Dr Tara Azimi

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with over 12 years of experience. I also hold a PhD in Public Health and have collaborated on research projects focused on diabetes, domestic abuse, Indigenous health, long-term care and assisted living, relationship satisfaction, and the support needs of caregivers. I have provided therapeutic support in non-profit organizations, employee assistance and family programs, government agencies, and private practice. I also hold a PhD in Public Health, which informs my holistic and evidence-based approach to mental health and wellness. Over the next year, I plan to register as a psychologist in BC.

I work with adults and couples facing a variety of challenges, including trauma, depression, anxiety, body image concerns, chronic disease, low self-esteem, family conflict, immigration and integration issues, work–life balance, grief, relationship difficulties, decision-making struggles, and academic or career-related distress.

Sometimes, it’s hard to express how you feel or know where to begin. As your counsellor, I will meet you at your pace and create a safe, supportive space where you can share your thoughts, goals, hopes, fears, and traumas. You can expect kindness, attentiveness, and respect as we work together. Through a gentle and collaborative approach, I’ll help you discover your own pathways for change and support you in achieving your goals. My aim is to encourage you to keep moving forward and offer effective tools, strategies, and techniques to do so.

My counselling approach is client-centered, relational, and experiential. I emphasize empathy, evidence-based strategies, uncovering innate strengths, perspective shifting, cross-cultural awareness, encouragement, and the therapeutic relationship. Recognizing that each person has a unique life, personality, and set of goals, I tailor each session to meet your specific needs. I consider your background, life experiences, access to resources, challenges, and strengths when offering suggestions and creating a therapy plan. I understand that one size does not fit all. As a second-generation immigrant, I am also mindful of how culture influences individuals' lives.

I have experienced many hardships and losses in my personal life, which have shaped who I am today. These experiences have fostered the deep empathy I feel for others, the challenges they face, and the strong connections I am able to build with my clients. I believe every person possesses the inner strength, ability, and resilience to heal and grow from emotional pain—and I would be honoured to be part of that journey with you.

Examples of issues I have successfully supported clients with include:

• Healing from infidelity

• Rebuilding connection and intimacy

• Coping with immigration and culturally focused challenges

• Resolving trauma and processing buried wounds

• Improving perfectionism

• Rebuilding self-esteem and self-identity

• Improving communication, managing conflict, and effectively expressing needs

• Developing healthy boundaries

• Effectively managing stress and life transitions

• Overcoming anxiety and depression

• Developing new perspectives and coping strategies

• Processing and learning to live with grief

• Meaningfully living with and accepting a chronic disease diagnosis

• Coping with relationship deterioration, separation, or loss