Find a Therapist

Edon Zherka

Hi, I am a registered clinical counsellor and psychological first aid provider whose counselling work integrates emotional, physiological and social avenues to achieve lasting positive change. I have supported those struggling with depression, addiction, anxiety, eating disorders, co-dependency, life transitions, emotional regulation, stress management, attachment disorders, self-harm, OCD and other mental health issues. Using a cognitive-behavioural approach (CBT), I work with clients to break and replace self-defeating thoughts and behaviours. Having been raised in a bicultural home, I also recognize the important, yet often difficult, demands placed by family and culture and jointly seeks ways to balance such needs.

Men & Healing

Men & Healing believes that men can live happier and healthier lives. We further believe that with the right opportunity for change, the right approach, the most committed therapists working with innovative models of care, transformation can happen. Our core mission is: to support men, in a process of change, with structure and integrity.

We are one of the world’s leading clinics working in a male-centred approach to psychology and therapy. Our 20-plus years of experience and expertise in the field is well known. Our models of services have been taught internationally, the research outcomes for our trauma recovery services have been deemed clinically effective, and thousands of men have benefitted from our programs over the years.

In addition to individual therapy, we are one of the only clinics in Canada to offer a long-term childhood trauma recovery program for men. We offer many different group therapy options, focusing on anger management, sexual integrity, emotional integrity, and childhood trauma recovery (also called Men & Healing).

Dr. Nathan J Cooper

Dr. Cooper and his associates, Maryam Rahat and Carlin Palme, offer care for individuals and couples dealing with concerns that are getting in the way of fully functioning. Common concerns include anxiety, depression, substance use, procrastination, trauma, self-esteem, relationship conflict, and career indecision. Our approach to providing care is shaped by the interest and direction of each individual. Care provision is informed by proven therapies which include CBT and positive psychology. We are very interested in the connection between nature and health. There is opportunity for walk and talk sessions outdoors. This helps to create a very unique therapy experience.

Duncan Keist

Duncan values providing care that is affirming, non-judgmental, inclusive, and poignant to each individual’s needs. He creates a warm and inviting space so that clients can feel safe and encouraged to explore their concerns. Duncan believes that every person has the internal resources to guide them through life’s trials. By learning to access those resources through self-compassion, inquiry, acceptance, and skill-building, he believes that clients can navigate challenges with greater resiliency and foresight.

Overall, Duncan sees his clients’ humanity, identifies and nurtures their strengths, and assists them to find solace and normalcy again.

Michael Poydenko

Hi! I’m Michael, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) specializing in talk and somatic therapy. I have education in health systems and relational therapy.

Interpersonal relationships play a central role in our mental health over our lifespan, and taking time to reflect on our closest relationships, or ourselves can be grounding and stress relieving. In a session with me, you can expect to tap into your feelings and dilemmas, get creative with problem-solving and sit with the unknown, all while being in a safe, receptive, and inclusive space.

My specific areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, self-harm, existentialism, interpersonal conflicts, spirituality, and burnout. I offer a trauma-informed and inclusive space.

Sadiya Shah

I specialize in the assessment and treatment of adult ADHD and PTSD, and generalize in the treatment of most mental health disorders. I utilize an integrative and transdiagnostic approach to mental health treatment which incorporates a biopsychosocial view of the individual. I enjoy focusing on increasing good health behaviours by understanding the relationship between life experiences, socialization, stress, and current functioning. My goal is to work with the client in making tangible and meaningful life changes as well as gaining a good understanding and perspective into what drives their behaviours, emotions, thoughts, and physiological processes.

Brad Wilton

Imagine waking up each day with a clear sense of purpose. Imagine acting with conviction in the face of difficult decisions. Whether it’s a single session check-in or the beginning of a therapeutic journey, my goal is to equip you with a better connection with yourself and the people you care about, so you can have deeper, more authentic relationships.

Shannon Gallagher

I work primarily with clients aged 10 and up. I work from an integrative approach to ensure that the methods I use work best for you and your concerns. I encourage open communication so that I do not use a method or intervention that is not working for you. I specialize in chronic illness/pain, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, couples/sex therapy, lgbtqia2s+, and career counselling, however, I am trained to work with other concerns as well. If you would like a free consultation or to set up an appointment contact me now or visit my website for more information. I am fully licensed to see clients in BC (RCC) and NB (LCT), as well as SK, MB, NL, and The Territories (CCC).

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.

The Compassion Project

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.

Amanda Fata

new mindset CBT is a virtual clinic specializing in anxiety, PTSD and related conditions.

I use Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to help you set realistic goals, learn new ways to respond to your negative thoughts, and change the behaviours that hold you back from living your best life. You are active in therapy, which helps maintain your progress in the long-term.

My aim is to work with you to help increase your confidence, and address the fears holding you back. If you think new mindset CBT is right for you, contact me for a free 15-minute phone consultation.

Melissa Lowe

I work with adults (18+) who are experiencing concerns with depression, anxiety, addiction, and/or relationship issues. My training is in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (both for individuals and couples). As a therapist, I work collaboratively with my clients with a non-judgmental approach. Using evidence-based therapies, we can work together to develop a plan to reach your goals.

Marta Salerno

I hear you. I believe in you. I care. I believe therapy is beneficial because it allows people to share their stories in an environment that is safe and considers their unique needs. I strive to validate people’s emotions (because they are understandable), to highlight their strengths (because sometimes people can’t see them) and to build hope (because it can be restored). My approach draws from the principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and person-centred techniques amongst others. I aim to help people better understand emotions, process difficult experiences, address unhelpful behaviours and work towards the life they want.

Harshi Sritharan

Harshi Sritharan is a registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. She specializes in working with children, youth, teens, and young adults, as well as parents and families with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Learning Disabilities (LD/NLD), and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).  Harshi works with individuals and families in-person and online.