Choosing a counsellor – what to look for, where to start.
Choosing a counsellor can feel a bit like choosing a hiking trail: there are many good options, but the “right” one depends on where you are, what you’re carrying, and the kind of support you need along the way. Some people look for a specific approach and others want someone local who understands living on the Coast — or someone who simply feels easy to talk to.
A helpful place to start is by asking yourself what kind of support you need right now. Are you looking for short-term help with coping or making a decision, or something longer-term that explores patterns, history, or trauma? Therapists differ in their training and scope. Counselling often focuses on concrete goals, while psychotherapy tends to look more deeply and over a longer period.
One of the most important parts of therapy is the relationship itself. Yes, a counsellor’s credentials and training matter — but feeling comfortable with them matters more. If you’re sharing your inner world, you need someone who feels emotionally safe and steady. Pay attention to how you feel in a first session or consult: Do you feel heard? Were things explained clearly? Do you feel rushed, or is there room to move at your own pace?
Practical details matter, too. Cost, location, availability, and format, in-person, virtual, or walk-and-talk, all shape the experience. Some people prefer a predictable weekly rhythm; others need something more flexible.
It can also help to think about what kind of training or experience you’re looking for. On the Coast, we have a broad range of mental-health professionals: registered clinical counsellors, social workers, psychologists, community-based counsellors, and peer support workers. Many offer additional training in areas like trauma, grief, substance use, couples work, or somatic approaches.
And sometimes the question isn’t “Who should I see?” but “Where do I even begin?” You can start with a Google search, or browse directories like Psychology Today or the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. But if private practice isn’t accessible right now, there are several low-barrier, no-cost, and community-based supports available for adults and children here on the Coast.
Finding the right counsellor is rarely a straight line. It often takes a bit of trying, noticing and adjusting. What matters most is that you feel supported, respected and understood. Whether you start with a single-session appointment, a community program, or private practice, every step you take toward care is a meaningful one.
Local Supports
Single session walk-in service (SSWIS) at Sunshine Coast Mental Health Services
Available Monday to Friday. Call early at 8:30 a.m. to book same-day service. Not for crisis support.
Drop-in, walk-in and phone/virtual services are available through 604-885-6101.
No cost mental health support for individuals 19+.
Designed to address immediate needs and explore potential solutions.
Counselling through the Primary Care Network (PCN)
If you have a family doctor, they can refer you to the PCN counselling team.
The PCN Clinical Counsellor provides no cost, brief, solution-focused counselling (up to eight sessions) for adults managing mild-to-moderate mental health or substance use concerns.
A doctor's referral is required, speak with your GP. Waitlist times vary.
Adult Short-Term Counselling at Sunshine Coast Mental Health Services
Available Monday to Friday for short-term individual and group therapy, no crisis services.
An assessment or doctor's referral is required for eligibility.
No cost counselling can be offered for up to 10 weeks for individuals 19+.
Speak to your doctor or call to book a single session walk-in appointment for an assessment, 604-885-6101. Waitlist times vary.
Children's Counselling, Sunshine Coast Community Services.
Counselling services are provided for children and youth (ages 3 -18) who have witnessed and / or experienced abuse, sexual abuse, threats, or violence in the home.
Various programs are available.
For guidance and program information, visit their website sccss.ca/programs/child-counselling-family-support or call 604-885-5881.
Waitlist times vary by program.
Women’s Counselling, Sunshine Coast Community Services
Free, confidential counselling for women who have experienced sexual assault, violence in a relationship or childhood abuse. No referral is required.
Individual and group counselling (when available) is provided on a short- or long-term basis, depending on needs and program capacity.
Counselling is available in Gibsons and Sechelt. Call or text 604-865-0105 for the confidential line.
VCH Sunshine Coast Junction
Community based services for those living with substance use challenges are available on the Sunshine Coast.
Several programs are available including mindful movement, mindful art and peer-led recovery meetings.
No referral is required. Contact sunshinecoastjunction@vch.ca or call 604-885-8678 for a schedule and times/locations.
MindSpace Groups
Wellness groups offer CBT sessions, parenting, ADHD strategies for adults, and CBT skills for insomnia.
Publicly funded, doctor-led program for adults 18+. Ask your primary care provider about upcoming groups.
For more information, visit www.mind-space.ca or email hello@mind-space.ca.
A doctor's referral is required.
If you are in Crisis or Need Immediate Support
Please contact 9-1-1, text or call 988 for immediate support, the Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789 (no area code needed), or 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433).
Additionally, you can reach the Seniors Distress Line: 604-872-1234
Hope for Wellness Indigenous Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
Written for the Coast Reporter, On Mental Health (Nov 21, 2025)