Hi, I’m Jen, and I’m excited to be part of the team at IBSI. I have many years of experience in the human services and social services fields, and am honoured to be part of someone’s experience through counselling. I know that asking for help can be complicated and sometimes scary, and having support to navigate stressful life circumstances can make a big difference.

I am a person-centred, inclusive practitioner, and use a variety of modalities including narrative therapy, solution focused brief therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and existential therapy. My approaches will be tailored to meet your needs, focusing on your goals, values, and beliefs.

I look forward to making connections and being part of your growth and healing.

Hi, I’m Jen, and I’m excited to be part of the team at IBSI. I have many years of experience in t... Read More

Antonio (Tony) De Santis

Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology - Student Counsellor

Language(s) spoken: English

Hi there—my name is Antonio, though most people know me as Tony. I’m a student counsellor attending Yorkville University, looking to complete my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I have a background in criminal justice alongside my psychology expertise. I have previous experience working in the mental healthcare field, offering counselling and support to youth and parents alike. I am deeply passionate about working in the helping field to improve the mental well-being of my community and each person I come in contact with. I understand the ups and downs of life and how difficult each obstacle can be. Though I believe in the strength and determination of each person, alongside their support networks, to ensure success in the life circumstances each person faces.

I’ve always had an interest in understanding people’s minds, using my genuine curiosity as atool to aid in the therapeutic process. During my sessions, I strive to provide an open and

accepting environment for each person seeking support. This includes incorporating

collaboration, culture, and personal identity into each counselling session. I emphasize the importance of empathy and emotional validation through active listening while providing evidence-based interventions and useful resources to benefit each person seeking support. This happens alongside providing psychoeducation to assist everyone in understanding the processes of therapy and what they’re experiencing. Knowledge is power and the key to therapeutic success.

I practice counselling from a holistic approach, meaning that I enjoy using a variety of

techniques during counselling sessions to match the needs of the people I’m working with. I have experience applying interventions including person-centred therapy (PCT), cognitive

behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT). Additionally, I strategically incorporate skills and concepts from psychodynamic theories while operating from a strengths-based mindset, highlighting the skills and abilities of each person I work with.

These techniques allow me to work with a variety of difficulties, including psychiatric conditions such as anxiety and depression. I also have experience working with neurodivergence, helping navigate life changes and self-exploration for personal development, improving relationships and communication, managing stress and enhancing self-care, setting goals, and developing constructive coping mechanisms. Anyone aged 10 or above is welcome to access my services.

Beyond psychology and counselling, I have interests in video games, music, movies, shows, and reading. I look forward to learning more about and connecting with each person seeking support, discovering your hobbies and what makes you, you.

Antonio (Tony) De Santis Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology - Student Counsellor Language... Read More

Francine Douglas, Master Level Intern

I am Stó:lō from Sts’ailes Nation and Tsimshian from Metlakatla Nation. My counselling is rooted in the teachings of land, story, and relationship.

I support clients carrying trauma, stress, emotional pain, or coping patterns that no longer serve them, helping them return to safety and resilience. My work integrates somatic and polyvagal-informed practices, along with narrative and relational-cultural approaches, within a trauma-informed, client-centered relationship.

I am also involved with Sacred Circle Wellness, supporting healthcare grounded in Indigenous knowledge. I hold a BA from UBC and am completing a MA in Counselling Psychology from City University.

Francine Douglas, Master Level Intern I am Stó:lō from Sts’ailes Nation and Tsimshian from Metla... Read More

I use strength-based, client-centred approach in my social work. I aim to help clients recognize and trust their strengths. I meet individuals where they are while creating a compassionate, non-judgemental space that respects their lived experiences.

I strive to ensure clients feel heard and understood while staying in control of their healing and growth journey. I enjoy supporting youth, women, and individuals with ADHD, and am passionate about helping clients navigate challenges during their journey.

I am drawn to this field by a desire to support others on their path, especially during times of uncertainty or change. Clients and colleagues often describe me as unique, empathetic, and easy to connect with. I aim to bring warmth and encouragement to my work, helping clients feel supported as they move toward greater well-being.

I use strength-based, client-centred approach in my social work. I aim to help clients recognize... Read More

Hey there, my name is Stephen! I am a pre-registered counsellor here at Inner Balance. I have experience working with youth, young adults, children, LGBTQIA2s+ community, Indigenous people and people with disabilities. My services are welcoming, trauma informed and culturally safe. My approach to counselling centres from my belief that therapy is most effective through connection. I believe that people are the experts in their own lives, and I aim to meet you where you are at when you come into the therapy space. Whatever is going on for you, I hope to offer a safe space for you to feel heard & supported through life’s ups and downs.

Hey there, my name is Stephen! I am a pre-registered counsellor here at Inner Balance. I have ex... Read More

Hi, I’m JJ!

I believe that we were not meant to do life alone. I take a relational approach to counselling. I prioritize authentic connection with each client, as I believe that healing and growth happen best within supportive, trusting relationships. I am committed to honouring each individual’s story, valuing the paths they’ve walked and the experiences that have brought them here. I believe in meeting people where they are and creating a safe space to sit with them in their current experiences without judgment or expectation.

