Hanna Shapiro, MA, RCC
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor based in downtown Victoria, BC. I focus on treating addiction, trauma, mood disorders, and interpersonal issues. If you or a loved one is struggling, contact me for a free consultation and I would be happy to discuss treatment options.
And then the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.
Anaïs Nin
COVID-19 RESPONSE
At this time I am offering both e-counselling and in-person sessions. In my office I will be observing social distancing measures and using an enhanced cleaning protocol to protect the safety of all. If a client is experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms or has been in contact with anybody who is ill, I ask that they stay home and reschedule. Additionally, my 24 hour cancellation policy is now waived for anyone feeling unwell.
MY APPROACH
My approach is rooted in the belief that a greater awareness of where our actions and reactions come from can give us the power to change. I work with my clients to understand how their attachment styles and life experiences have informed how they relate to others and to themselves. With this knowledge we work together to address unwanted behaviours and implement new coping skills for emotional regulation and communication.
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When treating addictive behaviours, I view the addiction as a symptom of a larger problem. Many people struggling with addiction have experienced past trauma or are suffering from concurrent disorders such as anxiety and depression. I work with my clients to look beyond the addictive behaviours and address the underlying issues that create a desire to mood-alter.
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One of the modalities I use to assist my clients who have experienced trauma is EMDR, an effective and well-researched protocol, recognized by the World Health Organization as one of two effective treatments for trauma and PTSD. EMDR allows clients to reprocess and integrate negative memories and traumatic events so they no longer impact daily life.
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I also work with family and friends of those struggling with mental illness and addiction. When dealing with a struggling loved one it is common to feel helpless and like you have lost your sense of self. I enjoy assisting family members to reconnect to their vitality and enjoy life again.
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I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to explore themselves and make important decisions about their health. My approach is psychodynamic and is rooted in attachment theory and family systems, while incorporating elements of CBT, DBT, EMDR, and mindfulness.
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ABOUT ME
My personal journey of healing has led me to this career. Being in long-term recovery, I have unique insight into the struggle and uncertainty that comes with addressing addictive behaviours and concurrent disorders. From my own experience and through my work with others I have come to know that profound change and recovery is possible.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I earned my Masters degree in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University in Los Angeles where I received specialized training in addiction, trauma, anxiety, and the unique struggles of people in the LGBTQIA+ community. I have worked in residential treatment centres, outpatient clinics, and community mental health centres in the US and Canada as well as providing sober companion services in California. More recently I have worked to develop DBT and skills training programs for recognized national mental health providers.
SERVICES & FEES
I currently accept cash, cheque, and e-transfer. Many extended benefits providers cover services for Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC's). Contact your provider for details.
INDIVIDUAL COUNSELLING
$150 + GST for 50 minutes