Hi, I’m Dr. Erik Boudreau, ND, and I have been practicing naturopathic medicine since 2004. Originally from Ontario, I relocated to Illinois in 2011, where my wife and I had the privilege of working at an integrative cancer hospital (Midwestern Regional Medical Center). Following the birth of our daughter, we returned to Canada in late 2016, where I resumed private practice, where I greatly enjoy helping patients work towards their own individual health goals.

We all have different backgrounds, experiences, challenges and goals, and I feel that it’s only natural for each of us to have a treatment plan that’s equally unique. Simply because a specific dietary recommendation, lifestyle change, natural supplement, our in-clinic treatment makes all the difference for one person doesn’t necessarily mean that it will help someone else. A big part of my role as an ND is working together with each patient to map out a game plan that’s right for them, and then begin heading down that path alongside them.

I feel that improving health (inside or out) does not mean simply telling the patient what to do, what to eat, or which supplement to take. More importantly, we must educate, motivate, and empower each person, to truly feel both supported, and in control of their own health.

Certifications: - Acupuncture - Advanced Injection Therapies (including prolotherapy); for shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees and ankles - Prescriptive Authority - Intravenous (IV) Therapy - Reiki Level 2 (Usui Holy Fire III)

Hi, I’m Dr. Erik Boudreau, ND, and I have been practicing naturopathic medicine since 2004. Origi... Read More

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Hello, I’m Katrina, the Receptionist here at Aster Wellness Centre.

I’m currently a forestry student at UBC who loves all things plant related, and am passionate about learning as much as I can.

I’m still new to Port Coquitlam, but I’m looking forward to getting to know it’s personality and charm as I go.

Hello, I’m Katrina, the Receptionist here at Aster Wellness Centre. I’m currently a forestry stu... Read More

Hi there, my name is Steve and I am a registered clinical counsellor. I was born in Scotland, but moved to Canada from the UK as a child. I have lived most of my life here in BC, although I worked abroad for a few years in Asia and South America. I am happily married and my wife and I have a four-legged companion we call Luna.

As a trained clinical counsellor focused on serving men and couples, I help clients better understand their challenges and find new paths to positive change. My gentle and relational approach to therapy offers a safe space of trust and acceptance that encourages my clients to be self-compassionate, to consider fresh perspectives on their problems, to learn new skills and strategies, and to practice courageous honesty with themselves and with others.

I provide online counselling from Monday to Thursday in the evening and in person counselling on Saturdays.

I look forward to connecting with you!

Hi there, my name is Steve and I am a registered clinical counsellor. I was born in Scotland, but... Read More

Hi, I am Chyanne!

I feel that it is such an honour to be allowed to share in someone’s journey. I feel that beautiful things grow from vulnerability. I am passionate about exploring both the collective and very unique experiences we live through. I’ve chosen to pursue counselling with the hopes of building meaningful connections with my clients, reinforcing that you are not alone, and helping to develop the skills you need to manage the ups and downs of life.

I am approachable, passionate, driven, and optimistic. I counsel from a trauma-informed perspective, understand the value of client empowerment, and pride myself in engaging in open and authentic communication. I have worked with adults, teens, and children, as well as having personal experience with depression and PTSD. I do my best in making uncomfortable conversations comfortable.

I hold my Masters in counselling psychology from Yorkville University & my Bachelors of Arts from Simon Fraser University, with a joint major in psychology and criminology. I have extensive experience working with individuals diagnosed with concurrent disorders, specifically those who have been deemed not criminally responsible due to mental disorder (NCRMD). My practice is open to all.

My spare time is typically spent outside with my children & partner. Getting some fresh air, being active, and enjoying the beautiful BC scenery always improves my mental health and helps me reset. I look forward to connecting with you and working collaboratively together to reach your goals.

Hi, I am Chyanne! I feel that it is such an honour to be allowed to share in someone’s journey. ... Read More

Hi, I’m Amanda.

I was born and raised in Cobourg, Ontario, a small town east of Toronto. Staying close to home, I completed my Bachelors at the University of Ottawa in Psychology with a minor in Sociology.

I then moved to Vancouver in 2013 with a suitcase and no return ticket. An acquaintance had told me it was beautiful out here and that I would fit in just fine because I was fairly granola. Upon mere suggestion and a little research, I decided to follow my gut in trusting she was right.

