Hi, I’m Despina! I’m a registered and licensed clinical counsellor. I am a mother, a wife, a daughter, a sister, and an aunt. My work is conducted on the unceded traditional and ancestral lands of the Coast Salish peoples - Kwantlen, Musqueam, Katzie, Semiahmoo, Tsawwassen, Qayqayt and Kwikwetlem First Nations. I began my career 17 years ago in the non-profit sector, providing outreach support and case management to youth navigating mental health challenges and addictions. In addition to my private practice, I currently work as a mental health clinician in the public sector.
Establishing safety in our therapeutic connection is my priority—it is the foundation from which healing grows. My approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, and non-directive because I believe you are the expert of your own experience. My role is to walk alongside you as a compassionate guide, helping you tap into your innate wisdom. I tailor my approach to your goals, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I also have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Early Psychosis Intervention.
It is a deep honor to hold space for others as they share their stories. There is something profoundly healing about being truly seen and heard without judgment. I look forward to walking this journey of healing with you.
Despina Stratidakis MC, RCC (she/her) Tel: (672) 885-1735 Info@arisecounsellingservices.com