Brenda Zimmerman she/her RCC, CCC
Hello!
My name is Brenda and I am a compassionate and dedicated counsellor with years of experience helping individuals navigate mental health challenges and addiction, I believe deeply in the power of support, understanding, and healing.
Do any of these statements sound familiar?
· I am overly responsible and tend to focus more on others than I do on myself
· I’ve lost track of what I want and need; I feel I have lost myself
· I can be highly critical of myself & I worry a lot
· I feel guilty when I try to stand up for myself
· I’m overwhelmed and find it difficult to cope
· I sometimes feel used by those I feel close to
· I have difficulty with anger and anxiety and sometimes feel detached from myself or numb
My approach to counselling is grounded in empathy and I’m committed to providing a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings and struggles at their own pace. I have extensive experience working with individuals facing a wide range of emotional challenges and I continue to be passionate about empowering people to reclaim their lives.
I believe that healing and growth are deeply personal journeys and every individual deserves to be met with compassion and respect along the way. My counselling philosophy is rooted in a holistic approach where I focus not only on the mind but on the heart and spirit as well. I strive to build strong, trusting relationships with my clients, empowering them to explore their unique challenges in a safe and supportive environment.
Through counselling, I aim to help clients understand their emotions, gain insight into their patterns and learn how their past can influence the present, and develop healthy coping strategies to manage mental health or addiction struggles. I work from a trauma-informed, client-centered perspective, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of each person. I believe that every client has the ability to change and grow and I am honored to walk alongside them in their journey toward healing and well-being.
Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, relationship issues, trauma or life transitions, I am here to listen, support and guide you as you discover your own path forward. My goal is to create a safe space where you can explore your concerns even if it’s scary, and find a renewed sense of hope and purpose.
On a personal note, I have recently made British Columbia my home and I am continually inspired by the natural beauty that surrounds me. I am passionate about staying active and spending time outdoors. Whether it is paddle boarding, boating or hiking, I find peace and balance in nature. Summer is my favourite time of year and I especially love travelling. I also enjoy being creative, whether through photography or tackling home renovation projects, which allows me to express myself in new and exciting ways.
Additionally, I am a cancer survivor and I am deeply committed to providing compassionate support for others navigating the challenges, anxiety, and confusion of cancer treatment.
I work with individuals ages 16 and up. Let’s work together to create the positive change you seek.
What can I help you with?
· Addiction and Substance Misuse
· Anxiety & Depression
· Codependency
· Coping Skills
· Drug & Alcohol Abuse
· Grief
· Mood Disorders
· Relationship Issues
· Self Esteem
· Stress Management
· Trauma and PTSD
Types of Therapy
· Cognitive Behavioural (CBT)
· Dialectical Behaviour (DBT)
· Internal Family Systems (IFS)
· Interpersonal
· Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
· Motivational Interviewing
· Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)
· Somatic
· Strength-Based
· Trauma Focused
Credentials:
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in good standing with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (Member # 23823)
Canadian Certified Counsellor in good standing with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (Member # 10004196)
Master of Counselling in Counselling Psychology, 2017, Athabasca University
Bachelor of Science, University of Alberta