INNER BALANCE SOLUTIONS
ARE
ENGAGED MEMBERS
OF YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM
WE’RE HERE TO LISTEN AND PROVIDE YOU WITH A FRESH PERSPECTIVE
Everyone experiences periods of difficulty in their lives at some point.
Perhaps you’re experiencing a difficult situation. Maybe you’re dealing with unexplained emotions or feelings. Or it could be that you just want some extra support from a trained professional.
Whatever your situation or circumstances, it can be helpful to know that there is support out there for you.

Counselling / Therapy
From individual sessions to groups, traditional “talk therapy” to EMDR, CBT, DBT and EFIT, counselling allows you to work through feelings of anger, depression, anxiety, and more. Whether you’re exploring a possible diagnosis or want to learn new skills and tools to maintain your mental health, we offer services designed for your specific needs as well as social services support as required.
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Clinical Consultation & Supervision
Clinical consultation supports clinicians to build their practice by providing mentorship on a monthly basis through the professional discussion of specific cases whilst exploring the various pathways and methods of support being provided. We also supervise interns where appropriate.
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Workshops & Groups
Whether you’re looking for retreats, diagnosis-specific focus groups, community and group support events or workshops centred around a variety of specific mental health topics, Inner Balance Solutions is happy to be able to facilitate workshops and groups or support connections between members of the community who are looking to put a group or workshop together. Please talk to us about your ideas.
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Inner Balance Solutions Counsellors
Currently not accepting new patients
- Founder
- RCSW

Terresa McKenzie
- Founder
- RCSW
Currently not accepting new patients
Language(s) spoken: English
I’m Terresa McKenzie, a Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW) and counsellor, and the owner of Inner Balance Solutions.
With over a decade of experience and education in my field, I’ve worked with people from all walks of life in various ways. I work with people of all ages, and I’m happy to work with individuals, couples, and families.
As an RCSW, I’m comfortable and qualified to diagnose many mental health conditions and often do this in collaboration with a client’s existing health team. I have experience diagnosing adult ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD, amongst others. And if I can’t give you a diagnosis, I’ll support you in pursuing that diagnosis through the appropriate channels. I also help clients with any social needs and requirements they have, as well as work with people going through domestic violence, PTSD or other traumatic experiences.
My qualifications include a Masters of Social Work, and I’m a BC licensed Clinical Social Worker. I also have treatment-specific qualifications for EMDR and EFIT.
I’m a member of:
- Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance (CADDRA)
- British Columbia College of Social Workers (BCCSW)
- British Columbia Association of Social Workers (BCASW)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing International Association (EMDRIA)
- and the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW)
Outside of my professional work, I’m also heavily involved in the community and support local charities such as the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund, the Chilliwack Charitable Firefighter’s Association, and BC Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Bills*
- First Nations Health Authority (FNHA)
- Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP)
- ICBC (motor vehicle accidents)
- Medavie Blue Cross
- Autism Funding/At-Home Program (AFU)
- WorkBC
- Many extended health benefit plans (speak with your insurer or call our admin team)
- One-time or special contracts (such as Child Protective Services)
* If you’re not sure which funding applies to you, please reach out to our admin team — we’ll be happy to help match you with a clinician whose services are covered.
- Associate
- CD, M.A., RCC

Dean Pilkey (He/Him)
- Associate
- CD, M.A., RCC
Language(s) spoken: English
Dean provides a wide range of service for his clients. He specializes in treatment modalities aimed to reduce symptoms of trauma and improve an individual’s sense of mental and emotional health. Dean is skilled therapist in several areas of counselling including: Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Ideation, Addiction, Trauma, Aggression, Anger Management, Couples, Men’s issues, Grief and Loss, and Life/Work Transition planning.
By initiating a Client Centered Approach in conjunction with evidence based models, Dean has been instrumental in helping people overcome their struggles and learn to discover their own solutions to maintain long term mental and emotional health success.
Dean is also a skilled Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Counsellor who is also trained in therapeutic modalities such as Traumatic Incident Reduction, Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT), Choice Theory, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
Bills*
FNHA, CVAP, Medavie, AFU, ICBC, Work BC, Blue Cross
- Many extended health benefit plans (speak with your insurer or call our admin team)
- One-time or special contracts (such as Child Protective Services)
* If you’re not sure which funding applies to you, please reach out to our admin team — we’ll be happy to help match you with a clinician whose services are covered.
- Associate
- RCC, CCC - 21301

