Hi, I’m Christina.
My name is Christina Savage (she/her), and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #11978) and an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS # 11978) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). I hold a Master’s degree in Counselling from City University of Seattle, a Bachelor of Arts in Gender and Women’s Studies from Simon Fraser University (SFU) and a Diploma in Counselling from the Vancouver School of Counsellor Training (VCCT). I bring over two decades of experience in the counselling and mental health field.
My professional background includes extensive work in both the non profit sector and private practice. I have supported children, youth, adults, families, and couples across a range of settings, including community-based organizations and correctional institutions. My clinical areas of focus include trauma and abuse, eating disorders and body image, gender identity and orientation, relationship dynamics, cultural changes and adjustment and personal development. Also, I provide clinical supervision to emerging and experienced professionals. My supervisory practice emphasizes reflective practice, ethical integrity, and skill development. Additionally, I have served as a Department Head, Counselling Instructor and Practicum Monitor at a local college.
My practice is grounded in a trauma-informed, client-centered, and inclusive framework, recognizing the profound impact of lived experiences, culture, and systemic influences on mental health. I am committed to creating a respectful and affirming therapeutic space where clients of all backgrounds and identities feel safe, valued, and heard.
Clients who work with me can expect a professional, reliable, and compassionate approach that balances clinical knowledge with a deep respect for each person’s unique journey. I believe that healing and change are possible when individuals feel supported, empowered, and connected in the therapeutic relationship.
My Values -
What Matters to Me
✔ Safety and Trust – Creating a calm, respectful environment where you feel safe to be yourself.
✔ Collaboration and Choice – Working together at your pace, centering your goals and autonomy.
✔ Inclusion and Cultural Awareness – Honouring your unique identity, background, and lived experience.
✔ Non-Judgment and Compassion – Meeting you with empathy, validation, and genuine respect.
✔ Hope and Empowerment – Supporting you to believe that healing and meaningful change are possible.
Interested in Knowing More?
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As a first-generation Portuguese-Canadian counsellor I have a deep understanding of navigating cultural adjustment, identity, and the importance of belonging.
Every journey begins with a unique story shaped by family, culture, and personal experiences. Many individuals find themselves at a crossroads, feeling lost or uncertain about their future. It’s common to struggle with self-worth and to feel overwhelmed by societal expectations and personal identity.
Imagine a moment when someone truly sees you—a compassionate psychologist who understands your pain without judgment. This connection can be life-changing, planting seeds of self-worth and helping you realize that you matter. It’s in these moments of validation and acceptance that hope begins to bloom.
Throughout the healing process, having a supportive ally can make all the difference. A simple, empathetic statement can shift your perspective, reminding you that you’re not alone in your struggles. This sense of belonging fosters resilience, empowering you to embrace your unique journey and find your voice.
The counselling relationship is a safe space where you can explore your feelings and experiences. Everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and understood, and this connection can lead to profound personal growth.
Many individuals face low points, grappling with feelings of shame and doubt. Yet, within each person lies the strength to overcome these challenges. Recognizing that life is worth living and that healing is possible is a powerful realization.
Support from mentors and role models can inspire and guide you along the way. Strong figures in your life, whether family members or professionals, can provide the comfort and courage needed to navigate your path. Their stories of resilience can motivate you to embrace your own journey, knowing that you are not alone.
This transformative experience in counselling is about more than just overcoming obstacles; it’s about discovering your worth and embracing a brighter future. Together, we can help you find the strength to heal and thrive.
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I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Women’s and Gender Studies from Simon Fraser University, a Diploma in Counselling from Vancouver College of Counsellor Training (VCCT), and a Master of Counselling from City University of Seattle (Vancouver Campus). As a lifelong learner, I am committed to ongoing professional development and training relevant to my field. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) in good standing with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC, #11978).
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I find great joy and fulfillment in outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, cycling, and spending time by the river or at the beach. Cooking nutritious and delicious meals—especially vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes—and sharing them with family and friends is something I deeply enjoy. I also practice mindfulness and yoga, and I am currently enrolled in an online yoga instructor program. My goal is to integrate yoga into my counselling practice in the future. I have a passion for traveling, exploring new cultures, and creating deeply meaningful memories with my partner of 25 years
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Mental Wellness
Depression
Anxiety
Body image and disordered eating
Loss and grief
Relationships
2SLGBTQI+folks
Ethical non-monogamy, Polyamory
Adjusting to separation & divorce
Communication and conflict resolution
Boundaries
Family dynamics
Cultural Adaptation & Identity
Navigating cultural adjustment
Managing micro-aggressions and discrimination
Fostering identity and community belonging
Personal Growth
Self-esteem, confidence building, and empowerment
Identity, sexual orientation and gender identity
Life and career transitions (menopause, caring for elderly parents, employment & school)
Clinical Supervision
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Client Centered
Feminist, anti-oppressive Framework
Family Systems (Multigenerational / Satir)
Trauma Informed
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Informed
Narrative Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Solution Focused Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
Mindfulness & Self-Compassion
Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT)
Gottman Couple’s (Level 1, Level 2 (in progress))
Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)
Accelerated Experiential-Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP)
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Counselling can be provided in Portuguese and English
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Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP): I am an Approved Counsellor for the Crime Victim Assistance Program through the B.C. Ministry of Justice. If you are the victim, immediate family member, or witness to a crime that has caused physical or emotional injury, your counselling fee may be covered by this program. Visit Victim Services for application details.