Alison Esau M.C., R.C.C.

I feel honoured to work with people during challenging moments in their lives. My approach is collaborative, empathetic and non-judgemental. I value the therapeutic relationship and support people in finding their own solutions. 

Do any of these statements sound familiar:

• I can’t stop worrying about things

• I just need to talk with someone who won’t judge me

• My drinking/ substance use is getting out of hand

• I can’t shake this feeling of being down all the time

• I have no idea what to do about this next transition. What is next for me?

• It’s hard to talk about things that have happened to me in my life

My areas of focus are:

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Substance use and other addictions

• Life transitions

• Body image related to pregnancy and postpartum

My goal is to support folks to achieve their goals by drawing on their own strength and resilience. I use skills of empathy, compassion and humour to create an environment that is safe and allows us to really understand people’s needs and how we can be effective in finding solutions. I use several different counselling modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and other humanistic and person-centred approaches. I have a certificate in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Prolonged Exposure Therapy. 

I have over 10 years of experience in the field of helping people. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in good standing. I have worked in non-profit and family service organizations providing substance use and mental health counselling. I completed my Bachelors of Social Work with a specialization in child welfare, and hold a Masters Degree in Counselling. Let’s work together. 

Credentials:

• Registered Clinical Counsellor in good standing with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (Member # 17204).

• MC Counselling, BSW specializing in child welfare