Empower Yourself
Gain the confidence to create the future you want.
Counselling in Salmon Arm, BC — in person, online, or by phone.
Who Am I? How Can I Help?
Hi, I'm Valerie Dessaulles, MA, RCC. For over 12 years I served as a paramedic, supporting people during some of their toughest moments. That experience inspired me to pursue a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, so I could keep helping people — in a deeper, more lasting way.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, I work from a trauma-informed, attachment-based approach. Every person is unique, and every session is tailored to you.
When to Speak With a Counsellor
Sometimes it's hard to know whether what you're feeling is "enough" to reach out for help. If any of these sound familiar, counselling can help — and you don't have to figure it out alone.
Depression
If you are feeling sad, lonely, tired, or lethargic, or having trouble looking forward to events you normally would, you may be experiencing depression.
Anxiety
If you feel nervous, fearful, or disproportionately upset about an event or circumstance — or if you have recently had a panic attack — you may be experiencing anxiety.
Grief & Loss
If you have recently lost a loved one, or feel there is a missing piece in your life, you may be carrying grief or loss.
Post-Traumatic Stress
If you find yourself quick to anger, experiencing flashbacks, or having recurring nightmares of an event you cannot seem to wake from, you may be living with post-traumatic stress.
Relationships
Are you struggling to communicate with your partner? I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), a clinically proven method to help you connect more effectively in your relationship.
Chronic Pain
When you are living with chronic pain, it can feel very lonely — like no one truly understands what you're going through. You are not alone.
Burnout
You're tired, easily frustrated, annoyed by your work and the people you love — and maybe you don't know why.
Suicidal Thoughts
When you feel you have nowhere left to turn, it can seem like there is no way forward. Please know there is. I have specialized training in supporting people through suicidal thoughts, and I would be honoured to walk with you.
(If you are in crisis right now, please call 911 or 1-800-SUICIDE: 1-800-784-2433.)
Family Issues
You're struggling to get through to a loved one, or facing challenges communicating, and you can't figure out how to reach them — or how to live with them.
Direct Billing Available
I direct bill to Medavie Blue Cross, Blue Cross, CVAP, FNHA, the Autism Fund, BCEHS CIS Program, and 30+ plans through Telus eClaims — including Canada Life, Manulife, and Desjardins.
See fees & insurance detailsReady for Your New Beginning?
I'm currently accepting new clients, and I'm always happy to have a free 15-minute phone consult to make sure we're a good fit — that's the most important part of good therapy.