Duncan Counsellors | Island Clinical Counselling

Therapy in Duncan

Looking for counselling in Duncan or the Cowichan Valley? At Island Clinical Counselling, we provide supportive, down-to-earth care for individuals, couples, first responders, and families navigating life’s challenges. Our team offers in-person counselling, including EMDR and play therapy, helping clients with concerns such as anxiety, stress, relationship issues, and life transitions. If you’re outside this area, we also offer virtual counselling across BC.

We understand the importance of feeling comfortable and supported when reaching out for help, and we aim to create a welcoming space where you can explore what’s going on and move forward with confidence.

Accessible Counselling & Sliding Scale Options

We are committed to making counselling more accessible.

Lower-cost therapy options are available through our student counsellors.  These services offer high-quality, supervised, low-cost counselling in Duncan.

Get Matched to a Counsellor:

Call our admin team at: 778-762-3750, ext 1. 

You can also explore our Nanaimo counselling team here.

Duncan Counselling Team
Island Clinical Counselling — Duncan

Duncan Counselling Team

Use the filter below to find the right Duncan counsellor for you.

11 counsellors · students, interns, and registered clinicians

Find Your Counsellor

Narrow down our Duncan counsellors by who they see, what they specialize in, when they're available, and more.

Filter this team

Who they see
Approach
Ages
Funding accepted
Specialty focus
Mental health & diagnoses
Life & identity
Availability
Fees & insurance
Every counsellor also offers
Not a filter — every counsellor on the team offers these, so checking one won't narrow the list.
Showing all 11
Anne-Marie Reilander
$150–165 / sessionCertified Clinician
Duncan
Accepting new clients
Carolyn Broadhurst
$165–180 / sessionCertified Clinician
Duncan · Downtown
Accepting new clients
David Alder
$70 / sessionIntern
Duncan
Accepting new clients
Ellen LePage
Pay What You CanStudent
Duncan
Not currently accepting new clients
Erin Generous
Pay What You CanStudent
Duncan · Parksville · Downtown · North
Accepting new clients
Kaitlynn Fawkes
Pay What You CanStudent
Duncan
Accepting new clients
Kate Bonnell
$150–165 / sessionCertified Clinician
Duncan
Accepting new clients
Larrissa Fowler
$70 / sessionStudent
Duncan
Returning 2027. Connect with our Client Care Team for interim support.
Lorri Simpson
$165–180 / sessionCertified Clinician
Duncan
Accepting new clients
Melissa Laird
$150–165 / sessionCertified Clinician
Duncan
Accepting new clients
Monica Dice
$150–165 / sessionCertified Clinician
Duncan
Accepting new clients
Island Clinical Counselling — Duncan

About Our Duncan Therapy Team

Carolyn Broadhurst

Carolyn Broadhurst

I am a Senior Clinician at ICC with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, specializing in the treatment of complex traumatic stress and related concerns, including C-PTSD, OCD, ADHD, PMDD, borderline traits, complex family dynamics and co-dependency, disordered eating, workplace burnout, and major life transitions.
 
My approach is warm (but not too gooey!): I am grounded and supportive, but also clear and direct when it matters. Together, we’ll co-construct a safe, values-aligned treatment plan that supports meaningful and sustainable change. 
 
Our therapeutic relationship matters to me, and I will check in regularly to see how you are doing.  Research continues to show that the strength and safety of this relationship is the most reliable predictor of successful client outcomes in therapy, and I take that seriously.  In practice, this means creating a space where you feel safe enough to: admit you didn’t try any of the strategies we discussed (and thought about cancelling the session), let me know when I’ve missed the mark, or share a small win (knowing that I’m genuinely invested).  It also means making room for humour, humanity, and the reality that growth is rarely linear.
 
A few extra tidbits:  before moving into full-time private practice, I spent nearly two decades in BC public education as a counsellor and district mental health lead.  I am also a neurodivergent practitioner and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community – I bring a lived understanding of the complexity, nuance, and resilience that often accompany these identities.
 
Education and Training:
I completed my Master’s in Counselling Psychology at the University of British Columbia in 2014, including extensive supervised clinical training.  I have been working in private practice since 2016.
 
