Angela Burns

WESTCOAST CLINICAL COUNSELLORS | Registered Clinical Counsellor | B.Sc, M.A.

Big Changes!

We closed down our office on April 30th, 2021 after almost 20 years at this location and 30 years in a group practice. COVID-19 provided impetus for me to opt for a virtual counselling practice for the foreseeable future. Many clients appreciate the video format which allows them to save time and feel safe. I will also be available by telephone, but for former clients only.

My Background

I have been providing counselling services in Victoria since 1983. I have a reputation of being a skilled, compassionate therapist.

I received my Master of Arts Degree from the University of Victoria in 1986 and have been in private practice ever since. In addition to working with private clients, I provide Employee and Family Assistance Program counselling for the City of Victoria’s police department (since 1989).

I have served as the BC Association of Clinical Counsellor’s Registrar since 1991. I oversee all of the Association’s regulatory functions including oversight of all ethics complaints. I received the President’s award, for substantive contributions to both the profession and the Association, in 1997. On March 25, 2011, I received a Distinguished service award from the B.C. Association of Clinical Counsellors for my 20 year tenure as Registrar.

“[Angela] is a quiet leader, but very present and attentive in her approach to many complicated and important situations she handled in her 20 consecutive years of shepherding us through many different kinds of troubled waters.” - David Stewart, BCACC’s 2nd President

I have the great fortune of working with other impassioned professionals who serve as peer-supervisors, founts of wisdom and sources of inspiration. I engage in regular professional development and self-directed studies.

My immediate and extended family plays a big part in my ongoing growth and development. I have been with my husband (and best friend!) since 1984. We are fortunate to have raised two bright, thoughtful, healthy, athletic, musical young men.

My Approach

I use practical, common-sense approaches when helping people create strategies for improving their lives and relationships. My clients grow to understand how small changes make big differences.

I connect easily with people and have an overall appreciation for how heroic the average person can be when facing major life crises and struggles.

Some of my influences in my work and education are Michael White & David Epston (Australia), the Milan Group (Italy), Hakomi training with Ron Kurtz, Family Therapy training with Psychiatrist Robin Rutledge (Duncan B.C.) and Traumaic Incident Reduction with Brian Grimes.   

How I Can Help

I Work With:

• Individuals, couples and families
• Organizations
• Employee and family assistance programs

I Provide:

• Confidential professional services, Safety, Respect, Support

My Areas of Specialty:

• Stress Reduction and management
• Relationship Issues of almost every description, including Separation and Divorce
• Parenting
• Life Transitions
• Grief and Loss
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Traumatic Incident Reduction
• Personal growth and development

I offer:

• Private counselling sessions
• Group sessions
• Workshops
• Workplace training

Contact Angela