“The mind is like water. When it’s restless, it becomes difficult to see. But when it’s calm, you can see everything clearly.”

– Anonymous

Hello! I’m so glad you’re here. Let me share a little about my path and what brought me to this work.

My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own lived experiences. I was drawn to this field after overcoming significant personal struggles, including surviving narcissistic abuse, grieving the deaths of loved-ones (human and pet), and grappling with non-death losses (job loss, breakups, unmet life expectations). In those moments, I felt scared, isolated, and at times hopeless. Therapy helped me through by providing a soft place to land, a space to catch my breath, feel validated, and slowly build myself back up again. Going through those painful times showed change and growth begin when you truly feel seen, heard, and supported.

My own healing journey led me to this work. I understand what it is like to feel broken, but am also a fierce believer in the possibility of renewal.

With over eight years working in adult mental health, I’ve supported people struggling with life transitions, relationship challenges, trauma, grief, and more. I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside many individuals, each with their own unique stories and strengths. My approach is warm, grounded, and collaborative. I see you as the expert in your own life. I am a trauma-informed, which means I prioritise safety, trust, choice, and empowerment in our work together.

When I am not supporting clients, you will find me hiking Vancouver Island’s beautiful trails, swimming laps at the pool, spending time with my partner and friends, and snuggling with my cat Hera (with hopes of adding a dog to our little family soon).

Last year I got into the habit of taking weekly cold plunges in the chilly Pacific Ocean. The practice reminds me that growth often comes from gently facing what feels daunting, and that we are stronger than we know. It is a personal reminder of the the resilience I have seen in my self, and the clients whom I have had the honour of supporting.

I offer virtual counselling to residents of Ontario and British Columbia.

I’d love to hear your story and walk alongside you on this journey.

Let's Connect

More About My Specialities

What's in a Name?

I named my practice after Dolphin Lake right here on Vancouver Island, a place that feels like the heart of what I hope our work can be.
A calm lake offers a safe, reflective space to sit with your thoughts and feelings. Just as its still surface hides beautiful depths below, our sessions create room to gently explore what’s within, facing what feels hard with care and curiosity.
Dolphins bring a sense of companionship and playfulness, reminding us we don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. Together, we’ll find those moments of light, hope, and connection.

What you can expect

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Individualized Support

My counselling sessions are designed to meet you where you are. I take the time to get to know what’s happening in your life and what you’d like to focus on, so together we can create a plan that feels right for you. We’ll build on your strengths while exploring the areas you want to grow in, helping you move forward with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or life transitions, this is a caring, supportive space where you don’t have to face it alone.

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Empathic Listening

When we meet, my hope is that you’ll feel safe, seen, and at ease. This is a space where you can talk openly, explore what’s on your mind, and be met with care, not judgment. I listen with empathy and genuine curiosity, doing my best to understand your experiences through your perspective. Together, we’ll make space for your story to unfold in a way that feels respectful, validating, and deeply compassionate.

Eclectic Approach

Therapy works best when it’s shaped around you. Everyone’s story is different, and I believe your experiences, challenges, and strengths all matter in how we approach your healing. I take time to understand who you are, so we can explore what feels most supportive and authentic for you. Drawing from approaches like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and narrative therapy, we’ll work together to find a rhythm that fits. This is a space for healing, growth, and reconnecting with yourself in meaningful ways.

Empowerment and Growth

My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected to yourself as you move through life’s challenges. Together, we’ll explore practical tools and gentle strategies that support your resilience and enhance self-awareness. I’ll encourage you to lean into your strengths and values, so you can build a deeper understanding of who you are and what you need. I’m here to walk alongside you, supporting your growth every step of the way.

Services

Free Consultation

(Virtual)

Finding the right fit with a therapist is essential for meaningful healing and growth. A strong therapeutic relationship creates a sense of trust and safety, so you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. To help you decide if we’re a good match, I offer a free consultation where we can talk about what you’re going through and what you’re hoping to gain from therapy.

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Individual Counselling

(Virtual)

I warmly invite you to book a counselling session with me. In our time together, we’ll explore your concerns and hopes in a safe, nurturing space where you feel heard and respected. I’m dedicated to helping you build practical tools and strategies that support lasting change. Your well-being is my priority, and I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

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*All appointments are virtual and available to residents of Ontario and British Columbia

Professional Credentials

Registered Member of the British Columbia College of Social Workers (BCCSW Registrant #16679)

Registered Member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW Registrant #837034)

Relevant Trainings

Certified Narcissistic Abuse Clinician

Motivational Interviewing

Narrative Therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

San'yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training

ASIST (Applied Suicide Interventions Skills Training

Relevant Education

Master of Social Work~University at Buffalo, NY

Bachelor of Social Work~Dalhousie University, NS

Bachelor of Arts Degree, Humanistic Studies ~ McGill University

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Dolphin Lake Counselling

250-268-0466

renee@dolphinlakecounselling.ca