Carenda Hadaller, MA MFT, RCC

” Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do.” ~Brené Brown.

Inspired by Dr. Brené Brown in my own healing journey, my heart’s desire is to create a safe place for you to recognize and transform the life patterns of overwhelming anxiety, persistent stress from life changes and events, distress from trauma, and pain and grief from broken, disconnected, or lost relationships.

I believe as we progress through life we encounter people and events that are too much to process or beyond our skills to emotionally regulate. When events happen outside our window of tolerance the survival part of us reacts to protect us by developing a temporary protective strategy for dealing with distressing experiences, big emotions, and confusing thoughts. However, these temporary protective strategies that help us survive in the moment and, over time, become a stuck pattern for dealing with all emotions and life events. Once they develop into life patterns they can prevent us from fully processing events which hinders our ability to grow and heal, making new experiences increasingly difficult to deal with. As a way to keep going in life with all the unprocessed events we start disowning parts of ourselves and our story, along with the deep vulnerability these parts of ourselves hold. By using both traditional and holistic healing methods, together we will nurture your emotional health, cultivate inner strength and confidence, connect to love, increase compassion, and step into your healing by accepting all parts of yourself and your story.

The primary therapy models I utilize techniques from are Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT & EFIT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Hypnotherapy. I am also passionate about teaching clients how to use mindfulness practices and somatic grounding techniques to strengthen self-awareness, compassion, and attunement to the body’s sensations (somatic).

I am registered in BC with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) as a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and have been working with adult individuals to create spaces of growth and healing for over 7 years in the following areas:

Anxiety Burnout Recovery Coping Skills Depression Emotional Regulation Family of Origin Influences & Generational Trauma Identity & Self Esteem/Confidence Lifespan Shifts & Life Transitions Loneliness & Isolation Loss & Grief Past Abuse: emotional, mental, physical, sexual, neglect & bullying Relationship Attachment Wounds Spirituality & Purpose Stress Management Trauma & Critical Incidents, PTSD Unhelpful Life Patterns: shame, perfectionism, people pleasing, weak boundaries, avoidance, codependency (etc.)

I was born and raised in sunny California. Throughout my life, I’ve pursued healing professions to help adults connect with who they are and overcome patterns that hinder them from experiencing connection, love, well-being, freedom, fulfillment, and heart-centred living. In my mid-30’s I decided to go back to school where I completed a Masters in Marital and Family Therapy (MFT) through Alliant International University in San Diego. This is where I met my loving Canadian husband and after we completed our MFT program we got married and moved to Canada.

When I am not helping others heal, I’m hanging with my husband and our 2 fur babies and/or family and friends. I also enjoy crocheting (a newly learned skill from covid-19 isolation), yoga, reading fiction and non-fiction, walking in nature, rock climbing, swimming and tubing down the river, trying new culinary adventures, and watching a good documentary or mystery movies.

Carenda Hadaller, MA MFT, RCC ” Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is th... Read More

Greetings. My name is Chad Yurich, I’m trained as a Relational Somatic Therapist and am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor. My practice is grounded in a psycho-biological approach to counselling. Somatic Therapy emphasizes the significance of the body, mind and our nervous system as repositories of our life experiences, both past and present. Somatic Therapeutic approach encourages a mindful and compassionate observation of our inner landscape. By intentionally slowing down and attuning to our bodies, we can gain insights into how both our bodies and minds seek to address and resolve patterns and traumas.

My goal is to help clients regain trust in themselves. Really trust themselves. Love themselves. Working together we can create a healing container where all parts of the client are welcome. Healing can happen there, old stories can be transmuted, and new life can emerge. This is my passion, let’s work together. I’m passionate about supporting people with addiction (I worked 4 years at an addiction centre), trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression and growth/mentorship. I have had the pleasure of supporting many veterans, active military, fire and police officers and other first responders. Please reach out if you have any questions.

Client health and safety are my priority. Through working at the clients speed and readiness, I support the clients exploration of themselves to bring more ease, peace and joy to their everyday life.

Greetings. My name is Chad Yurich, I’m trained as a Relational Somatic Therapist and am a Registe... Read More

KELLY GRANT

BSc MACP, CCC #11248142 (she/her/hers)

Years of experience in inclusive care, street outreach, and community support work culminate to creating my non-judgmental and gently curious presence. I hold you as the expert of your own story and regularly check in and obtain consent as we navigate potentially tender places.

