Meet Your Vancouver Therapist Online: Here to listen and Help.

A Compassionate online therapist based near Vancouver, BC. Now Available for Trauma and Pain therapy, Nationwide.

Online Therapist Now Accepting New Clients

Online Therapist Now Accepting New Clients

Getting started in online therapy with a health therapist or a trauma therapist online.

Hi! I’m,

Elysia Bronson.

As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BCACC, I understand the immense vulnerability involved in seeking therapy. Opening up to a therapist is a courageous step, and thats why I prioritize creating a warm and non-judgmental space where you feel safe and heard. While I utilize evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, Safe and Sound Protocol, Chronic Pain Therapy and Trauma-Focused CBT. I also believe that genuine connection is a key piece to healing. So, by sharing my own lived experience it allows me to connect with you on a deeper level. And my past has shaped me into a compassionate and empathetic online therapist, dedicated to supporting you through any challenge. Through this personal journey with chronic pain it has informed my understanding of its unique effects as a licensed professional counselor. That’s why I integrate this lived experience with my expertise, to assist clients in managing their own chronic pain and enhance their health and well-being. Beyond my practice as a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I also contribute to group training programs and pain research with Pain BC. And I was recently named the Interprofessional Special Interest Group Co-Chair of The Canadian Pain Society.

Here's what you can expect when working with me:

  • Non-judgmental and trauma informed environment: Feel comfortable sharing your story without fear.

  • Authentic and genuine connection: Build a trusting relationship based on mutual respect and understanding.

  • Tailored treatment approach: We'll collaborate to find the most effective therapy approach for your unique needs. What ever your illness may be we can find an approach and tools that help you.

  • Focus on learning new skills: We all do the best we can with the skills we have. And through empower you to overcome challenges while learning teaching you new skills we’ll watch you grow.

  • Commitment to your well-being: I want to help you the best way I can and that’s why I’m actively meeting with pain research groups to stay up to date and aid in the development of new advancements. Because your progress, recovery, and goals are my priority.

My Path to Understanding: A Long Journey

For me, trauma is something I've experienced in multiple forms. You could say crisis and trauma have always been my baseline—what I've considered normal. In my younger years it was normalized with parentification, then bullying in school, and at home with complex family issues. When I then dealt with the symptoms of trauma and complex PTSD, I didn’t get help until I was in a very dark place. And that’s when I met a crisis counselor that was understanding and supported me through it, even when I didn't think I could survive it. This experience of having support through counseling changed my perspective on life. And having these traumatic experiences shaped me and ignited a passion for helping others that may be navigating complex trauma, chronic pain, and stressful experiences.

Your Symptoms of Trauma

These events can leave you with an overactive stress response system. Sometimes characterized by symptoms like intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, negative changes in thinking and mood, heightened emotional reactivity, difficulty regulating emotions, disturbed sleep patterns, feeling easily triggered, and social withdrawal. That means that you may feel hyper-aware of other people's emotions as well because it was a way you kept yourself safe and coped.

How Trauma and Chronic Illness Interact

And this is where the connection between trauma and chronic illnesses has been found through research into our brains it’s been found that there is an overlap between how you feel emotional pain and physical pain as it triggers the same areas in your brain. And it has also been linked back to how your brain was affected by trauma’s. This then can also trigger diseases later in life. What this means for you is that the stress you encounter in life can both influence how your nervous system responds, through your fight or flight system, and it can be changed.

This has been found through research into Adverse Childhood Events, and Polyvagal Theory. When you encounter stress higher amounts of cortisol and adrenaline flood your body. And these are your stress hormones that flood your body, and both have been linked to causing illnesses. This is one way that the body is affected by early trauma or current stressors. As we internalize it, the stress can then trigger us to get sick with chronic disorders that come from our genetics through our predispositions and cause the release of inflammatory cells. But our research into pain therapy has come a long way and through teaching mind body techniques and coping skills you can learn how to proactively handle stress and trauma effectively. I’ve even seen clients’ reverse symptoms going from a 9 out of 10 down to a 4 out of 10. And as I’ve witnessed these changes I’ve been inspired to learn how to provide the same help for others dealing with pain and trauma. That’s why I’ve joined cutting edge pain expert groups like Stephen Porges and Dr. Hanscom’s Scientific Discussion Group and work with The Canadian Pain Society as the Interprofessional Special Interest Group Co-Chair. I do these extra things because more than anything I want to be able to advocate for patients like you and give the best quality of care I can.