Corrin Skalbeck
- Associate
- RCC, CCC - 21301
Language(s) spoken: English
I am a warm, culturally competent, trauma-informed helping professional with experience in domestic and family violence counselling, youth counselling, crisis counselling, grief counselling, and emergency mental health. I support those who have experienced childhood abuse, sexual trauma, relational abuse, and those affected by serious and persistent mental health challenges and/or substance use.
I take a strength-based, person-centered approach and am well versed in various evidence based therapeutic modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, narrative therapy, polyvagal-informed therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
I help clients discover and acknowledge their unique set of strengths and abilities, aiding them to develop more compassion and empowerment to embark on their healing journey and restore vitality and well-being.
I believe in the healing power of warmth, deep connection, care, and open-hearted presence, by creating therapeutic conditions that offer safety, refuge, and hope and encouragement.
I would be honored to support you in your mental health recovery.
Let’s connect, collaborate and recover.
Bills*
FNHA, CVAP, AFU, ICBC, Work BC, Blue Cross
- Many extended health benefit plans (speak with your insurer or call our admin team)
- One-time or special contracts (such as Child Protective Services)
* If you’re not sure which funding applies to you, please reach out to our admin team — we’ll be happy to help match you with a clinician whose services are covered.
- Associate
- MSW, RSW - 15063

Viana Ibrahim
- Associate
- MSW, RSW - 15063
Language(s) spoken: Acholi, Arabic, Bari, English
Viana holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from The University of Calgary (2010) and is a Registered Social Worker (#15063) with the BC College of Social Workers and also registered with BC Association of Social Workers (#2000302).
Viana has worked in non-profit and government settings for the past 13 years supporting; children, adolescents, families, and individuals experiencing a range of concerns. Some concerns include; depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-harm, suicidal ideation, grief, trauma, veterans experiencing PTSD and life transitions. In addition, she also supports new immigrants and refugees adjusting to the new life as they make Canada their home.
Viana approaches the counseling process with compassion, warmth, and respect. Honoring the vulnerability and courage required in allowing oneself to be ‘seen’ and believing in the capacity of each individual to grow, heal, and change is her main goal.
Bills*
FNHA, CVAP, AFU, Work BC
- Many extended health benefit plans (speak with your insurer or call our admin team)
- One-time or special contracts (such as Child Protective Services)
* If you’re not sure which funding applies to you, please reach out to our admin team — we’ll be happy to help match you with a clinician whose services are covered.
- Asociate
- RSW - 15803

Ashton Goldthorp
- Asociate
- RSW - 15803
Language(s) spoken: English
Hello, I’m Ashton, a dedicated and compassionate Registered Social Worker with a passion for making a positive impact. With two years of hands-on experience, I have worked across diverse areas within the field, including supporting seniors, navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system, assisting youth, and addressing challenges related to substance misuse.
I believe in the power of human connection and the importance of creating a safe space for individuals on their unique journeys. I am excited about the opportunity to meet you, understand your needs, and provide the support you require. Let’s embark on this journey together, as I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve.
Bills*
CVAP, AFU, Work BC
- Some extended health benefit plans (speak with your insurer or call our admin team)
- One-time or special contracts (such as Child Protective Services)
* If you’re not sure which funding applies to you, please reach out to our admin team — we’ll be happy to help match you with a clinician whose services are covered.
Currently not accepting new patients
- Associate
- MC, RCC – 18436

