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We Are Hiring a Couples Counsellor and a Child & Youth Counsellor – Deadline Extended to September 13, 2024

Breathing Space Counselling is a thriving private counselling practice in Port Moody, BC. It was founded in 2016 by two Master Therapeutic Counsellors, Nasreen Gulamhusein & Shahaa Kakar. We offer in-person and online counselling for individuals and couples. We also offer in-person child & youth counselling.

We have built a trusted reputation in our community and due to growing demand, we have expanded and brought on eight Associate Counsellors over the last two years. We are now seeking 1-2 more Associate Counsellors to work alongside us. This is a wonderful opportunity to be mentored by two established counsellors and join an inclusive and heart-centred work culture.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

All applicants must:

  • have graduated from a counselling program and have completed your practicum requirements
  • have professional liability insurance
  • be in good standing with a counselling association, such as the ACCT, CPCA or BCACC

** Specifically for this round of hiring, we are looking for 2 Associate Counsellors:

  • a couples counsellor (with appropriate couples counselling training like Gottman, Imago, EFT, etc.) who can also work with adult individuals
    – and –
  • a child & youth counsellor (bonus points if you specialize in neurodiversity and/or you also work with adults).

This opportunity is exclusively for Counsellors who are willing to work in-person in our office space in Port Moody, BC. We are not considering online counsellors at this time.

The successful applicant is available for 10 – 15 hours per week, including some evenings and/or weekends. The exact schedule will be negotiated with the successful candidate(s). However, due to office availability your hours will need to fall into the following days/times: Mondays, Thursdays before 3, Fridays after 2:30, Saturdays, Sundays.

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO WILL:

  • Be Transparent – be authentic, honest, and real… even when it’s difficult
  • Be Kind – speak and act with thoughtfulness and consideration
  • Be Human – drop perfection, allow for mistakes, fall down and get back up
  • Be Hungry – have a desire to lean in and work with us to build a thriving practice
  • Honour Your Commitments – say what you mean and do what you promise
  • Bring Your Magic – get creative, share your ideas, inspire and be inspired

YOU HAVE THE FOLLOWING:

  • A recognized counselling qualification (diploma or masters degree).
  • Completed all practicum requirements.
  • Are a current BC/Canadian Registered Counsellor in good standing (all designations will be considered).
  • Hold current Professional Liability Insurance.
  • Have a Registered Supervisor and are receiving regular supervision.
  • Are committed to undertaking continuous professional development.
  • Uphold the highest professional, ethical and professional standards in your practice and consistently adhere to your counselling association’s code of ethics.
  • Are able to commit a minimum of 10 – 15 hours per week for clients to consistently book in with you. This could include a mix of daytime, evening and weekend hours (specific days and times are negotiable). Some evening and/or weekend availability is required as these are high demand times for clients.
  • An awareness of (or, a willingness to learn about) privilege and marginalization and how these might impact your lens/bias while you are counselling.
  • A willingness to engage in continual learning and dialogue towards creating a safe, inclusive and diverse culture within our practice (both with clients and with each other).

WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING:

  • Flexible and negotiable working hours.
  • A competitive Associate Counsellor package/fee split, with incentives to grow.
  • Targeted marketing and client recruitment on your behalf.
  • Ongoing support and mentoring, as needed.
  • Simple and easy to use online scheduling software.
  • Standard forms, filing system, and client receipting is provided.
  • A bright and inviting counselling centre in the heart of Port Moody, which includes three counselling offices, a multi-purpose main space/waiting room and kitchenette facilities (close to SkyTrain and street parking).
  • A team culture that values connection, celebrating the little things, and getting through the tough moments together.

TO APPLY – Please send the following to [email protected]:

  • An updated resume and cover letter detailing why you believe you would be a good fit for our team and what you have to offer. Please be specific about your experience with couples and/or children & teens.
  • Two professional references (eg – from a Registered Supervisor, Counselling Teacher or Employer). Written references are preferred.

    The successful applicants will also be required to provide:

  • A copy of your active counselling registration from your relevant association.
  • A copy of your active Professional Insurance certificate/policy.

