Welcome to Moxie!
I’m glad you’re here!
mox·ie /ˈmäksē/ : The grit and determination to face challenges with courage, confidence, and resilience.
If you're facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, unresolved trauma, or feelings of isolation, you’ve come to the right place! Moxie is a therapy group committed to healing; understanding that psychological well-being is deeply intertwined with physical, spiritual, and social health. While our primary focus is on the psychological aspects of trauma recovery, we believe that fostering a connection to your body, creativity, a sense of something greater than oneself, and a safe, compassionate community is vital to your healing journey. We offer individual, couples, and family counselling sessions online across Canada and in-person in the Cowichan Valley. We have a diverse team of registered clinical counsellors, registered social workers, and counselling interns that come with a wealth of experience and are closely supervised by our clinical director. Check out our services page to learn more.
Our Services:
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It is easy to find a reliable and seasoned trauma therapist near you - at Moxie Health & Wellness, our experienced trauma counsellors and therapists offer in-person therapy on Vancouver Island in Duncan, BC, and online therapy throughout Canada. While individual counselling constitutes most of our work, some of our therapists do offer couples and family counselling
All counselling is done from a person-centred perspective and your therapist will collaborate with you to decide on specific therapies and techniques that fit your unique circumstances.
Please feel free to reach out to us for a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation. We are here to listen and address any additional inquiries you may have.
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We have a clinical intern program at Moxie Health & Wellness. Our interns go through an rigorous interview process and must have prior experience in order to join our team. Our interns are able to offer lower rates ($60-100 per session) and are closely supervised by our clinic director. For clients experiencing a financial difficulties we do have a subsidy program you can apply for ensuring you can access counselling at a rate that is manageable for you. Please contact us to let us know if you’d like to access the intern subsidy program.
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The founder of Moxie Health & Wellness, and an adept clinical counsellor, Sarah Montes, provides clinical consultation, mentoring, and supervision services for Master's students in counselling or social work programs as well as individuals seeking clinical consultation for trauma therapy.
To learn more about our individual consultation sessions or practicum placement opportunities, please reach out to us.
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Our services go beyond trauma counselling as our therapists also provide academic lectures, classes, and group sessions covering various topics including trauma, crisis support, boundaries, communication, coping with transition, grief, and loss, as well as family support resources.
If you would like to have one of our therapists conduct a class/workshop on these subjects, speak at your event, or be available for individual and family counselling at your conference or retreat, please contact us for more information.
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ADHD
Anger management
Anxiety and panic
Boundary setting
Depression
Emotional abuse
Emotional instability
Family conflict
Gender concerns
Grief and loss
Insomnia
Life transitions
Narcissistic abuse
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
Perfectionism
Physical abuse
Relationship issues
Sexual abuse
Sexuality concerns
Social Anxiety
Stress Management
Trauma and PTSD
Workplace challenges
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We believe seeking mental health services and trauma counselling should be affordable to everyone. As we care for your overall well-being and to prevent undue financial burden, we offer counselling and therapy services at extremely competitive rates.
The rates for 50-minute individual, couples, and family counselling and coaching sessions with a registered therapist range from $150-220 CAD ($100-175 USD). At times student interns are available and offer sessions as low as $60 as they complete the practicum placement for their Masters in Counselling Psychology.
We understand that there are situations where financial assistance is crucial. In such cases, we may be able to offer a subsidy or connect you with various community programs that could potentially meet your needs.
You will be provided a receipt that you can submit to your insurance company/extended benefits programs. Please note that not all programs cover the cost of a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC)/Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)/Registered Social Worker (RSW) so it is important that you check with your program directly. Please contact us if your funding agency requires specific credential information.
Meet the Team
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![smiling female counsellor appears warm and inviting]()
Chanelle Moisson
INTERN COUNSELLOR
Accepting new clients
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![Phil Reilander, Registered Clinical Counsellor. Appears kind and inviting.]()
Phil Reilander
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Accepting new clients
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![Sarah Tilley, Registered Clinical Counsellor. Appears warm and inviting.]()
Sarah Tilley
PRE-LICENSED COUNSELLOR
Accepting new clients
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![Jill Strayer-Church, Registered Social Worker. Appears warm and inviting.]()
Jill Strayer-Church
REGISTERED SOCIAL WORKER
Accepting new clients
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![Sarah Montes, Registered Clinical Counsellor. Appears wise and compassionate.]()
Sarah Houle-Montes
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Clinical supervisor
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![Portrait of happy woman Meghan]()
Meghan Early
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Spring & Co.