I found myself enrolled in the Institute of Holistic Nutrition due to my interest in helping myself and others take care of their bodies and our relationship to food. I graduated as a Certified Nutritional Practitioner with some answers and many more questions particularly around the psychology of food. These questions brought me to attend Adler University to pursue a Masters of Counselling Psychology degree.

Before attending Adler, I spent a year working at the Vancouver Crisis Centre, thinking on my feet and supporting individuals through existentially challenging times of distress. During my internship, I worked at a low barrier access centre called Foundry on the North Shore for youth ages 12-24. In this role I supported youth both short and long term with a broad variety of concerns including childhood trauma, complex family relationships, substance use, sexual trauma, individuation, suicidality, anxiety and depression. Continuing my work with youth, I created and facilitated a course at Bodwell High school, teaching students about self regulation, psychology of self and tools to manage distress. While working at the school, I also facilitated a workshop to the staff of Bodwell Boarding regarding how to work with Suicidal Ideation and Self Harm with Youth. Currently I continue this work with both adults and youth in private practice in East Vancouver.

As a therapist, I believe that insight and self awareness are key to understanding ourselves better and making lasting changes in our lives. This is why a key part of my approach is getting to the root of whats troubling you, and integrating healing from that place. Having experienced first hand the impact of chronic stress can have on the body, I find it imperative to work on the nervous system and body oriented approaches in counselling to complement talk therapy. I also use a variety of therapies that integrate mindfulness such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Adlerian Therapy which integrates childhood experiences and beliefs that have been carried into our current lives.

I believe that people are incredibly resilient and have the ability to grow and change even from the most challenging of circumstances. I seek to provide a non judgmental and supportive space for you during your time with me.

I look forward to connecting with you!

Hi, I’m Amanda. I was born and raised in Cobourg, Ontario, a small town east of Toronto. Staying... Read More

Hi my name is Yogita! I was born in India and immigrated to Canada with my family at the age of four. Being new immigrants, my family moved often from one location to another to find a place that we could call home. In the process I had to leave old friends, and work on establishing new ones. Sometimes I was successful, and other times not so much. As a result, I struggled with my sense of self and belonging, and therefore, growing up made decisions in life based solely on what was expected from me rather than what I truly wanted. I attended Simon Fraser University and completed my degree in Kinesiology with an Active Rehab Concentration in pursuit of entering the field of healthcare and medicine. In September 2019, I was accepted into the Doctor of Pharmacy Program at UBC. The prestige and respect related to becoming a doctor fulfilled my need to feel valued. I soon, however, realized that I was not happy. I was doing something that I thought I should be doing rather than what I wanted to do. Instead, what made me feel happy and fulfilled during that course was helping other students in the cohort with course content and being there for them during their mental health struggles. Although I was always aware of my highly sensitive and empathetic nature, these experiences allowed me to become more cognizant of my passion for education and counselling. After a tremendous amount of contemplation and introspection, I made the most difficult, but also the best decision of my life - to leave Pharmacy school. Since then, I completed my Bachelor of Education at Simon Fraser University, and I am currently working as a secondary teacher in the Surrey School District teaching in the areas of Science, Math, and Physical Education. I am also currently working towards my Master Degree in Counselling Psychology at City University of Seattle. My purpose in pursuing counselling is to help children and adults find and understand their authentic self, and live a life based on their core values. In my practice I work with clients to understand what their goals are for therapy and will apply different types of therapeutic approaches (CBT, SBT, Solution-Focused, Narrative, etc.) based on the client and their needs. In my practice I use a relational approach as my intention with every student and client is to build a strong connection and to provide unconditional positive regard. When I am not actively teaching or supporting others, I am working on improving my own physical and mental health by engaging in activities such as running, hiking, swimming, reading, painting, and spending quality time with friends, family, and dogs.

I look forward to working with you!

Hi my name is Yogita! I was born in India and immigrated to Canada with my family at the age of f... Read More

Hello, I’m Sandra, a Registered Dietitian from Halifax, Nova Scotia. I completed my BSc. in Applied Human Nutrition and Dietetics at Mount Saint Vincent University and my dietetic internship with the Nova Scotia Health Authority. I worked in many areas of nutrition such as private practice, hospitals and long-term care. I also work as a clinical dietitian in the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority in acute care and long-term care.

