Skip to main content

We are here to help!

Infertility and Pregnancy Loss Counselling and Support

We want you to feel cared for, supported and witnessed. Having a counsellor who is well versed in infertility and pregnancy loss is essential.

To schedule an appointment, please review the listing of counsellors below and contact their office directly.

Counsellors

Adrienne Carruthers

I’m originally from the land of the Haudenosaunee, Lenape, and Anishnaabe people in what is now known as London, Ontario, and moved to the traditional territories of the Lekwungen People in 2013.

acarruthers.com

I moved to the traditional territories of the Lekwungen people in 2013 and I’m originally from the land of the Haudenosaunee, Lenape, and Anishnaabe people in what is now known as London, Ontario. I am an intentional solo parent, and gave birth in 2019, months before the pandemic.

I have been a registered midwife since 2013, and I am also a registered social worker. After completing an MSW in 2023 I merged my two vocational worlds into a counselling practice that supports folks in making sense of their reproductive health journeys. I bring my clinical experience into therapy sessions, which I believe helps in clients knowing that I see what they’re going through. I am particularly adept at supporting folks through traumatic events through the lens of somatic attachment psychodynamic therapy, as well as adapting CBT/DBT skills into our shared therapy space. I write a lot more about my background, style, and process here.

Location:

1641 Hillside Ave, Unit 330 (across from Hillside Mall), Victoria

Available for virtual or phone sessions as well

 

Rates:

$135/hr

I am registered with FNHA to cover the costs of counselling if you are status Indigenous.

I am registered with Medavie Blue Cross to cover the costs of counselling if you are a veteran or a recent immigrant or refugee in Canada.

I am a registered midwife, so if you are currently pregnant or within 6 weeks postpartum I can bill MSP for a few hours of counselling, with a referral from your primary care provider.

Amy Kelly

Amy Kelly is a former midwife of 10 years and current registered clinical counsellor. She is humbled by the opportunity to support women and their families throughout the many transitions of life.

mamatotocounselling.ca

Amy Kelly is a former midwife of 10 years and current registered clinical counsellor. She is humbled by the opportunity to support women and their families throughout the many transitions of life.

Her approach  is inspired by her two year certificate in somatic-attachment psychotherapy with Lisa Mortimore, the workshops she has attended with Postpartum Support International, and Canadian Perinatal Mental Health trainings and most recently completing the Infant-Parent Mental Health Fellowship at UC Davis. Here she was instructed by such luminaries as Bruce Perry, Stephen Hinshaw, Kristi Brandt and Cheryl Tatano Beck. When not in session she lives on a farm with her family, and loves writing and the outdoors.

Location:

576 England Ave, Courtenay BC

Delivery:

in person, or remotely via zoom or telephone

Rates:

$150 in person
$145 remotely

Brid Shine

In my earlier years I worked as a midwife in Dublin, Ireland. Later in life I took on a role as Clinical Midwife Specialist in Bereavement and Loss for over 10 years.

bridshine.com

In my earlier years I worked as a midwife in Dublin, Ireland. Later in life I took on a role as Clinical Midwife Specialist in Bereavement and Loss for over 10 years. In 2020 I came to live in Canada and currently work part time at Victoria Hospice supporting individuals and their families at the end of life.

The loss of a much wanted pregnancy at any gestation is devastating, and there are simply no words for the profound and unique type of grief associated with the death of a baby. This area of care is very close to my heart.

I have come to understand the ongoing bond parents have with their deceased baby and how the memory of this child remains etched forever in the psyche and heart of those who brought the baby into being. It takes time to grow around the loss, with its grief ebbing and flowing throughout a lifetime. I have worked with many families over the years and have come to see how poignant certain dates become in relation to the lost hopes and dreams. I have also seen how each small baby that comes to be, leaves some small legacy in this world that parents often discover decades later as they heal from the woundedness.

I am based in Cowichan Bay for in person sessions, and online via zoom platform.

I am also available for home visits and/or maternity hospital visits, with consideration of mileage.

Rates:

$140 for first intake appointment.

$120 for subsequent individual visits.

$140 for couples sessions.

Caylan Barber

I've always been a listener. Hearing other people, truly hearing and understanding them resonates with me on a soul level. Over the years, I took this passion and continuously learned everything I could about how to best honour and support those who trust me with their stories.

mountainsidewellness.ca
info@mountainsidewellness.ca

I’ve always been a listener. Hearing other people, truly hearing and understanding them resonates with me on a soul level. Over the years, I took this passion and continuously learned everything I could about how to best honour and support those who trust me with their stories.

When supporting a client or family, I draw from a combination of lived experience (fertility struggles, multiple pregnancy losses at different stages, and working as a doula for 5+ years) and education (studies in Perinatal Mental Health, Infant & Pregnancy Loss, Behavioural Neuroscience, Counselling, and more).