I approach counselling through a person-centred, systemic, and critical feminist lens. This means that I prioritize understanding you as an individual while considering the broader social, cultural, historical, and relational contexts that shape your experiences.

I have my Level 2 certification in Observed Experiential Integration Therapy (OEI), a trauma-focused therapy designed to help individuals process difficult or traumatic events from their past. Evolving from EMDR therapy, OEI uses your visual pathways (eyes) to connect both hemispheres of the brain, helping to reduce trauma symptoms. Research demonstrates that OEI is effective in addressing numerous symptoms and difficulties, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, phobias, grief, addictions, eating disorders, negative self-talk, and more.

I look forward to being a part of your counselling journey and holding space for you.

Hi, I’m JJ! I believe that we were not meant to do life alone. I take a relational approach to c... Read More

Hi, my name is Zahnil!

Having grown up in a first-responder family, as well as working in Public Works over the past few years, I can understand how difficult it can be and how much courage it takes to make the decision to enter counselling. I am here to support you throughout the entire process, so that you can reach the goals that you want to achieve.

I take a non-judgmental, person-centred, and strengths-based approach to counselling, creating a safe and collaborative space for clients to explore their experiences and discover meaningful pathways forward. Every individual holds unique strengths and inner resources, and I work alongside clients to uncover these abilities so that they can be applied in other areas of their lives.

People would describe me as an inviting and understanding individual who puts the needs of the client first. I am also grounded in the belief that clients are the experts in their own lives. This means that I am committed to learning and honouring your rich cultural background, heritage, and experiences. I approach every interaction with curiosity, respect, and cultural humility, ensuring that clients feel seen, heard, and empowered.

It would be an honour to walk beside you through your journey and help you achieve your goals! I look forward to working with you!

Hi, my name is Zahnil! Having grown up in a first-responder family, as well as working in Public... Read More

“I like to use a collaborative approach to counselling, where you are in control of where counselling takes you.

Being solution focused means that we will look to find the path towards the goals you set.”

“I like to use a collaborative approach to counselling, where you are in control of where counsel... Read More

I am Tammy Pope, a registered Social Worker (RSW) and counsellor. I have a great deal of life experience and education. I feel honored to support people during challenging times in their lives. Navigating life can be stressful. I value the therapeutic relationship and seek to help empower clients. I have been described as approachable and relatable. I have supported youth, adults, and seniors, and I have experience with grief and loss, anxiety, and depression. I am an inclusive practitioner. I work from a person-centered lens, anti-oppressive practice, and evidence-based practice. I am a member of the British Columbia College of Social Workers (BCCSW) and the British Columbia Social Workers Association (BCASW).

I am Tammy Pope, a registered Social Worker (RSW) and counsellor. I have a great deal of life exp... Read More

Hi, I am Lizzy, a student social worker and life-long learner. I lead with a client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach. I believe in meeting every person where they’re at, with no judgement or expectation. I view myself as an equal to those I work with, there to both celebrate successes and navigate hardship. I am LGBTQ2S+ affirming and am informed by anti-oppressive and feminist principles. I strongly believe in the power of human connection and a holistic approach to wellness.

While I have a plethora of practice experience with children and youth, including those with neurodivergence, as well as cognitive or physical disabilities, I also have experience supporting adults through mental health, addiction, as well as resource navigation and referral. I have a passion for group facilitation, but I also love the opportunity to connect with others one-on-one.

Past clients have told me that I make them feel seen, heard, and uplifted. I am a good listener and can adapt to wherever your energy is at – whether you need to laugh or cry. I am looking forward to walking alongside you in your journey.

Hi, I am Lizzy, a student social worker and life-long learner. I lead with a client-centered, str... Read More

Hello and Welcome! Navigating the decision to start therapy can feel daunting. So, finding the right therapist who resonates with your needs is pivotal in your therapeutic journey. Life presents us with a multitude of challenges, stemming from both internal struggles and external circumstances. Within each challenge lies an opportunity for profound growth and understanding. As your therapist, my goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment to empower you to face these challenges, promote mental and emotional wellness, and build healthier relationships. My approach is trauma-informed and person-centred, integrating elements of different therapeutic modalities such as CBT, narrative therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and ACT, empowering you to develop healthier coping strategies and enhance self-awareness. I offer services in English, & am also proficient in conversational Farsi. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, navigating a major life transition, or seeking greater fulfillment and meaning, I am here to support you every step of the way. I look forward to working together.

Hello and Welcome! Navigating the decision to start therapy can feel daunting. So, finding the ri... Read More

Justin is a Canadian Certified Counsellor, having obtained his master’s degree in counselling psychology in 2021. He uses a person centered approach and view counselling from a trauma informed lens. He specializes in assisting clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, anger and many other mental health challenges. Justin is well trained in multiple counselling modalities in order to use skills and interventions that will best support the client’s needs.

Justin is a Canadian Certified Counsellor, having obtained his master’s degree in counselling psy... Read More