Kim Sholinder

I believe counselling should feel human, practical, and relevant to your actual life. You don't need to have everything figured out before coming to therapy, and you certainly don't need another person telling you to think positively when things are genuinely hard.

I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 15 years of experience working with children, youth, young adults, and people navigating complex challenges. I've spent my career supporting young people who haven't always felt understood by the systems or professionals meant to help them.

My clinical work focuses particularly on adolescents and young adults experiencing intense emotions, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), trauma and complex trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, and addictions. I also support people navigating family challenges, major life transitions, and the complicated experiences that can leave us feeling stuck or disconnected from ourselves and others.

My approach draws from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, and trauma-informed, strength-based practice. I don't believe therapy should be a one-size-fits-all experience. Sometimes we need skills to help us get through the day; sometimes we need to understand repeating patterns; and sometimes we need space to make sense of experiences we've been carrying for a long time. Together, we'll figure out what feels useful and work toward changes that matter to you.

I know that not everyone has had a positive experience with counselling. Some people have felt like therapy just wasn't for them. I aim to offer something different: a collaborative, down-to-earth space where you can be honest about what's happening without feeling like you need to pretend things are fine.

I provide counselling through Sholinder Counselling Collective, my private practice in BC. I offer virtual and phone counselling in BC, with in-person available in Greater Victoria. I recognize that the cost of counselling can be a barrier, so sliding-scale options are available.

Whether you're trying to understand yourself better, manage overwhelming emotions, work through difficult experiences, or figure out what comes next, you don't have to do it all on your own.