I am part of the Syilx Nation, and often incorporate elements of the traditional knowledge gifted to me to support others. Additionally, passion for supporting marginalized communities (BIPOC, 2SLGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent), supporting those with trauma and intergenerational trauma, and working with couples as this time can be incredibly hard on the relationship.

Outside of my private practice I work supporting Indigenous families & youth and volunteer on the Board of Directors for our local Indigenous Friendship Society. On my time off, you’ll often find me with a book in my hands under a tree, or exploring with my 5 year old.

Available:

Online Only

Rates:

$135/hr with options for sliding scale. Consults are free.

Jen Vining

Jen has deep roots in Victoria, B.C. She was born in Victoria, leaving for four years to complete an undergraduate degree in Winnipeg, MB. Jen and her husband Paul have been together since 1998.

jenvining.ca

Jen has deep roots in Victoria, B.C. She was born in Victoria, leaving for four years to complete an undergraduate degree in Winnipeg, MB. Jen and her husband Paul have been together since 1998. They have a son Andrew who is currently attending university.

Jen’s interest in counselling began early in her life. She was exposed to psychology as a young child through her father, Dennis Payne (psychologist – deceased). It was during her high school years that she first became aware that people felt comfortable and safe sharing their concerns and problems with her. She has always been interested in people’s stories and enjoys supporting them as they worked through their feelings and decisions. Jen attained a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology in 2007. After completing her master’s program, Jen worked at a counselling clinic for an additional 14 months before beginning her private practice.

Jen has a special interest in working with people with issues related to infertility and reproductive health and loss. She completed a year long post graduate program in Infertility Counselling.

Jennifer is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC).

Location:

Jen’s home office is in the Mt. Tolmie area near St. Michael’s University School.

Sessions:

Sessions are 50 minutes long.

She provides sessions both in person and online.

Hourly Rate:

$157.50 (including GST)

Karen Loucks

I have lived in Victoria all of my life and have grown children (ages 26 and 28 currently). I obtained a Master of Counselling degree later in my working life (age 43).

ravensongcounselling.com

I have lived in Victoria all of my life and have grown children (ages 26 and 28 currently). I obtained a Master of Counselling degree later in my working life (age 43).

Before beginning work as a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I was employed in an administrative capacity at a local fertility clinic. Patients would often speak with me about their concerns and challenges. I was aware that the issues and concerns were complex and deserved a skilled ear, so I decided to change course and returned to school to obtain my certification in counselling practice.

One of my internship placements during my Master of Counselling program was at Victoria Hospice. I feel very privileged to continue my work there as a Bereavement Counsellor. I’ve been working at Victoria Hospice since 2015.

And so, in my counselling practice both worlds (infertility/fertility … and bereavement) collide and come together in magical way. My hope is that this is reflected in my work and ultimately benefits clients.

Location

My office is in the Mt. Tolmie area of Victoria, BC (near both the University of Victoria and the Royal Jubilee Hospital).

Sessions

I offer: in-person, online and telephone sessions.

Hourly Rate

Currently $150 for individuals, $160 for couples

Rita Girn

The first thing you should know about me is that I lead with my heart. I acknowledge the privilege of this work and the courage required to engage in therapy.

ritagirn.com

The first thing you should know about me is that I lead with my heart. I acknowledge the privilege of this work and the courage required to engage in therapy. I truly believe we are all looking for connection, belonging, and compassion, whether that is from the outside world or from within. I am honoured to walk alongside you and hold space for your most vulnerable and true self. I provide counselling in both English and Punjabi.

Areas of Specialization:

  • Trauma
  • Pregnancy,Postpartum and Parenting
  • Reproductive Health, Infertility and Third Party Reproduction
  • Grief and Loss (including tragic loss)
  • Life Transitions

Location:

I work virtually throughout BC and several other provinces.

Hourly Rate:

Individual Session: $160

Daryl Thomson

Daryl is known and respected as a therapist who offers his clients a welcoming and calming presence.

www.lifehappenscounselling.com

Daryl is known and respected as a therapist who offers his clients a welcoming and calming presence, someone who listens intently and speaks thoughtfully, and someone who blends compassion with competence and kindness with clarity.

“I am deeply honored to be invited into the lives of my clients’ experience of grief and loss, reproductive and fertility challenges, persistent pain, and many other ways that life can happen to us without warning or time to prepare.  I provide my clients with a safe and confidential place where they can tell their stories, find healing and freedom, and live a life that is based on their core values.”

In addition to his Masters of Counselling degree, Daryl has completed post-degree training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Perinatal Birth Trauma, and Trauma Informed Care.

Location:

Daryl is available to meet with you in person at Total Body Health in Cordova Bay, Victoria, British Columbia.  He also offers secure, online appointments for clients outside of the Greater Victoria area.

Session Length:

Counselling sessions are 50 minutes long and cost $157.00 inclusive of GST.