Oftentimes we have aptly learned to suppress emotional expression for fear that our authenticity might be unacceptable by others. Together we might explore this learned behaviour from a biological, psychological, social and cultural lens. Pulling from emotion focused therapy, mindfulness and body-oriented approaches, I look to deepen awareness of emotional experience by tuning into the body’s innate and visceral wisdom. Together we will get curious about what comes up in the present moment, making space for what is there within our co-created safe container. We will work together to integrate what we notice, perhaps weaving this into an ongoing narrative.

I feel deeply honoured to engage in this work and have a special interest in helping the helpers; those who identify as a caretaker, people pleaser, empath or support-person. While nurturing this part of yourself through compassionate inquiry, we might work to cultivate non-violent communication skills, boundary setting and working to value oneself as equal to the other in a relationship.

I also work with couples to explore how individual stories and attachment patterns impact this most treasured relationship. Working together, we identify your negative cycle, create emotional safety and increase awareness of ways to break out and connect differently.

Accepting CVAP clients

To contact Kelly please email info@comoxvalleycounselling.ca or kelly@comoxvalleycounselling.ca

KELLY GRANT BSc MACP, CCC #11248142 (she/her/hers) Years of experience in inclusive care, stre... Read More

I am excited to now be at the stage of my education where I have finished coursework for my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) and finally get to meet with people! I definitely took the scenic route on my path to becoming a registered counsellor. I completed my first BSc and MSc in the health sciences over 20 years ago. This led me to a career as a pharmaceutical sales representative for a number of years, and then to staying home full-time with my four children for the last 14 years. I have learned so much from all of these different phases of my life. Life has been both full of deep joy and pain, connection and isolation. I am grateful to be at the stage of my education where I am learning to help others navigate the many emotions and feelings of grief, pain, hurt, anger, and the difficulties and change that happen to all of us throughout life. I believe in the strength of connection, and will use a range of methods to explore and dig deeper into personal issues and struggles. My approach incorporates examining the many different aspects that intersect to make you who you are, having a posture of curiosity and nonjudgment, and working with you to provide a way to work through issues, hardships, and struggles. I truly love being with people, and learning and listening to who you are. I am interested in all facets of counselling individuals, and – due to my own experience – have a special interest in grief and working with adolescents.

I am excited to now be at the stage of my education where I have finished coursework for my Maste... Read More

I believe in connection, and that the natural interrelatedness of all things invites our conscious attention. Deeply committed to the nurturance of sustainable relational landscapes, I work with those exploring intimacy, attachment dynamics, personal growth, and the complexities of human connection. I believe in creating brave, collaborative spaces where you can deepen self-understanding and build more fulfilling relationships with yourself, others, and the natural world.

My approach is rooted in somatic embodiment, transformational growth, parts work, and the guiding presence of emotion. With experience in identity exploration and an anti-oppressive practice, I offer poly-informed and queer-affirming counselling with warmth, insight, and reverence for your unique experience.

If you are seeking a compassionate anchor in your process of inner discovery, I am here to support and celebrate you in navigating life’s ebbs and flows.

Email: lisak@comoxvalleycounselling.ca

I believe in connection, and that the natural interrelatedness of all things invites our consciou... Read More

The first thing you’ll notice about sitting with Greg is his kindness. Greg immediately makes you feel cared for - that you’re heard and seen and valued. From this lens, work with Greg will be collaborative, supporting you to look at the challenges you’re facing and make the changes you need to move forward in your life. You’ll find his approach respects your values, preferences, culture and needs, in a non-pathologizing, non-blaming environment.

Greg comes to counselling after a long history in the I.T. infrastructure world and he says he’s so happy to have found his home in this world. Greg now holds a Master’s degree in Counselling and is a Certified Canadian Counsellor. He has experience and training in substance use, trauma, developmental and childhood trauma & ACE’s. He uses an integrated approach which includes Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Practices, Psychodynamics, Family Systems Theory and has advanced training in Internal Family Systems, and mindfulness. Greg also comes from a background working with religion and spirituality.

Greg works with adults and teens, and provides individual, couple, and family therapy. All beliefs and orientations are welcome.

