About Mia

Registered Clinical Counsellor in Nanaimo, BC

Hi, I’m Mia.

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (# 19514) offering virtual and in person counselling services on Vancouver Island.

I am an integrative therapist focused on the power of human connection. I specialize in working with women and children who have experienced adversity.

My story

I started Sit with Mia Psychotherapy after seeing and experiencing a need for modern and creative approaches to counselling for young adults and children.

I began my career in the field of infant development and early intervention where I worked with families and their children for many years. In working with infants and young children, became deeply interested in the science of attachment and the power of human connection. I have spent the last 10 years studying trauma-informed practice, attachment theory and relationships. I have completed my master of counselling psychology and specialize in anxiety, disordered eating, complex and developmental trauma.

I am deeply curious about the inner worlds of those I have the opportunity to sit with.  It is my mission to provide compassionate counselling services that fit the unique needs of each individual and are informed by the latest research.

To me, therapy is about reconnection.

My approach

I am an integrative therapist, which means that I draw from a variety of approaches to fit the needs of each unique client. My approach fundamentally based in safety and connection. In therapy with me, you can expect to be treated with dignity and care.

Effective therapy happens within the context of a safe therapeutic relationship, allowing the task of exploring our inner world to feel less daunting.

Some of the theories I draw most from include:

  • Trauma focused-Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

  • Attachment Theory

  • Polyvagal Theory

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

  • Internal Family Systems Informed

My credentials

Professional licensure

Registered Clinical Counsellor (#19514)
British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC)

Academic qualifications

MA, Counselling Psychology
Yorkville University

Additional trainings

Safe and Sound Protocol Certification

Integrated Listening Systems

Psycho-sensory Mental Health Support Strategies for the Treatment of Trauma
Kim Barthel

Compassionate Inquiry (2 day Training)

Dr. Gabor Maté

Trauma-sensitive Practice

Kim Barthel

Autism Matters

Kim Barthel

The Wisdom of Trauma

Dr. Gabor Maté

Circle of Security Facilitator Training

Circle of Secuirty International

Medical Management of Eating Disorders
EHN Canada

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Y Minds