Hello! My name is Aravis (she/her). It’s nice to meet you! My focus in counselling is to create a safe, warm, and down-to-earth environment, using a sense of humour to foster connection and help you feel more at ease during therapy. My goal is to support you in making meaningful, lasting changes that help you feel more like yourself. I take a strengths-based and anti- oppressive approach by integrating each client’s unique culture, identity, strengths, and support systems into the therapeutic process. No two people are the same, and as such, I take the time to get to know what is important to you and tailor my approach to what works best for you and your nervous system.
With over 7 years of experience working in community-based mental health services, I am experienced in working with individuals of all ages, families, and couples through navigating challenges such as trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, life transitions, burn- out, and suicidality. Together, I want to support you in evaluating your thoughts, connecting to your values and goals, and figuring out what is holding you back from the life you want. I use cognitive behavioral and compassion-focused therapeutic techniques in my practice and incorporate nature-based and mindfulness practices where I can, such as walk-and-talks.
My work with children specializes in individual play therapy, family attachment work, and parent- child interactions. I am trained to support children of any age through struggles of all kinds – from anxiety and self-esteem to big T trauma. I create a safe, nurturing space for your child to process big life events, heal from trauma, build coping skills, and learn about themselves through play, a child’s natural language, or trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
I believe the body and mind are intricately connected, and I hope to use a holistic approach to support you in your journey to wellness, rooted in evidence-based practices. Whether you are navigating personal growth, overcoming traumatic experiences, or adjusting to life changes, I am here to help you on your journey towards healing and well-being.