Sarah Birkbeck

About Sarah

I understand what it is like to feel alone, and I don�t want people to feel alone as they navigate their mental health journey. As a counsellor, I am trauma-informed and strength-based, with a primary focus on bringing awareness to my client�s resiliency and resourcefulness. I mainly work from a person-centred perspective, where I approach each therapeutic relationship from a collaborative standpoint, which includes respecting that all my clients will have their own unique pace. I believe there is immense power in humour, expression, and being in connection to others and our bodies. In my work, I also integrate other modalities, such as Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Art-based Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Eco-Therapy, and Mindfulness. I have significant experience working with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Substance Use, Process Addictions, ADHD, FASD, Eating Disorders, Self-harm, and Suicidal Ideation. However, I believe it is an honour and privilege to work on whatever my client needs, and that nothing should be considered taboo in counselling!

Outside of work, I spend a great deal of my time being outdoors with my dog, Foxie, who you may see around the office. I was a high-level artistic swimmer, and now coach to continue my connection with artistic swimming community. I am a feminist, and continuously work at being an ally to the Queer and BIPOC populations. I have experience working with Indigenous people and actively participate in any ceremonies or practices I am invited to. In preparing to work with Indigenous clients, I completed the San�yas Anti-Racism Indigenous Cultural Safety Training, and I am always actively seeking new learning opportunities. I strongly believe in lifelong learning and am currently working on completing my Associate’s Certificate in Complex Trauma at the Justice Institute of BC.