My clinical work is informed by ongoing post-graduate training, with a primary focus on:
  • Internal Family Systems (IFS) – primary modality
  • Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB)
  • Sensorimotor Psychotherapy
  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT)
  • Additional training in attachment trauma, high-conflict divorce, and parent/caregiver burnout
I am also a Certified Trainer in Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NCI) through the Crisis Prevention Institute, as well as Advanced Psychological First Aid.
 
Who I Work With:
*Quick note for parents/caregivers of children over 10:
  • A free virtual consultation with the parent/caregiver is required prior to booking a first session for children or youth
  • Parent intake sessions are strongly recommended before starting direct work with children/youth, especially for children ages 10-15 and/or youth who are hesitant to engage in treatment.  
Session Details
  • Individual sessions (in-person or virtual)
  • Standard sessions are 50 minutes in length
  • 30- and 80-minute sessions are also available
I am currently working toward the Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) designation with the BCACC and offer virtual supervision sessions at a reduced rate.
 
Fees
    • 50-minute session: $165
    • Direct billing available with many providers (as of April 2026)
    • A credit card on file is required for any remaining balance

Email: carolyn.broadhurst@islandclinicalcounselling.ca
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 110
Pronouns: She/Her
Registration: BCACC RCC 12886

Locations:  Downtown Nanaimo, Duncan, or Virtual.


 

Lorri Simpson

I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for adults, couples, and families seeking healing, growth, and meaningful change.

My Story: 

I have worked as a psychotherapist for the past 30 years; throughout this time, I have had the privilege to witness profound changes and healing in people. For this reason, I am passionate about this work. I trust implicitly in each person’s ability to heal and to thrive. 

I was inspired to help others following several years of doing my own healing work with a gifted clinical social worker/family therapist. The therapeutic relationship provides the basis for helping people to reconnect, in a deeply meaningful way, to themselves and to others. Over the course of the past 30 years, I have enjoyed ongoing training and learning; I have worked with people of all life stages from a wide variety of backgrounds. As a result, I am very comfortable working with many concerns. Work experience has included: private practice with individuals, couples, groups, as well as working within family service agencies, child and adult mental health services, trauma recovery services, employee and family assistance services, and addictions recovery services. 

My approach is holistic and collaborative. We may explore a variety of therapeutic modalities such as: cognitive-behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, trauma therapy (if appropriate), grief therapy, body-based healing approaches, and energy practices from energy psychology, yoga, etc. The approach will be decided by us together following a comprehensive assessment to determine underlying causes. If other agencies and community services are involved in your care, a team approach will be taken.  Most people do experience some degree of healing, and, with treatment, effort, and time, improvements will occur. 

My specializations are:  

  • trauma therapy for post-traumatic stress 
  • therapy for healing depression and anxiety 
  • relationship therapy, including Integrative Sex and Couples therapy 
  • consultations for spiritual growth and evolution 

I work extensively with individuals who are coping with symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief, and post-traumatic stress. In addition, many of the people I see are struggling to create meaningful change in their relationships. I work with couples and families to help them learn to better manage conflict, achieve greater understanding, and build a stronger connection – physical and emotional. Many people also come to therapy to grow through life transitions and to evolve spiritually. My approach is to emphasize each person’s, couple’s, and family’s strengths and to work collaboratively with them. We work together to co-create their vision of a fulfilling relationship and life. Each person possesses the capacity to heal. Therapy is a vehicle for tapping into that intuitive guidance and wealth of inner resources. 

Areas of Practice 

  • Transforming trauma – healing post-traumatic stress from accidents, witnessing violence, abuse (emotional, physical, and sexual), separations and losses, bullying, childhood wounding, workplace stress and trauma, illness. 
  • Healing depression, anxiety, and grief 
  • Strengthening relationships – couples and families. 
  • Overcoming addictions 
  • Attention Deficit Disorder assessment and therapy 
  • Evolving spiritually through life transitions. 

Therapeutic Modalities 

Education and Training 

  • Bachelor of Psychology (B.A. Honours) 
  • Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) 
  • Master of Social Work (MSW) 

Professional Memberships and Affiliations 

  • BCASW #1000951 BC Association of Social Workers 
  • BCCSW #04070 BC College of Social Workers, Registered Clinical Social Worker 
  • EMDR Canada 
Fees & Direct Billing
    • 50-minute individual session: $165 
    • 50-minute couples/family session: $180  
  • I can direct bill to Pacific Blue Cross, Telus E-Claims, First Nations Health Authority, Veterans’ Affairs, Crime Victims Assistance, and the Autism Funding Unit if approved as a service provider for your family.

