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Narrative Path Therapy

Child/Youth Counselling

Women's Counselling

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Narrative Path Therapy

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My practice is rooted in Narrative Therapy because I strongly believe that "the person is not the problem, the problem is the problem" (Micheal White). I have been supporting the inner strength and resiliency of people, since 2012, when I first began my journey as a mental health professional. I believe we are shaped and driven by our stories and the stories others have about us.  I am interested in hearing where life has taken you and what you have learned along the way.  I work in collaboration with you to understand these stories but I am also curious to find out which path you are hoping to take next. The therapeutic process is client-centred and strength-based.  Therapy can be talk therapy, or we can incorporate art, sand tray, and/or writing for those who are interested.  My work with children is imaginative and play based.  I am not afraid to get messy and bring out the art supples, toys and activities.

Therapeutic Approaches

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We don't need to be defined by our problems or allow them to run our lives. Finding separation from problems can be done by exploring values, emotions, practicing mindfulness, and choosing your preferred identity.  I use a variety of evidence-based practices to meet you where you are at. These include:

Narrative Therapy, Attachment Theory and EFT, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Neuroscience and Satir in the Sand Tray (NSST), Christian Counselling, Feminist and Anti-Oppressive Practices.

Creativity

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Creativity is always an option.  For those who lean into creative expressions, I offer space to process change through art, writing, and crafting.  Children tend to enjoy this option, but teens and adults are also welcome to explore creative expression.

Sensory Needs

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As a neuroaffirming therapist, I am aware that people have differing sensory needs. Whether high sensory seeking or low sensory preferences, I am able to accommodate these needs.  I take into consideration, lighting, sounds, smells, and tactile surroundings.  I have a variety of items with a variety of textures and also scented or unscented markers and playdough.  The sandtray can be made dry or wet.

Inclusive Space

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I would like this to be a safe space, as an important consideration when providing therapy.  I am experienced in working with those who identify in LGBTQIA2S+ and BIPOC communities.  I understand my privilege as a white cis gendered settler and I consider myself an ally those who have been or continue to be marginalized in our society. As a social worker, social justice is important to me.

We are made up of Stories

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"We can tell our stories in ways that make us stronger, in ways that soothe the losses, in ways that ease sorrow." David Denborough

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A designation of BC Association of Clinical Counsellors

Carmella Van Drunen MSW BA RCC RSW

1755 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC or Online

I would like to acknowledge that the services I provide take place on the unceded and traditional territories of the Musqueum, Tsleil Waututh and Squamish Coast Salish nations.

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