Deadline for applications extended to Friday September 13, 2024 at 11:59pm.

The Importance of Caring for Unprocessed Grief

By Davis Briscoe, Senior Associate Counsellor

In our Western society, grief is highly misunderstood — partly because we have assumptions about what it should look like. Some common misconceptions about grief are:

1. Grief and mourning are the same experience.
2. It is best to move away from grief and mourning instead of toward it.
3. There is a predictable and orderly progression to the experience of grief.
4. Tears of grief are only a sign of weakness.
5. The goal is to “get over” your grief.

We talk about it as if it has a time limit and that there is a certain way to grieve “properly.” However, everyone’s journey with grief is different.

WHAT IS GRIEF?

So what is grief? In the simple yet profoundly deep words of grief ritualist and educator Francis Weller, “It is our unexpressed sorrows, the congested stories of loss, that when left unattended, block our access to the soul. To be able to freely move in and out of the soul’s inner chambers, we must first clear the way. This requires finding meaningful ways to speak of sorrow.”

In the West we have lost our cultural knowledge about how to grieve due to colonization, migration and other social phenomena. It can therefore take support and guidance to relearn how to be with this very natural part of our human experience. It’s through rediscovering these “meaningful ways to speak of sorrow” as Francis Weller puts it, in counselling sessions or support groups, that we can re-emerge as more healthy humans on this planet.

WHAT IS UNPROCESSED GRIEF AND WHAT IS ITS IMPACT?

When grief is not processed — meaning when it hasn’t had the space to be felt, held and released — it can show up in many ways, such as isolation, numbness, directionless anger or rage, or projecting (“spilling your pain”) onto your partner which can create deep disconnection in relationship. When it goes untended for long periods of time, it can also turn into alcoholism, fitness or body obsessions, chronic pain, chronic illness, and addiction.

One of those most difficult things about unprocessed grief is that it is often an unseen force — which means it can go misinterpreted or misunderstood for long periods of time. This misunderstanding can cause much emotional turbulence, particularly within families. However, when one family member has the courage to unpack their grief (which is sometimes generations deep) new and meaningful conversations and connections can finally open.

DOES GRIEF HAVE AN END? WILL IT ALWAYS FEEL THIS HARD?

A common myth about grief is that it should end or become less intense after certain milestones – like a funeral, a hard-won court case, or the 1-year anniversary of the death of a loved one. The actual truth is that grief lives on… and so do we!

Grief doesn’t have to be an end, but it can be a beginning.

And what kind of beginning? As Francis Weller, so aptly states: “Grief work offers us a trail leading back to the vitality that is our birthright. When we fully honour our losses, our lives become more fully able to embody the wild joy that aches to leap from our hearts into the shimmering world.” 

This quote feels especially true to me as a counsellor. For 17 years, I have held space for clients with all kinds of grief and I’ve seen lifetimes of pain dissolve — sometimes in mere minutes!

When clients take the time to take their unprocessed grief, and process it in a place that is guided at a pace that feels right, everything can shift.

For instance, I worked with a former addict and workaholic named Joe*. He came to me to work through his addictive tendencies, and what we uncovered was decades old grief about two significant losses in his life – the death of a friend and the death of a work colleague – both of which he had been blaming himself for.

Within seconds, what seemed like a lifetime of shame dissolved as he wept for that part of himself that believed he was never good enough for not being able to save them. He was able to find compassion for himself and let go of the belief that these deaths were his fault.

From that moment on, Joe was able to make many healthy changes in his life because he was no longer carrying the burden of unprocessed grief.

Similarly, another client Susan* had lost two siblings within a decade and now struggled with chronic pain. Forty-five years later, while working with me, she realized there was no template for how to grieve in her family.

As we made space for her grief, Susan was able to grieve for her siblings and be supported in the pain and confusion of what her younger teenage self had to endure from these losses. Susan began to feel a connection to life and death that she had never experienced before. She expressed that since she had opened the doors to her grief, her chronic pain (that she had endured for decades!) had completely disappeared.

