Therapy for Young Adults in Victoria, BC

IT’S A DIFFICULT TIME TO BE A YOUNG ADULT

Organizations like the Mental Health Commission of Canada recognize that young adults and those transitioning to adulthood are facing especially challenging conditions that can lead to poor mental health outcomes. In our practice, we work with young adults who are struggling with the high cost of living and other economic challenges that are felt most acutely by people who are new to the workforce. For others, concerns about climate change and the devastating changes predicted within their lifetimes can cause apathy, depression, anxiety, and a range of other responses. 

The first step is always finding the best match for you on our team of counsellors, because therapy works best when there’s a strong and safe relationship between therapist and client. Our compassionate and holistic counselling approach can help you learn to listen to your emotions and to your body, and to use this information to adapt and find new approaches to the legitimate struggles and worries that you are experiencing. Bodymind therapists use a range of approaches to help you understand yourself better and learn new ways to regulate your nervous system and make sense of your experiences.

THERAPY CAN HELP

The numbers don’t lie – life is harder by many measures for young adults today than it was 50 or even 20 years ago. Younger people often feel hopeless about the high cost of housing and the lack of opportunities available without amassing lots of student debt. We know this takes a toll on your wellbeing, and therapy can help you work through how this is affecting you. While we can’t change the economic realities of our time, our counselling approach is especially effective for people who are struggling to make meaning of their lives and feeling overwhelmed. New clarity and understanding often emerges organically as you are able to safely explore your emotions and beliefs and experiences. 

AGING OUT OF SUPPORT

The majority of Canadians who are diagnosed with a mental illness first experience symptoms before they turn 18. The transition from childhood to adulthood can be especially difficult for people experiencing neurodivergence, mental illness, or disability as they no longer qualify for the same programs or support they did as a child. Part of your journey to adulthood is building your own care team, and we encourage you to reach out to a Bodymind therapist to book a free introduction call today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Counselling

• Can you help my teen who is experiencing depression and anxiety?

  We generally do not treat people under 18 at our practice, but we have a special expertise in supporting young adults.

• All my friends seem to have their lives together, but I feel like I am a mess. Should I be doing therapy?

  It can be very hard not to compare ourselves to other people, especially on social media. We know that feeling like you are missing milestones or falling behind your peers in some way can be incredibly stressful. Often, when you start to work with a therapist, you will be able to begin to see yourself more objectively and have more confidence and awareness of the unique journey that you are on based on your experiences, opportunities, and personal traits. As you navigate the pressure of early adulthood, we encourage you to reach out and book an appointment with one of our therapists today.

• Can I get my appointment covered by my extended medical plan or access more affordable rates if I am low income and do not have benefits?

  Most extended benefit plans do cover the services of a Registered Clinical Counsellor or a Registered Social Worker, but please check your plan to confirm. Unfortunately, MSP does not cover private counselling services. 

  We believe everyone should be able to access therapy, regardless of their financial situation or income. Bodymind Counselling offers counselling sessions with highly trained and carefully selected student counsellors, who have completed the academic portion of a Masters in Counselling program. These students are hand-picked from a long list of applicants, and undertake a 12 month practicum at our clinic. They offer sessions both in person, and via secure video therapy. These sessions cost $30 for your first appointment and $60 plus GST for subsequent appointments. 

  Students receive intensive supervision and lots of instruction during their 12-month practicum, and are able to provide clients with a longer-term relationship and more sessions than many other short-term, low-fee options can provide.

• How long will I have to do therapy for?

  While this varies greatly from person-to-person, clients experiencing acute challenges often benefit from approximately 6-8 appointments while clients unpacking complex or chronic problems may need more. We know that time and cost are a barrier for many of our clients, and we will work hard to make every appointment count for you. Some people may experience great relief almost immediately, and others may want to work with their therapist over a period of months or even years. 

• Do you offer appointments in person, or virtually?

  Our team provides in-person appointments for clients based in Victoria, BC and virtual appointments for clients in other locations in British Columbia who prefer virtual therapy for any reason.