I feel my role as a counsellor is helping people explore whatever they feel might be holding them back from living in the way they want.
“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we are supposed to be, and embracing who we are.” -Brené Brown
I believe that everyone has the potential to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life, regardless of their history. I aim to promote clients finding their own way through the challenges that come with existence and encourage them to connect with their strengths. Stripping away old narratives to embrace their true selves, in alignment with their core values. My approach is rooted in empowerment and collaboration. I welcome folks of all orientations and genders, and work to be inclusive and affirming. I take a whole-person approach – always. I work with a variety of presenting concerns, however I am passionate about working with adults who are late discovered with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity (ADH) or autism, as I find there is a re-working of identity that comes with learning you’ve been living life on ‘hard mode.’ Moving towards self-acceptance and learning about the differences in how a neurodiverse brain works, and the impact on relationships, are large parts of my practice.
My early career in healthcare focused on helping people to accommodate limitation from injury, and that still informs my work to find ways for people to find satisfaction regardless on the constraints they work with in their current situation. Personally, I don’t really subscribe to the idea of finding your one true path in life, I believe that we find meaning each day wherever we currently are.
Areas of Focus:
Neurodivergence (ADH and Autism)
Couples Counselling
Anxiety
Trauma
Chronic conditions or pain
Borderline personality disorder, bipolar, and other mood disorders
Self-Compassion
Perfectionism
Support for caregivers, counsellors and other helpers
Stress management, life transitions
LGBTQ+ Affirming
Education and Training:
My Master of Counselling Psychology is through Yorkville university, and my undergrad is in Kinesiology at the University of Calgary. This blend of mind and body is my lens for holistic wellness, and integrative healthcare. My counselling practicum in private practice, with a focus on autism and neurodivergent affirming care.
Direct Billing: I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association and you should be able to submit receipts to most benefit plans. I am able to work with clients in British Columbia and the unregulated provinces. If your plan allows it, I can direct bill to some insurance plans, see them here. If approved as a service provider, I can direct bill the Autism Funding Unit for adult and couples counselling. I also provide direct billing to Crime Victims Assistance (CVAP).
Therapeutic Modalities:
My style is dependent on the client I am working with and the topics we are engaging about, but I use methods influenced by:
Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioural therapy (DBT)
Internal Family Systems (parts work)
Somatic Experiencing
Strengths-based and Person-Centered Counselling
Emotion-focused therapy (EFT)
Non-Violent Communication
Behavioural Activation
Group Therapy
Group Therapy:
Embrace Your (Neurodivergent) Mind (Online)
Age ranges served: Adult 18+
Session Types: Individual adults and couples Counselling. In Person or Virtual.
Fees: $150-165 per session (Registered Clinician Rates)
Registration: CCPA CCC 11247230
Email: kate.bonnell@islandclinicalcounselling.ca
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 130
Text: 250-410-1577
Pronouns: She/Her
Location: Kate provides counselling in our Duncan location on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