Most importantly, Susan recognized that her journey with grief didn’t end with one big cry or emotional release. Instead, the grief she carries in her heart had, over time, become more manageable. This led her to become more connected to herself, her husband and her family. In the process she also discovered her love of art and a passion for getting out into nature! She marvelled at the power of letting her grief move through her — and how it eventually led to so many beautiful gifts.

I’ve witnessed people stand in their power after learning how to express anger in healthy ways and re-emerge in their lives as more present parents, lovers, and community members. I’ve witnessed and supported clients to find their voice — perhaps a voice that was once taken from them by the trauma of childhood experiences.

Within the sacred holding of grief, I’ve seen people step into themselves, their relationships, and their lives… sometimes for the very first time.

CONCLUSION

Grief can be part of our day-to-day lives and it doesn’t always have to be painful. We learn the language of our own grief and start to walk with it in new ways. It can teach us boundaries and balance; it can teach us how to ask for and receive support; it can open us to the precious beauty of life; and it can equip the children and youth in our society with a map to navigate the trials and tribulations of life because they are witnessing the adults in their lives do this, too!

Taking the time to process unprocessed grief can lead to so many positive things — healthy adults, healthy communities, and hopefully a healthier world.

** Names changed for confidentiality.

—–

If you are looking for support with your grief, we invite you to learn more about Davis, and book a free 15-minute phone consultation here.

We Are Hiring Associate Counsellors! Apply by Oct 15, 2023

 

Shahaa Kakar & Nasreen Gulamhusein
Co-Owners of Breathing Space Counselling

Breathing Space Counselling is a thriving private counselling practice in Port Moody, BC. It was founded in 2016 by two Master Therapeutic Counsellors, Nasreen Gulamhusein & Shahaa Kakar. We offer in-person and online counselling for individuals and couples. We also offer support groups and workshops for the community.


We have built a trusted reputation in our community and due to overwhelming demand, we have expanded and brought on three Associate Counsellors over the last 18 months. We are now seeking 2 – 3 more Associate Counsellors to work alongside us in our private practice. This is a wonderful opportunity to be mentored by two established counsellors and join an inclusive and heart-centred work culture.

What We Are Looking For:

We welcome all applicants who have:

  • graduated from a counselling program and have completed your practicum requirements
  • have professional liability insurance
  • are in good standing with a counselling association, such as the ACCT, CPCA or BCACC
  • are willing to work with adult individuals and couples. (If you have not worked with couples before, but are open to being mentored in this area, please feel free to apply.)

This opportunity is primarily for Counsellors who are willing to work in-person in our beautiful office space in Port Moody, BC. We are open to hiring an online Counsellor if the fit is right.

The successful applicant is ideally available for 15 hours per week, including some evenings and/or weekends. The exact schedule will be negotiated with the successful candidate(s).

You Are Someone Who Will:

  • Be Transparent – be authentic, honest, and real… even when it’s difficult
  • Be Kind – speak and act with thoughtfulness and consideration
  • Be Human – drop perfection, allow for mistakes, fall down and get back up
  • Honour Your Commitments – say what you mean and do what you promise
  • Bring Your Magic – get creative, share your ideas, inspire and be inspired

You Have the Following:

  • A recognised counselling qualification (diploma or masters degree).
  • Completed all practicum requirements.
  • Are a current BC/Canadian Registered Counsellor in good standing (all designations will be considered, e.g. RTC, MTC, RCC, CCC, RSW, RPC, MPCC, etc.).
  • Hold current Professional Liability Insurance.
  • Have a Registered Supervisor and are receiving regular supervision at the time of applying.
  • Are committed to undertaking continuous professional development.
  • Uphold the highest professional, ethical and professional standards in your practice and consistently adhere to your counselling association’s code of ethics.
  • Are able to commit a minimum of 15 hours per week for clients to consistently book in with you. This could include a mix of daytime, evening and weekend hours (specific days and times are negotiable). Some evening and/or weekend availability is required as these are high demand times for clients.
  • An awareness of (or, a willingness to learn about) privilege and marginalization and how these might impact your lens/bias while you are counselling.
  • A willingness to engage in continual learning and dialogue towards creating a safe, inclusive and diverse culture within our practice (both with clients and with each other).

