Sam Nielsen, MACP, RCC (she/her)
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology | 2017
BCACC Registered Clinical Counsellor #22863
EMDR Trained Therapist | 2026
Since I was young, I've always known I wanted to help others in some way, and this has been a guiding thread throughout my life and career. Over the past ten years, I've worked in specialized wellness, health promotion and counselling roles across post-secondary, non-profit, private practice and child and youth mental health settings, providing individual, group and organizational support — and I love it.
At the heart of my work is relationship; one built on trust, authenticity, non-judgment and genuine care. I believe meaningful change begins when we feel truly seen, understood and accepted just as we are. I strive to create a space where you can slow down, feel safe to be yourself, and gently explore what you've been carrying in a way that feels best for you. Together, we can hold difficult emotions, strengthen relationships, better understand your needs, build resilience, and move toward greater peace and steadiness.
You don't have to navigate this alone — nor were you meant to. When you're ready, I'm here.
Outside of the room
Outside of the counselling room, most of my time is spent enjoying life with my husband, our fun-loving 5-year-old, and our playful boxer puppy, alongside family and friends. In quieter moments, you'll likely find me learning something new, playing board games, dabbling in website design, dreaming up children's book ideas, watching movies and stand-up comedy, or hiking among the trees.
My Therapeutic Approach & Modalities
I welcome ongoing collaboration and feedback so we can shape each session around your current needs and goals. I draw from a variety of approaches to offer care that is personalized and effective. If something isn't a good fit, we'll make thoughtful adjustments to ensure therapy feels safe, supportive, and truly helpful for you.
Below are the core modalities I currently work from:
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Person-centered, trauma-informed, holistic care
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Internal Family Systems (IFS) and parts work
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
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Mindfulness and Strengths-Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
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Compassion and Emotion-Focused Therapy
Benefits of Working with Me
Full 60-min. Sessions
I provide full-hour sessions instead of the standard 50-min. with options to schedule longer sessions if interested.
Session Availability
I aim to keep a few openings each week to support urgent needs, and provide greater flexibility if you'd like to attend more regularly.
Your Comfort is Priority
I've created a space that prioritizes your comfort with items like tea, weighted blankets, fans, fidgets and adjustable lighting and furniture so we can help you and your nervous system feel at ease. Anything I've missed? I'd love to know.
Relaxed & Approachable
You'll often find me dressed casually to create a relaxed, approachable space where you can show up exactly as you are - especially on the days you don't feel your best.
Hybrid Option
Rather than needing to choose between in-person or online therapy, you can access the best of both.
Accessible & Inclusive
My office is located on a bus route, offers free onsite parking, is wheelchair accessible & welcomes all parts of you and your identity.
Additional Training
I deeply value lifelong learning and regularly engage in reading, research, consultation and training. Below are some of the key trainings I've completed. This list isn't exhaustive, and I'm happy to answer any questions you may have about my experience or approach.
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EMDRIA Approved Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Training
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Complete Internal Family Systems Therapy Immersion: Integrating the IFS Model Across Clinical Applications
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Basic Principles & Unlocking the Power of Narrative Therapy
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Walking with Grief: Helping Others Deal with Loss
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Mindful Self-Compassion Core Skills Training with Kristen Neff & Chris Germer
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Workplace Mental Health Leadership Certificate Program
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San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training
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DBT Skills with Marsha Linehan
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Motivational Interviewing 1 & 2
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Trauma-Informed Approaches to Care
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The Power of Mindfulness: Inside & Outside the Therapy Hour with Ron Siegel
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Strengths-Based CBT & CBT Bootcamp with Christine Padesky
