Jess McConnell
SaveI have been working in the counselling field for more than 25 years supporting people with a person centered and trauma informed and strengths based approach. Most of my experience is working in a rural health care setting as a clinician and leader and I have also worked for Indigenous and Not for Profit organizations. My focus in counselling is to support you to reach your goals in a way that works for you.
I’ve learned that healing often happens in phases and that if a person is curious about working with a counsellor, its likely time to move into that next phase. I also believe that everything is connected, and I appreciate the complex relationships between thoughts, feelings, behaviours, interpersonal relationships, family and social structures and the environment.
Read more about JessShow less
I draw from many counselling modalities to tailor the right approach to each person. These include CBT, Mindfulness, Person Centered, Humanistic, Solution focused, and Response Based approaches.
One of the critical ingredients in your success in counselling is finding a counsellor who is a good fit for you so take your time to find someone that you match with.
Areas of Focus
Anxiety
Burnout
Depression
Grief
Life transitions
Trauma
Trauma exposed professionals
Couples Counselling
Clinical Supervision
EMDR in Progress
Education
Bachelors in Child and Youth Care – University of Victoria
Masters of Counselling Psychology – City University
Direct Billing: If your benefits plan covers Registered and/or Certified Clinical Counsellors then these appointments should be covered. I can direct bill to Canada Life, Blue Cross, Medavie, Telus Eclaims, Green Shield, and First Nations Health Authority (FNHA).
Age ranges served: Ages 18+
Session Types: Individual adults and Couples. Provides clinical supervision to other counselling professionals.
Email: jess.mcconnell@islandclinicalcounselling.ca
Phone: 778-762-3750 ext. 127
Pronouns: She/Her
Fees: $150-165 per session (I will be offering Senior Clinician Rates in January, 2026)
Registration:
BCACC RCC: 3108
Location: Jess works out of our Port Alberni clinic on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
Services & prices
Sign in and tell us your plan to see what a visit would cost you. Sign in
A longer session to explore therapeutic topics more in depth.
A longer session to explore therapeutic topics more in depth.
A longer session to explore therapeutic topics more in depth.
A longer session to explore therapeutic topics more in depth.
This session allows couples/families the time for a more detailed assessment of their relationship and goals for therapy.
A longer session to explore therapeutic topics more in depth.
A longer session to explore therapeutic topics more in depth.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity (ADH) Kidz *Ages 7-10* (developmental age) Learn, share, and grow with friends as we support one another in learning new coping tools and realizing our infinite strengths and abilities. Develop an understanding of emotions, and their connection to thoughts and behaviours. Learn new ways to engage in more flexible thinking and communicate with others in a positive way. Neurodivergent and Diverse Ability Friendly.
Online support group for youth with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder symptoms. **Please book in the Downtown Nanaimo calendar or contact sondra@islandclinicalcounselling.ca to book**
Services provided by a clinician with more years of experience and training.
*Ages 11-14* (developmental age) Description: Join our safe, neurodivergent-affirming environment where members connect with likeminded peers who share similar interests and experiences. Learn new skills and let your creativity shine as we learn and grow together. Key areas of focus include anxiety, peer relationships, positive self talk, self compassion, time, and stress management. Build friendships, experiences, and an appreciation of your unique gifts in this gender inclusive space. Neurodivergent and Diverse Ability Friendly.
Join our safe, neurodivergent-affirming environment where we build friendships, experiences, and an appreciation of your unique gifts! Key areas of focus include anxiety, friendship tools, positive self talk, self compassion, and emotional regulation. Learn new skills and let your creativity shine as we learn and grow together.
Specific coaching support to help you better understand your symptoms and improve functioning. This appointment is for children, youth, caregivers, and individual adults.
Connect with peers who can relate to the shared experience of having separated parents. Together we can share our experiences, support one another, and learn coping tools to support ourselves with family changes. Join us as we learn and grow together. Ages 9+
Learn skills for calming your mind and body in a neurodivergent-affirming and gender-inclusive space. You will engage with peers through art, games, and activities while you learn ways to use mindfulness to find calm in your daily life.
Caring for a child, teen, or loved one can be deeply meaningful—and at times, incredibly demanding. This in-person caregiver support and coaching appointment is designed to provide you with a space to feel heard, supported, and equipped with practical tools. In these sessions, we focus on your unique situation. Whether you are navigating anxiety, behavioural challenges, neurodivergence, family transitions, or feeling overwhelmed in your caregiving role, we work collaboratively to build strategies that feel realistic and sustainable in your day-to-day life. You can expect a supportive, non-judgmental environment where we explore: Practical parenting and caregiving strategies Emotional support and validation Understanding your loved one’s needs and behaviours Communication and boundary-setting tools Ways to care for yourself while caring for others These sessions are tailored to you—blending evidence-based approaches with compassionate, real-world guidance to help you feel more confident and supported in your role.
