Hi, I’m Andrea Slamaj (she/her), a Graduate Intern Counsellor at Providence Therapy. I’m so glad you’re here!
A good counselling relationship is built on safety, trust, and connection, so let me start by sharing a bit about myself. The road to becoming a therapist has been a long and winding one, greatly influenced by my own journey as a client and person-in-progress. I have lived experiences of complex trauma, mental health challenges, and chronic illness. I also regularly engage in my own therapy so I can better show up for my clients and those around me.
I believe in a collaborative approach to counselling where I’ll always look to you as the expert of your life. I’ll walk alongside you and create a warm, welcoming space where you can be real, raw, and free from judgment. I’ll ask you curious questions with the intention of learning about and challenging the perspectives that hold you back from the life you want to live. And together, we’ll re-author a brave, new story that fosters meaning, understanding, and hope for your future.
When I’m not studying or working with clients, I enjoy reading, playing music, and touring local coffee shops in search of the best cup (and gluten-free goodies) in town. I also frequently daydream about getting a therapy dog someday. Until then, there’s a good chance you’ll catch me hanging out around the office with the dynamic K9 duo, Kona and Dr. Watson.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out and book a 20-minute consultation — I’d be happy to connect with you so you can decide whether I’m the right counsellor for you. I look forward to meeting you!
Education & Therapeutic Approach
I’m currently completing my Master of Counselling Psychology at Adler University, where I’m focusing my studies on mind-body approaches to trauma and mental health recovery. I work with clients experiencing various symptoms of mental health distress, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
In addition to my master’s degree, I have training in trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, Narrative Therapy, Observed & Experiential Integration (OEI): Level 1, and somatic and central nervous system strategies. I use an integrative approach to counselling, drawing from several theoretical frameworks to tailor a treatment plan that best fits clients’ needs. I welcome clients with a variety of concerns, and have special interest in working with life transitions, attachment and relational issues, trauma, gendered violence, chronic illness, and the mind-body connection.
Please note, at this time, I’m only able to see clients who are residents of B.C.