Bonus If You Also Have Any of These:

Knowledge, experience and/or training in working with:

  • couples (such as Gottman training, EFT, etc.).
  • teens and/or families.
  • somatic therapy modalities (such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, AEDP, relational somatic therapy, etc.).
    eating disorders, body image, addiction, trauma, maternal mental health (incl. PPD/PPA, infertility, pregnancy loss, etc), polyamorous/non-monogamous relationships, chronic pain, chronic illness.
  • specific communities, such as LGBTQIA+communities, racialized communities, neurodiverse communities, Indigenous communities, disabled & Deaf communities, etc. Lived experience will be considered an asset.

We Offer the Following:

  • Flexible and negotiable working hours.
  • A competitive Associate Counsellor package/fee split, with incentives to grow.
  • Targeted marketing and client recruitment on your behalf.
  • Ongoing support and mentoring, as needed.
  • Simple and easy to use online scheduling software.
  • Standard forms, filing system, and client receipting is provided.
  • A bright and inviting counselling centre in the heart of Port Moody, which includes three counselling offices, a multi-purpose main space/waiting room and kitchenette facilities (close to SkyTrain and street parking).
  • A work culture that values belly laughs, celebrating the little things, and getting through the tough moments together. 😉

To Apply – Please send the following to [email protected]:

  • An updated resume and cover letter detailing why you believe you would be a good fit for our team and what you have to offer. Please be specific about your experience with individuals and couples.
  • Two professional references (eg – from a Registered Supervisor, Counselling Teacher or Employer). Written references are preferred.

    The successful applicant will also be required to provide:

  • A copy of your active counselling registration from your relevant association.
  • A copy of your active Professional Insurance certificate/policy.


Deadline for applications is Sunday October 15th 2023 at 11:59pm.

Understanding and Navigating Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

Therapeutic CounsellingHaving a baby is often talked about as one of the most joyful moments in a person’s life. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the postpartum period can also be incredibly emotionally and physically challenging . It’s common for new parents to experience a wide range of emotions, including stress, exhaustion and anxiety. In some cases, this can escalate into postpartum depression and anxiety.

At Breathing Space Counselling, we understand that postpartum depression and anxiety can have a significant impact on the birthing parent and their family. That’s why we offer counselling services specifically tailored to help new parents navigate these challenges.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at postpartum depression and anxiety, and provide some tips for coping and seeking support.

Understanding Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

Postpartum depression and anxiety (PPD/PPA) are both mental health conditions that can affect birthing parents. PPD/PPA affects about 10 – 16% of birthing parents in the first year of parenthood. They are different from the “baby blues,” which are a common experience that typically subside within a few days or weeks after giving birth. Postpartum depression and anxiety, on the other hand, can last for several months or longer.

Postpartum depression can include experiencing feelings of: sadness, hopelessness, overwhelm, guilt, anger or rage, worthlessness, loss of interest in life, difficulty with making decisions, thoughts of being a terrible parent, or frightening thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. It can also manifest as physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, changes in appetite and/or sleep patterns.

PPD/PPA can begin during pregnancy or after baby is born, and can persist for weeks or even months after giving birth.
Postpartum anxiety, on the other hand, is marked by excessive worry and fear that can interfere with daily life. Symptoms may include: a racing heart, sweating, trembling, excessive worry & self-doubt, intrusive thoughts or images of harm to the baby, and difficulty sleeping. Postpartum anxiety can make it difficult to take care of oneself and the new baby.

Risk Factors

Some birthing parents are at higher risk of experiencing PPD/PPA. This includes people who:

  • Have experienced depression or anxiety in the past, or have a family history of depression or anxiety.
  • Had a traumatic pregnancy or birthing experience.
  • Went through a stressful or traumatic experience before or during pregnancy, such as loss of a loved one, infertility, miscarriage, etc.
  • Have a history of domestic violence, sexual or other abuse.
  • Had a traumatic childhood, such as loss of a parent, an absent parent, or a difficult relationship with a parent.
  • Are isolated and have too little support from friends, family and community.