Caring for a child, teen, or loved one can be deeply meaningful—and at times, incredibly demanding. This in-person caregiver support and coaching appointment is designed to provide you with a space to feel heard, supported, and equipped with practical tools. In these sessions, we focus on your unique situation. Whether you are navigating anxiety, behavioural challenges, neurodivergence, family transitions, or feeling overwhelmed in your caregiving role, we work collaboratively to build strategies that feel realistic and sustainable in your day-to-day life. You can expect a supportive, non-judgmental environment where we explore: Practical parenting and caregiving strategies Emotional support and validation Understanding your loved one’s needs and behaviours Communication and boundary-setting tools Ways to care for yourself while caring for others These sessions are tailored to you—blending evidence-based approaches with compassionate, real-world guidance to help you feel more confident and supported in your role.
Learn skills for stress and anxiety management in a neurodivergent-affirming and gender inclusive space. You will engage with peers through art, games, and activities, while learning skills for calming your mind. Gain understanding about how stress and anxiety work and learn ways to feel more chill in your daily life using cognitive strategies and mindfulness.
Services provided by a clinician with more years of experience and training.
Online couples/family sessions with an advanced practitioner.
A small, therapist-facilitated D&D group where clients build social confidence, resilience, and connection through collaborative gameplay. In a supportive 4-person setting, members practise communication, emotional regulation, perspective-taking, and social problem-solving while exploring identity and learning to navigate real-time interpersonal challenges.
Family and Couples Counselling with an advanced practitioner
First session with guardian in order to learn the history and make a counselling plan.
Information gathering session for clinician and parents of a child under 12.
The focus of this session is to provide parenting support to caregivers and gather history of child's concerns.
A shorter session for follow up visits.
A shorter session for follow up visits.
Shorter session for follow-up visits
A lower cost option for couples and families. Please ask if you require the Pay What You Can Program for this booking.
A longer EMDR Session. EMDR is an effective treatment for PTSD, trauma (including developmental trauma), anxiety (including phobias, panic attacks and performance anxiety) as well as depression. EMDR does not require talking about the distressing memory in detail. EMDR helps clear away limiting beliefs by processing distressing memories. EMDR tends to be a quicker treatment than other methods of therapy.
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is an evidence based form of psychotherapy that utilizes back and forth eye movements that are combined with a technique called voluntary memory/image replacement. This is used to help clients address anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief, addiction and many other mental and physical conditions. Together they work to re-program the way in which the destressing images and memories are stored in the brain so that they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions in your body.
This is an intake appointment to see if this is the right therapy for you. Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is an evidence based form of psychotherapy that utilizes back and forth eye movements that are combined with a technique called voluntary memory/image replacement. This is used to help clients address anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief, addiction and many other mental and physical conditions. Together they work to re-program the way in which the destressing images and memories are stored in the brain so that they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions in your body.
This is an intake appointment to see if this is the right therapy for you. Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is an evidence based form of psychotherapy that utilizes back and forth eye movements that are combined with a technique called voluntary memory/image replacement. This is used to help clients address anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief, addiction and many other mental and physical conditions. Together they work to re-program the way in which the destressing images and memories are stored in the brain so that they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions in your body.
A child and youth appointment with a clinical counsellor. This is an individual counselling appointment. Play therapy and activity-based therapy tools will be implemented as appropriate in session.
Services provided by a clinician with more years of experience and training.
In person session for a couple
This is a longer, 80 minute, in person session for couples and families. Please ask if you require the Pay What You Can Program for this booking.
A longer option for couples/family therapy in person
Can be billed toCrime Victim Assistance
A more experienced clinician will provide EMDR therapy for children, youth, and adults.
All ages. EMDR is an effective treatment for PTSD, trauma (including developmental trauma), anxiety (including phobias, panic attacks and performance anxiety) as well as depression. EMDR does not require talking about the distressing memory in detail. EMDR helps clear away limiting beliefs by processing distressing memories. EMDR tends to be a quicker treatment than other methods of therapy.
Family counselling session that is longer.
An appointment for families of all shapes and sizes.
Can be billed toFNHA · NIHB
Counselling is a tool for individuals experiencing a difficult situation to resolve their emotional distress and enjoy greater wellness. Health Benefits has partnered with Pacific Blue Cross (PBC) to administer the Mental Wellness and Counselling (MWC) Benefit to First Nations in BC.