🌿 Stepping Stone: 16 week Comprehensive IFS course 🌿 IFSCA IFS Master Class Advanced Weekend 🌿 The Theory and Techniques of Short-Term Psychodynamic Psychotherapy 🌿 Dr. Sue Johnson’s Intensive Course in Emotionally Focused Therapy: Attachment-Based Interventions for Couples in Crisis 🌿 Traumatic Grief: Neuroscience-Based Therapy Tools for Transforming Loss into Meaningful Recovery 🌿 Motivational Interviewing

The first thing you’ll notice about sitting with Greg is his kindness. Greg immediately makes yo... Read More

My journey into the counselling field has been shaped by my own personal experiences with life’s challenges, as well as a deep curiosity about people, their stories, and the connections between mental well-being, relationships, and the natural world. With a background in communications, outdoor education, and respite care, I have come to see that healing is not a linear process but a journey of self-discovery that can take many forms.

As an intern counsellor nearing the end of my Master of Counselling, I work with clients to create a process tailored to their individual needs. Whether we’re exploring patterns, navigating emotional pain, or building awareness of how the mind and body respond to stress, I aim to meet you where you are with empathy, respect, openness, and patience.

I see counselling as a collaborative process where meaningful change happens through connection, curiosity, and self-compassion, as we learn to accept and embrace all parts of ourselves, even those we find most challenging.

At the heart of my work is the belief that relationships—with ourselves, others, and the world around us—are central to well-being. I also believe that laughter and moments of levity can be powerful tools in the healing process, helping to create balance and perspective as we navigate life.

My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel supported in exploring your experiences, reconnecting with your inner wisdom and resilience. I welcome individuals from all walks of life and strive to create a culturally inclusive, responsive, and affirming space.

My journey into the counselling field has been shaped by my own personal experiences with life’s ... Read More

I approach therapy with a relational and in-the-moment style, focused on the emotional and physiological experiences that guide the healing process. In our work together, we will explore how to sit with uncomfortable feelings and separate negative beliefs, thoughts, and emotions from your self-identity. This process often involves exploration of your self-narrative, self-compassion, past experiences or traumas, and increasing awareness of the body’s role in emotional experiences. I understand the difficulty in feeling comfortable expressing our authentic selves in a world that can demand perfection and success. It is my joy to walk alongside clients in vulnerability and exploration of inhabiting our full selves. I see healing as a collaborative process and acknowledge the presence of power dynamics in these relationships. I strive to create a space that is safe for all individuals through an awareness of systemic power structures, unspoken social narratives, and their influence on the lives of my clients. My work with clients utilizes techniques and perspectives from Compassion-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Narrative Therapy.

I approach therapy with a relational and in-the-moment style, focused on the emotional and physio... Read More

Sue Lee, MEd Counselling, RCC #15110

I believe in hope.

Humans are dynamic, growing, transforming creatures, all of us. Over the years, I have had the privilege of sitting with many people, witnessing first-hand the power of their incredibly profound insights and deep feelings, where unmet needs get our attention and validation, creative options are explored and practiced, limiting beliefs challenged, and even concepts like love and acceptance may be embodied as people transform their stories.

The human spirit flourishes with a little encouragement and a felt sense of safety. Sometimes we need another person to remind us of our abundant possibilities.

I work with couples and individuals. Together we can address mood instability, interpersonal issues, life transitions, substance misuse, difficult relationships and ongoing stressors.

I utilize a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and/or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to address your specific treatment goals, which we will discuss and plan together accordingly.

The human body has an inherent capacity to communicate its needs: to inform, cry out, adapt, combat, numb and/or restore itself. What might our emotional distress, physical symptoms or ingrained habits be showing us? What if we listened closely to what our body is currently expressing? What if we took the time to really hear and then feel-into our innate wisdom, to address pain, to courageously cultivate new ways of being and continually nourish that growth?

I believe in the therapy process; in discovering new ways to regulate our nervous system,in exploring and repairing stuck patterns. And especially in the transforming power of attending-to our feelings, thoughts, actions and values from a place of compassionate curiosity. This work requires courage and vulnerability. When we can be open, honest and kind to ourselves, hope abounds and we have unlimited access to our internal resourcing, influencing the rest of our days and impacting the world around us.

During your first intake appointment (90 minutes) we will take some time to consider what it is You would like to accomplish in our time together (are you seeking therapy with a particular goal in mind?). Our sessions (60 or 90 minutes) will be framed and held within a polyvagal-informed (think of the benefits of accessing “safe enough” awareness in your body), mindful and in the moment approaches. We will also hold a compassionate understanding of how our attachment experiences and connection with others profoundly affect us. Therapy starts with a recognition of our circumstances, often reflecting on the past ~ context which informs and offers up challenging thoughts, beliefs and feelings to interact with presently, transforming our current and future selves.

