Practice information:

Anna Richards Counselling & Consulting

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and a certified mediator in downtown Vancouver. I am also on faculty at the Justice Institute of British Columbia and the vice president at The Neutral Zone Coaching and Consulting. 

Common issues:

•    Relationships 

•    Workplace conflict

•    Depression/Anxiety

•    Divorce and separation

•    LGBTQ

*  Trauma

•   Communication skills training

Approach

In my years of practice, I have worked with people from various backgrounds with a special focus on trauma.

My first aim is to build a trusting, secure relationship in which you are invited to explore difficult questions, take risks, gain insights and, ultimately thrive. Within a trusting environment, emotions that were once unbearable can come to the surface to be met compassionately.

Our emotions determine how we experience ourselves and the world around us; they offer us vitality, joy, resilience and a sense of empowerment. When we have access to our emotions, we are better equipped to navigate life's challenges and get clear about what we want out fo life.

Sometimes, experiences of trauma, neglect or serious loss overwhelms our capacity to cope, leaving our authentic emotions buried behind a protective layer of defences. Over time this leaves us feeling cut off from others, frustrated, and stuck.

My practice is emotion focused and experientially based. While you set the agenda in each of our sessions, I pay close attention to what’s arising emotionally in the moment. Sometimes therapy can feel vulnerable and uncomfortable. I am here to hold a kind and non-judgemental space in which you can explore whatever needs your attention.

It can be difficult to reach out for counselling. I ensure that every person who takes the risk of contacting me is welcomed. A strong therapeutic relationship is the key to a successful therapy. Call for a free 20-minute phone consultation to see if we’re a good fit.

My background

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and certified mediator. I received a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from the Adler University and a certification in Conflict Resolution from the Justice Institute of BC where I am now a coach and instructor. I am currently working towards getting certified as an AEDP therapist. Prior to becoming a therapist I received degrees in English Literature and Environmental Studies at the University of Victoria and worked eight seasons as a BC forest firefighter. 

Working with a diverse clientele has always been a foundation of my practice. I endeavour to cater my approach to meet the particular needs of each person that comes in. Counselling has been an immeasurable gift in my own life and it is a profound honour to accompany my clients on their respective journeys toward greater self-understanding and acceptance. While talk therapy alone is seldom a standalone cure for our psychic suffering, its power lies in helping us realize we are not alone. I look forward to accompanying you.

I live in Vancouver with my two children.