Allison Nelson

Sometimes, the hardest part of being neurodivergent, or simply feeling "different," is the exhaustion of trying to fit into a world that wasn't built for you. If you're tired of masking or feeling chronically overwhelmed, or wondering why things that seem easy for others feel so hard for you, I want you to know that you aren't alone, and you aren't broken.

Hi, I'm Allison. I'm a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) based in Burnaby, and I enjoy working with people who want to understand themselves better and build lives that feel more authentic and meaningful. Whether you're navigating ADHD, autism, anxiety, burnout, or a longstanding sense of being different, my goal is to help you move toward what matters to you, in a way that works for you.

My Approach: Flexible, Curious, and Real

Before becoming a counsellor, I spent over a 15 years supporting neurodivergent kids, teens, and their families. That experience taught me that therapy can't be one-size-fits-all. It needs to be as unique as the person sitting across from me.

My practice is grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Rather than focusing only on fixing symptoms, we'll explore how to make room for difficult thoughts and feelings while moving toward what matters to you. This might mean navigating anxiety, understanding your needs, or exploring bigger questions about meaning and mortality. We'll approach the work with compassion and curiosity.

Outside the Office

I believe therapy should be a collaborative space where you can show up as yourself, without having to perform or pretend. I try to lead by example. Honestly? I'm a little weird and proud of it. I'm a deep thinker with niche interests, whether that's a complex board game, a science fiction series, or a new topic I've become obsessed with.

I bring warmth, humour, and my genuine self into sessions. I'll meet you with curiosity and respect, and I'm comfortable gently challenging you when it might be helpful. I'm here to help you figure out what matters to you, not tell you who you should be.

My Office Locations

I offer in-person sessions and virtual counselling.

• Fern Leaf Counselling, Burnaby: My private practice offers a quiet, dedicated space for exploring what's important to you and working toward meaningful change.
• This World's Ours Centre, Vancouver: I'm proud to offer sessions at this inclusive, neuro-affirming community space. I currently have a waitlist for this location.

Wherever we meet, my aim is to offer a space where you can explore difficult things without judgment and work at a pace that respects your needs.

Let's Connect

There is no one right way to move through life, but there may be a way that feels more like you. If you're looking for a counsellor who takes your experiences seriously and won't ask you to fit into a mould, I'd love to connect.

I offer a free 15-minute consultation to see if we're a good fit. I look forward to meeting you!