Populations Served: Individual adults, couples, and families. In Person or Virtual.

Email: lorri.simpson@islandclinicalcounselling.ca
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 135
Text/Direct Line: 250-212-6775

Locations:  Duncan, or Virtual, on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.  Please email Lorri for more availability. Lorri asks that her clients email admin or call the office to book an appointment.

 

Melissa Laird

Melissa Laird
Melissa Laird, MC, RCC

Whether you’re supporting a struggling child, managing anxiety or burnout, coping with grief and loss, or seeking greater self-understanding, therapy can provide a space to heal, grow, and reconnect with yourself.

Welcome — and thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. Finding the right counsellor is crucial, and I’m honoured you’re considering inviting me into your journey.

I live, work, and play alongside the Halalt and Cowichan Tribes communities in what is also known as the Cowichan Valley. Alongside my work as a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I bring over 10 years of experience supporting children, youth, and families across a variety of settings.

My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. I believe meaningful healing begins with a genuine human connection where one feels heard and understood. Rather than using a structured approach with every client, I tailor my therapeutic approach to each individual’s unique needs and goals.

Whether you’re navigating difficult emotions, processing challenging experiences, strengthening communication, or building deeper self-awareness, I’m here to walk alongside you.

Education and Training:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care from the University of the Fraser Valley
  • Master of Counselling from City University

Certificates in:

  • Applied Suicide Intervention Training (ASIST)
  • Trauma-Focused – Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
  • Art Therapy: Creative Interventions for Kids with Trauma, Anxiety, ADHD
  • Infertility, Pregnancy Loss & Reproductive Trauma

Areas of Focus:

Therapeutic Modalities:

  • Person-Centred Therapy
  • Strength-Based
  • Solution Focused
  • Narrative
  • Activity and Play-Based modalities
  • Art Therapy
  • Somatic and Mindfulness
  • Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

If we sound like a good fit, feel free to book a free 15-minute consult to connect and discuss the next steps.

I can direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit if I am approved as a service provider for your family. Contact Autism Funding for more information.

I am in the process of registering with Insurance companies for direct billing. Reach out for clarification on which ones are available.

Age Ranges served: 7+

Individual adults, children, and youth. Family Counselling. In Person or Virtual.

Email: melissa.laird@islandclinicalcounselling.ca
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext 163
Text: (778) 612-0241
Pronouns: She/Her
Fees: $150.00-165.00 per session
Registration: BCACC RCC 21568

Location: Melissa works as a counsellor in the Duncan clinic on Mondays, Fridays, and some Saturdays.

Monica Dice

Monica Dice

Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD, insomnia, trauma, relationship challenges, or supporting a child, teen, or family member through life’s difficulties? You don’t have to navigate it alone.

I believe healing begins when people feel safe, understood, and genuinely supported. It takes courage to reach out for help and share your story, and I consider it a privilege to walk alongside individuals, couples, children, youth, and families as they work toward meaningful change.

With more than 30 years of experience in the helping profession, I have had the opportunity to support people through some of life’s most challenging and transformative moments. My work has included outreach programs, schools, crisis intervention services, social services, and community-based supports. These experiences have shaped my strengths-based, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approach to counselling.

I have a deep appreciation for the importance of community, culture, and connection. Throughout my career, I have been honoured to work alongside Indigenous communities and individuals from diverse backgrounds, learning from their experiences and supporting their unique goals and strengths. I recognize that healing often happens within relationships and communities, and I welcome collaboration with families, support systems, and other professionals when it serves my clients’ best interests.

My practice is client-driven, compassionate, and non-judgmental. Whether you are seeking support for anxiety, depression, OCD, sleep difficulties, trauma, neurodiversity, relationship concerns, identity exploration, life transitions, or family challenges, I strive to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered.

Together, we can explore your strengths, build practical tools, deepen self-understanding, and work toward the changes that matter most to you. My goal is not to direct your journey, but to walk alongside you as you discover your own path forward.

