Meet Maxine
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Certified EMDR Therapist
Hi, I’m Maxine (she/her). My passion is helping adults who have experienced trauma heal the wounds that keep them feeling stuck. Together, we work to release deep pain, develop practical coping skills, and support you in reconnecting with your authentic self so you can move through life and relationships with greater ease and self-trust.
My approach combines EMDR, attachment-based, somatic, and nervous-system–informed practices to support deep, lasting change — not just symptom relief.
My Background & Experience
I was born and raised in the northeast of England, of British, Northern Irish, and Scottish descent. I moved to Canada in 2002 and now live, work, and learn on the unceded, traditional territory of the Halalt, Lyackson, Penelakut, Quw’utsun, Malahat, Stz’uminus, and Ts’uubaa-asatx Nations.
I come to my clinical work with insight and knowledge gained from over 30 years of experience in mental health, trauma counselling, youth and family support, and clinical supervision. Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed how early experiences — including neglect, fear, or a lack of connection — can shape how we see ourselves and relate to others. This understanding inspired me to focus my private practice on helping adults heal from the lasting impact of trauma, not just cope with its symptoms.
My desire to provide the most effective trauma-informed care led me to specialize in EMDR Therapy, a powerful, evidence-based approach that supports the mind and body in healing at a deep level.
“I believe that healing begins with compassion for self,
and that we are all capable of transformation.”
How I Work
I believe healing happens in safe, attuned connection — when you feel seen, supported, and understood. I value compassion, respect, and authenticity, and I work collaboratively so that therapy always moves at a pace that feels right for you.
Together, we’ll work to:
Build safety and trust to support deep healing
Develop tools to regulate your nervous system so you can better manage anxiety, stress, and overwhelming emotions
Gently explore and release the root causes of distress
Reconnect you with your authentic self and inner strength
Move toward a life that feels more grounded, joyful, and meaningful
Beyond the Office
Outside of work, I love spending time with loved ones — and also enjoy time alone. Gardening, hiking, and being in nature ground me, while travel and exploring new cultures inspire me. In the cooler months, I can often be found curled up with a good book or working on a jigsaw puzzle.
Professional Education and Credentials
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) – BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC)
Certified EMDR Therapist & EMDRIA Approved Consultant – EMDR International Association (EMDRIA)
Master’s Degree in Counselling
Bachelor’s Degree in Youth & Community Work
Advanced training in EMDR, Complex Trauma, Polyvagal Theory, and Dissociation
If you’re ready to begin your healing journey…
I invite you to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation to see if we’re a good fit and talk about how therapy can support your next steps.