There are moments when we all need support. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected or stuck in the same relationship patterns. Maybe you’re carrying stress, self – doubt or uncertainty of whats next.
Whatever brings you here, you don’t have to have it all figured out.
Therapy offers a place to slow down, explore what’s going on beneath the surface and find supportive steps and tools to move forward with your life.
In our work together, we’ll slow things down and make space for what’s beneath the stress, anxiety, overwhelm, or relationship struggles you’re experiencing. We’ll get curious about the patterns that keep showing up in your life—not with judgment, but with compassion and understanding.
Although therapy can be challenging at times, I believe it to be a place we can access more joy, creativity and connection – where meaningful change can occur.
My path to becoming a counsellor began with my own search for relief from debilitating stress and anxiety.
Like many of my clients, I spent a lot of time trying to understand myself and make sense of the things that felt difficult. Along the way, I discovered approaches that helped me feel more connected to myself and less alone in what I was experiencing.
Those experiences continue to shape how I show up as a therapist today. I care deeply about creating a space where people can take off the mask, exhale, and talk about what’s really going on. A space where you don’t have to perform, have the right words, or carry it all alone.
When not in my office I’m often adventuring with my two dogs (Coco and Bramble), teaching yoga at Elements Movement, and getting my hands muddy making pottery.
I look forward to meeting you!
– CH.
– LP.
My struggles and stress shows up so often in my life. Somatic therapy has helped me to understand it better. Melissa guides me to feel more settled, and find my way through it. I can see a brighter future. Melissa helps me to feel so comfortable in the process! I didn’t realize the tension I was carrying through my life. I feel a bit softer, and like I can move forward with more ease. I’ve told so many friends about my experience with Melissa. If you’re on the fence, just reach out! It’s been amazing.
– MS.
Somatic therapy places a focus on how your body holds trauma, experiences, and patterns. While most talk therapy places emphasis on our mind’s understanding of our experiences, somatic therapy puts a focus on how our body holds the memory, and supports it from that lens.
Somatic therapy gets to the core of our imprints, from childhood experiences, to later adulthood. It’s transformative for those sticky patterns that won’t seem to budge, no matter how much mental understanding you may have around it. I don’t force our way into the body, if talking is more your preference and pace we can begin there.
My approach emphasizes creating an inclusive and supportive environment. I’ll walk along side you as we navigate together. LGTBQA2S++ and BIPOC clients warmly welcomed.
I’m a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor through the Association of Cooperative Counsellors. I’ve studied at Rhodes College, Orca Institute as well as training in Relational Somatic Therapy with Mariah Moser. I’m a life long learner and am fascinated by our nervous systems, attachment theory, relationship patterns and exploring ways to support myself and others in navigating life in a meaningful way. I’ve continued to study from the Gottman Institute, as well as Parts Work. I’m also a registered yoga teacher and passionately weave mindfulness into my practice with clients.
I am first, and foremost, my own test subject. I continue to develop myself, and truly believe in “walking the talk”. I humbly remain a student to this journey of life.
Please ask your insurance provider if RTC – Registered Therapeutic Counsellor is covered. Please reach out if you have any questions regarding this.
I live in qathet (Powell River), BC, Canada. My sessions happen over Zoom or in person. If you do live in qathet, I offer in person sessions out of Townsite Allied Health:
www.townsitealliedhealth.ca
I am deeply honoured that I get to live and work on the traditional and ancestral territory of ɬaʔamɩn (Tla’amin) people. I aim to continue my learning, growth and practice of reconciliation, recognizing it’s an ongoing and continuous journey.
When you arrive to the clinic, there is a waiting area for you to sit at as you wait for your appointment to start. I will greet you when you arrive and inform you of when I’m ready.
I offer tea when you come in and at times my dog Coco will be in the room. I have colouring pages, fidgets, blankets and pillows and encourage you to bring anything that might make your experience more comfortable. (some suggestions: knitting project, favourite fidget, or a snack!)
Our first appointment will involve getting to know you better and getting some clarity on a focus / goals for our time together.