Vanessa Viggiani (She/Her)
- Associate
- MC, RCC – 18436
Currently not accepting new patients
Hello, I am Vanessa, a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with 13 years of experience working in the social services field. I have been a counselling therapist for four years and hold a Masters of Counselling degree from City University of Seattle. I am available to work with individuals and people in partnerships who are 19 years of age and older.
My approach to counselling is that of showing warmth, validation, empathy, and building trust through honest dialogue and experiential strategies that place clients’ needs for safety and connection at the forefront. I will work with you collaboratively to reach your desired goals in therapy as you gain confidence in and compassion towards yourself to make courageous decisions toward the betterment of your mental health and overall wellbeing.
I will use a combination of approaches that are tailored for you to gain deeper insight into the concerns that are in the way of you feeling satisfied and resilient in your life. These approaches include: bio-psychosocial, emotion-focused, attachment-oriented, somatic, trauma-aware frameworks as well as person-centered, solution-focused, strength and values-based approaches to counselling.
I am trained and skilled in using evidence based therapeutic modalities such as: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Feedback Informed Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Somatic therapies, Existential therapies, and Expressive therapies; all which assist in understanding, managing, and relieving symptoms of mental health difficulties.
I have supported children, youth and adults who have experienced: abuse, anxiety, depression, bereavement, grief and loss, cultural stress, gender identity stress, parenting stress, relationship stress, self-harm, suicidal ideation, substance use stress, employment stress, crime, and trauma. Being a mother and partner myself has enhanced my passion for supporting new and experienced parents navigate their mental health while raising infants, children, and adolescents.
Instead of going in a straight line, change meanders like a river. I am here to help you navigate your journey from patterns of protection and disconnection to patterns of calm reconnection with yourself and others. I am honoured to be invited to work with you and endeavour to create a safe space for you to be yourself and feel your full potential.
- Associate
- MSW, RSW - 14217

Katelyn Pesut (she/her)
- Associate
- MSW, RSW - 14217
Language(s) spoken: English
You don’t need to have it all figured out. Life is full of changes—some exciting, some heartbreaking, and some that just feel too big to carry on your own. Whether you’re adjusting to a diagnosis, living with one and realizing your needs have shifted, stepping into parenthood, navigating relationship changes, or simply trying to make sense of what’s next—I’m here to support you with care, clarity, and compassion.
I’m a Registered Social Worker and counsellor based in British Columbia, offering counselling and system navigation support to youth, adults, and families. My approach is grounded in kindness, collaboration, and real-world support. I believe that mental wellness starts with meeting basic needs—like food, housing, safety, and connection—and I’m here to help with both emotional and practical steps forward.
I support people from all walks of life and hold a strong commitment to trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and culturally responsive care. I am LGBTQ2S+ affirming and bring a deep understanding of the barriers people face when living with physical disabilities, chronic pain, neurodivergence, and a range of mental health challenges. You deserve to be supported in a way that makes sense for you—and I’ll meet you where you’re at.
I also work closely with parents who are navigating the systems surrounding a child’s diagnosis—or adapting to changing needs over time. Whether you’re looking for services, funding options, school support, or a stronger voice in advocacy, I’ll walk beside you through each step.
Whether it’s filling out forms, making hard calls, or simply having someone by your side—I’ll be there. You don’t have to do it all alone. Let’s jump the “hoops”, together.
Bills*
FNHA, CVAP, AFU, Work BC
- Many extended health benefit plans (speak with your insurer or call our admin team)
- One-time or special contracts (such as Child Protective Services)
* If you’re not sure which funding applies to you, please reach out to our admin team — we’ll be happy to help match you with a clinician whose services are covered.
- Associate
- RSW

Tammy Pope
- Associate
- RSW
Language(s) spoken: English
I am Tammy Pope, a registered Social Worker (RSW) and counsellor.
I have a great deal of life experience and education. I feel honored to support people during challenging times in their lives. Navigating life can be stressful. I value the therapeutic relationship and seek to help empower clients. I have been described as approachable and relatable. I have supported youth, adults, and seniors, and I have experience with grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
I am an inclusive practitioner. I work from a person-centered lens, anti-oppressive practice, and evidence-based practice. I am a member of the British Columbia College of Social Workers (BCCSW) and the British Columbia Social Workers Association (BCASW).
Bills*
AFU, Work BC
- Many extended health benefit plans (speak with your insurer or call our admin team)
- One-time or special contracts (such as Child Protective Services)
* If you’re not sure which funding applies to you, please reach out to our admin team — we’ll be happy to help match you with a clinician whose services are covered.
- Associate
- RCC - 23452

