MĀ Wellness
Clinical Counselling Victoria, BC
Discover Counselling Services in Downtown Victoria
Clinical Counselling Victoria BC
As such behaviours have been intentionally or unintentionally reinforced, counselling sessions create space to spend time addressing how they appear within one’s life and develop alternate ways of responding.
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Meet Our Counsellors
Frequently Asked Questions
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KEEGAN BAULKHAM
Hello there, my name is Keegan RCC (he/him) and along with being a yogi, Nature-lover, food-admirer, and adventure seeker, I am Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellor.
(#19211)
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Life is a continuous practice; an act that is requiring constant reflection, awakening, and committed action. I believe presenting symptoms are the imbalance of life’s practice and through the processes of intentional awareness, critical reflection, insightful exploration, and skill acquisition, we are invited to adjust patterns to best reflect one’s wellbeing. I facilitate sessions through a person-centred approach, meaning you are the master of your own domain; I am simply a guide helping navigate the depths of your experience. We will look at (pre)existing patterns, develop emotional, behavioural, cognitive, and spiritual awareness, adapt or adopt skills, and create a road map that allows you to achieve your most cherished intentions.
I have worked alongside individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, fear, trauma, life transitions, life dissatisfaction, identity formation, challenges self-esteem, emotion regulation, and relationships, and within the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, youth populations, open-relationships/non-monogamous community, and those experiencing development or cognitive impairments. My passion is the outdoors and in my free-time you can find me on the wealth of trails in and around the Victoria area. I have recently become certified as a Nature-Based Therapist, hosting sessions in local parks. Please feel free to reach out with any questions you may have!
I am currently accepting new clients, working alongside humans from age 8+.
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VAL LANGE
Val RCC is a Registered Clinical Counsellor, Expressive Arts Therapist, Ayurvedic Bodyworker and Aerial Yoga Teacher.
*Virtual RCC appointments only*
(#20312)
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In our increasingly fast-paced, disembodied and digital world it can be so easy to become lost in all the chaos. My therapeutic intention is to hold a container of curiosity, embodied awareness, presence, kindness and compassion to you to reconnect to the deep knowing of your inner being. I have a deep trust in the process, the intelligence of the somatic body, and the power of the creative arts to reveal the light within the wound and illuminate your pathway back home.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Expressive Arts Therapist, I have had the privilege of holding safe space for healing and trauma recovery across a variety of community agencies. I have worked with marginalized populations in addictions recovery, with survivors of intimate partner violence, with new moms living below the poverty line in Vancouver’s downtown eastside, and with survivors of sexual violence at the University of B.C.
As an Ayurvedic Bodyworker (RMT in Alberta), I have over 12 years of therapeutic experience. I focus on attuned, client centered and holistic treatments.
I am a queer settler committed to supporting bodies of all genders and orientations. I divide my time between Victoria BC and Cortes Island BC.
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LAUREL MACKAY
Hi there, my name is Laurel CCC (she/her) and I am a Canadian Clinical Counsellor with a Master’s degree in Counselling, as well as undergraduate degrees in criminology and psychology.
(#7226)
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I have had the honour of working as a counsellor for the past 25 years in schools, community mental health, the military community, addictions programs, and correctional facilities. I am also a yoga teacher and sound healing practitioner and love to add these into sessions when folx are interested in exploring how these practices might support their well being.
I truly believe that a person’s presenting symptoms are adaptive responses to trauma rather than deficits within the individual that must be fixed. I am passionate about walking alongside you as you find your inner strength and wisdom to take steps forward and begin to re-discover what brings you joy. I have training in solution focused therapy, trauma informed practice, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioural and narrative therapies and I pull from these to invite you to find your way back to a life you truly love
I have been an uninvited settler on the unceded, ancestral land of the Lekwungen Peoples of the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations for the past 20 years. I acknowledge the importance of engaging in ongoing personal and professional learning and unlearning in order to work from a feminist, LGBTQ2+ affirmative, and anti-racist approach and I am committed to this lifelong work. When not working I love to be on top of mountains, immersed in forests, in or on the water, hanging with my dogs and amazing daughters, and finding new ways to be the best version of myself.
I can support folx who may be experiencing or recovering from low mood, anxiety, depression, nervous system dysregulation, sexual violence, substance misuse, disordered eating and grief as well as discussing issues of sexuality and gender, military lifestyle, and life transitions,
I am currently accepting new clients and work with individuals aged 16 and above.
Please check with your insurance if there is billing available for CCC Councellors.