I have experience in gastrointestinal health issues such as IBS, IBD and diverticular disease. I can also help with picky eating, family meal planning, plant-based diets, celiac disease and much more.

I love working one on one with individuals to help them achieve their nutrition goals. I have taken additional courses that focus on counselling for behaviour change, as it is my belief that in order to change our health, we must first change our behaviours.

I’m a runner, hiker, climber and mountain lover. In my spare time you can find me scaling the side of a cliff in Squamish or planning my next big mountain adventure.

Interesting Facts About Me:

I have qualified and run the Boston Marathon

I used to live in Queenstown, New Zealand

I often travel to mountainous regions of the world for climbing and mountaineering

If you would like to work with me please contact info@asterwellness.ca.

Hello, I’m Sandra, a Registered Dietitian from Halifax, Nova Scotia. I completed my BSc. in Appli... Read More

Hello, I’m Emily (she/her) - one of the therapists here at Aster Wellness Centre. I believe that we’re all doing the best that we can within the contexts we exist in and that sometimes there are things that hold us back from showing up in our lives how we’d like to. If this is true for you, I’m so thankful you’ve landed here. I want to share a little about me so that you better understand who I am and what working together might look like.

Professionally, I’m both a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), with a Master of Counselling degree from Athabasca University. I am an approved provider with both ICBC and Medavie for funding and direct billing. In the last decade, I have worked in a variety of roles within mental health services. Private practice, community mental health, and non-profit work have allowed me to gain valuable expertise and experience as I have walked alongside a broad diversity of people and circumstances. I have lived experience in supporting those who care for people in their personal and professional lives. Occupational awareness training through First Responder Health, Critical Incident Stress Management (Group Debriefing), and other trauma-related training and experience inform my support of those within the first responder and ‘professional helper’ communities. I know first-hand how important it is to proactively create space for our own mental wellness and recovery, and simultaneously how difficult it can be to do so.

In our work, my aim is to empower you - in whatever season you find yourself in - to seek a fuller understanding of your experience and walk away with a compassionate perspective of the challenges of being human. I recognize that everyone is unique and has their own important story to share. You are the expert in your experiences and story, and I am here to support you along the way. Together, we will work collaboratively on the goals you feel are important and consider the challenges as well as the strengths that have brought you to this time and place. You will notice that my work is client-led and strengths-based and I may integrate practices from Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Observed and Experiential Integration (OEI), among others, as they become relevant for you. My hope is that you would feel safe, seen, and supported in our time together. I look forward to learning more about you and your journey, and seeing if we may be a good fit.

Hello, I’m Emily (she/her) - one of the therapists here at Aster Wellness Centre. I believe that ... Read More

Hey there, I am Avneet! I believe when we share our challenges with others, it makes them a bit easier to carry. Life, in both a mysterious and convenient way has set a path for me to be in a place to share this load with others. I often notice, through our curiosity to explore, we have an opportunity to create meaning for our challenges, that fits right, just for us.

I am an empathic, genuine, and kind individual. I operate from a client-centered perspective, giving space for each individual to decide which elements they would like to work on. I utilize my training in trauma-informed stabilization treatment, and dialectical behavioural therapy, to provide psychoeducation wherever it fits in the session.

I am currently completing my masters in counselling psychology at Yorkville University. I hold my Bachelor of Arts degree, with a major in Psychology, and a Liberal Arts diploma from University of the Fraser Valley. I have experience working with women who have experienced domestic abuse, childhood abuse, and/or sexual abuse. As well as, experience working with folks with mental health, and addictions challenges. My practice is open to all.

In my free time, I enjoy a very peaceful life, involving going on walks with my dog, going to the spa, traveling, and/or reading books.

Hey there, I am Avneet! I believe when we share our challenges with others, it makes them a bit e... Read More

I believe that establishing an authentic relationship is of paramount importance within a counselling setting. My style is warm and collaborative, and I strive to honour my clients’ innate wisdom. Although I encourage my clients to be the architects of their treatment plan, I may provide some direction during the session. Moreover, I endeavour to create an environment wherein my clients can feel safe, accepted and understood.

I look forward to connecting with you!

