Substance Use Counselling

Struggling with substance use can affect every part of your life — relationships, work, and your sense of self. You may feel isolated, ashamed, or unsure where to turn. Wherever you are in your journey, support is available without judgment.

I offer substance use counselling for Port McNeill and North Island residents, entirely online, so support is accessible no matter the distance.

My approach

Substance use often develops as a way of coping with pain that had nowhere else to go — trauma, grief, disconnection, or unmet needs. My approach is trauma-informed and harm-reduction focused, meeting you exactly where you are rather than requiring a specific outcome before we start. This work often draws on motivational interviewing, person-centred care, and Two-Eyed Seeing (Etuaptmumk), holding Indigenous knowledge and Western approaches together.

What to expect

• No judgment, no pressure — whether you're just starting to think about change or already in recovery

• Support for the whole picture — addressing what's underneath substance use, not just the behaviour itself

Ongoing support — including for those in sustained recovery navigating relapse prevention and life after early sobriety

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be sober to start therapy?
No. Wherever you are in relation to substance use, we can start from there — this isn't a program with a required starting point.

Is online therapy available?
Yes — all sessions are offered virtually, making support accessible without needing to travel.

What if I've tried therapy before and it didn't help?
Many people come to this work after other approaches haven't fit. We'll take time to understand what has and hasn't worked for you, rather than starting from a generic template.

Reach out when you're ready