Areas of Focus:

Education, Certification, and Specialized Training:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care from the University of Victoria
  • Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University 
  • International OCD Foundation: OCD Basics
  • Suicide Intervention
  • Cultural Diversity
  • Comprehensive Behavioural Interventions
  • At risk youth
  • Gabor Mate’s Compassionate Inquiry In Action
  • Trauma Healing with Bessel van der Kolk
  • Psychopharmacology: Essential Updates for Mental Health Professionals
  • Rebuilding Trust in ADHD-Impacted Relationships
  • How Attention Works, Why it Fails, & How to Train It
  • Young Adults with ADHD: Navigating Academia and Adulting
  • How Attachment, Trauma & Temperament Shape Personality: Applications from Interpersonal Neurobiology to Inspire Clinical Work with Dr. Dan Siegel
  • Mindfulness and Interpersonal Neurobiology in Clinical Practice with Jon Kabat-Zinn and Dan Siegel
  • ADHD Certification Course: What’s New & What’s Next in Supporting Neurodiverse Clients
  • Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy Professional (C-DBT) Training: An Advanced Online Skills Training for Adapting Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Everyday Clinical Needs
  • Complex Trauma Certification Training: Interventions from EMDR, Parts Work, CPT, and Polyvagal Theory
  • Suicide and Self-Harm in Adolescents: Effective Assessment and Intervention Strategies for Young People in Crisis
  • Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF – CBT)
  • Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) Core Clinician Training
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Anxiety and Depression
  • Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Depressed Adolescents (IPT-A)
  • Group Therapy
  • CBT for ARFID

I hope to enjoy using a multitude of therapeutic modalities and approaches such as solution-focused therapy, client centered, humanistic approaches, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapies.

If your benefits cover Registered Clinical Counsellors, then my services should be covered. I am unable to direct bill to private insurance.  Please submit your receipts to your benefits provider for reimbursement.  

Age ranges served: all ages.
Session Types:  Individual adults, children, and youth.  Families and Couples Counselling.  In Person or Virtual.

Email: monica.dice@islandclinicalcounselling.ca
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 119
Pronouns: She/Her
Fees: $150-165 per session (Registered Clinician Rates)
Registration: BCACC RCC 22230

Location:  Monica provides counselling in our Duncan location on Monday and Wednesday evenings.  

Kate Bonnell

Kate Bonnell

I feel my role as a counsellor is helping people explore whatever they feel might be holding them back from living in the way they want.

Have you recently discovered you’re autistic or have ADHD and suddenly feel like your entire life makes more sense?

“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we are supposed to be, and embracing who we are.” -Brené Brown

I believe that everyone has the potential to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life, regardless of their history. I aim to promote clients finding their own way through the challenges that come with existence and encourage them to connect with their strengths. Stripping away old narratives to embrace their true selves, in alignment with their core values. My approach is rooted in empowerment and collaboration. I welcome folks of all orientations and genders, and work to be inclusive and affirming. I take a whole-person approach – always. I work with a variety of presenting concerns, however I am passionate about working with adults who are late discovered with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity (ADH) or autism, as I find there is a re-working of identity that comes with learning you’ve been living life on ‘hard mode.’  Moving towards self-acceptance and learning about the differences in how a neurodiverse brain works, and the impact on relationships, are large parts of my practice.

My early career in healthcare focused on helping people to accommodate limitations from injury, and that still informs my work to find ways for people to find satisfaction regardless of the constraints they work with in their current situation. Personally, I don’t really subscribe to the idea of finding your one true path in life. I believe that we find meaning each day wherever we currently are.

Areas of Focus:

Education and Training:

My Master of Counselling Psychology is through Yorkville University, and my undergrad is in Kinesiology at the University of Calgary. This blend of mind and body is my lens for holistic wellness, and integrative healthcare. My counselling practicum in private practice, with a focus on autism and neurodivergent affirming care.

Direct Billing: I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association and you should be able to submit receipts to most benefit plans.  I am able to work with clients in British Columbia and the unregulated provinces.   If your plan allows it, I can direct bill to some insurance plans, see them here.  If approved as a service provider, I can direct bill the Autism Funding Unit for adult and couples counselling.  I also provide direct billing to Crime Victims Assistance (CVAP).

