Serving Clients Across Canada | Virtual Clinic | Vancouver HQ

If you’re located in the US, visit FreeMind Therapy US

Serving Clients Across Canada
Virtual Clinic | Vancouver HQ

If you’re located in the US, visit FreeMind Therapy US

Shala Symonds

MSW, RSW

LOCATIONS I SERVE:  BC  |  Yukon | 

Currently full and taking a waitlist. Check our Team Page for Other Therapists.

Shala Symonds - Counsellor FreeMind Therapy
MY HOURS: Tuesdays (11am-6pm PST) Thursdays (10:30am-5:30pm PST) Saturdays (12pm-4pm PST)
Vancouver online therapy logo

 

WHO I WORK WITH

  • Adults Across the Lifespan
  • Healthcare Workers
  • Indigenous people
 

WHAT ISSUES I WORK WITH

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Grief & Loss
  • Cultural & Racial Identity
  • Life Transitions
  • Stress & Burnout
  • Trauma
  • Self-esteem
  • Substance-use
  • System-navigation
  • Crisis intervention
  • Microaggressions/ Racism

ABOUT ME

Hi there — I’m Shala, and I’m glad you’re here. I believe therapy works best when people feel supported, and my goal is to create a safe and welcoming space for everyone. I approach counselling with a commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and holistic wellness, recognizing the many ways that our experiences—both internal and external—impact our mental and emotional health. My approach is grounded in anti-oppression, decolonization, anti-racism, and intersectional feminism, and I view wellness holistically, recognizing the transformative potential of therapy that integrates social justice principles. I am passionate about creating a therapeutic space where Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) are truly seen, heard, and centered.

In our work together, I walk alongside you on your healing journey, helping you to overcome challenges and navigate life’s ups and downs. I draw from evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and psychoeducation to help break unhelpful patterns, build coping skills, and develop practical tools for lasting change. My approach is gentle, collaborative, and tailored to your needs. I aim to empower clients to feel more confident, resilient, and in control of their lives, whether you’re managing stress, anxiety, life transitions, or simply looking to grow and thrive.

I am committed to fostering an inclusive and empowering environment where all clients feel valued, supported, and equipped to pursue their personal growth and emotional well-being. If you are seeking culturally responsive, trauma-informed counselling, or support in developing strategies to manage stress, anxiety, or life transitions, I would be honoured to support you on your journey toward healing and well-being.

MODALITIES OF THERAPY

 

EXPERIENCE

I am a Registered Social Worker with the B.C. College of Social Workers and hold both Bachelor and Master’s degrees from the Toronto Metropolitan University. I bring over 13 years of work experience within the health and social service sectors. Over the last 8 years I have focused my practice on supporting patients/clients and their family members through destabilizing times of change within various hospitals, primary care clinical settings, and in private practice.

 

MORE THAN JUST MY WORK . . . 

Outside of my role as a counsellor & social worker, I am an aunty, sister, daughter, and close friend. I love to spend time with my family traveling, relaxing, and enjoying live music & concerts. I love to dance and enjoy taking Latin dance lessons in my spare time. Also, I love to spend time outdoors, be in nature, and be on or in the water. I have a passion for learning and truly enjoy diversifying my exercise & fitness activities.
 
Quote: “Rarely, if ever, are any of us healed in isolation. Healing is an act of communion.” – bell hooks

PAYMENT & COVERAGE

MY HOURS 

Tuesday 11-6 (PST)

Thursday 10:30-5:30 (PST)

Saturday 12-4 (PST)

LOCATION

  • BC
  • Yukon

CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellations can be made 48hrs prior to the booked session, without charge. After that, the full fee is due.


Contact Shala