Can be billed toFNHA · NIHB
Counselling is a tool for individuals experiencing a difficult situation to resolve their emotional distress and enjoy greater wellness. Health Benefits has partnered with Pacific Blue Cross (PBC) to administer the Mental Wellness and Counselling (MWC) Benefit to First Nations in BC.
Can be billed toFNHA · NIHB
Counselling is a tool for individuals experiencing a difficult situation to resolve their emotional distress and enjoy greater wellness. Health Benefits has partnered with Pacific Blue Cross (PBC) to administer the Mental Wellness and Counselling (MWC) Benefit to First Nations in BC.
History gathering and information about counselling services discussed with parent before meeting the child under 12.
For shorter follow-up visits.
Can be billed toICBC
An individual counselling appointment that is direct billed to ICBC coverage.
A lower cost option for those looking for counselling services for all ages. Request the Pay What You Can Program if needed.
In person counselling for those ages 16 and up.
This appointment is for counsellors that provide clinical supervision to other counsellors. Supervision of Supervision is an opportunity to discuss supervision cases in a highly confidential way. Supervision allows supervisors an opportunity to understand factors that are impacting their work (personality clashes, values clashes, transference/countertransference, difficult cases) and learn new skills and intervention strategies for their work.
Can be billed toVeterans Affairs
To qualify for the Mental Health Benefits initiative, you must be: A former member of the Canadian Armed Forces (Regular or Reserve), or A still-serving Reserve Force member Class A or Class B (less than 180 days) not covered by the CAF healthcare plan, and You have submitted a Disability Benefits application for one of the following mental health conditions: Anxiety disorders; Depressive disorders; Trauma-and-stressor-related disorders
A longer in person session for couples/families with experienced practitioner.
Please book a free consultation prior to booking your first VRET session. Exposure therapy for anxiety, phobias, and OCD using a virtual reality headset.
Individual session with a very experienced practitioner.
A telehealth appointment with an advanced practitioner
A low cost option for EMDR. Please note, individuals are currently training for EMDR and not certified with EMDRIA.
A lower cost option for couples and families.
A lower cost option for those looking for counselling services for all ages.
A lower cost option for online couples and family therapy.
A lower cost option for those looking for counselling services for those of all ages.
A lower cost option for online couples and family therapy. Please ask if you require the Pay What You Can Program for this booking.
A longer EMDR Session. EMDR is an effective treatment for PTSD, trauma (including developmental trauma), anxiety (including phobias, panic attacks and performance anxiety) as well as depression. EMDR does not require talking about the distressing memory in detail. EMDR helps clear away limiting beliefs by processing distressing memories. EMDR tends to be a quicker treatment than other methods of therapy.
Services provided by a clinician with more years of experience and training.
Online support group for adults with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Caring for a child, teen, or loved one can be deeply meaningful—and at times, incredibly demanding. This in-person caregiver support and coaching appointment is designed to provide you with a space to feel heard, supported, and equipped with practical tools. In these sessions, we focus on your unique situation. Whether you are navigating anxiety, behavioural challenges, neurodivergence, family transitions, or feeling overwhelmed in your caregiving role, we work collaboratively to build strategies that feel realistic and sustainable in your day-to-day life. You can expect a supportive, non-judgmental environment where we explore: Practical parenting and caregiving strategies Emotional support and validation Understanding your loved one’s needs and behaviours Communication and boundary-setting tools Ways to care for yourself while caring for others These sessions are tailored to you—blending evidence-based approaches with compassionate, real-world guidance to help you feel more confident and supported in your role.
Caring for a child, teen, or loved one can be deeply meaningful—and at times, incredibly demanding. This in-person caregiver support and coaching appointment is designed to provide you with a space to feel heard, supported, and equipped with practical tools. In these sessions, we focus on your unique situation. Whether you are navigating anxiety, behavioural challenges, neurodivergence, family transitions, or feeling overwhelmed in your caregiving role, we work collaboratively to build strategies that feel realistic and sustainable in your day-to-day life. You can expect a supportive, non-judgmental environment where we explore: Practical parenting and caregiving strategies Emotional support and validation Understanding your loved one’s needs and behaviours Communication and boundary-setting tools Ways to care for yourself while caring for others These sessions are tailored to you—blending evidence-based approaches with compassionate, real-world guidance to help you feel more confident and supported in your role.
A child and youth appointment with a clinical counsellor. This is an individual counselling appointment. Play therapy and activity-based therapy tools will be implemented as appropriate in session. You may be asked to have items available during the session.
Services provided by a clinician with more years of experience and training.
You will be sent the online video link 30 minutes before this online appointment.
This is a longer, 80 min, virtual appointment for couples and families. Please ask if you require the Pay What You Can Program for this booking.