I believe that establishing an authentic relationship is of paramount importance within a counsel... Read More

Hello, my name is Dr. Vanessa Lee, ND! I have practiced Naturopathic Medicine (including acupuncture) for 19 years, and Reiki for 21 years. I focus on creating individualized treatment plans for each patient, depending on your history, health needs and preferences. Your plan may include symptom management in the short term, and treatments that address the root cause of issues in the long run, as this blend creates lasting results.

> I listen. I believe that when you have the chance share your story in a non-judgmental space, unexpected answers often arise.

Everyone’s story is a unique & complex puzzle to me, and I love working with people to figure out how their pieces fit back together to make them whole again.

Each patient’s history gives clues to new treatment avenues that may support them in a novel way. I know change can happen when patients are motivated to recognize and put forth effort into their own health, and I am grateful to play a role in their journey towards physical/mental/emotional/spiritual balance.

With age comes wisdom! I’ve come to see that my own health issues over the years have been more than just a burden, but also a gift. The digestive issues, acne & skin problems, seasonal allergies, food sensitivities, stress, muscle tension, back pain, headaches, anxiety, and fatigue… all allow me to understand patients more deeply. My own experiences motivate me to dig deeper in to answer “Why?”.

> Health and personal growth are ongoing journeys.

Naturopathic medicine may help you experience these adventures with more ease and enjoyment.

My Background

• B.Sc. in Cell & Molecular Biology at SFU, Burnaby, BC.
• Naturopathic Medicine degree from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) in Toronto, ON.
• Opened & ran a busy Naturopathic clinic in downtown Toronto for 7 years, focusing on women’s health, digestive regulation, stress management, general healthy living/disease prevention.
• In 2011, a rare opportunity came. My husband (also a Naturopathic Doctor) and I moved near Chicago, Illinois to support to cancer patients undergoing conventional treatments in a hospital setting. I learned how conventional & natural, two seemingly different paths, can work together to safely support cancer patients.
• After our daughter’s birth in 2016, we moved back to B.C. to be close to our families. I joined the Aster Wellness family in 2017, and loved reconnecting with the local community where I grew up!
• I have been doing a lot of personal growth in the past 2 years, and I’m rediscovering what it means to feel centered, now that I’m home.

Hello, my name is Dr. Vanessa Lee, ND! I have practiced Naturopathic Medicine (including acupunct... Read More

Hi! My name is Jill and I was born and raised in the Shuswap/Okanagan region of BC. I attended Simon Fraser University for my undergrad degree in Psychology, and University of British Columbia for my Master’s of Education degree in Counselling. Growing up, it was difficult not to notice the common condition of pain and suffering amongst friends and family. Underlying depression, anxiety, and complex social/relationship dynamics seemed to be quite common. I have always known I wanted to work closely with others to foster a deeper social/emotional connection and to increase understanding of the human condition. I became deeply influenced and inspired by Dr. Gabor Mate’s work who specializes in researching and treating addiction, trauma, stress, etc. Throughout my university studies, I earned my tuition by working at various non-profit organizations including homeless shelters, safe homes for women fleeing abuse, and disability programs so that I could begin to experience and grasp the nature of disability and the impact of trauma. During these earlier years, I was also fortunate enough to be able to travel solo to developing countries to witness first-hand diverse cultures – this has helped me expand my own perspective and compassion for alternative viewpoints and backgrounds.

Nearing the completion of my Master’s degree, I began working as a vocational rehabilitation consultant which involved assisting those who had endured traumatic brain injury, chronic pain, and/or physical and psychological struggles from motor vehicle accidents. With this position, I navigated the job world, finding and/or creating positions for people with disabilities. In addition, I gained valuable experience working at the male correctional facilities of the lower mainland as a concurrent disorders therapist, as well as a group therapist for Maple Ridge Treatment Centre. As a result, I accumulated diverse community resource knowledge and experience in the current system working with complex client barriers and needs. At present, I continue to work part-time with Vancouver Coastal Health at one of the integrated health clinics located in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. I am part of an interdisciplinary team and provide case management, liaise with community resources, and offer intensive counselling for those struggling with PTSD, mental health struggles, psychosocial stressors, substance use/misuse disorders, etc.

I believe we all hold the skills, strengths, and resiliency necessary to create change and growth. At the same time, it is a normal and natural condition of humans to experience loss, disability, and suffering at any given time in our life span. It is very important to me that I work collaboratively with clients to help people create change from within. I frequently utilize and feel passionately about the following therapeutic models and interventions: cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness based cognitive therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, and EMDR.