Therapeutic Modalities:

My style is dependent on the client I am working with and the topics we are engaging about, but I use methods influenced by:

  • Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical Behavioural therapy (DBT)
  • Internal Family Systems (parts work)
  • Somatic Experiencing
  • Strengths-based and Person-Centered Counselling
  • Emotion-focused therapy (EFT)
  • Non-Violent Communication
  • Behavioural Activation
  • Group Therapy

Group Therapy:

Age ranges served: Adult 18+
Session Types: Individual adults and couples Counselling. In Person or Virtual.
Fees: $150-165 per session (Registered Clinician Rates)
Registration: CCPA CCC 11247230

Email: kate.bonnell@islandclinicalcounselling.ca
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 130
Text: 250-410-1577
Pronouns: She/Her 

Location:  Kate provides counselling in our Duncan location on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

To learn more about Kate, check out our blog post about her!  Learn even more about Kate from this podcast episode about neurodivergence! Learn more about Kate in her Psychology Today profile. Check out Kate’s video biography below.

Anne-Marie Reilander

Anne-Marie Reilander

I believe healing happens through connection. I offer a compassionate, collaborative space where you can feel genuinely seen and supported while reconnecting with your strengths and finding a path forward that feels meaningful to you.

Life can be challenging, and sometimes we need a place to slow down, make sense of what we are experiencing, and reconnect with ourselves. I believe each person has an innate capacity for growth and healing, even when that capacity feels difficult to access. My hope is to create a space where you feel genuinely welcomed, accepted, and supported just as you are.

My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to your individual needs. I draw from Person-Centred Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Brainspotting, and the Gottman Method. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, we can explore what is happening in your life, understand the patterns or experiences that may be keeping you stuck, and identify the strengths and resources you already carry.

My counselling experience includes supporting adults with addiction, trauma, anxiety, mental health concerns, relationship challenges, and significant life transitions, as well as working with children and families. I have supported people experiencing substance use and concurrent mental health concerns within residential treatment and have also worked within the Quw’utsun community through Cowichan Tribes. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to culturally safe, respectful, and trauma-informed care.

Before becoming a counsellor, I spent many years working in education and educational leadership, both in Canada and overseas. That background continues to shape how I work: listening carefully, meeting people where they are, and recognizing that every person brings their own knowledge, experiences, and strengths into the counselling room.

In our sessions, you do not need to arrive knowing exactly what is wrong or what you need. We can begin wherever you are. Together, we may explore your thoughts, emotions, relationships, past experiences, or the different “parts” of yourself that emerge during difficult moments. My role is not to tell you who to be, but to help you better understand yourself and move toward greater self-compassion, connection, and meaningful change.

Areas of Focus:

  • Couples Counselling and Relationships
  • Anxiety
  • Trauma
  • Depression
  • Addiction & Substance Use
  • Stress & Burnout
  • Self-Esteem & Self-Compassion
  • Life Transitions
  • Post-Secondary Student Support
  • Identity Support
  • Child and Youth Counselling
  • Art and Play Therapy
  • Educational Support
  • Faith-Based Support
  • Spiritual Support
  • LGBTQ+ Affirming Support

Therapeutic Approaches:

  • Person-Centred Therapy
  • Internal Family Systems (IFS)
  • Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
  • Narrative Therapy
  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
  • Mindfulness
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
  • Brainspotting
  • Gottman Method Couples Therapy
  • Play Therapy
  • Art Therapy

Education and Training:

  • Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) — Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association
  • Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology — Yorkville University
  • Bachelor of Education & Master of Teaching — University of Calgary
  • Bachelor of Arts — University of Alberta
  • 500-Hour Yoga Instructor Certification — Rishikesh, India

Age ranges served: All
Session Types: Individual child, youth, adults, families and couples counselling. In Person or Virtual.
Please note: For all appointments for children under 12, please select a parent appointment first to gather all relevant history. 
Fees: $150-165 per session (Registered Clinician Rates)
Registration: CCPA CCC 11260760

Email: annemarie.reilander@islandclinicalcounselling.ca
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 167
Text: (778) 373-6622
Pronouns: She/Her 

Location:  Anne-Marie provides counselling in our Duncan location on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays with virtual sessions on Tuesdays.

