Matthew Lutz

About Matthew

My name is Matt Lutz, and I’m a Registered Clinical Counsellor based in Chilliwack, BC. I hold a Master of Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and come to the field of therapy after more than a decade working in human resource management and not-for-profit leadership. Although I am currently in my first year of clinical practice, my extensive professional background has provided me with deep insights into human dynamics, relational systems, and the emotional burdens that many individuals carry into their work, families, and communities.

My decision to become a therapist stemmed from my desire to reconnect with the fundamental aspect of helping people, a passion that had previously eluded me. My healing experiences in therapy helped me realize the transformative potential of being seen, heard, and supported. People’s stories have always captivated me, and now I have the opportunity to accompany them as they navigate through pain, insight, and growth. What I consider most rewarding about this work is being a consistent, nonjudgmental presence in someone’s life, someone they can turn to without fear or shame, and witnessing the slow, powerful process of change unfold.

My approach to therapy is integrative and client-centered. I draw from a wide range of modalities, including psychodynamic therapy, Adlerian therapy, CBT, DBT, exposure therapy, person-centered therapy, narrative therapy, and motivational interviewing. My default style is collaborative, exploratory, and calm, but I work flexibly, meeting each client where they are and adjusting my approach based on their needs and preferences.

When it comes to setting goals and measuring progress, I believe therapy works best as a collaborative journey. Early sessions involve exploring what brought the client to therapy and what meaningful change might look like for them. We co-create goals that range from practical and measurable to deeper emotional or existential aims. I regularly monitor progress and encourage clients to notice shifts in how they think, feel, and respond in daily life—viewing progress not only in terms of symptom reduction but also in self-awareness, confidence, and value alignment.

I work with adults, couples, and adolescents, and I am especially passionate about helping people navigate anxiety, depression, burnout, relationship difficulties, identity development, grief, and life transitions. I’m also interested in modern stressors like technology overuse, productivity pressures, and emotional disconnection in our fast-paced world.

Core values that guide my work include respect, honesty, patience, and calm presence. I aim to create an emotionally safe, nonjudgmental space where people feel seen and understood, even when discussing their most vulnerable parts. Healing and growth look different for everyone; sometimes it’s a leap, sometimes it’s an inch forward, but I honour both.

A typical first session with me is about connection. I aim to bring some warmth and humour to the room as we begin building a therapeutic relationship. We’ll talk about your goals and reasons for seeking support, review paperwork and expectations, and start co-creating a space that feels safe and steady. I offer both in-person sessions from a private office and secure virtual sessions through a compliant platform.