Services provided by a clinician with more years of experience and training.
Can be billed toCrime Victim Assistance
A more experienced practitioner providing EMDR therapy for children, youth, and adults.
All ages. EMDR is an effective treatment for PTSD, trauma (including developmental trauma), anxiety (including phobias, panic attacks and performance anxiety) as well as depression. EMDR does not require talking about the distressing memory in detail. EMDR helps clear away limiting beliefs by processing distressing memories. EMDR tends to be a quicker treatment than other methods of therapy.
You will be sent a link before the appointment time.
Can be billed toFNHA · NIHB
Counselling is a tool for individuals experiencing a difficult situation to resolve their emotional distress and enjoy greater wellness. Health Benefits has partnered with Pacific Blue Cross (PBC) to administer the Mental Wellness and Counselling (MWC) Benefit to First Nations in BC.
Can be billed toFNHA · NIHB
Counselling is a tool for individuals experiencing a difficult situation to resolve their emotional distress and enjoy greater wellness. Health Benefits has partnered with Pacific Blue Cross (PBC) to administer the Mental Wellness and Counselling (MWC) Benefit to First Nations in BC.
Can be billed toFNHA · NIHB
Counselling is a tool for individuals experiencing a difficult situation to resolve their emotional distress and enjoy greater wellness. Health Benefits has partnered with Pacific Blue Cross (PBC) to administer the Mental Wellness and Counselling (MWC) Benefit to First Nations in BC.
Can be billed toICBC
This session is direct billed to ICBC for clients who have coverage through them.
A lower cost option for those looking for counselling services for those of all ages. Request the Pay What You Can Program if needed.
You will receive a link in your email prior to the session to begin your online appointment.
You will be sent a Microsoft Team's Invite for this meeting. We meet the third Monday of the month.
Can be billed toVeterans Affairs
To qualify for the Mental Health Benefits initiative, you must be: A former member of the Canadian Armed Forces (Regular or Reserve), or A still-serving Reserve Force member Class A or Class B (less than 180 days) not covered by the CAF healthcare plan, and You have submitted a Disability Benefits application for one of the following mental health conditions: Anxiety disorders; Depressive disorders; Trauma-and-stressor-related disorders
Island Clinical Counselling is offering monthly drop-in groups for autistic adults, those who are pursuing a diagnosis, or those who do not have a diagnosis but identify as being autistic. Support groups offer opportunities to come together in a safe and supportive environment under the guidance of a Registered Clinical Counsellor.
Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) is a parent-based treatment for childhood and adolescent OCD, anxiety, and related conditions. Parents play an active role in reducing accommodation behaviors without requiring the child to participate in therapy sessions. It is particularly helpful for children who are unable to engage in traditional treatments like exposure and response prevention (ERP). SPACE may also be a good option for families who have tried other therapies but are still dealing with significant symptoms. Although children are the “patients” in SPACE, only parents attend the treatment sessions — no demands at all are placed on the child. Treatment focuses on helping parents make two main changes in the way they respond to their child’s symptoms: (a) how to be more supportive and (b) how to be less accommodating (accommodation refers to the ways parents change their behavior to help their child avoid or alleviate the distress caused by their symptoms).
Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) is a parent-based treatment for childhood and adolescent OCD, anxiety, and related conditions. Parents play an active role in reducing accommodation behaviors without requiring the child to participate in therapy sessions. It is particularly helpful for children who are unable to engage in traditional treatments like exposure and response prevention (ERP). SPACE may also be a good option for families who have tried other therapies but are still dealing with significant symptoms. Although children are the “patients” in SPACE, only parents attend the treatment sessions — no demands at all are placed on the child. Treatment focuses on helping parents make two main changes in the way they respond to their child’s symptoms: (a) how to be more supportive and (b) how to be less accommodating (accommodation refers to the ways parents change their behavior to help their child avoid or alleviate the distress caused by their symptoms).
*Ages 8-11 years old* (Developmental Age) Description: Connect with likeminded peers who can relate to similar challenges as we learn about anxiety and stress management skills. Develop and trial practical tools and techniques through the use of art, games, and fun activities. Key areas of focus include understanding the effects of anxiety, everyday triggers, and coping strategies such as mindfulness, reframing, and cognitive restructuring. Join us as we learn and grow together. Neurodivergent and Diverse Ability Friendly
15 minute initial consultation for clients to enquire about potential services. You will receive a phone call from your clinician.
Direct billing accepted
Jess says it direct bills:
Openings checked 5 min ago
Book with Jess
Ailio never charges you a booking fee.
No openings
We list what this clinic publishes for online booking. Some appointments are bookable only by phone, or through the clinic’s own waiting list.