You deserve to feel radical acceptance and joyful connection!
My name is Nicole and my pronouns are she/her/hers.
As an uninvited person existing in various locations across Turtle Island, I have come to live on the unceded territories of the Lekwungen, Esquimalt, Songhees, and W̱SÁNEĆ nations and peoples, whose ancestral relationship with the land continues to this day, otherwise known as Victoria, BC. As a white, cis-gender, settler woman descendant of English, German, and Newfoundland heritage, I arrive with immense privilege and aim to work from a decolonizing, queer, and social-justice framework. This simply means I work to disrupt imbalances of power, starting with placing the client-therapist relationship as collaborative. I am a curious life-long learner who aims to work alongside LGBTQ2S+ clients as more than an active ally, but in solidarity with them.
It can feel daunting to sit down with a stranger and unpack whatever is going on for you. I see you as the expert in your own life and aim to create a space where you feel comfortable, accepted, and understood —where you can come as you are. As someone who questions and challenges the so-called “normative” assumptions of society at large, I recognize the importance of honoring and affirming diversity in however that shows up for my clients.
As a therapist, I am dedicated to walking alongside you on your journey, working with the strengths you already possess to flourish as your best self. With an abundance of generosity and warmth, I bring a sense of humor and levity to our sessions, knowing that even through the darkest of times, there is space for light.
Therapy should be accessible for everyone, and I hold space for all identities and experiences by working from an anti-oppressive, decolonized, and queer theory standpoint that seeks an inclusive, affirming, and socially just environment. My unlearnings have gifted me a lesson in deconstructing binary thinking and so-called normative assumptions related to gender and sexual orientation, holding queer theory close to my heart in supporting my clients to explore and express themselves as authentically as they wish.
My work within the school system over the past 15 years, as well as my volunteer work with non-profit organizations, has taught me that connection to community, support systems, and participation in collective change are integral to emotional and mental well-being.
When I’m not studying or practicing counselling, I love relaxing, giggling, and spending time with my wonderful partner and being a Bonus Mom to his two super rad kids. Things that spark joy for me involve experiencing live music, dancing, cooking, baking, eating delicious food, practicing yoga, being overcome with joy at drag shows, watching hilarious comedy, laughing, cozying up with a good series, reading, travelling, learning, camping, playing D&D, and swimming in oceans, rivers, and lakes. I volunteer and donate whenever I am able with the Canadian Blood Services and help behind the scenes with the barrier-breaking, local non-profit organization, The Support Network for Indigenous Women & Women of Colour (SNIWWOC).
I define therapy as one of the most selfless acts we can do. We initially come to therapy for ourselves, but when we work on our own healing, it has a ripple effect that sparks healthier relationships, stronger communities, and a better world.
How I Show Up
Compassionate
Collaborative
Imperfect
Authentically
Warm
Human
Non-judgmental
Open hearted
Areas of Passion
LGBTQ2S+ Affirming Care
LGBTQ2S+ Relationship Counselling
Family Relationships
Parenting & Step-Parenting (or Bonus-Parenting as I like to call it)
Anxiety
Depression
Perfectionism
Neurodiversity
Imposter Syndrome
Self-Worth/Self-Esteem
Communication & Boundary Setting
Grief and Loss
Life Transitions
Stress Management & Burnout
I am currently accepting new clients.
I work with individual clients ages 13+ and with families upon consultation.
I offer virtual and in person sessions in Victoria, BC.
My session fee is $140+GST per 50 minute individual session.
Email: nicole@burnbrightcounselling.ca
My Values
Love
Equity
Access
Connection
Community
Empathy
Humor
Accountability
Justice
Joy
My Education & Registrations
Registered Clinical Counsellor - BC Association of Clinical Counsellors RCC # 19662
Master of Counselling - City University, 2024
Bachelor of Arts in English & History - UNBC, 2010
Additional Learning
Level 1 Training in Gottman Couple’s Therapy
Queering Mental Health 2023 Attendee
Competent & Affirming LGBTQ2IA+ Couples and Relationship Workshop
BCACC Certificate of Attendance – Families, Family Breakdown & the Law
All My Relations: Supporting Two-Spirit and Indigenous LGBTQI* Youth - Indigenous Perspectives Society