Angelica Columbus
M.A, Fellow
Post Graduate Clinical Fellow
Fort Langley
To meet someone new in a therapy room is not always an easy decision, or at the very least comes with a bit of uncertainty. And yet, here you are – whatever the reason that brought you to counselling, I’m grateful to meet you here. My hope in writing this is to share a little about me as the person who is a counsellor, and what I believe counselling to be all about.
Human beings are wonderfully adaptive, our bodies and minds can adapt in ways we don’t even realize. When we are exposed to stress, pain, trauma, or whatever our difficult circumstances may be, we adapt, doing our very best with what we have. These circumstances can create experiences of depression, anxiety and uncertainty that can be overwhelming and lonely when we feel alone in them. I believe that while we may become used to coping alone, not always by choice, we do not deserve to do it alone, nor are we meant to.
Reaching out for support can be hard if it feels like a weakness, or a shortcoming – I have felt this way many times in my life. However, in my own journey, I have come to know that the opposite is true. I believe the vulnerability involved in sharing our fears, pain and even hopes or dreams helps us connect back to the inner power we all possess. Our work together involves building on the unique inner resources and strengths that are already there and discovering new practical tools to take away from our sessions. While the work of healing or personal growth may feel daunting at first, I am committed to walk alongside you each step of the way, without judgement.
I also deeply value the integration of nature and movement-based interventions where suited, and believe in the healing power of laughter, joy, and human connection wherever we may find glimmers of it. Play and celebration can have a valuable place in therapy.
The areas I have experience and passion for are:
Anxiety and feelings of overwhelm
Substance use, for both a person coping using substances themselves, and friends or family members who might be impacted by someone else’s use of substances
Family dynamics and challenges including separation and adjustment
Men’s mental health – I have a specific focus in both my clinical work and research in understanding what it is like for men to get support for their mental health. This is an area close to my heart as I was drawn here from witnessing the burdens that so many men silently carry, in a world that often expects this of them. My latest project is focused on men working in construction and trades, and understanding how counselling can fit their specific needs.
Outside the office you will find that my philosophy mirrors my holistic approach to counselling. I am a professional, but a person first, who believes in the importance of curiosity, creativity and laughter. My own ongoing personal growth journey and self-care includes a passion for physical movement such as yoga, strength training and daily walks with my dog Pascoe. I have a genuine love for human connection in both my personal and professional life. I truly look forward to getting to know who you are should we get the opportunity to meet.