Welcome

Individual counselling and community consulting services on Vancouver Island.

My vision

I believe that therapy should be accessible to everyone in a way that feels safe and honours your unique needs.

Navigating the complexities of being a human being can sometimes feel daunting and isolating. I see therapy as a way to heal and better understand all the strategies that may have helped with difficult emotions in the past but are no longer working. I believe human beings were never meant to experience difficult things on their own. Having a connection with another person that feels safe and authentic is where healing can happen.

Sometimes it can feel difficult to find a therapist that is a good fit because some therapeutic approaches fail to acknowledge the complexities of being a human being. Many of the people I have worked with have experienced various forms of systemic oppression like racism, gendered discrimination, and ableism. I believe therapy should be a place that creates warmth and safety for one to explore and visit all complex facets of the human experience.

 

Collectivism is central to many cultures where the individual always exists in relationship with their family or community. Ideas like “just follow your dreams” or “just have firm boundaries with people” can be problematic because it doesn’t include the relationships with our families or communities.

Together we can acknowledge and explore difficult, multifaceted situations and find ways to honour yourself, your family/community, and embrace your culture.

I’m Yumiko, a qualified

psychotherapist.

My work is guided by trauma responsive, strength-based, and anti-oppressive frameworks.

Who I typically work with:

Typically, my clients are working through stress, depression, anxiety, childhood adversity, and cultural identity exploration.

I predominantly work with racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+, and/or neurodivergent folks who are experiencing symptoms of C-PTSD (Complex-Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).

How can I help you?

 

Individual counselling sessions (teens and adults)

I would love the opportunity to explore the roots of your struggles and concerns with you. By doing so, we can begin to alleviate the suffering you may be experiencing.

Parent consultation, community consulting and workshops

I offer 1:1 parent consultation and group consultations to support growth in topics such as: infant development (infant mental health), intergenerational trauma, childhood anxiety, and early childhood trauma.

My approach in therapy

The foundation of effective and meaningful therapy lies in the relationship between you and I. That relationship will support the therapeutic work of navigating the complexities of your interior landscape. Sometimes that landscape can feel messy, complicated, and intense, but the trust and safety the therapeutic relationship provides can be a powerful anchor.

I draw from several approaches that include: NARM (Neuroaffective Relational Model), AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy), Somatic therapy, Mindful Self-Compassion, and Polyvagal theory. I offer the Safe and Sound Protocol as a tool to regulate the nervous system and reduce stress and anxiety. You can find out more information about the Safe and Sound Protocol here. I blend neuroscience, attachment science, and movement to support clients.

Book a Free Consultation

How to get started:

 

01

After having a peek at my website, we can schedule a free consultation call so you can get a sense of what I’m like as a therapist. This call offers a chance to get to know me and for me to get to know what is challenging for you.

02

If you feel that working with me would be a good fit for you, I’ll ask you to fill out a form that covers confidentiality, your background information, and policies.

03

During our first session, we will begin to get a good understanding of what has been challenging for you and begin to build a roadmap of how our work together can support you.

More details & FAQ

  • My session rate is $135 +GST CAD

  • Sessions can be in person in Nanaimo at: 3150 Island Highway or virtual

  • Sessions are 50 minutes in length

  • To discuss my consultation fees, please contact me

  • Sliding scale/reduced fee spots are currently full. Please email to inquire about upcoming availability.

  • If you are needing reduced rate counselling, another option is to check out Open Path here

 

  • Please contact me to discuss payment options.

  • I sure am! I am registered with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors and hold the designation of RCC (Registered Clinical Counsellor #20576)

  • Great question! This is really up to each client. During our first intake session, we will discuss what you are hoping to get out of therapy which will determine how many sessions might feel useful.

    The clients I see attend anywhere from 5-12+ sessions depending on the intensity and depth of the work we do together.

    Healing can take time and often occurs in a non linear way.

  • Currently, I am offer both in person and virtual sessions.

    For in person sessions, there is hand sanitizer available and masking is optional unless advised by Island Health. I am happy to wear a mask if this feels more comfortable for you.

  • E transfers and credit cards are accepted.