For the parts of you that feel unseen, unheard, or overwhelmed
Compassionate therapy supporting you through burnout, anxiety, grief, and life transitions.
“I finally felt heard and understood.”
Therapy in comox, Courtenay & cumberland Rooted in Respect, Reflection & Real Change
Are you someone tired of pretending you are fine? Are you looking for a a space where you can explore what’s really going on honestly and realistically? I’m here to facilitate. As a registered clinical counsellor in Comox, I offer a compassionate and grounded space for exploration, self-reflection, and personal growth. My work is feminist-informed, queer-affirming, and trauma-aware, designed to honour your lived experience with gentle curiosity and compassion.
Whether you are facing grief, anxiety, life transitions, or burnout, my goal is to provide individual therapy in the Comox Valley that meets you where you are at. Many people in our community seek mental health support in Comox, Courtenay and Cumberland to access clarity, rebuild integroty, and reconnect with their sense of self, with their friends and family and their communties. If you're ready to explore change in a respectful and affirming environment, then book a consultation with me to see if we are a good fit.
Therapeutic Services Available In-Person in comox
I offer a range of in-person counselling services at my Comox office. Because you story deserves space and support. Whether you're navigating long-standing pain or recent challenges, these therapies are designed to support real, lasting change.
Counselling
Gently process difficult experiences in a supportive environment. Together, we’ll work at a pace that feels right for you.
-
This space honours your unique healing journey—there’s no pressure to rush or revisit anything before you’re ready. Whether you're navigating past abuse, medical trauma, loss, or emotional overwhelm, you're not alone here. We'll focus on building trust, emotional safety, and grounding techniques to support your nervous system as we move forward. This work is collaborative, embodied, and deeply respectful of your boundaries. Healing doesn't have to be forced—it can be supported, one step at a time.
Grief & Loss Support
Whether you're mourning a loved one, a life transition, or something less visible, this space honours your grief and helps you move through it with care.
-
Grief can take many forms—sadness, anger, numbness, even relief—and all of them are valid. There's no “right” way to grieve, and no timeline you’re expected to follow. In our work together, you’ll be met with deep compassion and steady presence, not forced positivity or quick fixes. This space allows you to speak freely, feel fully, and be witnessed without judgement. We’ll gently explore the layers of your loss and what it means for your identity and future. Whether your grief is fresh or long-held, it deserves attention and tenderness. Together, we’ll find ways to honour what was lost while nurturing what remains.
Anxiety & Depression Counselling
Explore the roots of anxiety and depression while learning strategies for managing symptoms and reconnecting with meaning in your life.
-
These experiences aren’t just in your head—they live in your body, habits, and relationships. In therapy, we’ll look beneath the surface to understand what’s really driving the inner unrest. You may be overwhelmed by expectations, emotionally numb, or stuck in thought loops that feel impossible to break. Our work will help you gain insight while building emotional tools for resilience and self-regulation. You don’t need to have all the answers—just a willingness to be curious. I offer a non-judgmental, calm space where your challenges are seen and met with care. We’ll honour your lived experience while working toward small, meaningful shifts in how you feel. With the right support, it’s possible to rediscover energy, ease, and connection. You deserve support that sees the full picture of your emotional life. You're not alone, and change is within reach.
Somatic informed Therapy
Integrating body-based awareness into talk therapy, somatic work helps release stored tension and supports nervous system regulation.
-
Often, trauma and stress aren’t just mental—they live in our bodies as chronic tightness, disconnection, or restlessness. Somatic therapy invites you to listen inward with gentleness and curiosity. You’ll learn to notice body cues, build safety in the present moment, and reconnect with your physical self. This approach is particularly supportive if you’ve felt overwhelmed by talk therapy or find it hard to name your emotions. Sessions may include breath work, grounding exercises, or mindful movement—always guided by your comfort and consent. You’re not expected to “do” anything right; the goal is to restore balance and trust in your body. Somatic work can help with anxiety, dissociation, trauma, and emotional regulation. It also strengthens your capacity for self-awareness and presence. In this work, your body becomes an ally, not a burden. Healing starts from where you are.
Clinical Supervision
-
My approach is relational, strengths-based, and informed by feminist and trauma-sensitive perspectives. Whether you're in private practice, community work, or still collecting hours, supervision can offer grounding, insight, and emotional nourishment. Together, we’ll create space to explore countertransference, ethical challenges, professional growth, and self-care. I provide a non-hierarchical, collaborative space where you can reflect deeply and show up authentically. We’ll consider your unique values, therapeutic style, and identity in your work. Supervision isn’t just about staying compliant—it’s about staying connected to your “why.” I support therapists navigating burnout, vicarious trauma, or evolving practice goals. With clinical rigour and relational depth, we’ll hold both the technical and human sides of the work. If you’re seeking a supervisor who values reflection and restorative dialogue, I welcome you to reach out. Let’s grow your practice with intention and integrity.