Larrissa Fowler

Larrissa Fowler

LARRISSA IS ON LEAVE UNTIL APRIL 2027
 
We are deeply impacted and shaped in relationships. Being deeply seen, heard, and understood by another can be profoundly healing, I understand the vulnerability and courage involved in reaching out for support, and I am so glad you are here.

I am a graduate student completing my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy at Trinity Western University. I practice from an attachment-based, emotion-focused, trauma-informed, wholistic, and non-pathologizing perspective. I am excited to be an intern with Island Clinical Counselling, providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families of all ages facing various challenges.

I prioritize compassion and emotional attunement when walking alongside clients as they pursue healing and growth in a safe, nonjudgmental space. I desire to witness people experience restoration, hope, and flourishing in their lives here and now, believing people have the capability to experience change and thrive in their lives and relationships. Throughout my studies, I have particularly enjoyed studying Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, Satir Family Therapy, and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and draw from these modalities in my practice. I have also gained hands-on experience and training in sand tray therapy with adults, adolescents, and children. I have personally experienced the power of having an attuned other walk alongside me in therapy and feel it is the greatest honour to be invited to journey alongside others.

Outside my work and pursuing studies, I love being outdoors (especially in the sunshine or by a body of water), buying flowers from local farm stands, travelling, spending time with my husband, family, and friends, and going for walks with my dog.

Areas of Focus:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Relationships
  • Couples/Families
  • Individuals
  • Self-Esteem
  • Life Transitions
  • Stress
  • Women’s Issues
  • Emotional Disturbance
  • Peer Relationships
  • Children & Adolescents
  • Family-of-origin challenges
  • Faith Based Support

Education:

  • Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy, Trinity Western University (in progress)
  • Bachelor of Arts: Psychology Major with Art: Studio Orientation Minor, Trinity Western University

Additional Training:

  • Introduction to Sand Tray Therapy Certificate (2025)
  • Grief Group Facilitation Workshop (2025)
  • Prepare/Enrich Facilitator Training (2024)
  • Externship in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples Therapy (2026)

I can direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit if I am approved as a service provider for your family. Contact Autism Funding for more information.

Age ranges served: All
Session Types: Individual adults, children, and youth. Family and Couples Counselling. In Person or Virtual.

Email: larrissa.fowler@islandclinicalcounselling.ca
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 132
Pronouns: She/her
Professional Affiliation: The Canadian Association for Couples and Family Therapy – Student Member
Fees: $70.00-85 per session

Location: I work in Duncan on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Check out Larrissa’s video biography below:

David Alder

David Alder

If you’ve spent years feeling different, misunderstood, or exhausted by trying to keep up with expectations that don’t fit you, you’re not alone.

“Life can be overwhelming at the best of times, and I would be honoured to support you in your path forward.”

 
Hi, I’m David Alder (he/him), a counselling intern with Island Clinical Counselling. I support clients at our Duncan location by helping navigate life’s challenges and complexities.
 
Originally from Squamish, I moved to Victoria to study psychology at UVic and quickly realized that Vancouver Island was where I wanted to plant my roots. Before transitioning into counselling, I spent nearly a decade working on the front lines of community housing support in Victoria. This enriching experience taught me that people of all backgrounds possess an incredible capacity for resilience and growth with the necessary support.
 
I believe therapy is most effective when grounded in your unique strengths. My approach is client-centred and goal-oriented; we will work together to highlight your successes and find practical, evidence-based ways to overcome your challenges. Having lived experience with invisible disabilities, I bring a personal understanding of what it means to move through a world that isn’t always built for us. I am passionate about creating a safe, inclusive space for people of all backgrounds, orientations, and abilities.
 
Whether navigating neurodiversity, managing a major life change, or simply feeling stuck, my goal is to bring empathy and evidence-based tools to our sessions. Living with ADH and Mild Tourette’s syndrome informs my practice and helps me recognize what it’s like to live with an invisible disability or identity. As a 2SLGBTQIA+ ally, I aim to offer the support that many feel they have had to work extra hard for.
 
Outside of therapy, I recharge through home cooking, gaming, paddleboarding, and exploring the great outdoors. I view wellness as holistic, and I look forward to helping you build a life that feels authentic, enjoyable, and sustainable.”

