Al Zwiers

Sometimes we all just need a supportive space to be seen, heard and understood, to find personal insight and growth, and to get unstuck and start living our most authentic lives.

I specialize in working with Gay, Lesbian, Bi, Queer, Trans, Non-Binary and Two Spirit people, as well as other folks exploring their sexuality, gender and relationships. I also help people navigate problematic substance use and unhealthy behaviours, and find pathways forward that work for them. As a Registered Social Worker in BC, I've been providing counselling services for over 25 years with person-centered and strengths-based approaches, and helping people to understand their own histories and stories and to embrace their own humanity with compassion. A Master of Social Work degree is my clinical foundation, with additional training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness & Self-Compassion Practices, Restorative Practices, and Gottman Method for relationships.

My goal is to help you create positive and lasting change, as well as to help you build a healthy, balanced and fulfilling life of integrity and self-love. Sometimes it can be really difficult to shake off the old beliefs that have held you back or limited your life, that continue to affect your everyday experiences and relationships, and I want to help you grow and heal.

Many of the people I work with are dealing with issues of:

• substance use, addictions & compulsive behaviours
• sexuality, kink, relationships & polyamory
• gender identity & expression
• coming out & self-acceptance
• communication & boundaries
• self-esteem & self-compassion
• chronic illness & health concerns
• depression, anxiety & isolation
• loss, grief & life transitions

Many extended health care plans reimburse the cost of seeing a Registered Social Worker (RSW).