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CHRISTINA ATKINSON
Christina RCC is a dedicated and compassionate Registered Clinical Counsellor in BC, committed to providing practical and useful tools to boost mental health and well-being.
(#19820)
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Personalized Therapy by Christina
With years of dedicated experience, Christina is an expert in crafting individualized therapy sessions that align perfectly with the unique needs of her clients.
Client-Centered, Strength-Based Approach
Christina’s practice is rooted in a client-centered and strength-based methodology, offering a comfortable, non-judgmental space that promotes growth and healing. Her commitment to continuous learning and application of evidence-based, culturally diverse approaches ensures the highest standard of care for all clients.
Areas of Expertise
Christina offers specialized support across a broad spectrum of areas, including:
- Anxiety and Stress Management
- Emotional Regulation
- Sexual Challenges (Unrelated to Trauma)
- Communication Skills Enhancement
- Building Self-Esteem
- Grief and Loss Coping Mechanisms
- Weight Loss Guidance
Her holistic approach ensures that every client receives care that is not only tailored to their individual circumstances but also supportive of their overall wellness journey.
Appointment Cancellation and No-Show Policy
Appointment Cancellation and Modification Policy
At MĀ Wellness and Yoga, we strive to offer efficient services and honour the valuable time of our practitioners. To achieve this, we respectfully request a minimum notice of 24 hours for any cancellations or changes to your appointment. This policy ensures that we can continue to provide high-quality care to all our patients.
Cancellation Fees Explained:
Late Cancellation Fee: Should you need to cancel your appointment less than 24 hours before its scheduled time, we will charge a fee equal to 100% of the treatment cost to your card on file. This fee compensates for the time that had been reserved for you.
Emergency Situations: We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. In cases of emergency, please inform us immediately. For appointments cancelled due to emergencies within 24 hours of the scheduled time, a reduced fee of 50% of the treatment cost will be charged to your card on file.
We sincerely appreciate your understanding and cooperation with this policy. By adhering to these guidelines, you help us maintain a high standard of service for all our patients.
Thank you for your attention to these matters, and for helping us serve you better.
What are your qualifications/credentials?
Keegan: I have attained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and Master’s of Arts Degree in Counselling Psychology. I am a registered member of the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC), maintaining the title, ethical conduct, and standards of practice of a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC).
Laurel: I am a Canadian Clinical Counsellor (#7226) with a Master’s degree in Counselling, as well as undergraduate degrees in criminology and psychology. Please check with your insurance or benefits if you qualify with CCC Counselling.
Christina: I have my masters degree in counselling and psychotherapy from Yorkville University, a certificate in rehabilitation and mental health and an undergraduate degree in psychology from York University. – BA MA
Val: I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC License # 20312). I have a masters degree in Expressive Arts Therapy and Psychology, and undergraduate degree in Health Sciences.
What is your availability?
Keegan: Thursday afternoons from 2-8 pm online or in-person.
Laurel: Sundays 10 am–5 pm & Mondays 2-8 pm in-person or by ZOOM.
Christina: In person Friday mornings from 8:30-2 or virtually Tuesday-Thursday 2-6pm or Friday 830-2.
Val: I am available for virtual counselling sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays (12pm – 8pm) and Saturdays (11am – 4pm). I live on Cortes Island and see clients online, however I come back to Victoria once a month for in-person sessions.
Which therapeutic modalities do you work within?
Keegan: There are a breadth of different practices and modalities that guide my practice. As the uniqueness of our community, so too I adapt practices that best suit the individual. With this said, I have completed specialized trainings in: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) skills training, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focussed Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Narrative Therapy. Pending: Advanced Training in Nature-Based Therapy.
Laurel: I have training in solution-focused therapy, trauma-informed practice, somatic and nature-based practices, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioural and narrative therapies and I pull from these to invite you to find your way back to a life you truly love.
Christina: Many modalities are incorporated in the sessions but the main ones I focus on are: CBT, DBT, Bowen Family Systems, ACT and behavioural activation.
Val: I have an arts and somatic based approach but meet each client where they are at. My primary modality is expressive arts therapy, which I have a masters degree. I incorporate other mindfulness-based somati
Am I covered through personal health benefits? What is your rate?
Every plan is different, please refer to your plan and provider before your first session to ensure your plan covers the RCC or CCC designation. The amount covered may vary according to your health benefit plan.
Why are you practicing in a yoga studio?
