience, and help you move forward with hope and clarity.

Our Parksville office is located inside Seaview Centre at 211-198 Island Hwy East. Fully accessible for levels of mobility; elevator access. We also offer remote sessions to clients across BC.

David Holmes

I specialize in two areas. Men’s sexual health and relationship concerns, where we co-examine the psychological, biological, social, and behavioural factors behind sexual issues or relationship insecurities that are creating barriers and holding men back from connecting.

I also help men explore work and life transitions: stressors that make people resistant to change. For some, it can be examining their “blind spots” that prevent them from recognizing the right time to make a transition.

I use a strengths-based approach to move you from where you are to where you want to be. I provide a caring and nurturing space for clients to express feelings, emotions, behaviours, and relationships.

Gregory Smith

In my therapy practice, I deeply understand the frustration and confusion that come with phrases like “I am so frustrated! What is going on in my mind?” If this resonates with you, know that you are not alone. My commitment is to create a safe, empathetic environment where your thoughts and feelings are not just heard, but deeply understood and validated.

Together, we will navigate your inner world, easing the overwhelming thoughts that can feel isolating and confining. In our sessions, whether in-person or online, we will explore your unique challenges in a warm, inviting atmosphere, gently guiding you towards a journey of personal growth and emotional resilience. Your struggles are real, and you matter immensely. If you’re ready to begin this transformative path, reach out to me. Our collaborative work will focus on creating a space where your voice leads the way, where we share the goal of your well-being and inner peace.

John Reilly

I am a registered social worker (MSW) with an eclectic skill set who practices from an anti-oppressive perspective. I’ve completed training in Somatic Experiencing® Trauma Therapy, Expressive Arts Practice, Non-Violent-Compassionate Communication, mindfulness-based practices and use the primary masculine archetypes to support transformation in the lives of men of all sexual orientations. I provide therapy for individuals of all genders who are seeking greater vitality. I have experience supporting individuals recovering from trauma, problematic substance use, mental health issues and relationship or workplace issues. My skills provide an eclectic palate through which to engage the individual in creative processes of transformation.

Mia Omara

I help people with ADHD who want to learn techniques to live a more structured life. I help people wanting relief from anxious thoughts that are holding them back from the people, places, and things that they love.

I aide individuals seeking to improve their relationships, whether they be romantic, familial, or friendships. I help people who need to improve their communication skills, and who want to feel more confident in every aspect of their lives.

I also help people recovering from Trauma and PTSD, specifically First Responders.

I primarily practice from a Biopsychosocial perspective. Modalities I will use include CBT, Mindfulness, Inner Child Work, EMDR, and Person-Centered Approach. I take a collaborative approach.

Ivan Chow

Ivan is a Registered Social Worker and can counsel clients in Alberta. He is passionate about providing a collaborative, non-judgmental therapeutic space for clients. He patiently works to build a strong and warm connection with each person, welcoming all who are seeking support. Ivan believes that building rapport and trust in a therapeutic relationship is crucial for positive change.

Ivan works with those wrestling with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, meaning in life, and draws from a diverse pool of models, including CBT, DBT, and Attachment Theory to work with clients based on their individual needs.

Ivan is fluent in both English and Cantonese and can provide counselling in both languages.

Fatima Noorali

Fatima supports individuals who want to improve their self-esteem, reduce stress levels and kick imposter syndrome aside. Fatima is passionate about helping you build a personalized toolbox filled with creative strategies to reduce overwhelm, build your self-worth and embrace self-love.

Island Clinical Counselling Nanaimo

At Island Clinical Counselling, we create a welcoming, non-judgmental space where you can feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether you’re facing overwhelming stress, navigating deep loss, or seeking personal growth, our compassionate team of experienced counsellors is here to walk alongside you. Together, we’ll explore your strengths, build resilience, and help you move forward with hope and clarity.

We have 2 offices in Nanaimo, at 4800 Island Hwy N, Unit 21, and 41 Chapel Street. Please note that our two Nanaimo offices require individuals to walk up stairs.  If you have difficulty with stairs please consider booking in Parksville, Duncan, Port Alberni, or virtual services, as we offer remote sessions to clients across BC.

Ben Malt

My approach to counselling depends greatly on you and your experiences. Our work will begin by understanding your story, experiences and the resulting life that you’re living. Through getting to know each other and hearing about your experiences, we will use the information revealed to begin resolving your issues – be it helping you understand existing problems, manage difficult symptoms or adopt healthier ways of living and relating.

I believe the best results come from a strong relationship and a willingness to change and challenge your self. If you feel ready to take these steps, please reach out to see if we’re a good fit to work together. Have a nice day.

Lydia Charak

You’ve been struggling for far too long. Feeling down, irritable, stressed, drained of physical, emotional and creative energy or just plain stuck seems to be your new normal and you’re tired of it. Something isn’t right and hasn’t been right for a while and you don’t want to burden your loved ones any more with your problems. Your relationships and work life are suffering, and you just want everything to be OK. Together we’ll compassionately explore what’s going on through an intuitive, fluid blend of Talk Therapy, Compassionate Inquiry and the Expressive Arts to get your life back on track.