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![Portrait of a young woman appears happy and content.]()
Elizabeth Montes
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Psychology Student
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No Bad Parts (IFS)
We All Have Parts (IFS)
What Happened to You (Trauma)
The Body Keeps The Score (Trauma)
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Resources
About Trauma
Trauma results from an event (or series of events) that is experienced as life-threatening and/or emotionally overwhelming and involves lasting mental, physical, social, emotional, and/or spiritual difficulties. It can cause problems with your sense of safety, your relationships, your ability to work, and even daily activities like personal hygiene, eating, sleeping, and getting out of the house. The good news? Under the supervision of qualified trauma counsellors and therapists, there are many great therapies for treating trauma and restoring a sense of empowerment and safety.
About Counselling
Counselling is a confidential process designed to help you address your concerns, come to a greater understanding of yourself and your experiences, and develop effective personal and interpersonal coping skills. Together you and your therapist will set goals and explore how you can accomplish these goals. One of the most important factors in successful trauma counselling is the connection between the client and the therapist. Trauma therapy is often hard work and may bring up difficult emotions, however you should feel safe and respected at all times. At Moxie Health & Wellness Inc. we work hard to provide a sense of safety and welcome your feedback throughout the process.
About Trauma Therapies
The goal of trauma counselling and therapy is to help individuals heal from the effects of trauma by providing a safe and supportive space to process their experiences, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of safety and control over their lives. There are some types of counselling therapy that have been especially effective in treating trauma, depression and anxiety. At Moxie Health & Wellness Inc. the trauma therapies that we focus on are linked below.
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Internal Family Systems (IFS)
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Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)
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Somatic Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
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In British Columbia, the words counsellor (spelled counselor in the US) and therapist are often used interchangeably. A psychotherapist is the same role, but that title is more common in other provinces. Counsellors and therapists in BC (like those of us at Moxie) provide talk therapy and evidence-based approaches such as EMDR and IFS to support mental health and wellbeing.
A psychologist has a doctoral degree and can provide psychological assessments and therapy, while a psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose and prescribe medication. Many people benefit from a counsellor or therapist for ongoing support, sometimes alongside care from a psychologist or psychiatrist. -
If you’re struggling with something that feels heavy, overwhelming, or difficult to navigate on your own, counselling may help. You don’t have to wait until things feel unbearable — therapy can support you in working through trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, grief, or big life changes. Some people come to therapy for a specific concern, while others simply want a safe space for self-reflection and growth. If you’re unsure, a first session can give you a sense of whether it feels like the right fit.
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Counselling can be helpful for a wide range of concerns. At Moxie Health & Wellness, we often work with people experiencing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, burnout, grief, and relationship challenges. Therapy can also support you in building healthier coping tools, improving communication, and increasing self-compassion. Whether you’re facing a specific issue or want to explore personal growth, counselling offers a supportive space to heal and move forward.
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The first session is a chance to get to know one another. We’ll talk about what brings you to counselling, what you hope to get out of it, and answer any questions you may have about how therapy works. I’ll also share a bit about my approach, and together we’ll explore what might be most supportive for you. There’s no pressure to share your whole story right away — you get to set the pace.
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The length of counselling depends on your goals and what you’re working through. Some people feel a shift after just a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. We’ll check in regularly to see how things are going and adjust our work together as needed. Many clients find that therapy gives them both immediate tools for coping and long-lasting changes over time.
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In British Columbia, both Registered Social Workers (RSWs) and Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) provide counselling and mental health support, but their training and focus can differ.
Registered Social Workers (RSWs) hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work and are regulated by the BC College of Social Workers. Their training often includes counselling skills as well as case management, advocacy, and connecting clients with community resources and supports.
Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) are members of the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). RCCs typically hold a master’s degree in counselling or psychology and are trained specifically in therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, and other evidence-based counselling methods.
Both RSWs and RCCs are qualified professionals who can support mental health. Which one is right for you often comes down to personal fit, availability, and the style of therapy you’re looking for.