Jen Dacre
- Associate
- RCC - 23452
Language(s) spoken: English
With her calm, grounded presence and deep respect for each person’s story, Jen offers a space where you can feel seen, heard, and supported. Her approach is integrative and person-centred, drawing from existential therapy, narrative therapy, CBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and mindfulness-based, trauma-informed practices. She holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in both Child and Youth Care and Sociology.
Jen brings extensive knowledge and experience in grief and bereavement, with a particular gift for supporting individuals navigating the intersection of loss, addiction, and life transitions. She works with clients from all walks of life, including those who have been marginalized—such as members of LGBTQ2S+ and Indigenous communities—offering a space grounded in acceptance, autonomy, and respect.
Collaboration is central to Jen’s work, building trust through authentic connection and a deep respect for each client’s lived experience. Clients often describe her as nurturing, insightful, and empowering.
Jen’s practice is shaped not only by her academic training but also by her lived experiences. She is passionate about helping people embrace their true selves, reconnect with their inner strength, and recognize their inherent worth.
Bills*
AFU, Blue Cross, CVAP, AFU, Work BC
- Many extended health benefit plans (speak with your insurer or call our admin team)
- One-time or special contracts (such as Child Protective Services)
* If you’re not sure which funding applies to you, please reach out to our admin team — we’ll be happy to help match you with a clinician whose services are covered.
- Associate
- RCC - 23055

Deniz Shokati
- Associate
- RCC - 23055
Language(s) spoken: Farsi, English
Hello and Welcome! Navigating the decision to start therapy can feel daunting. So, finding the right therapist who resonates with your needs is pivotal in your therapeutic journey. Life presents us with a multitude of challenges, stemming from both internal struggles and external circumstances. Within each challenge lies an opportunity for profound growth and understanding. As your therapist, my goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment to empower you to face these challenges, promote mental and emotional wellness, and build healthier relationships.
My approach is trauma-informed and person-centred, integrating elements of different therapeutic modalities such as CBT, narrative therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and ACT, empowering you to develop healthier coping strategies and enhance self-awareness. I offer services in English, & am also proficient in conversational Farsi.
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, navigating a major life transition, or seeking greater fulfillment and meaning, I am here to support you every step of the way. I look forward to working together.
Bills*
CVAP, ICBC, AFU
- Many extended health benefit plans (speak with your insurer or call our admin team)
- One-time or special contracts (such as Child Protective Services)
* If you’re not sure which funding applies to you, please reach out to our admin team — we’ll be happy to help match you with a clinician whose services are covered.
- Associate
- CCC - 1242729

Justin VanWinkoop
- Associate
- CCC - 1242729
Language(s) spoken: english
Hi, my name is Justin. I understand that starting counselling can feel daunting or even intimidating. But if you’re ready to take a step toward healing or personal growth, I’d be honored to support you on your journey.
I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor, having obtained my master’s degree in counselling psychology in 2021. I use a person centered approach and view counselling from a trauma informed lens. I make sure my client’s feel safe, seen, heard, and understood. I provide counselling to clients of all ages, with a passion for supporting individuals as they navigate life transitions—whether they are teenagers, young adults, or middle-aged adults. I specialize in working with clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, anger, and other mental health challenges.
I am trained in a range of counselling modalities, allowing me to tailor my approach to meet each client’s unique needs. I look forward to working with you in your counselling process.
- Associate
- RCC - 23210

