trauma therapy and counselling
My name is Pamela Chin and I am happy that you are here! As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, it is my joy and honour to partner with someone as they navigate a challenging time. I liken my work to assembling a jigsaw puzzle. At first, the many random pieces strewn out on a table appear messy and daunting but as you start to put the pieces together one piece at a time, the bigger picture starts to take shape. It takes time, perseverance and a strategy but over time, the pieces form a beautiful picture, just what it was destined to be. If you would like to start the journey towards becoming the beautiful self you were meant to be, I would love to hear from you.
Services
Talking therapy
Talking therapy offers a structured, safe space to process difficult emotions, rewire negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies for life’s challenges. Often, putting words to what you are experiencing inside and having someone receive your words with support and empathy can help relieve emotional distress and increase self discovery.
TRE
Tension and trauma releasing exercises is an innovative body-based therapy that helps release chronic muscle tension and restore your nervous system to a state of calm. Based on the belief that stress, tension and trauma are both psychological and physical, TRE is able to bring relief from somatic symptoms as well as emotional pain. If you are tired of talking about it and are ready to let your body do the processing, TRE could be for you.
EMDR
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is an evidence-based therapy developed to alleviate distress from traumatic experiences. It is a powerful treatment that can quickly get to the root of what distresses a person and allow them to shift how memories are stored in their brain and change what they feel in their body.
Couples Counselling
Whether you have been together for many years or are just starting out as a couple, couples counselling is worth considering. I combine techniques from the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy to help you improve communication, break out of unhealthy patterns and increase your understanding of and intimacy with each other. A better relationship is possible. Pre-marital counselling is also available.
More about me
I have travelled to many beautiful beaches but my favourite is still Spanish Banks where sitting on a log and watching the sunset brings refreshment to my soul. Not only have my travels given me a renewed love for my city, but it has provided me with an appreciation for and curiosity of different cultures and places.
Married with two adult children, I believe that a healthy marriage is the foundation of a healthy family. This is one of the reasons I am so passionate about couples work.
In my spare time, I enjoy long walks, a friendly game of pickleball and experimenting in the kitchen. Although an introvert at heart, I am energized by time spent in meaningful conversation with those near and dear to me.
It was long-time dream of mine to become a counsellor in private practice. After working in the corporate world, living overseas and raising a family, I finally got to where I believe I was always meant to be. Over time, I have come to focus on trauma and attachment. Many clients who come from an immigrant background find themselves to my practice. Also, as a practicing Christian, I offer faith-based counselling for those who choose.
My credentials
I have a Master in Counselling from Monash University in Australia and a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) from the University of British Columbia.
My specialized training includes:
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Module 1 – PESI Canada – June 2025
- Emotionally Focused Therapy Externship – Vancouver Centre for EFT – April 2024
- Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy Level 1 – ICEEFT – March 2021
- EMDR Basic Training Levels 1, 2 & 3 – Parnell Institute for EMDR – April 2019
- Trauma Releasing Exercises Certified Provider – TRE, LLC – May 2017
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy Levels 1 & 2 – The Gottman Institute – June 2017
- Internal Family Systems Basics Course – Seahorse Counselling – March 2026
FAQs
How are the counselling sessions conducted?
Counselling sessions are conducted in-person at my office in Kitsilano or online via a secure video conferencing platform.
How long are sessions?
I offer 50 minute and 80 minute individual sessions. Sessions for couples are typically 80 minutes long.
How many sessions will I need?
Every client is different. You may need just a few sessions or you may need significantly more than that. We can discuss this as we work together.
Can you direct bill to insurance companies?
Yes. I am now offering direct billing.
How much does the counselling cost?
Please refer to my booking page for the cost of different services. A sliding scale is available for a limited number of clients on a case by case basis.
How do I start with the counselling process?
Simply reach out via our “Contact” page. We can schedule an initial consultation to discuss your goals, answer any questions, and talk about the best treatment plan tailored to your needs.
What can I expect from the first session?
We will discuss confidentiality, go over the intake form and talk about what led you to counselling. Typically, I will conduct an intake interview where I will ask you about your history, background and goals. We will also have a more in-depth discussion about your treatment plan.
Consultation
Ready to get started?
Schedule your free 15 minute consultation and find out how we might work together.