Counselling & Therapy FAQs
Online / Virtual Therapy FAQs
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Online counselling in Canada allows you to meet with a Registered Clinical Counsellor, Canadian Certified Counsellor, Registered Social Worker, or Registered Psychotherapist from the comfort of your own home. Sessions are held over secure video platforms, where you and your therapist can see and talk to each other just like you would in person. This makes mental health support more flexible and accessible, especially if you live outside of Duncan or prefer not to travel.
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Yes. Research shows that online counselling can be just as effective as in-person therapy for most mental health concerns, including trauma, anxiety, and depression. Many clients find it even more convenient and comfortable to meet virtually, as they can access therapy in a familiar, private environment.
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Absolutely. If you live in BC, you can access online sessions with a Registered Clinical Counsellor through Moxie Health & Wellness. Our team is based in Duncan, Cowichan Valley, but we support clients virtually across the province.
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Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy adapts beautifully to online sessions. Your counsellor will guide you to connect with different “parts” of yourself in a gentle, supportive way. Virtual IFS therapy makes it possible to explore trauma, anxiety, or self-criticism while remaining in your own safe environment.
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Yes. Virtual anxiety counselling and online depression counselling can provide the same tools and support you’d receive in person. Together, we can explore the roots of your struggles, develop coping strategies, and build self-compassion — all through a secure online platform.
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Online therapy can be helpful for many mental health concerns, including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and burnout. It can also be a supportive space for self-growth, stress management, and navigating big life changes.
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Yes. We use secure video platforms that meet privacy standards for healthcare in Canada. Your sessions are private and confidential, just like they would be in a counselling office.
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Your first virtual session is a chance to get comfortable with the format and meet your counsellor. We’ll talk about what brings you to therapy, what you hope to work on, and answer any questions about the process. There’s no pressure — you can set the pace and share only what feels right.
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Virtual EMDR therapy works much like in-person sessions. The key element, bilateral stimulation, can be provided online in several ways: you may follow a moving object across your screen, listen to alternating tones in your headphones, or use gentle tapping (sometimes called the “butterfly hug”). Your Registered Clinical Counsellor will guide you through whichever method feels most comfortable. This allows your brain to reprocess traumatic memories while you remain safe and supported, even from a distance. Research and client experience both show that EMDR can be just as effective online as it is in the therapy office.
Trauma & EMDR FAQs
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EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help people process and heal from traumatic or overwhelming experiences. Instead of talking through every detail of the event, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation — such as eye movements, sounds, or tapping — to help the brain reprocess painful memories in a safe, guided way. Many people find that EMDR reduces the emotional intensity of trauma and allows them to move forward with greater calm and resilience.
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Virtual EMDR follows the same steps as in-person EMDR therapy. Your counsellor guides you through the process over secure video, using tools like on-screen visual cues, alternating sounds in headphones, or self-tapping (often called the “butterfly hug”). These methods provide the bilateral stimulation needed for reprocessing trauma. Many clients appreciate the comfort of doing EMDR online, as it allows them to feel grounded in their own safe environment while working through difficult memories.
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Yes. At Moxie Health & Wellness, our Registered Clinical Counsellors are trained to provide EMDR therapy both in person and virtually. Online EMDR therapy is just as effective as in-office sessions, and it gives you the flexibility to access trauma counselling anywhere in British Columbia.
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If you’ve experienced trauma, PTSD, or distressing memories that continue to affect your daily life, EMDR may be a good fit. It can also help with anxiety, phobias, grief, and even certain health-related stressors. In your first session, your counsellor will talk with you about your history, your goals, and whether EMDR is the right approach for your mental health needs.
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The number of EMDR sessions depends on the nature of your trauma and your personal goals. Some people notice changes after just a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term support. Together, we’ll check in regularly and adjust the pace of therapy to what feels safe and manageable for you.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy FAQs
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Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a gentle, evidence-based approach to counselling that helps you connect with different “parts” of yourself. We all carry inner parts — for example, a part that feels anxious, a part that wants to achieve, or a part that feels hurt. In IFS, your counsellor guides you to get to know these parts with compassion, so that healing can happen from the inside out.
