aya counselling
Aya means as you are: a dedicated space to connect with yourself.
Aya means as you are, and that’s where we begin. In therapy, you don’t have to be fixed, perfect, or ready. Just human. Together, we will make space for the complexity of your inner world, explore what hurts, and listen for what’s calling you forward. This work is about softening, deepening, and becoming more fully yourself.
My aim is to create a space with you to hold real conversations, gentle self-discovery, and meaningful change. Whether you're navigating overwhelm, untangling old patterns, or craving a deeper connection with yourself and others, we'll work together to move toward the life you want.
I hold a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and uphold registration with the BC Associate of Clinical Counsellors #22029 (BCACC). If you hold third party insurance, most insurance providers cover sessions with a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC).
Hey, I’m Kara
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Body
Healing isn’t just cognitive, it lives in the nervous system. We tune in to your body’s wisdom, learning to notice cues, regulate overwhelm, and reconnect with your felt sense. Somatic awareness helps anchor you in the present and builds a more compassionate relationship with your whole self.
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Relationship
We are shaped in relationship, and we heal in relationship, too. In our work together, we’ll pay attention to your relational patterns, attachment needs, and boundaries. Our therapeutic relationship becomes a space to practice safety, honesty, and being seen — as you are.
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Mind
We explore the stories you carry, the patterns of thought, beliefs, and inner dialogues that shape how you see yourself and the world. Through reflection and meaning-making, we develop deeper self-understanding, emotional clarity, and tools to navigate life with more intention.
Counselling Services & Fees
Phone Consultation
15-minutes - Free
A chance to connect, ask questions, and see if we’re a good fit. We’ll briefly talk about what’s bringing you to counselling, what you're looking for, and how I work. There’s no pressure — just a gentle, open space to explore next steps.
Counselling Session
50- minutes $165
A standard individual therapy session. We’ll use this time to deepen into your current challenges, explore patterns and experiences, and develop tools that support your growth and healing.
Counselling Session
75- minutes $250
A spacious session ideal for deeper work, or when you need extra time to settle in and process. This extended format allows us to move at a slower pace, integrate body-based practices, and explore complex issues.
Office Location
My office is located at 175 E Broadway, in the heart of Mount Pleasant at Main and Broadway. It’s easily accessible by the 09 and 99 B-Line buses, with parking available within a 5-minute walk. Surrounded by cafés and shops, it’s a warm, welcoming space for in-person sessions.
Office Hours:
Tuesdays: 12:00pm - 6:00pm
Wednesdays: 1:30pm - 7:00pm
Thursdays: 12:00pm - 6:00pm
Fridays: 10:00am - 12:00pm (virtual only)
FAQ
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The first session is really about getting to know each other and seeing if this is the right fit on both sides. I’ll probably want to know a bit about your overall story, goals you have for yourself and what prompted you to come to counselling - if you don’t quite know yet, that’s also ok.
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Absolutely - within a few legal limits. Confidentiality is the most important aspect of counselling, as it creates safety for you to share your story. The counselling relationship is so unique in that you are able to share things you may have never shared with anyone before to someone completely unbiased in your life. You can be sure that what is said in our sessions, stays in our sessions.
That being said, there are a few situations when a counsellor is legally bound to break confidentiality:
(1) if a child is or may be at risk of abuse or neglect
(2) if you have imminent intent to harm yourself or someone else
(3) if my clinical records are subpoenaed by a court order.
If you have questions about these limits to confidentiality, please let me know.
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Registered Counsellors (RCC) are recognized by most major insurance providers. However, whether counsellors are actually covered for you depends on the insurance plan your employer has purchased from the insurance provider.
The best way to confirm your coverage is to log into your provider portal, and check what’s covered under your counselling or mental health benefits.
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I take a person-centered approach to therapy, which is focused on a client-centred theory. That being said, I will integrate techniques from the following theories and modalities: Somatic Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Parts Work & Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Existential Therapy, and Feminist Therapy.
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Weekly Sessions
Ideal for building momentum, deepening insight, and creating consistent support. Weekly sessions offer a steady space to process, practice new skills, and stay connected to your growth.Biweekly Sessions
A good fit for ongoing work with a bit more breathing room between sessions. Biweekly sessions allow time to integrate, reflect, and return with fresh perspective, while still maintaining regular support.Monthly Sessions
Helpful for maintenance, check-ins, or continued support after more intensive work. Monthly sessions offer space to stay grounded and aligned, especially during times of relative stability. -
AYA requires 24 hours notice for any cancellations or changes to your appointment. Clients who provide less than 24 hours notice, or miss their appointment, will be charged for the full session.