JJ Janzen
- Associate
- RCC - 23210
Language(s) spoken: English
Life can feel heavy. At times, we may feel stuck in patterns or experiences that feel overwhelming to carry alone. Let me offer you a space to breathe, explore, play, laugh, cry, and continue healing.
I support children (3+), youth, and adults in areas such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, grief, chronic pain, and life transitions. I also have experience supporting Indigenous peoples and neurodivergent individuals.
A meaningful aspect of my practice is supporting adoptees. Adoption is a traumatic experience, and as an international adoptee, I help clients explore their origins, (multicultural) identity, and (birth/adoptive) family relationships.
I take a person-centred, integrative approach, using evidence-based modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Synergetic Play Therapy, CBT/ACT, and Narrative Therapy. For trauma processing, I offer EMDR and Observational Experiential Integration (OEI).
You are welcome here, just as you are!
Bills*
- Some extended health benefit plans (speak with your insurer or call our admin team)
- One-time or special contracts (such as Child Protective Services)
* If you’re not sure which funding applies to you, please reach out to our admin team — we’ll be happy to help match you with a clinician whose services are covered.
- Associate
- RCC - 23679

Laura Park
- Associate
- RCC - 23679
Language(s) spoken: English
Life for young people today is heavy. Between the pressures of social media, navigating school transitions, and the constant search for where they fit in, it is easy for youth and young adults to feel overwhelmed. I’m Laura, and I specialize in supporting people ages 6 and up through all of that “big stuff.”
I’m a gentle listener who keeps it real, knowing when to sprinkle humor into our sessions. I believe therapy should feel accessible and engaging, so I often draw on my background in therapeutic recreation. This means we don’t always have to just sit and talk. We might use purposeful activities, leisure, or your own personal interests to build skills and process emotions. Incorporating movement or creativity into our time together helps the process feel more natural and a lot less like a clinical session.
While my primary focus is the young person in the room, I also walk alongside parents when they feel stuck. Whether we are navigating ADHD, anxiety, gender identity, school stress, or peer friendships I use a strengths-based approach utilizing CBT, DBT, and ACT to help you find your footing. I bring experience from my work with Fraser Health’s child and youth acute crisis team and Foundry’s youth services to ensure our sessions are grounded in real-world support.
It’s so nice to meet you. I’m looking forward to navigating this path with you.
- Associate
- Qualifying RCC

Jessica Jawanda
- Associate
- Qualifying RCC
Language(s) spoken: English
Hi, I’m Jess!
I’m so glad you’re here. Reaching out for counselling can feel like a big step, and it takes courage just to land on this page. My hope is to make that step feel lighter by offering a space where you don’t have to carry things on your own.
My approach is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative, with space for both meaningful reflection and moments of lightness. I believe counselling doesn’t have to feel heavy all the time — sometimes laughter or sparks of joy can be part of the healing too.
Together, we’ll explore what’s been weighing you down, untangle the difficult parts, uncover your strengths, and find practical tools you can use in daily life.
I often support clients who are navigating stress, anxiety, self-worth struggles, or major life transitions. At the same time, I welcome people from all walks of life, with a wide range of experiences and goals. Whatever brings you here, this is your space.
Clients often tell me they appreciate my calm, approachable presence and the uplifting energy I bring to our sessions. I don’t believe in quick fixes; real change takes time and compassion. Wherever you are starting from, know that you don’t have to walk this path alone — I’d be honoured to walk it with you.
Bills*
AFU
- Some extended health benefit plans (speak with your insurer or call our admin team)
- One-time or special contracts (such as Child Protective Services)
* If you’re not sure which funding applies to you, please reach out to our admin team — we’ll be happy to help match you with a clinician whose services are covered.
- Associate
- Qualifying RCC

Stephen Horner
- Associate
- Qualifying RCC
Language(s) spoken: English
Hey there, my name is Stephen! I am a pre-registered counsellor here at Inner Balance.
I have experience working with youth, young adults, children, LGBTQIA2s+ community, Indigenous people and people with disabilities. My services are welcoming, trauma-informed and culturally safe.
My approach to counselling centres from my belief that therapy is most effective through connection. I believe that people are the experts in their own lives, and I aim to meet you where you are at when you come into the therapy space. Whatever is going on for you, I hope to offer a safe space for you to feel heard & supported through life’s ups and downs.
Bills*
AFU
- some extended health benefit plans (speak with your insurer or call our admin team)
- One-time or special contracts (such as Child Protective Services)
* If you’re not sure which funding applies to you, please reach out to our admin team — we’ll be happy to help match you with a clinician whose services are covered.
- Associate
- BCCSW - 17514, OCSWSSW - 845728