Modalities and Certifications:

  • Certification in Foundational Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
  • Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
  • Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT)
  • Narrative Therapy
  • Feminist Therapy
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • The Dos and Don’ts of Counselling Neurodivergent Clients:  A Trauma Informed Somatic Approach to Autism and ADH
  • Indigenous Approaches to Healing
  • SPACE: Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (learn more in our blog post)

My areas of interest include:

I can direct bill to the Autism Funding Unit if I am approved as a service provider for your family. Contact Autism Funding for more information.

Age ranges served: Children 7+, teens, and adults
Session Types: individual adults, individual children and youth, families, couples in-person sessions, or virtual. 

Email: david.alder@islandclinicalcounselling.ca
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 134
Text: (250) 410-0946
Fees: $70.00 per session (not covered by benefit plans)

Location: I will be working at the Duncan office Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays.

Learn more about David in this blog post about him!  Learn more on my Psychology Today profile.  Check out David’s video biography below:

Ellen LePage

Ellen LePage

Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, family conflict, or a difficult life transition, you deserve a space where you can feel supported and understood.

Hello! My name is Ellen.

I offer a supportive and empathetic space to share your experiences and current challenges. Together, we can navigate what you are looking for out of counselling, your goals, and the best way to get you there.

I am a master’s candidate from Yorkville University’s Master of Arts and Counselling Psychology program. I am also a Registered Social Worker with a graduate certificate in complex trauma from the Justice Institute. I have experience working with youth, concurrent disorders, and trauma, but welcome anyone looking for support. I have an extensive understanding of the child protection system and mandated psychiatric services.

I understand that counselling can be a scary and vulnerable process, and I want it to be as safe, productive, and healing as possible. I am genuinely curious about your unique worldview and excited to work with people from diverse backgrounds.
I view problems holistically with a focus on an individual’s search for meaning, purpose, and authentic self-expression. I use a variety of frameworks, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Narrative therapy.

On a personal front, I am a cisgender female born in the prairies, but have lived in Vancouver and Vancouver Island for the past 20 years. I have a one-year-old son and love eating pasta, going for walks, and watching TV!

Areas of Focus:
  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Depression
  • Relationship issues
Education, Certification, and Specialized Training:
  • Bachelor of Social Work from Vancouver Island University
  • Graduate Certificate in Complex Trauma from the Justice Institute of British Columbia

Age ranges served: 7+

Session Types: Individual adults, children, and youth. In Person or Virtual.

Email: ellen.lepage@islandclinicalcounselling.ca
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 161
Pronouns: She/Her
Registration: BC College of Social Workers 16539. Please note that if your benefits cover Registered Social Workers, these appointments may be covered.
Fees: $70 with sliding scale using the Pay What You Can Program.  Ellen completes her practicum in December 2026.

Location: Ellen works in Duncan on Fridays and Saturdays.

Kaitlynn Fawkes

Kaitlynn Fawkes

Hi, my name is Kaitlynn Fawkes (she/her), and I am a counselling intern with Island Clinical Counselling at the Duncan location.  

Having grown up in the Cowichan Valley, I feel deeply connected to this community and grateful for the opportunity to support the people who live here. My own experiences as a young person inspired me to pursue a career in counselling and fostered a passion for helping others navigate life’s challenges. I completed a Bachelor of Child and Youth Care and am currently completing my Master of Counselling at City University. 

Over the past four years, I have worked alongside youth and their caregivers, providing one-on-one support throughout the Cowichan Valley. I have also supported youth and families experiencing substance use concerns and housing insecurity. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to social justice, advocacy, and creating spaces where people feel heard, respected, and supported. 

While I am especially passionate about working with youth and bring extensive experience in this area, I am excited to work with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and life stages. I value the opportunity to walk alongside people as they navigate challenges, build on their strengths, and move toward the changes that matter most to them. 

As someone who has experienced both sides of the counselling relationship, I understand how vulnerable it can feel to reach out for support. I have great respect for the courage it takes to begin counselling and to continue showing up for yourself throughout the process. I believe that growth often involves stepping into discomfort, and my role is to help clients navigate that process in a way that feels safe, supportive, and manageable. 