Navigating Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

If you are experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. Here are some tips for navigating this experience:

  • Reach out for support: Talk to your partner, family members, or friends about how you’re feeling. Consider joining a support group for new parents or seek out professional counselling.
  • Practice self-care: Be gentle and kind to yourself about the fact that you’re a new parent and things are going to feel hard. Do small things for yourself that are meaningful to you and manageable, such as going for a short walk or eating a nourishing meal.
  • Prioritize sleep and exercise: Getting enough sleep and exercise can help improve your mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
  • Set realistic expectations: Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to be the “perfect” parent — perfect doesn’t exist. It’s okay to not know, take things one day at a time and ask for help along the way.

The Pacific Postpartum Support Society is a wonderful free resource for parents experiencing PPD/PPA. They offer phone and text message support, as well as support groups for birthing parents and their partners. You can learn more about them here.

Our Counsellors at Breathing Space Counselling can also provide therapeutic counselling for postpartum depression and anxiety in our Port Moody offices or online/by telephone. We can help you to develop strategies to navigate your entry into parenthood, and work through difficult emotions in a safe and supportive environment.

Take the First Step

If you’re struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety, please know, you’re not alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength and at Breathing Space Counselling we’re here to support you.

Contact us today to schedule a free phone consultation and take that first step towards your healing and recovery.

To the Women of Iran: A Love Letter

iran-women-protests

By Elmira Fakhr

There are thousands of people grieving their friends and family members who have been tragically killed in the fight for freedom from the oppression of the Islamic Regime in Iran. These brave souls have continued fighting a brutal government, putting their lives on the line. Despite the endless losses, they have not lost hope or the will to fight for a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones.

This is a love letter from one of our Associate Counsellors, Elmira Fakhr, who left Iran and has settled in Canada. She has chosen to make a life here and she continues to use her voice to fight for her people at home by keeping their stories alive.

Dearest Women of Iran,

It is difficult to express what I feel in simple words.

The world is watching as you fight to gain your most basic rights from the Islamic Regime in Iran. I have seen videos of your courageous protests within the last seven months. You have been tortured, raped, imprisoned, and killed.

Dear Sisters — please know, the world has heard your voice.

The strength and bravery you have shown to stand up for what you believe is admirable. You are an inspiration to so many women – and all people – around the world.

I feel your pain and sorrow deeply. Mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends have been lost in this battle and we miss them so much. I feel appreciation for our fathers, sons, brothers, and friends who have chosen to stand by our side and fight for us in this revolution.

You have inspired us all to move and make change happen. We will continue to share your stories and be your voice. We will be stronger as we stand together.

This is the revolution started by strong women of Iran – and you will not be forgotten.

Elmira is offering a limited number of reduced cost sessions to Iranian community members who are affected by this struggle.

  • A maximum of 8 online sessions at $65 each are available.
  • They are available to those who could not otherwise afford private counselling (have financial need for reduced cost sessions & do not have insurance benefits).
  • Sessions are available in English or Farsi.
  • Please email Elmira at [email protected] for more information.

We Are Hiring Again! Become an Associate Counsellor with Us!

By Shahaa Kakar & Nasreen Gulamhusein

Breathing Space Counselling is a thriving private counselling practice in Port Moody, BC. It was founded in 2016 by two Master Therapeutic Counsellors, Nasreen Gulamhusein & Shahaa Kakar. We offer in-person and online counselling for individuals and couples. We also offer community events and professional development training for fellow counsellors.

We have built a trusted reputation in our community and due to overwhelming demand, we have expanded and brought on two Associate Counsellors. We are now seeking a third Associate Counsellor to work alongside us in our private practice. This is a wonderful opportunity to be mentored by two established counsellors and join an inclusive and heart-centred work culture.

What We Are Looking For:

Whether you are newly graduated or an established counsellor, we welcome all applicants who work with individuals and couples. If you have not worked with couples before, but are open to being mentored in this area, please feel free to apply.

This opportunity is for an Office Associate who will work in our beautiful space in Port Moody. The successful applicant must be available for 15 hours per week. Those hours need to fall within the following days/times and must include some evening or weekend shifts):

Monday, 8am – 9pm
Wednesday, 8am – 9pm
Friday, 3pm – 9pm
Saturday, 8am – 9pm
Sunday, 8am – 9pm

The exact schedule will be negotiated with the successful candidate.