Hi! My name is Jill and I was born and raised in the Shuswap/Okanagan region of BC. I attended S... Read More

Returning Clients Only

Areas of Focus: Anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationships

Who I Mostly Work with: teens, young people, and adults of all ages

Availability: Flexible

Hi I’m Shellee. I was born and raised in the lower mainland and attended Queen’s university for my undergrad and teaching degree. I returned to Vancouver and worked as a teacher for over a decade before pursuing my Master of Education in Counselling Psychology at UBC. I continue to work in the school system as a counsellor; I work with children and families to foster social-emotional strengths and resiliency. In my internship with UBC I worked at Jericho Counselling. There I connected with a wide variety of clients from an array of backgrounds dealing with diverse challenges. I’m excited to be returning to private practice to continue my work with clients. In my family and in my work, I have encountered anxiety and depression as well struggles with resiliency and life transitions. As a young person I attended therapy as party of a family approach to supporting a family member struggling with mental illness. I continued attending therapy for myself by choice as I found the benefits to my life to be measurable and positive. I learned that therapy is beneficial for dealing with problems that arise but also for exploring self and making meaning of one’s unique life journey. I truly believe that meaningful growth, change and understanding can blossom from the connected relationship between therapist and client

Approaches and techniques: As a therapist I work from a foundation based in relationship and connection. I see myself as an eclectic therapist who is flexible enough to access a variety of approaches and techniques depending on the individual client’s needs, wants and preferences. Mindfulness is a practical and helpful approach I espouse for myself that can be beneficial to clients. Its close connection to self- awareness connects naturally to Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy; which can offer efficient relief as well as insight. I value the journey as much as the destination; making meaning along the way. Clients may approach counselling to solve a problem or sort out a conflict; however, I believe that clients already contain the skills and strengths to achieve their goals. I therefore like to work from existing strengths to create solutions collaboratively with clients

Areas of focus: People are powerful and can change their world view to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression. Through practical skill building and cognitive reframing anxiety and depression can be managed and relieved. I know through building on existing strengths clients can create self-knowledge and mastery. I believe there is value in owning experiences – both positive and negative in the integration of the whole person. Even negative and complex heart-aches such as grief can be navigated and processed with the guidance and partnership of the therapist. In life all interactions, big and small, are rooted in relationship. Through various forms of attachment and connection relationships can be navigated and transformed through the therapeutic alliance.

Interesting Facts: -I am a big fan of historical fiction and true crime -I am a dog person (I love all animals, but dogs are my favourite) -My self-care includes being near water as often as possible

Returning Clients Only Areas of Focus: Anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationshi... Read More

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NOT CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS-PLEASE CALL FOR WAITLIST

Tuesdays: IN PERSON ONLY

Wednesdays: ONLINE ONLY

Thursdays: ONLINE ONLY

Hi, my name is Shaila and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I am originally from New Zealand and moved to Vancouver in 2000. This was one of several significant transitions in my life and I bring insights from these experiences to my work. Prior to becoming a counsellor, I was an accountant for over 20 years. This period provided huge learning about issues such as burnout, perfectionism, and stress, both in myself, and people I worked with and mentored. During this time, I also discovered a passion for helping people find balance in their lives through exploring and understanding their self-relationship. Eventually a chronic health issue I had struggled with for almost 10 years forced me to realize I had to start taking my own advice! I began a journey towards wellness that led to a career change and ultimately a transformation in my own relationship with self. ​ Approach & techniques: I love supporting people through counselling, as I know what is possible when we begin this journey. It is very rewarding to witness the joy and freedom that emerges when a person begins to align with a truth within themselves. So how might this look when I work with you? I guide and support you in exploring different parts of yourself, particularly behaviors/beliefs that may unconsciously create distress. This asks for a degree of ownership of your situation and that can be scary. Therefore, I aim to create a warm and non-judgmental space in which we explore together. The goal is to help you get better at recognizing any unhelpful beliefs/behaviours so you can make different choices. Choices that ultimately lead to better emotional and physical health. My counselling approach is client-centred and experiential. I may use techniques such as expressive-arts or focusing-oriented therapy during our sessions. My intention with these techniques is to encourage a whole-person therapy experience. I believe healing endures when we attend to the mind, body, and spiritual self. Finally, I acknowledge each client has a unique perspective and worldview and I respect this when considering the use of any technique or approach. ​ Areas of focus: Early Childhood Trauma: May present in later life as health problems, anxiety, depression, and/or other emotional issues. Culture & Identity Issues Life Changes & Personal Growth High Sensitivity: May present as health problems, work-life imbalance, anxiety, and/or other emotional issues.

