How i can help

Sometimes we can get stuck in cycles of disregarding our emotions and needs. We tell ourselves to “fit in” or meet societal expectations while trying to juggle our mental health and all the other demands of our modern and hectic world. For you, this could leave you feeling unhappy, sad, angry, depressed, anxious, numb, etc., all keeping you from living the life you deserve to live. I thrive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable and heard.

 I strongly believe that we have the power to change -- at any stage in our life. This does not mean that change is easy. As someone who did not learn all the tools as a child on how to navigate through the world, I know how daunting it can feel to take action to heal and grow. Even when times are overwhelming, confusing, desperate, or dark, taking one or two small steps can set change into motion…. And reading this profile and seeking support is a fantastic first step!

One of the biggest misconception is that we need to figure all this out alone. As social beings we rely on others’ support -- and that’s okay. Whatever you have been taught, I believe that you are deserving of support, connection, laughter, and happiness, and that this is within reach!

My approach

In sessions I like to work collaboratively, as I truly believe that you are the expert of your own life. My role is to help facilitate feelings of safety and bravery, and to ask the tough questions. When you feel ready (and it’s ok if this takes awhile!), we can slowly unfold and “dig deep,” where we can explore where your emotions, thoughts or behaviours may have originated from, uncovering the very valid reasons your life has unfolded the way it has.

I draw on my experience in meditation and mindfulness techniques to provide calm to the nervous system and help us press pause on racing thoughts and be with intense emotion. I believe we can learn so much about ourselves if we listen to our own thoughts and emotions and work towards sitting with whatever comes up - no judgement! I also see value in brainstorming tangible tools with you that can support you on a holistic level. We can look at sleep, nutrition, movement, and community/connections, spirituality, self-care practices that can help you feel empowered and hopeful have concrete tools for when you’re out in the world.

I hope that you will be able to walk away from sessions with a new feeling. Some days it may be a sense of empowerment that you are taking your life into your own hands, then a glimmer of hope, or a feeling of connection, and other times it might be more self-awareness that will guide you through your journey over time. I ultimately hope that you will find a deeper connection with yourself and that this will automatically spill into other areas of your life, bringing you closer to the goals and aspirations you came here with!

I received a Master of Counselling Psychology from City University and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC).

I welcome clients of all cultures, genders, sexual orientations, abilities and relationship styles and offer a safe space for LGBTQIA2S+ folks

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT kristina’s APPROACH, ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT HOW she MIGHT BE ABLE TO SUPPORT YOU, AND SCHEDULE YOUR FIRST SESSION, PLEASE BOOK A 15 MINUTE CONSULT CALL BELOW.

If you do not see a time available that works for you, or have any further questions, please contact Kristina via the form below, and share what you’re looking for support with!