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IFS is especially effective for trauma and anxiety because it doesn’t force you to relive painful events. Instead, you learn to approach your inner parts with curiosity and care, which helps release old patterns and reduce distress. Many people find that IFS therapy leads to lasting changes in how they relate to themselves, their emotions, and others.
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Yes. Online IFS therapy works beautifully. Because the process is guided through conversation and guided awareness, it adapts easily to a secure video format. Many clients feel more comfortable exploring their inner world from their own home, where they can feel grounded and safe.
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IFS therapy can help with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, self-criticism, and more. It’s also a powerful tool for personal growth, building self-compassion, and increasing emotional resilience. Whether online or in person, IFS offers a flexible approach to a wide range of mental health concerns.
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Not at all. Your counsellor will explain the process and guide you step by step. You don’t need to prepare or study the model beforehand — just bring your curiosity and openness. We’ll go at a pace that feels right for you.
Anxiety, Depression & Stress FAQs
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Counselling provides tools and support to help you understand and manage anxiety. Together, we can explore the roots of your worries, work with your body’s stress responses, and develop strategies to calm your nervous system. Virtual anxiety counselling makes this support accessible anywhere in BC, so you don’t have to face anxiety alone.
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There’s no single “best” therapy for everyone, but approaches like EMDR, IFS, and somatic-based therapies are often very effective for depression. Online depression counselling gives you a safe space to explore feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or fatigue, while building new ways to cope and reconnect with what matters most to you.
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Yes. Stress and burnout are common, especially when you’re juggling work, family, or life transitions. Counselling can help you recognize patterns that are draining your energy, build healthier boundaries, and restore balance. Online therapy makes it easier to fit support into your schedule, even on your busiest days.
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Absolutely. Virtual therapy is an excellent option for social anxiety because it allows you to connect with a Registered Clinical Counsellor in the comfort of your own home. Together, we’ll explore the triggers that make social situations difficult and practice strategies for building confidence and resilience.
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Everyone’s journey is different. Some people feel relief after just a few sessions, while others find that steady, longer-term support is most helpful. We’ll check in along the way and make sure therapy moves at a pace that feels manageable and supportive for your mental health.
Couples & Relationships FAQs
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Yes. We offer virtual couples counselling so you and your partner can connect with a Registered Clinical Counsellor from anywhere in British Columbia. Online sessions make it easier to fit therapy into your schedule and allow you to meet together even if you’re in different locations.
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Couples counselling can support partners through many challenges, including communication issues, conflict, infidelity, parenting stress, or feeling disconnected. It’s not only for times of crisis — many couples use therapy to strengthen their relationship, deepen intimacy, and learn healthier ways of relating to each other.
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Yes. Virtual couples therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions. Using secure video, your counsellor will guide conversations, offer tools for communication, and create a supportive space where both partners feel heard. Many couples find online therapy less stressful since they can join from home.
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Every couple is different. Some may benefit from just a few sessions focused on improving communication, while others may choose longer-term support to rebuild trust or navigate bigger challenges. In your first session, we’ll discuss your goals and design a plan that works for both of you.
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Yes. Sometimes one partner feels more ready than the other, and that’s okay. Counselling can still open up space for change, understanding, and healing. Even one motivated partner can shift the dynamics in a relationship.
Practical & Accessibility FAQs
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Yes. At Moxie Health & Wellness, we believe mental health support should be accessible. Alongside our Registered Clinical Counsellors, we also have counselling interns who offer sessions at a reduced rate while working under close professional supervision. This allows us to provide affordable therapy options without compromising quality.
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Most extended health plans in British Columbia cover sessions with a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). After your session, we provide a receipt you can submit for reimbursement. If you’re not sure whether your plan covers counselling, it’s a good idea to check with your provider before starting.
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Yes. Our practicum interns work under the supervision of experienced Registered Clinical Counsellors. This means you receive professional, supportive therapy at a reduced cost, while your intern continues to grow their skills with regular guidance and oversight.
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Yes, though our availability is more limited for in-person sessions. Most of our counselling is offered virtually across BC, but we also provide some in-person appointments at our office in Duncan, Cowichan Valley.
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Booking is simple. You can use our online “Book Now” button to schedule a session, or call/email us directly if you prefer. We’ll match you with a counsellor or intern who best fits your needs, and answer any questions you may have before getting started.