Hello, I'm Candice
I hold a Master of Education in Counselling Psychology from the University of Victoria and have been a BC Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) since 2007.
My undergraduate degree is in Child and Youth Care, also from the University of Victoria. With two decades of experience in clinical practice, teaching, and providing practicum supervision to adult learners, I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients on various challenges​.
After graduation, I supported individuals and families impacted by addiction and mental health in residential treatment centers. I then developed curriculum and programming as the lead clinician and clinical supervisor for a new treatment center, where I successfully integrated nature-based and movement therapy into the residential treatment program. Shortly thereafter, I transitioned into private practice, gaining the flexibility and autonomy that aligns with my personal and professional values.
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I’m excited about how far neuroscience has influenced my counselling practice, offering valuable insights into how the brain functions in relation to emotions, behaviours, and mental health. Working with women’s mental health and well-being, these advancements have provided a more nuanced understanding of the brain-body connection, the impact of hormones, and how individuals can be supported in ways that align with how their brains process and respond to experiences.
Neuroscience has also illuminated how trauma and emotional experiences are stored in the body, as well as how the nervous system regulates emotional states. With this knowledge, therapies can focus not only on thoughts and feelings but also on somatic experiences, helping clients process trauma through body awareness and sensory experiences.
These insights have led to more evidence-based, personalized approaches, fostering emotional resilience, aiding in trauma recovery, and enhancing long-term well-being.
Therapeutic Approaches & Style
At the heart of my approach is the belief that sometimes what’s needed most in a therapeutic relationship is simply a space where you feel truly heard and supported.
Alongside evidence-based models, I offer relational, supportive counselling, because at times, the most important thing is having someone who can be fully present, listen without judgment, and offer guidance from a place of genuine care and connection.
My therapeutic approach is integrative, holistic, and collaborative, rooted in a strength-based perspective. I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, ACT, BT, MI, DBT, MBT, and NBT, to tailor my support to your unique needs. In addition, I incorporate insights from neuroscience and trauma-informed care, allowing me to better understand how the brain and body respond to stress, trauma, and change. I also practice and encourage the use of acceptance, humor, and humility throughout the therapeutic process
I would describe my style as:
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Authentic
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Approachable
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Empowering
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Compassionate
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Straightforward
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Realistic
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Logical
Learn more about my Approaches & Modalities I utilize.
Some Key Qualifications and Training
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BC Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) 2007, BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC)
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Master of Education in Counselling Psychology, University of Victoria
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Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care, University of Victoria
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Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT Training Institute)
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Treating the Psychological Impact of Infertility (NICABM)
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Certified Somatic Mind-Body Healing Practitioner (Udemy)
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Anxiety (Beck Institute)
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The Impact of Perimenopause and Menopause on Mental Health (OCD Training School)
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Mind, Mood, & Menopause: Understanding Hormonal Transitions in Mental Health Care (Clearly Clinical)
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Neuroscience of Addiction and Recovery (Udemy)
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Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (Canadian Centre for Mindfulness)
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Alcohol Use: Screening, Determining Risk, and Evidence-Based Treatment (UBC)
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Not Just the Blues: Perinatal Depression and Anxiety (UBC)
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ASIST - Suicide Prevention/Intervention Training (Crisis Centre BC)
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PHSA Indigenous Cultural Competency (Health Authority)
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CBT for Eating Disorder Recovery (Udemy)
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Clinical Applications of Motivational Strategies (Distance Learning Center for Addictions Studies)
Outside of Counselling
Self-care is at the heart of how I live and work. By prioritizing my own well-being, I’m able to show up authentically for my family, friends, and clients.
Whether I’m surfing, walking the shore with my rescued dogs, or simply taking in the horizon, the sea continues to inspire me.
I also love travelling and discovering new destinations, which have taken me to many places over the years. Many of my travels were driven by a passion for seeking out new surf spots, but over time, my adventures have expanded to include a variety of destinations, each offering its own unique charm. I’m always captivated by nature and wildlife, and these experiences continually fuel my sense of wonder. Photography—especially capturing ocean scenes and nature—helps me unwind and stay connected to my surroundings. When I’m not in or by the water, I find peace in the mountains, whether hiking or snowboarding. My curiosity also leads me to research a wide range of topics, both practical and trivial. Additionally, animal and environmental advocacy are important to me, offering a deeper sense of purpose that extends beyond the therapy room.
Meet Mr. Styles
Along with all my outdoor adventures and travels, I’m rarely without my loyal companion. Mr. Styles, is the newest member of my family and a therapist-in-training (though he’s still working on his certification). He’s a rescued chi-mix with a heart full of love and an expert in snuggles. While he’s still perfecting his therapeutic skills, his cuteness is already providing plenty of emotional support during my virtual sessions. When he’s not napping on the job, he's sure to bring a smile or a chuckle to anyone he meets.