Who I mostly work with: Adults & Teens

NOT CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS-PLEASE CALL FOR WAITLIST Tuesdays: IN PERSON ONLY Wednesdays: ... Read More

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I’m Elizabeth, and as an experienced Registered Dietitian with Fraser Health for the past 25 years, I’ve supported thousands of clients improve their energy, health, and wellness through better nutrition practices. Although Diabetes and Eating Disorders have been a large focus of my career, I have experience working with a broad range of clients of all ages with a variety of medical /health conditions. I completed my BSc. (Dietetics) at UBC and my dietetic internship at the University of Alberta Hospital, but I’ve lived most of my life right here in Port Coquitlam! I love the outdoor recreation this city offers, and you’ll frequently find me cycling the Poco Trail, running along the river valley, or hiking one of the local mountains. Because of my passionate belief that our health is strongly connected to our nutrition and exercise habits, I practice what I preach in my own lifestyle, and strive to achieve balance between work and play.

I would love to collaborate with you to identify your needs, and partner together to set goals, and support you in reaching optimal health and wellness. If you would like to know more about nutrition counseling or have any other questions, please email me at info@asterwellness.ca.

My areas of focus:

Meal planning for optimal energy, wellness, and weight management, Eating disorders – AN, BN, BED, Diabetes management, Heart-related conditions (cholesterol, blood pressure), GI conditions (IBS, IBD, diverticulitis)

Who I work with:

​​​All ages, as nutrition is key at all stages of life

I’m Elizabeth, and as an experienced Registered Dietitian with Fraser Health for the past 25 year... Read More

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​My areas of focus are Depression, Anxiety, Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), Immigration & life transitions, and Relationships

Who I’m mostly working with: Young adults, Adults and Couples ​

Hi! I am Lynn and I was born and raised in Flanders, Belgium. I graduated at the University of Ghent with a Master’s of Science degree in Clinical Psychology. I moved to Vancouver in 2013 and became a Registered Clinical Counsellor soon after. While studying at the university, my adventurous spirit took me towards a life-changing volunteer opportunity in Africa where I assisted in daily activities and counselling for troubled children and youth in an orphanage. This mentor-ship role revealed my future steps needed to pursue my goals in the counselling field. The experience in Africa made me realize how I loved to help people in need, and at the same time appreciate how important self-care is when feeling stressed-out or overwhelmed.

Nearing the completion of my Master’s degree in Belgium, I had been working in a psychiatric department of a general hospital in Bruges to gain experience with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. As part of an incredible multidisciplinary team, I was relied upon to conduct group therapy, individual counselling, and psychological assessments - it seemed like the dream job! However, there was an adventure waiting for me on the other side of the world.

In order to pursue a relationship with my Canadian partner, James, I decided to immigrate to Canada, and learned first-hand the experience of immigration-related psychological struggles which made me aware of the need for support during this life transition. Because of my similar transition experience, I feel that I can empathize strongly with immigrants, and recognize the many struggles that they are going through. I have since focused a portion of my practice on immigrants and their life transitions, as well as people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and other personal challenges. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused-Brief-Therapy (SFBT), which I mostly use during sessions.

Outside of private practice, I served the BC prison system for two years, providing mental health intake of inmates. Additionally, I have been a group facilitator at the University of British Columbia/Faculty of Medicine with the focus on self-reflection and self-care with current doctoral students. ​ I passionately believe that training and education are a life-long process. I recently completed the Bader-Pearson Developmental Model for couples-therapy (level two) at the Good Life Therapy Centre, which complements my prior work in couples-therapy in Belgium and I am excited to incorporate this model into my current practice. When necessary, I also provide counselling in Dutch. ​

​My areas of focus are Depression, Anxiety, Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), Immigration & life... Read More

Hi! My name is Tasha, and I am originally from Alberta. Growing up, I came to BC almost every summer; each year, it felt more and more like home. I officially picked my life up and moved to Vancouver in 2021 and, in turn, can appreciate making significant life shifts, big transitions, and the stress (both positive and negative) that can come with these changes.

