Background

My name is Alia Chan and I am a therapist at Avery Therapy Centre. In this role, I work in collaboration with individuals who are struggling in various aspects of their lives and who are wanting a positive shift towards a more meaningful life. As I continue to practice in this profession, my appreciation for the work grows with it. I am continuously grateful for the opportunity to be a part of someone’s journey through life’s hardships and challenges.

​

Academically, I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree with major in Psychology as well as a Master of Counselling Psychology degree. In my clinical practicum, I worked with the province of British Columbia on a team that supported children, youth, and families as well as a non-profit organization for adults and youth with concerns around substance use.

​

Born and raised in the Vancouver area, I have been involved in the local community my whole life. Throughout my time volunteering and my experience in my clinical practicum, I saw firsthand the daily struggles one goes through and how this impacts one’s overall perspective on life. I work closely with individuals who live with various mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and substance misuse, and who are looking for a new way to take hold of their lives. Additionally, my work also involves those who have experienced trauma and disconnections in attachment and relationships where I help to rebuild a foundation of safety and trust through a place of understanding and true empathy. 

​

In my work, I have counselled individuals from as young as 5 years old to those in their adult life. I have learned that no matter what stage of life, all humans deserve support, connection, and a safe space to process various experiences so as to better understand themselves and others. I acknowledge that this process can be hard and difficult, especially in times of true pain and struggle, and so as your counsellor, I make it a priority to follow you at the pace that you set. I am always mindful to meet you where you are at in your journey to allow you the opportunity to explore your experience where you feel most comfortable and empowered to do so.

 

Therapeutic Approach

My intention as your counsellor is to walk alongside you during your healing journey. I work from a person-centred, trauma informed lens in which I am always aware of your boundaries and level of safety and trust in the therapy room. As well, I also inform my work using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) practices where I support you in targeting any distressing thoughts, feelings, or behaviours, and shifting your relationship with those experiences with the hope that you may come to a place of acceptance and live a life full of clarity and authenticity. Overall, I draw from mindfulness practices where we work together to increase your awareness to the present moment, without judgment to any accompanying sensations, to ultimately add fulfillment and engagement throughout your life.

​

Additionally, I may also work from a Nature-Based Therapy approach. Through this lens, nature acts as co-therapist in the process so as to cultivate a relationship with nature that we may have lost. Understanding that we as humans are part of nature, we may lean on the natural environment to fuel our healing process. Upon request, we may integrate this approach by taking our counselling sessions outside (e.g., walk in the park or sit by a beach), or bring those elements into the therapy room to further enhance the therapeutic process.

​

With me as part of your support system, it is my priority to create a space where you feel validated and heard. Using a holistic approach integrated with evidence and strength-based practices, it is of utmost importance that safety and trust are at the base of our work, from beginning to end. During our time together, it is my hope for you that you discover your inner strength and a shift in perspective towards your experiences so that you are able to live a life that is meaningful for you.

​

My availability can be found here.