You Are Someone Who Will:

  • Be Transparent – be authentic, honest, and real… even when it’s difficult
  • Be Kind – speak and act with thoughtfulness and consideration
  • Be Human – drop perfection, allow for mistakes, fall down and get back up
  • Honour Your Commitments – say what you mean and do what you promise
  • Bring Your Magic – get creative, share your ideas, inspire and be inspired

You Have the Following:

  • A recognised counselling qualification (diploma or masters degree).
  • Are a current BC/Canadian Registered Counsellor in good standing (all designations will be considered, e.g. RTC, MTC, RCC, CCC, RSW, RPC-C, RPC, MPCC, MPCC-S, etc.).
  • Hold current Professional Liability Insurance.
  • Have a Registered Supervisor and are receiving regular supervision at the time of applying.
  • Are committed to undertaking continuous professional development.
  • Uphold the highest professional, ethical and professional standards in your practice and consistently adhere to your counselling association’s code of ethics.
  • Are able to commit a minimum of 15 hours per week for clients to consistently book in with you. This could include a mix of daytime, evening and weekend hours (specific days and times are negotiable). Some evening and/or weekend availability is required as these are high demand times for clients.
  • An awareness of (or, a willingness to learn about) privilege and marginalization and how these might impact your lens/bias while you are counselling.
  • A willingness to engage in continual learning and dialogue towards creating a safe, inclusive and diverse culture within our practice (both with clients and with each other).

Bonus If You Also Have Any of These:

Knowledge, experience and/or training in working with:

  • couples (such as Gottman training, EFT, etc.)
  • teens and/or families
  • somatic therapy modalities (such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, AEDP, relational somatic therapy, etc.)
  • eating disorders, body image, addiction, trauma, PPD/PPA, polyamorous/non-monogamous relationships, chronic pain, and bullying
  • specific communities, such as LGBTQIA+communities, racialized communities, neurodiverse communities, Indigenous communities, disabled & Deaf communities, etc. Lived experience will be considered an asset

We Offer the Following:

  • Flexible and negotiable working hours.
  • A competitive Associate Counsellor package/fee split, with incentives to grow.
  • Targeted marketing and client recruitment on your behalf.
  • Ongoing support and mentoring, as needed.
  • Simple and easy to use online scheduling software.
  • Standard forms, filing system, and client receipting is provided.
  • A bright and inviting counselling centre in the heart of Port Moody, which includes two counselling offices, a multi-purpose main space/waiting room and kitchenette facilities (close to SkyTrain and street parking).
  • A work culture that values belly laughs, celebrating the little things, getting through the tough moments together, and indulging in good food. 😉

To Apply – Please send the following to [email protected]:

  • An updated resume and cover letter detailing why you believe you would be a good fit for our team and what you have to offer. Please be specific about your experience with individuals and couples.
  • Two professional references (eg – from a Registered Supervisor, Counselling Teacher or Employer). Written references are preferred.

    The successful applicant will also be required to provide:

  • A copy of your active counselling registration from your relevant association.
  • A copy of your diploma/masters certificate.
    A copy of your active Professional Insurance certificate/policy.


Deadline for applications is Friday September 30th at 11:59pm.

We Are Hiring Associate Counsellors!

By Shahaa Kakar & Nasreen Gulamhusein

Breathing Space Counselling is a thriving private counselling practice in Port Moody, BC. It was founded in 2016 by two Master Therapeutic Counsellors, Nasreen Gulamhusein & Shahaa Kakar. We offer in-person and online counselling for individuals and couples. We also offer community events and professional development training for fellow counsellors.

We have built a trusted reputation in our community and due to overwhelming demand, our client lists are full. We are seeking two Associate Counsellors to work alongside us in our private practice. This is a wonderful opportunity to be mentored by two established counsellors and join an inclusive and heart-centred work culture.

What We Are Looking For:

Whether you are newly graduated or an established counsellor, we welcome all applicants who work with individuals and/or couples. Opportunities are available for both Office Associates (who will work in our beautiful space in Port Moody) and Remote Associates (who will work exclusively online from the comfort of your own space).

