Caroline Miege
BSW, RSW, M.ED (Counselling),CCC
Registered with the British Columbia College of Social Workers (RSW), Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (C.C.C.)
ABOUT ME:
BSW,RSW,M.Ed (Counselling),CCC
I have specialized training/certification in Solutions Focused Therapy, Mindfulness based Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, DBT,Trauma/PTSD treatment, ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), Certified Autism Spectrum Clinical Specialist (ASDCS),Certified Grief Informed Professional (CGP) and EMDR.
I will bring my over 30 years of experience with counselling to you, offering culturally safe, neuroaffirming, trauma informed and evidence based treatments. We will build on your skills and strengths, working together and drawing from community to obtain the results you want from counselling.
I work with adults, focusing on treatment of trauma/PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, stress management, anger management, women's issues, self esteem, relationship issues, and career/workplace issues. I have specialized experience and training working with people who are neuro-divergent (ADHD, people on the autism spectrum, learning disabilities), helping to navigate school, community and workplace. I am able to support people through major life transitions such as chronic illness and losses of all kinds.
I am influenced by a number of therapeutic modalities, but my approach is based on being person-centered, meaning that I strive to understand the client’s point of view, and create a relationship that is caring, genuine and non-judgmental.
Other modalities that I frequently draw from are somatic therapy, EMDR, compassion-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and a neuroscience/poly-vagal theory approach.
I was born and raised on a farm in the Shuswap which has created a lifelong respect for the environment. A large part of supporting my mental health is by practicing nature based mindfulness. I believe that nature is essential to our health and well-being. I am European on my paternal side and Māori (Ngāti Awa) through my maternal lineage.
I have a bachelor of Social Work and a Master’s in Education (counselling). I am a Registered Social Worker in B.C. and Ontario. I do regular clinical supervision and professional development. My practice strives to be anti-oppressive and to provide culturally responsive care. I have supported clients who are Indigenous throughout Canada. I completed the SAN’YAS: Indigenous Cultural Safety Training. As a social justice advocate I am an ally for the LGBQ2S+ community.
SERVICES:
I offer individual counselling for adults online throughout B.C. and Ontario or there is an option for in person in Salmon Arm, B.C.
The relationship with your counsellor is an important part of making meaningful change. I invite you to book a free 15-minute consultation so we can see if we are a good fit.
Walk and Talk Therapy
Sometimes, sitting face-to-face in an office can feel a bit intense. Walk and Talk therapy lets
us take our counselling session outside into nature. We will use the exact same helpful tools
that we would use indoors, with the added benefits of fresh air and gentle movement.
•This is not an exercise session. We will walk at a comfortable pace with breaks whenever needed.
•Where we meet: We meet near my downtown office. If it rains, snows, or gets too cold,
we can easily move our session inside to my comfortable office instead.
•How we start: Before our first walk, we will meet at least once over the phone or by video
to safely complete your intake forms and make a plan together.
AREAS I CAN HELP WITH:
First REsponders, veterans, caf members
Working in emergency services and the military can expose you to experiences that are difficult for others to understand. I offer a confidential space where you can talk openly and work through the impact of your experiences.
My trauma-informed work includes support for Occupational Stress Injuries (OSI), cumulative and critical incident trauma, compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma and moral injury. Endorsed by the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Association (BCPFFA). As an Occupationally Aware Clinician, I am part of a network supported by the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Association. My training helps me understand the unique demands, experiences, and challenges of working in emergency services.
I offer direct billing through Medavie Blue Cross, subject to your plan coverage.
Depression
Depression can leave you feeling low, tired, disconnected or without motivation. Everyday tasks and relationships may become harder to manage, and things you once enjoyed may no longer feel the same. Reaching out for support can help you work through these feelings and find ways forward.
Anxiety
Anxiety can leave you feeling worried, overwhelmed or constantly on edge. You may find yourself overthinking, expecting the worst or struggling to switch off your thoughts. It can affect your sleep, relationships and ability to enjoy everyday life. Counselling can help you better understand your anxiety and develop ways to manage it.
neurodivergence
I have over 30 years of experience supporting neurodivergent individuals and hold certifications as an ADHD Clinical Services Provider and Certified Autism Spectrum Clinical Specialist.
My practice offers a neuro-affirming space for adults navigating ADHD, autism and AuDHD, with a particular focus on the experiences of late diagnosis. Discovering your neurodivergence later in life can bring a mix of relief, grief and questions about why things may have felt so difficult.
Together, we can explore experiences such as workplace burnout, chronic exhaustion, masking and challenges with sensory needs and executive functioning. My approach focuses on self-understanding, self-compassion and practical strategies that work with your brain, rather than trying to change who you are.
Life Transitions
Life changes such as retirement, job loss or having a child can bring unexpected challenges. You may feel lost, uncertain or overwhelmed as you adjust to a new stage of life. Counselling can help you work through these changes and find ways forward
Relationship concerns
Relationships can bring challenges, whether with partners, family, friends or others. You may be struggling with communication, conflict, boundaries or feeling disconnected. Counselling can help you better understand relationship patterns, build confidence and develop healthier ways of relating to others.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder/Trauma
Difficult or frightening experiences can affect us long after they have happened. You may feel on edge, overwhelmed, disconnected or struggle with unwanted memories, strong emotions or sleep. Counselling can help you make sense of these experiences, feel safer and regain a sense of control. Over time, it can also create space to rediscover your strengths, build new perspectives and find meaning and connection. We work at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Grief and Loss
Everyone experiences grief differently. Loss can affect many areas of our lives, including our relationships, identity and sense of belonging. As a Certified Grief Informed Professional (CGP), I offer a supportive space to help you navigate loss and find your own way forward.
“The paradox of trauma is that is has both the power to transform and resurrect.”
CONTACT:
Caroline Miege (she/her)