Hi! I’m Chris.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor, located in Victoria, BC. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Dalhousie University, and my Master’s degree in Counselling from City University of Seattle.
I take an integrative approach to counselling. This means that I draw from several therapeutic approaches to find the best fit for your specific needs.
The modalities that primarily inform my practice include: solution-focused therapy, person-centred therapy, and strength-based therapy.
My Story
I was introduced to mental health services at 11 years old. I distinctly remember the doctor pulling out a psychological test from behind his desk and rattling off questions in a monotone voice. I left with a diagnosis, but no feeling of being heard or understood. Despite having friends, I had the feeling of being disconnected from others. Drugs and alcohol dissolved those feelings of disconnection and anxiety. When I used, I felt confident, excited and sociable. When I wasn’t high or drunk I felt overwhelmed, bored, and ashamed.
I questioned whether or not I would ever be able to live sober. After hearing the concerns of friends and family, I met with several counsellors in a treatment centre who assisted me in developing a greater understanding of why I became addicted in the first place. They helped me reaquaint myself with my values and my self-worth. They encouraged me to align my social environment with those values in a way that would help me maintain sobriety. I began to reevaluate my life, and then went to work restructuring it step by step.
Throughout my journey, I have become increasingly devoted to mental wellness in both my life, and others. I realized that the most meaningful work I could do is contribute to a more personable and humanizing approach to mental health.
Substance use is a part of my story, but it doesn’t define who I am anymore. As someone who knows the bewildering nature of these patterns, I am hoping to share some of the skills that I have learned over the last decade of my sobriety and education. Whatever it is that prompted you to seek out counselling, my hope is that I can help you to integrate, and overcome your hardship.
Together, we will work to develop a deeper understanding of your experiences, to discover meaning, and to cultivate a sense of self that will lead you to a more fulfilled, and connected existence.
Choosing the right counsellor is key to effective therapy
The compatibility between a therapist and client can significantly influence the therapeutic process and outcomes. A good match ensures that you feel understood and supported. Finding a good match means that you feel comfortable to openly discuss your concerns and work through challenges.
The right counsellor can tailor their approach to meet your unique needs, fostering personal growth and helping you achieve your mental health goals. Investing time in finding the right counsellor in Victoria, BC will be an essential step towards successful therapy. It may take some time, but I promise that the search is well worth the effort.
Symbolic Meaning
The Arbutus (Arbutus menzeisii) tree grows in areas that lack moisture, and thrives in clearings and on rocky bluffs, where it has access to lots of sunlight. It is resilient to summer droughts and fires, sprouting new growth from its trunk to survive. The Arbutus tree’s bark also naturally peels off to expose new bark underneath, protecting it as an immune response. Like the Arbutus, our environment can affect our growth. A tree needs sunlight, soil, air and water. Arbutus therapy is dedicated to unearthing the elements of your personal growth.