You Are Someone Who Will:

  • Be Transparent – be authentic, honest, and real… even when it’s difficult
  • Be Kind – speak and act with thoughtfulness and consideration
  • Be Human – drop perfection, allow for mistakes, fall down and get back up
  • Honour Your Commitments – say what you mean and do what you promise
  • Bring Your Magic – get creative, share your ideas, inspire and be inspired

You Have the Following:

  • A recognised counselling qualification (diploma or masters degree).
  • Are a current BC/Canadian Registered Counsellor in good standing (all designations will be considered, e.g. RTC, MTC, RCC, CCC, RSW, RPC-C, RPC, MPCC, MPCC-S, etc.).
  • Hold current Professional Liability Insurance.
  • Have a Registered Supervisor and are receiving regular supervision at the time of applying.
  • Are committed to undertaking continuous professional development.
  • Uphold the highest professional, ethical and professional standards in your practice and consistently adhere to your counselling association’s code of ethics.
  • Are able to commit a minimum of 15 hours per week for clients to consistently book in with you. This could include a mix of daytime, evening and weekend hours (specific days and times are negotiable). Some evening and/or weekend availability is required as these are high demand times for clients.
  • An awareness of (or, a willingness to learn about) privilege and marginalization and how these might impact your lens/bias while you are counselling.
  • A willingness to engage in continual learning and dialogue towards creating a safe, inclusive and diverse culture within our practice (both with clients and with each other).

Bonus If You Also Have Any of These:

Knowledge, experience and/or training in working with:

  • couples (such as Gottman training, EFT, etc.)
  • teens and/or families
  • somatic therapy modalities (such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, AEDP, etc.)
  • eating disorders, body image, addiction, trauma, polyamorous/non-monogamous relationships, chronic pain, and bullying
  • specific communities, such as LGBTQIA+communities, racialized communities, neurodiverse communities, Indigenous communities, disabled & Deaf communities, etc. Lived experience will be considered an asset.

We Offer the Following:

  • Flexible and negotiable working hours.
  • A competitive Associate Counsellor package/fee split, with incentives to grow.
  • Targeted marketing and client recruitment on your behalf.
  • Ongoing support and mentoring, as needed.
  • Simple and easy to use online scheduling software.
  • Standard forms, filing system, and client receipting is provided.
  • A bright and inviting counselling centre in the heart of Port Moody, which includes two counselling offices, a multi-purpose main space/waiting room and kitchenette facilities (close to SkyTrain and street parking).
  • A work culture that values belly laughs, celebrating the little things, getting through the tough moments together, and indulging in good food. 😉

To Apply – Please send the following to [email protected]:

  • An updated resume and cover letter detailing why you believe you would be a good fit for our team and what you have to offer.
  • In your email subject line, please let us know what position you are applying for as follows: Application: Office Associate or Application: Remote Associate
  • Two professional references (eg – from a Registered Supervisor, Counselling Teacher or Employer).
  • A copy of your active counselling registration from your relevant association.
  • A copy of your diploma/masters certificate.
  • A copy of your active Professional Insurance certificate/policy.


Deadline for applications is Friday March 25th at 11:59pm.

Free Online Counselling for QTBI Folks

By Shahaa Kakar

(July 20, 2020 Update: Please note that all funds have now been used up. Qmunity is fundraising to be able to continue this initiative. Updates will be posted here when funds become available once again.)

Qmunity are offering a much-needed initiative where self-identified QTBI (Queer, Trans, Black or Indigenous) people can have access to a limited number of free counselling sessions.

Qmunity is a non-profit organization based in Vancouver, BC that works to improve queer, trans, and Two-Spirit lives. According to the organization, “In light of ongoing racist oppression, violence and police brutality in QTBI communities, as an organization we are committing to prioritizing and financially supporting QTBI people in accessing mental health services from QTBIPOC counsellors.”

Breathing Space Counselling is honoured to be able to support this initiative. Our co-founder, Shahaa Kakar, is an approved provider and is offering online sessions. Spaces are limited and are available on a first come, first serve basis. Up to four free sessions are available. If you would like to know more or to take up this offer, please email Shahaa at [email protected]. More information about Shahaa is available here.

