Shahrzad Akbari

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Master’s degree in Psychology and over 20 years of experience supporting individuals, adolescents, and families. I have received specialized training in family therapy, mental health, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and trauma-informed practice, which continues to inform my approach to care. Over the years, I have worked in private practice, community organizations, and educational settings, including teaching psychology at the post-secondary level.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in respect for each person’s unique story. I support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, relationship challenges, family concerns, grief and loss, and major life transitions. I also work extensively with clients who have been impacted by motor vehicle accidents, including those coping with changes to work, school, daily functioning, and their overall sense of stability after an injury.

I also have extensive experience supporting newcomers and refugees, and I understand that displacement, resettlement, and adapting to a new cultural and social environment can bring many emotional and practical challenges. As a bilingual counsellor in English and Farsi, I am able to provide culturally sensitive and accessible counselling to Farsi-speaking clients and communities.

In my work, I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches and tailor counselling to each client’s needs, goals, and pace. I strive to create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, supported, and respected. Building trust is central to my practice, and I value walking alongside clients as they strengthen resilience, reconnect with themselves, and move toward greater balance and well-being.

To help make counselling more accessible and convenient, our clinic offers direct billing to many extended health insurance providers, including ICBC and IFHP (Interim Federal Health Program).

If you are considering counselling, please feel free to reach out. Finding the right counsellor is an important step, and I aim to make that process as comfortable and straightforward as possible. I would be honoured to connect with you and explore how I may be able to support you.