In life, we have experiences that profoundly shape our body, mind, and heart. At times, these experiences can create a sense of disconnection from vital parts of ourselves. My counselling practice offers a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and beliefs and reconnect with the quiet wisdom of your heart.

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My therapeutic approach is grounded in trauma-informed counselling, somatic therapy, and mindfulness. I draw inspiration from both Western psychology and Eastern philosophy, honouring the wholeness of the human being.

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My life’s journey has been shaped by a love of natural wellness, movement, and meditation. My background as a yoga and meditation teacher, combined with my own healing journey through chronic pain, has profoundly deepened my understanding of the mind-body connection over the past two decades.

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I believe the heart of our therapeutic relationship lies in cultivating self-compassion, a gentle light to guide you through times of crisis, challenge, and change. In our sessions, I invite you to explore the interplay of physical sensations, emotions, and thoughts to support nervous system regulation and a deep sense of safety and connection within your body. This somatic approach naturally weaves together with cognitive, dialectical, and psychodynamic therapies.

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Rooted in the East Vancouver community, I value the richness that comes from diversity, inclusion, and the importance of finding support that feels safe and affirming for who you are.

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If you’re curious to learn more about my approach and whether I’m the right counsellor for you, please book a free 20-minute consultation. I’d love to hear from you. 

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How I Can Support You

Through counselling and somatic therapy, I support your body, mind, and heart in:

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• Navigating major life changes, challenges, and crossroads where you feel stuck.

• Regulating your nervous system from patterns of fear, anxiety, overwhelm, burnout, or depression.

• Healing from trauma and adverse childhood experiences that have impacted your well-being.

• Coping with the uncertainty of chronic pain, illness, grief, and loss — physically and emotionally.

• Unravelling emotional, relational, and familial patterns while cultivating new possibilities and potential.

• Moving through spiritual crises and seeking greater meaning and authenticity in your life.

• Deepening your connection to yourself, others, and the world around you.

 

My Integrative Approach

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• Trauma-Informed Counselling creates safety and self-compassion, helping you build inner resources and resilience to recover from trauma and PTSD.

• Somatic Therapy is a body-centred approach that releases emotional stress and trauma from the nervous system, restoring your capacity to self-regulate and heal.

• Psychotherapy methods like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) help transform how you perceive yourself, others, and the world.

• Psychodynamic Therapy explores past experiences, bringing unconscious patterns to light for deeper insight, integration, and self-understanding.

• Mindfulness grounds you in the present moment, allowing you to observe your thoughts and feelings, and connect with the quiet, guiding wisdom of your heart.

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Wherever you are on your journey, I welcome you exactly as you are. I'm here to walk alongside you as you uncover your deeper strength and capacity for healing. 

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email: kristenmccarthycounselling@gmail.com

website: www.kristencounselling.com