To find out who else is an approved provider, please contact Qmunity directly.

Update on Sessions During Phase Two

By Nasreen Gulamhusein & Shahaa Kakar

As Phase Two of the pandemic begins and things slowly start to open up again, some of you might be wondering what Breathing Space is up to!

Phase 2 is still brand new, and as doors slowly start to reopen, there are many unknowns. In response to this, we will continue to offer counselling sessions exclusively online for the month of June. At the end of this month, we will post an update here on our blog about when in-person sessions will likely commence. (Online and/or telephone counselling will also continue to be available.)

Please know, we are in active discussions about how to best consider our collective safety, while also taking into consideration government guidelines and regulations. We realize things like plexiglass walls, masks, and gloves have impact on the therapeutic experience and environment. As we make our choices, we are deeply committed to giving you a safe experience – both physically and emotionally.

We so appreciate your patience as we figure out how best to take these next steps. One thing we know for certain — we miss seeing our clients in person so much! We are so looking forward to seeing everyone in-person again, hopefully sooner rather than later.

In the meantime — stay healthy, kind and safe!

Relationship Counselling: Mend Differences, Strengthen Bonds

In the bustling city of Port Moody, Canada, where life moves at a fast pace, relationships often face challenges that can strain the bonds we hold dear. Whether you’re facing communication issues, struggles with intimacy, parenting dilemmas, or standing at a relationship crossroad, seeking professional help might be the key to healing and growth. Relationship counselling in Port Moody offers a safe and supportive space to address underlying issues, mend differences, and strengthen the love you share with your partner. Let’s explore why relationship counselling is a must and how it can help you overcome the obstacles standing in the way of a harmonious partnership.

  • Are you facing recurring issues in your relationship?

Every relationship goes through rough patches, but when the same problems resurface again and again, it’s time to dig deeper. Relationship counselling can help you identify the root causes of these issues and provide valuable insights into resolving them effectively.

  • Is communication becoming increasingly difficult?

Communication lies at the heart of any successful relationship. Misunderstandings and communication breakdowns can create emotional distance between partners. Skilled therapists can teach you communication techniques to express your needs, emotions, and concerns constructively, fostering healthier dialogues.

  • Have you experienced betrayals or breaches of trust?

Rebuilding trust after betrayals or breaches can be an arduous process. Relationship counselling offers a safe space to address the pain, work on forgiveness, and rebuild trust gradually. Therapists can guide you both through this delicate journey, helping to restore the foundation of your relationship.

  • Are parenting challenges impacting your relationship?

Parenthood can be a joyful experience, but it also brings unique challenges. The added responsibilities and differences in parenting styles can sometimes lead to conflicts between partners. Relationship counselling can provide a platform to address these challenges and find common ground to support each other as parents.

  • Are you at a crossroad in your relationship?

Life is full of transitions, and sometimes, relationships face critical junctures that can define their future. Whether you’re considering marriage, cohabitation, or dealing with other significant life changes, relationship counselling can help you navigate these decisions together, with clarity and understanding.

Finding the Best Relationship Therapists

To find the best relationship therapists in Port Moody, look for practitioners with relevant experience and proper credentials. Seek referrals from trusted friends or family members who have benefited from relationship counselling themselves. Online reviews and testimonials can also offer insights into therapists’ approaches and effectiveness. Additionally, ensure that the therapist you choose provides a comfortable and non-judgmental environment, as trust and rapport are essential for effective counselling.

Final Thoughts

When challenges arise in relationships, seeking professional guidance through relationship counselling can be a transformative step towards healing and growth. In Port Moody, Breathing Space Counselling offers a compassionate and supportive space for individuals and couples to work through their differences and discover new ways to strengthen their bonds. Don’t let unresolved issues weigh down your relationship; take that step towards a brighter future today.

Take the first step towards a fulfilling and harmonious relationship by reaching out to us at [contact details]. Together, let’s embark on a journey of self-discovery and love, creating a deeper connection with yourself and your partner.