Jessica Neal
- Associate
- BCCSW - 17514, OCSWSSW - 845728
Language(s) spoken: English
Hi! My name is Jessica. I’m a registered social worker, psychotherapist trained in Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness. I hold a BA, BSW, and MSW. My approach to therapy is Humanistic and Existential – I like to explore the big questions about what our lives mean!
Working with me looks like exploring the influence of external systems upon our lives, giving space to both the spirit and the mind, and making friends with our more complex emotions. I believe you have the tools inside you to chart your own path, and that our relationship is the vehicle for healing – we are not meant to do this work alone!
I look forward to embarking on this journey with you. I am available virtually for residents of British Columbia and Ontario.
- Affiliate Counsellor
- BA, MEd, RCC-ACS, Play Therapist

Lynne Barisoff
- Affiliate Counsellor
- BA, MEd, RCC-ACS, Play Therapist
I am a Registered RCC With BCACC. Supervisor for clinical supervision. Emotion Focused Family Therapist, CBT, Generational Trauma, Sexual abuse and trauma, Play Therapist. I have over 30+ years experience with children, adults, families and Indigenous communities, and the LGBTQIA community. I have a nonjudgmental approach and meet my clients where they are at.
I want to help clients discover what keeps them from moving forward. I offer a supportive, safe environment where clients can easily share their experiences, thoughts and stories.
- Master Level Intern

Francine Douglas
- Master Level Intern
Language(s) spoken: English
I am Stó:lō from Sts’ailes Nation and Tsimshian from Metlakatla Nation. My counselling is rooted in the teachings of land, story, and relationship.
I support clients carrying trauma, stress, emotional pain, or coping patterns that no longer serve them, helping them return to safety and resilience. My work integrates somatic and polyvagal-informed practices, along with narrative and relational-cultural approaches, within a trauma-informed, client-centered relationship.
I am also involved with Sacred Circle Wellness, supporting healthcare grounded in Indigenous knowledge. I hold a BA from UBC and am completing a MA in Counselling Psychology from City University.
- Master Level Intern
- Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology

Antonio (Tony) De Santis
- Master Level Intern
- Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology
Language(s) spoken: English
Hi there—my name is Antonio, though most people know me as Tony. I’m a student counsellor attending Yorkville University, looking to complete my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I have a background in criminal justice alongside my psychology expertise. I have previous experience working in the mental healthcare field, offering counselling and support to youth and parents alike. I am deeply passionate about working in the helping field to improve the mental well-being of my community and each person I come in contact with. I understand the ups and downs of life and how difficult each obstacle can be. Though I believe in the strength and determination of each person, alongside their support networks, to ensure success in the life circumstances each person faces.
I’ve always had an interest in understanding people’s minds, using my genuine curiosity as atool to aid in the therapeutic process. During my sessions, I strive to provide an open and
accepting environment for each person seeking support. This includes incorporating
collaboration, culture, and personal identity into each counselling session. I emphasize the importance of empathy and emotional validation through active listening while providing evidence-based interventions and useful resources to benefit each person seeking support. This happens alongside providing psychoeducation to assist everyone in understanding the processes of therapy and what they’re experiencing. Knowledge is power and the key to therapeutic success.
I practice counselling from a holistic approach, meaning that I enjoy using a variety of
techniques during counselling sessions to match the needs of the people I’m working with. I have experience applying interventions including person-centred therapy (PCT), cognitive
behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT). Additionally, I strategically incorporate skills and concepts from psychodynamic theories while operating from a strengths-based mindset, highlighting the skills and abilities of each person I work with.
These techniques allow me to work with a variety of difficulties, including psychiatric conditions such as anxiety and depression. I also have experience working with neurodivergence, helping navigate life changes and self-exploration for personal development, improving relationships and communication, managing stress and enhancing self-care, setting goals, and developing constructive coping mechanisms. Anyone aged 10 or above is welcome to access my services.
Beyond psychology and counselling, I have interests in video games, music, movies, shows, and reading. I look forward to learning more about and connecting with each person seeking support, discovering your hobbies and what makes you, you.
- Master Level Intern