I am in the last year of my Master’s of Counselling Degree. Before focusing on this degree, I obtained a B.A. in Sociology and Psychology, a degree in Design and owned and operated a business in health and wellness.

Over the last ten years, I have worked as a mind-body specialist, combining my academic pursuits with yoga certifications (10 and counting!), meditation, reiki and personal training/fitness.

I have witnessed first-hand the power of becoming present and aware of our thoughts and feelings and the sense of empowerment that can follow when one identifies the ability to shift and change habits and patterns.

I have applied these same teachings to my life as I have undergone several major life transitions, challenges, and stresses. I understand sensations and feelings of overextension, uncertainty, ambivalence, frustration, loss and grief.

I appreciate that life is more like a rollercoaster than an upward and forward momentum, and my goal is to help you ride the ride for the inevitable highs and lows. I believe each client is unique and, in turn, the collaboration between counsellor and client is critical. I want you to feel seen, heard and acknowledged knowing that you will not be judged or categorized. While working together, the focus will be on you; if you can imagine a coach in your corner, I want to provide you with the tools you need to succeed.

Hi! My name is Tasha, and I am originally from Alberta. Growing up, I came to BC almost every sum... Read More

Hello! Clarissa comes with five years of experience in Bowen Therapy. She also works as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist in Cardiac Rehab.

She graduated from Simon Fraser University with a Masters of Science in Chronic Disease Management with an emphasis on ‘Healthy Aging’ from the Department of Biomedical, Physiology and Kinesiology. Previously, she achieved a Bachelors Degree of Science in Exercise Science/Human Kinetics major and Community Health minor from Eastern Washington University.

Her journey started while working at Providence Services in both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, primarily working in aquatic therapy alongside physiotherapist and occupational therapist. This experience has been the foundation to over a decade of active rehabilitation and applied kinesiology.

What I offer: Bowen Therapy

Personal Facts: Nature is my sanctuary, pottery is a hobby of mine, I have lived in 3 countries, and I am a lifelong learner.

Hello! Clarissa comes with five years of experience in Bowen Therapy. She also works as a Clinic... Read More

Born and raised in the Vancouver area, I have grown up taking full advantage of my surroundings; this spot in the world has always been the region I have wanted to call home. And yet, I have always had a reason to explore and chase after countless adventures around the world as well. In 2004, I joined the BC Regiment where I have since served as a Reservist for the Canadian Armed Forces – an endeavor that has rewarded me with opportunities for travel, career advancement, and even finding the love of my life. ​ Initially completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from SFU , it wasn’t until I began to see the impacts of operational deployments on my colleagues and friends, that I found my path to complete a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology at UBC. My research focus and interest in soldier-wellness led to my involvement in the Veterans Transition Program which focuses on career progression, stress-relief & resilience, and grief & trauma-survival for first-responders and veterans in Canada.

I have since worked with a variety of groups and populations including child & family services relying on foster-care, survivors of sexual abuse, individuals, families and groups in recovery from substance abuse & addiction, and those in treatment for major psychiatric disorders.

Today I maintain my passion for clinical counselling with our practice, Aster Wellness Centre. I am also an Associate Therapist for two clinical centres in downtown Vancouver, and I provide consultation to groups such as the Royal Canadian Legion, the Vancouver Police Department, UBC’s Faculty of Medicine, and various small businesses and schools across the Lower Mainland.

My focus in private practice: Anxiety & Stress management Trauma & Grief Recovery Fractured relationships; rebuilding trust for Individuals, Small Groups, and Couples Therapy based on Bader-Pearson’s Developmental Model My client-centred approach in counselling utilizes action-oriented concepts based in-part on Gestalt therapy and other modalities.

Additional Training: Bader - Pearson Couples Training at the Good Life Therapy Centre, level 2 Road to Mental Readiness (R2MR) Train-the-Trainer Program for the VPD, Mental Health Commission of Canada UBC Psychiatry Mental Health training Group Facilitator at UBC, faculty of Medicine 1 year- internship as a Clinical Counsellor at the BCMSSA clinic Advanced Group Facilitation - Therapeutic Enactment

Born and raised in the Vancouver area, I have grown up taking full advantage of my surroundings; ... Read More