Caroline Miege
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 or in-person.
I recommend a free 15 minute consultation before committing to a session.
In-Person Counselling: Available in Salmon Arm only at a downtown location (Suite 210 - #310 (Hudson AVE NE).
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, but we will add the healing power of fresh air and gentle
movement.
•This is not an exercise session. We will walk at a very slow and easy pace (about 2 to 4
km) and stop to rest whenever you need to.
•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.
First REsponders, veterans, caf members
As a registered clinical counsellor specializing in the treatment of trauma I use evidence based trauma focused modalities within a practice that is occupationally aware (actively expanding specialized care through upcoming First Responder Occupational Awareness Training) as well as providing a confidential space specifically suited for those struggling navigating PTSD, Occupational Stress Injuries, Cumulative and Critical Incident trauma, Compassion Fatigue, Vicarious Trauma and Moral Injury
I offer direct billing through Medavie Blue Cross to eliminate out-of-pocket costs.
Depression
Depression is one of the most common mental health struggles that people experience which can have major impact on a person’s day to day life. It is recommended to seek help before the depression reaches a clinical level as it is harder to bounce back when you lack energy to stay active and maintain social contacts. It is helpful to seek help when you notice the signs of depression are starting to affect your functioning.
Anxiety
Anxiety describes a group of disorders that cause worry, nervousness, and fear. These feelings of anxiety interfere with everyday life and are out of proportion to the triggering object or event.
neurodivergence
I have over 30 years of dedicated experience supporting neuro-divergent individuals across diverse community settings and hold certification as a ADHD Clinical Services Provider and Certified Autism Spectrum Clinical Specialist. My private practice is a neuro-diversity affirming space designed for the unique way your brain works. I specialize exclusively in working with adults, with focus on navigating the complex journey of a late diagnosis. I understand that discovering your neurodivergence later in life often comes with a unique layer of grief for the years spent wondering why things felt so hard. Together, we will gently address the heavy weight of workplace burnout and chronic exhaustion, moving away from trying to "fix" or mask who you are. Instead, we will collaborate on self-compassionate, practical strategies that honor your sensory needs and executive functioning. Whether you are navigating ADHD, autism, or the intricate intersection of both (AuDHD), you don’t have to figure it out alone—this is a safe space to unmask, process, and build a life that truly fits you.
Life Transitions
Transitions, such as retirement, job loss or having a child can bring unexpected challenges leaving people feeling lost, confused or overwhelmed. A counsellor can assist in navigating these changes and learning to cope in new ways.
STRESS MANAGEMENT
Stress is a natural part of our life. What we need to take care of however, is excess build-up of stress over time that can affect our normal daily functioning
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder/Trauma
Trauma describes how your mind and body react after you go through a scary or painful experience. You might feel stuck in "survival mode" (fight, flight, or freeze) or have unwanted memories. Our work will focus on building a true sense of safety for you, going entirely at your own pace.
Grief and Loss
Everyone experiences grief differently. Loss can affect many areas of our lives, including our relationships, identity and sense of belonging. I offer support as a Certified Grief Informed Professional (CGP) as you work through loss and find ways to move forward.
“The paradox of trauma is that is has both the power to transform and resurrect.”
Contact
Caroline Miege (she/her)