Shahrzad Akbari
About Me

Hello, I'm Shahrzad Akbari

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with a Master's degree in Psychology and over 20 years of experience supporting individuals and families. I offer counselling in English and Farsi, with both in-person and virtual sessions available.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed. I support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, relationship and family challenges, life transitions, and the impacts of motor vehicle accidents. I also have extensive experience working with newcomers and refugees, and I strive to provide culturally sensitive care that honours each client's unique background and story.

In counselling, I aim to create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported as they build resilience and move toward greater balance and well-being.

Credentials & Qualifications

Professional certifications and specialized training.

Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)

BC Association of Clinical Counsellors

ICBC-Approved Vendor

Insurance Corporation of BC

Education

Academic foundation and specialized training.

Master's Degree

Psychology

Bachelor's Degree

Clinical Psychology

Certifications & Specialized Training

  • Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training
  • Mental Health First Aid Training
  • Life Skills Instructor Training
  • Families, Family Breakdown and the Law Workshop
  • Crisis Intervention Training
  • Professor (courses: Clinical Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Youth & Adolescent Psychology, Educational Psychology, Children's Rights, etc.)

Professional Experience

Decades of experience across diverse settings.

Over 20 years of clinical counselling experience

Extensive experience in private practice settings and community organizations

Background supporting families and youth in settlement and integration services in Canada

Post-secondary teaching experience in psychology and social work courses

My Approach to Therapy

I utilize a range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities, tailored to each client's unique needs.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT)Strengths-Based TherapyAttachment-Based TherapyInternal Family Systems (IFS)Culturally Sensitive TherapyTrauma-Informed TherapyMindfulness-Based Practices

Let's Begin Your Journey Together

I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings freely.