Michael Sorsdahl

I am a Licensed Psychologist in British Columbia and Registered Psychologist in Alberta with over 20 years of clinical experience working primarily with adults and couples, as well as adolescents in appropriate contexts. My practice supports individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, often after prolonged stress, trauma, or periods of high responsibility. Many of the people I work with include first responders, military members, men, professionals, and those navigating complex life, relationship, or career transitions.

I have extensive experience working with trauma and PTSD, including the cumulative effects of chronic stress and exposure to high-demand environments. I also work with concerns related to anxiety, burnout, depression, and relationship strain. Clients often seek therapy when their usual coping strategies are no longer effective, when emotional responses feel harder to manage, or when stress begins to impact their functioning at work, at home, or in close relationships.

My approach is informed by doctoral training in both counselling and clinical psychology and is grounded in evidence-based, trauma-informed practice. Therapy is collaborative and paced, with careful attention to safety, emotional regulation, insight, and practical skill development. I work with clients to understand patterns of response shaped by experience, stress, and trauma, and to develop more adaptive ways of coping and engaging with life’s demands.

With couples, therapy often focuses on understanding relational dynamics, strengthening communication, and addressing how stress or trauma affects connection, trust, and intimacy. When working with adolescents, I emphasize emotional regulation, coping skills, identity development, and communication, while collaborating thoughtfully with families when appropriate.

Across all areas of practice, I emphasize ethical, respectful care and a focus on building internal capacity rather than quick fixes. Therapy is not about being “fixed,” but about developing greater clarity, stability, and more effective ways of responding to challenges. My aim is to support meaningful, sustainable change that allows clients to feel more grounded, connected, and capable in their daily lives and relationships.

I currently offer online and in-person (Nanaimo, Victoria and Duncan) psychological counselling, assessment and support throughout BC and Alberta.