Zahnil Lal
- Master Level Intern
Language(s) spoken: English
Having grown up in a first-responder family, as well as working in Public Works over the past few years, I can understand how difficult it can be and how much courage it takes to make the decision to enter counselling. I am here to support you throughout the entire process, so that you can reach the goals that you want to achieve.
I take a non-judgmental, person-centred, and strengths-based approach to counselling, creating a safe and collaborative space for clients to explore their experiences and discover meaningful pathways forward. Every individual holds unique strengths and inner resources, and I work alongside clients to uncover these abilities so that they can be applied in other areas of their lives.
People would describe me as an inviting and understanding individual who puts the needs of the client first. I am also grounded in the belief that clients are the experts in their own lives. This means that I am committed to learning and honouring your rich cultural background, heritage, and experiences. I approach every interaction with curiosity, respect, and cultural humility, ensuring that clients feel seen, heard, and empowered.
It would be an honour to walk beside you through your journey and help you achieve your goals! I look forward to working with you!
- Master Level Intern

Shirley Thomas
- Master Level Intern
Shirley is a graduate student at Trinity Western University, pursuing a master’s degree in Couples and Family Therapy. She brings extensive experience supporting children and their families as they navigate challenges and address attachment needs. Shirley is dedicated to working with parents, equipping and empowering them to foster strong connections with their children, and with each other. Shirley adopts a systemic approach to understanding family dynamics and recognizes the importance of how these relationships influence present circumstances. She is passionate about empowering individuals to grow in confidence and strengthen their relationships and brings a genuine care and listening heart into the room with each client. Shirley respects that each person is the expert of their own life and considers it a privilege to be part of their journey. Fundamentally, I view counselling as the work of personal growth, accelerating our ability to find and sustain joy, connection, and meaning in our lives.
Inner Balance Solutions Supporting Team Members
- Office Coordinator

Michelle VanDokkumburg
- Office Coordinator
Michelle is the friendly face you’ll see when you visit our office and the helpful voice you’ll hear when you call. As our Office Coordinator, she ensures everything runs smoothly, from scheduling appointments to answering any questions you may have. With her warm and welcoming demeanor, Michelle is dedicated to making your experience as seamless and comfortable as possible, whether you’re contacting us by phone or arriving in person. She’s here to support you every step of the way.
- Therapeutic clinical K9

Sigmund Floyd
- Therapeutic clinical K9
Sigmund joined the IBSI team in January 2025 as our therapeutic clinical K9. He is a mini golden doodle and is adjusting to the new environment and people. Look for treats in the waiting area if you would like to meet him (if he is feeling up to it, like humans dogs have their days where they prefer less interaction). We recognize not everyone is a dog person so if Sigmund isn’t your cup of tea just let Michelle or your therapist know and we will do our best to keep him away during your session.
- Admin Support and Marketing

Carina Barbura
- Admin Support and Marketing
As part of the Inner Balance Solutions team, Carina works alongside Michelle to help keep things organized, connected, and flowing smoothly behind the scenes. She brings a warm, steady presence to her role, supporting with scheduling, communications, and the many moving pieces that make each day run with ease. Known for her reliability and thoughtful approach, Carina helps create a sense of calm and order that allows Michelle and the team to focus on supporting clients. She also adds a creative touch through marketing, helping to share IBSI’s message of connection, compassion, and holistic wellness with the wider community.
INNER BALANCE SOLUTIONS
HAS YOUR BACK
We’re a team of dedicated therapists and professionals with a wealth of experience. We’re ready and willing to support you in whatever capacity helps you achieve your goals.
We are committed to building emotional and mental balance in a safe manner for everyone we work with. From assessment to diagnosis, skilled in a wide scope of therapeutic treatments including beneficial support and guidance where needed. You can be assured that, here at Inner Balance Solutions, you have a dedicated and safe environment to explore various areas of mental and emotional health.
Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts
- Winston. S. Churchill



Phone Number:
(604) 819-9828
7+
Team Members
12+
Years of Experience
10+
Events Per Year