Available to registered clinical counsellors and therapists seeking reflective, supportive supervision in the Courtenay area.
What to Expect From Therapy Sessions in comox
Every therapeutic journey is unique, but you can expect a grounded, compassionate space where your voice is heard and honoured. Sessions are shaped around your pace, needs, and goals.
Session Length
Each counselling session runs for 50 minutes, giving us enough time to explore what’s showing up for you while allowing for a gentle beginning and end. This duration supports focused, consistent progress at a sustainable pace.
In-Person Location in comox
Sessions take place in a private, calming office located in central Courtenay, offering easy access and a welcoming environment. Located conveniently in Courtenay BC, I offer flexible in-person therapy options for individuals throughout the Comox Valley, including Comox, Cumberland, and surrounding areas.
A comtained and Collaborative Space
Therapy is built on trust and mutual respect. You’ll find a non-judgmental, compassionate environment where you’re free to express yourself fully. Sessions are collaborative, client-led, and tailored to your unique pace and needs.
Short-term and Long-Term Support Options
Whether you're navigating a specific life event or seeking deeper, ongoing work, both short-term and long-term counselling options are available. We'll work together to determine what feels most helpful and supportive for you.
Meet Your Counsellor – Elisabeth van Assum
I’m Elisabeth van Assum, a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with over 10 years of experience in mental health support. I hold a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and maintain membership with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. My ongoing commitment to professional development ensures I offer evidence-informed, compassionate care.
A Feminist, Intersectional, and Somatic informed Approach
My therapeutic style is rooted in feminist and intersectional values, meaning I recognise how social, cultural, and systemic factors shape your lived experience. I also practise somatic informed therapy, which acknowledges the body’s role in healing and helps clients reconnect with themselves gently and safely. You are the expert of your own story—my role is to walk alongside you with curiosity and respect.
Serving the Comox Valley with Care
Conveniently located in Comox, BC, I provide in-person therapy to individuals from across the Comox Valley, including Cumberland, Comox, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re seeking short-term support or a long-term space for growth, you are welcome here.
Why I Do This Work
I believe integration and insight happens in and through relationship—with ourselves, with others, in community and with the living earth that sustains and nourishes us. It is a deep honour to hold space for people as they encounter themselves to build trust, strength, and meaning in their lives. My work is guided by the belief that everyone deserves to feel heard, supported, and witnessed in the therapeutic space. We work together to bring what is unseen into the therapeutic light so that you finally have an opportunity to address the wounds and issues that hinder your capacity to be fully present in your life.
Serving the Comox Valley Region
Your Local Counselling Option in Comox, BC
My practice is based in Comox, offering inperson and online counselling in a warm and welcoming space. Whether you live in the heart of Comox or in a nearby comunity, you’ll find the office easily accessible and designed to support your counselling journey.
Conveniently Located in the Comox Valley
I regularly welcome clients from Comox, Courtenay, Cumberland, Campbell River, and surrounding communities. If you’re looking for counselling in Courtenay and the Comox Valley, I’m here to support you with a grounded, trauma-informed approach.
Online Therapy Across British Columbia
If you prefer or require remote access, I offer secure online counselling sessions across British Columbia. You can receive the same quality of care from the comfort of your home—ideal for those outside the Comox Valley or with mobility, health or scheduling needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Counselling in Courtenay
Get answers to common questions about counselling in Comox, including session options, availability, and insurance coverage.
-
Yes. I provide in-person therapy in Courtenay in a private, safe, and welcoming office space. Clients from Comox, Cumberland, and Campbell River regularly attend sessions here. You’ll find the location accessible, discreet, and designed to support a calm therapeutic experience.
-
Yes, I am accepting new clients for both in-person counselling in Courtenay and online sessions throughout British Columbia. Please feel welcome to reach out via email or the contact form to discuss availability or ask any questions.
-
My standard session fee is $140 per 50-minute session. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), my services are covered by many extended health benefit plans. I encourage you to check with your provider directly regarding coverage for counselling in Courtenay and Comox Valley.
-
Absolutely. I offer online counselling in British Columbia, including for residents in Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland, and nearby areas. Sessions are conducted via a secure, confidential video platform, allowing for flexibility and continuity of care.
Start Your Therapy Journey in comox Today
If you're navigating stress, grief, burnout, or a major life change — you’re not alone. Reach out to begin working together in a safe, supportive environment.
“Elisabeth is deeply compassionate, kind and wise. I have known her for over 15 years an appreciate her wonderful tact and honesty. Without a doubt she is one of the few people I trust the most with my emotional and personal traumas. I always feel listened to and respected.”
Book a Free Consultation
“My actions are my only true belongings.”
~ Thich Nhat Hanh