My approach is person-centred and relational. I believe that meaningful change happens within the context of a strong therapeutic relationship, and I strive to create a space where clients feel genuinely seen, accepted, and understood. Together, we will focus on the goals that are important to you, moving at a pace that feels right while drawing on evidence-based approaches tailored to your unique needs and experiences. 

My goal is to provide a counselling space that is trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, and 2SLGBTQI+ allied. I recognize that safety and comfort look different for everyone, and I am committed to working collaboratively with each person to create an environment where they feel respected, empowered, and supported. 

Whether you are seeking support for a specific challenge or simply looking for a space to explore what is important to you, I would be honoured to be part of your journey. 

 Areas of focus:  

  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity (ADH), Autism and Neurodiversity 
  • Body Image and Eating Concerns  
  • Relational Challenges  
  • Life Transitions  
  • Anxiety  
  • Depression 
  • Youth and Families  
  • Postpartum Depression  
  • Digital Wellness 
  • Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) 
  • Neurodivergent Burnout  

Therapeutic Modalities:  

  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy  
  • Mentalization Therapy  
  • Strength Based Approaches  
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy  
  • Motivational Interviewing  
  • Narrative Therapy  
  • Family Systems Therapy  
  • Person Centred Therapy  
  • Experiential Therapy  

Education:  

  • Currently completing my Master’s Counselling from City University of Seattle (2027) 
  • Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care from Vancouver Island University (2022)  

Trainings and Certifications  

  • Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)  
  • San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training  
  • Trauma Informed Practice – Level 1  
  • Intro to Gender Diversity – Expanded  
  • Utilizing Dungeons and Dragons Through Adlerian Play Therapy Lens  

Age ranges served: all

Session Types: Individual adults, children, and youth; couples and families. In Person or Virtual.

Email: kaitlynn.fawkes@islandclinicalcounselling.ca
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 165
Pronouns: She/Her
Fees: $70 with sliding scale using the Pay What You Can Program

Location: Kaitlynn works in Duncan on Thursday evenings and all day Sundays.

Erin Generous

Erin Generous

Pronouns: She/Her

Finding the right counselling fit matters, and I encourage you to take the time you need to explore who feels right for you. If that happens to be me, I look forward to meeting you and working together to support your goals.

In our sessions, we’ll focus on building a trusting therapeutic relationship where you can share openly in a safe, confidential space and at a pace that feels comfortable for you. This is your time – a place to explore what feels overwhelming, make sense of your experiences, and discover a new direction or insight about yourself.

I practice from a person-centred approach and value authenticity and genuineness in the work we do together. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and supported while we explore what matters most to you.

In session, I integrate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, narrative and solution-focused strategies. Depending on your needs, we can draw from these perspectives or others to help you understand patterns, build new skills, and move towards meaningful change.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in child and youth care and have 24 years of experience working with children, youth, and families. I work with all ages 10 and above. I value diversity and recognize that each of us brings our own background, values, and life experiences into the therapeutic space. Even if we share similarities, we may experience them differently, and I honour those differences in our work together.

In my spare time, I enjoy nature, photography, reading books and spending time with my family and enjoy others with a good sense of humour.

Area of Focus:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Neurodiversity
  • Stress management
  • Life Transitions
  • Children 10+ & Adolescents
  • ADHD
  • Self-worth and self-esteem
  • Burnout and self-compassion

Education:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care
  • Currently completing my master’s degree in counselling psychology at Yorkville University (in progress)

Additional certifications completed:

  • CBT for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for adults
  • The Dos and Don’ts of Counselling Neurodivergent Clients: A Trauma- Informed Somatic Approach to Autism and ADH
  • An Introduction to Behavioural Activation for Treating Depression
  • Professional Affiliation: BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC- Student Member).

Location: North Nanaimo (Wednesdays), Duncan (Thursdays), Nanaimo downtown (Fridays- bi-weekly), Parksville (Saturdays).

Session Types: One-on-one adults, adolescents ages 10+, couples and families. In-person or virtual.

Email:erin.generous@islandclinicalcounselling.ca  
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 164
Pronouns: She/Her
Fees: $70 with sliding scale or apply for the Pay What You Can program. (not covered by benefit plans)