I am grateful for the opportunity to work in this vibrant community, surrounded by natural beauty and awe-inspiring vistas. And I too seek to live, play and process this beautiful life in the good company of enquiring companions, preferably outside as much as possible, with integrity, curiosity, compassion and a shared sense of community. I believe in the therapy process; in discovering new ways to regulate our nervous system, in exploring and repairing stuck patterns. And especially in the transforming power of attending-to our feelings, thoughts, actions and values from a place of compassionate curiosity. This work requires courage and vulnerability. When we can be open, honest and kind to ourselves, hope abounds and we have unlimited access to our internal resourcing, influencing the rest of our days and impacting the world around us.

During your first intake appointment (90 minutes) we will take some time to consider what it is You would like to accomplish in our time together (are you seeking therapy with a particular goal in mind?). Our sessions (60 or 90 minutes) will be framed and held within a polyvagal-informed (think of the benefits of accessing “safe enough” awareness in your body), mindful and in the moment approaches. We will also hold a compassionate understanding of how our attachment experiences and connection with others profoundly affect us. Therapy starts with a recognition of our circumstances, often reflecting on the past ~ context which informs and offers up challenging thoughts, beliefs and feelings to interact with presently, transforming our current and future selves.

I am grateful for the opportunity to work in this vibrant community, surrounded by natural beauty and awe-inspiring vistas. And I too seek to live, play and process this beautiful life in the good company of enquiring companions, preferably outside as much as possible, with integrity, curiosity, compassion and a shared sense of community.

Sue Lee, MEd Counselling, RCC #15110 I believe in hope. Humans are dynamic, growing, transformi... Read More

When you sit with Rachel you will feel her calm, accepting presence and her gentle caring curiosity; she wants to understand who you are, what you’ve been through, and how you cope in the world. Rachel welcomes and accepts every part of you and through your work together, you will learn that change can happen when you work alongside someone who provides the safety to share your story and look at your unique experiences. Rachel knows this takes great courage and honours this courage. Together you will form a team, each bringing invaluable knowledge, experience, and wisdom to the therapeutic relationship.

Rachel works from an understanding that counselling is a journey and journeys take us somewhere, sometimes to places we never even knew we needed to be. Wherever you want to start, whatever pace you want to take, and wherever the journey leads you, Rachel will be there beside you; listening, caring, and gently inviting you to develop a deeper understanding of the ways you feel, think, and behave. She will help you discover hidden strengths and new perspectives that will deepen your connection to yourself and your loved ones.

Nature is a great teacher, and it’s Rachel’s passion for incorporating nature into the change process led her to specialize in Nature-Based Therapy (NBT). As well as traditional office-based talk therapy, Rachel offers NBT as a creative and experiential therapeutic alternative. NBT can help foster a sense of belonging within family, community, self, and the non-human natural world. With nature as our co-therapist, we open ourselves to learning from our broader ecological systems, building greater awareness of our internal and external lives, and our connectedness to ourselves, others, and the world around us. Nature-Based Therapy works in metaphors, exploration, discovery, guided sensory awareness, focusing on the body, restoration, and regulation. NBT is suitable for individual, relationship, and family therapy.

Having completed initial training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Rachel’s relationship counselling is grounded in the understanding that feeling connected in our closest relationships is fundamental to our sense of well-being. We are relational beings who seek safety and security in others, be it our partners, our friends, our communities, and/or the more-than-human world. Rachel welcomes an exploration of each person’s unique attachment history in order to help create new ways of connecting to strengthen your relationship/s.

When you sit with Rachel you will feel her calm, accepting presence and her gentle caring curiosi... Read More

CAROLINE BRADFIELD (she/ her) MACP, RCC, Please note Caroline is NOT accepting new clients at this time.

Registered Clinical Counsellor #11845, Master’s in Counselling Psychology, founder of Comox Valley Counselling. Therapy for relationships, individuals, and families.

FNHA registered. CVAP Service Provider.

CAROLINE BRADFIELD, (she/ her) MACP, RCC #11845, is a QUALIFIED CLINICAL SUPERVISOR, OWNER/FOUNDER OF CVC

To contact Caroline please email caroline@comoxvalleycounselling.ca

CAROLINE BRADFIELD (she/ her) MACP, RCC, Please note Caroline is NOT accepting new clients at thi... Read More