Lisa McLellan

If you are looking for a practically based down-to-earth counsellor with over 30 years of experience in helping others,  you have arrived at the right place. Making the decision to enter into counselling can be a highly anxiety provoking experience. Fears of being judged come up, trust is a concern.  I strive to make each client's experience of counselling one in which they feel comfortable, safe, connected, and free from judgment as we work through the challenges they are facing.

My work experience and areas of expertise include: 

Private practice  work with first responders, individuals and couples in the areas of acute trauma and stress, PTSD, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, infidelity, grief and loss, workplace issues, transitional concerns, communication and couples issues, personal development, relationship readiness, women's issues,  adolescent issues and self esteem.

• Contract work with WorkSafe BC,  BCEHS, BCSPCA and Fraser Health
• Individual and group  Critical Incident Stress Debriefings and follow-up support

I am one of very few providers in BC trained in Induced After Death Communication Therapy- a specialized grief therapy that helps grieving persons experience a re-connection with someone who has passed away, resulting in a reduction of deep sadness associated with grief. Please contact me if you wish to have more information on this therapy.

I utilize a compassionate, client-centered  approach, drawing from the theories of the schools of cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, EMDR, and existential therapies. I want clients to feel confident that they can surmount the challenges that life presents and reconfigure after trauma or loss. I believe it is important to give you the tools and strategies you need to succeed. I work to ensure that clients move toward their goals in counselling in a timely and effective manner while at the same time feeling heard and understood. I believe laughter is an essential part of therapy that is often overlooked.

Client safety and professional ethics are of primary importance to me in the counselling relationship. I work with clients to explore limiting beliefs they may be holding that are keeping them from reaching their full potential. 

I am a registered service provider for the Crime Victim Assistance Program, and the Residential Historical Abuse Program, a contracted service provider for the Air Canada EAP, BCEHS,  the  BC SPCA and am a contracted trauma provider and CIS debriefer for Worksafe BC,Shepell Morneau and Fraser Health.

 I'm an avid learner and am constantly building on my knowledge and expertise through professional development and research, so that I can better help you. I have completed the Level 2 Occupational Awareness Course for working with First Responders put on by the BCPFFA.

I look forward to hearing from you and am happy to answer any questions you may have about the counselling experience. Lisa