Keegan: I believe the human experience requires a holistic practice to reflect holistic health and well-being. The human psyche is one aspect of the human experience, which is accompanied by one’s physical, social, and spiritual practices for overall expression of self. A yoga practice encapsulates this holistic approach to well-being, advocating for physical, cognitive, social, and spiritual health as the foundation for optimal human function. I personally practice at MĀ Wellness and Yoga and resonate with their intentions, values, and objectives, where I hope to provide services for like-minded individuals.
Laurel: I am also a yoga teacher and sound healing practitioner and love to add these into sessions when folks are interested in exploring how these practices might support their well-being. MĀ Wellness was the first studio I truly felt at home in, and the therapeutic benefits I have experienced from the sound healing and yogic practices have been life-changing
Christina: Yoga is a great way to calm the mind and body. Accompanying this with talk therapy can be very beneficial for each individual. The space and other services offered at MA all contribute to having an increase in well-being and that aligns with what I hope to help clients with at any stage in their life.
Val: I take an embodied approach to counselling and have a dedicated personal practice of yoga and aerial arts. At MA Yoga, I am also an aerial yoga teacher and bodyworker (former RMT). I practice ayurvedic bodywork, therapeutic massage and biodynamic craniosacral therapy. MA Yoga is truly a second home to me and I love working with this community.
What are your specialties?
Keegan: I specialize in enhancing the present-moment, harnessing potential, and acting in accordance with one’s values, ambitions, and goals. This will include first connecting to our own experience, managing discomforts or challenges, and directing attention to our optimal selves. When we are acting in opposition, confrontation, or conflict with ourselves, manifestation of a variety of symptoms may elicit. Specific challenges for which I have direct experience include, but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, life transitions, existential concern, stress, fear, trauma, disassociation, relationship/communication, borderline personality, helplessness, hopelessness, and/or sleep disturbances.
Laurel: I can support folks who may be experiencing or recovering from low mood, anxiety, nervous system dysregulation, sexual violence, domestic violence, substance misuse, disordered eating and grief, as well as discussing issues of sexuality and gender, military lifestyle, and life transitions.
Christina: Anxiety, stress, emotional regulation, coping skills, sleep (falling/staying asleep, insomnia) and sexual health (unrelated to trauma)
Val: I am a queer woman, have a transgender partner, and live as part of the queer communities in Victoria BC and Cortes Island. I offer shared experience with the LGBTQ2IA+ community and support to folx exploring gender identity and sexuality. I have years of expereince working with survivors of domestic and sexual abuse and offer support to people who have experienced abuse, sexual violence, family conflict or relationship issues, whether in the past or something you are living with now. I can help clients to feel and listen to their embodied sensations. Using a somatic approach supports nervous system healing, disregulation, dissociation, PTSD, trauma, stress, grief, life transitions, addiction and eating disorders. With Expressive Arts Therapy, and drawing upon my background as an artist, I also support clients in exploration of creativity, personal expression, and developing a creative practice.
What can I expect in therapy?
Keegan: Each individual has a different experience in therapy depending on their worldviews, goals, circumstance, and stressors. Generally, we will begin with addressing immediate challenges and adapting our functioning to confront current discomforts. We may then explore past concerns and explore patterns of behaviour that reinforce such discomforts, developing mindful practices to detect and adjust patterns in current functioning. As such behaviours have been intentionally or unintentionally reinforced, we will spend time addressing how they appear within one’s life and develop alternate ways of responding. Through a continuous practice of detecting and adjusting unhelpful responses, supplemented with explorative insight into their functions, we are able to understand ourselves, our environment, and how we respond to it. We are then develop the tools, strategies, and techniques to direct our life’s trajectory toward that which is most important to us.
Laurel: I truly believe that a person’s presenting symptoms are adaptive responses to trauma rather than deficits within the individual that must be fixed. I am passionate about walking alongside you as you find your inner strength and wisdom to take steps forward and begin to re-discover what brings you joy. I believe you are the expert of your experience, and I can be supportive in reflecting the coping mechanisms and behaviours that may no longer be serving you. We can then work together to create a plan that you believe in. I am currently accepting new clients and work with individuals aged 16 and above.
Christina: Everyone is different! I move to the needs of my clients. This may include doing activities to learn more about yourself, talk therapy with probing questions or drawing to help express emotion/challenges.
Val: I believe that you already have all the answers you seek within you. My work is to honor your story, witness your journey, and sometimes to help you get out of your own way so you can access your own deep wisdom. I have an embodied, explorative and playful approach to counselling. Together we will check in about your goals, expectations, needs and hopes for counselling, then we will create a therapeutic container that works for you.