Availability:

Daryl is available Mondays through Thursdays.

Appointments:

Please visit https://www.totalbodyvictoria.com/daryl-thomson-clinical-counsellor to book a 20-minute complimentary meet and greet, or to make a counselling appointment.

Fiona Patterson

With 15+ years as a Registered Clinical Counsellor, my practice caters to people experiencing any measure of grief, loss and trauma.

fionapatterson.ca
hello@fionapatterson.ca
250-212-3986

It’s natural for us to want to feel safe, secure and comfortable; however, there are often obstacles in our way preventing us from achieving this state of being. With 15+ years as a Registered Clinical Counsellor (I hold a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology, and am a doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology), my practice caters to people experiencing any measure of grief, loss and trauma.

With a special interest in death, dying and bereavement, and reproductive trauma including but not limited to infertility, miscarriage, traumatic birthing experiences, neonatal loss, loss of a child, depression and anxiety, and parenting/relationship challenges, my goal is to help you learn to tolerate discomfort, manage intrusive thoughts, soften overwhelming feelings, and create a sense of safety in self and in the world around you. We’ll work together to build a meaningful skill set for you to reconcile adverse experiences.

My compassionate, gentle and warm approach integrates evidence-based therapies like cognitive-behavioral interventions to address unhelpful thought patterns, and somatic experiencing techniques to let go of deeply entrenched grief and trauma.  Recognizing the intricate connection between mind and body in the healing process, and a clinical lens rooted in attachment, neuroscience, affect regulation, embodiment research and the wisdom of the natural world, we’ll work together to help you restore peace, regulation, and a strong sense of safety in your life.

My hope is that our work together can foster a sense of hope and possibility, even in the midst of profound pain and uncertainty.

Location:

Fiona is available for both online and in-person sessions

Sessions:

Sessions are 60 minutes in length for individuals, and 75 minutes for couples.

Rates:

$200+GST for  individuals
$250+GST for couples

My fees are covered through most extended health care plans, and I provide receipts for reimbursements.

Availability:

One to two weeks, cancellation list available

Jenna Berry

Jenna brings a deeply personal connection to the field of perinatal mental health, shaped by her own journey.

Jenna (she/her) brings a deeply personal connection to the field of perinatal mental health, shaped by her own journey. Within her neurodiverse family, she and her partner, Matthew, nurture their three wild boys.

Believing in the innate drive towards healing, Jenna likens it to a river that naturally finds its path. Yet, in challenging environments or when obstacles arise, additional resources and tools are essential to restore its flow.

As a supportive companion and witness, Jenna guides her clients through the complex phases of fertility, pregnancy, pregnancy/infant loss, and the postpartum period. Her passion lies in helping individuals navigate grief and loss, manage anxiety and perfectionism, and plan for the postpartum experience.

Jenna holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) and is a registered social worker (RSW). She specializes in perinatal mental health and grief and loss, integrating attachment theory, parts work, and mindfulness into her practice. Currently pursuing EMDR training, Jenna anticipates completion by September 2024.

Location:

Jenna offers virtual sessions to clients in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario.

Sessions:

Each session lasts 50 minutes.

Rate:

$165.00 per hour.

A limited number of sliding scale spots are available.

Tasha Page

Tasha is a Registered Social Worker with many years experience supporting vulnerable populations.

RSW, MSW, MA, BSW

www.glaciercounselling.com

Tasha is a Registered Social Worker with many years experience supporting vulnerable populations. Tasha’s passion for perinatal mental health is deeply personal. Her own journey with infertility, pregnancy loss, and high-risk pregnancy gave her a deep empathy and understanding of the struggles faced by folks in the perinatal period. This experience allowed her to see the need for more support for folks in this vulnerable time and led her to take advanced training in perinatal health and specialize in working with this population.

Tasha was born and raised in Victoria but moved to the Comox Valley over a decade ago where she enjoys getting outside to ski, bike, run, and spend time on the beach.

Location

She sees clients in person in the Comox Valley and virtually across BC.

Sessions

Tasha sees both individuals and couples.
Sessions are generally 50 mins long

Hourly Rate

$150

Funding for Counselling

We believe everyone should have access to support and that finances should not be a barrier to accessing care.  Our foundation offers partial and full funding for counselling for up to 5 sessions to anyone in need.  To apply, please complete the online application form.

Apply for Funding

Join the Counsellor List

Are you a counsellor with an interest and experience in providing fertility and perinatal support?  We manage our list of caring providers by a number of criteria:

  • Registration with a recognized governing body  – British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC), Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA), British Columbia Psychologist Association (BCPA), and British Columbia Association of Social Workers (BCASW)
  • Training and experience working with infertility and pregnancy loss
  • Availability

Please submit your application along with your CV and cover letter for review and consideration.

Apply to Join the List