More On My Journey

In my earlier years I began by training to become a crisis counselor, driven by a passion to help others in similar situations. And as I studied, I chose a practicum that would immerse me in this work at my local police station’s victim services unit. There I worked on-call shifts going to scenes with officers and assisting with the victims of traumatic incidents on scene. During these shifts I often met with people after the worst day of their lives and learned how to sit with people in grief and shock. I worked in different crisis centers with teens and adults, throughout it I was honored to bear witness to their stories. And in it I felt calm as I knew what to do, the trauma wasn’t new to me. Instead, I felt calm and collected as I sat with them in their distress because I had experienced it too, and I could be there and support them through it. Sometimes, simply being there quietly in it was the most powerful thing anyone could do for a survivor of trauma. Each week, I continued to follow up with clients, throughout the first year as they navigated the grief of loss, and next through the anxiety and confusion—which is often the most challenging period after a death or trauma. This became something I excelled at and found meaning in. Seeing the growth in my clients as I provided personal support, and taught skills to cope with the aftermath. The growth then fueled my dedication, as I pursued my degrees in clinical counseling. Alongside studying, volunteering deepened my love for helping others. And I dove into the research and extra training in trauma, exploring the ways that trauma therapy can heal the wounds that we carry. Through it all I found further confirmation that therapy is a powerful way to work with others through the struggles and heal. I know it certainly helped me.

My Chronic Illnesses

As I went through my training in counseling, from my BA, MA, and additional training, I envisioned a certain path for my life. And it wasn’t this one. Instead, it took an unexpected turn. Perhaps you relate? Sure, there were bumps along the way, typical for those who have experienced trauma. But, when multiple chronic health conditions emerged, it felt like I was veering off course. After much research, I now see how these diseases are often a consequence of our bodies struggling to cope with high cortisol levels that damage us, after the years of stress and trauma. Yet, at the time I was diagnosed with my chronic conditions I had was a flood of emotions, anger, frustration, and grief to name a few. I tried to balance these health conditions while attending university and raising two kids. And this was incredibly challenging, especially in these young years. The road to acceptance was fraught with good intentions, as adapting to life with these chronic conditions has proved to be both difficult and confusing. The frustration often set in because life wasn't going according to plan, and I had to know why. In trauma research we see how our bodies tend to internalize emotional wounds and stress, akin to physical injuries, leading to lasting damage without proper intervention. And my attempt to maintain a fast-paced lifestyle, despite my health conditions, exacerbated these issues.

Perhaps you've received a diagnosis, or are living with a disorder, and feel stuck, unsure of where to go from here, or are fighting it alone? Throughout my journey, I've frequently felt that way. And after 15 years, with these chronic illness frustrations, it’s forced me to learn more about what can cause chronic illnesses and how to adapt to new ways of living. As I adapted, I collaborated with colleagues and doctors, seeking more evidence-backed coping strategies and pain therapy styles. Determined to adapt, I combined my knowledge from a specialization in cognitive behavioral therapy, to adding a neurobiology understanding with my former training in trauma research. And since then, I’ve developed tools to behaviorally approach the management of chronic illnesses. I’ve found ways to help clients pace their lives, change the effects of brain fog and lower pain conditions. This combined with my lived experiences with chronic health and trauma have been helpful in coming alongside others to compassionately help them learn about and manage their illnesses, while creating a daily life that feels supported and joyful. After over 15 years of coping with chronic illnesses like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and trigeminal autonomic cephalgia I have also managed to graduate with a master's degree in counselling psychology, collaborated with colleagues like Stephen Porges, Dr. Hanscom, and many others. While also creating programs to help those with chronic illnesses improve their quality of life. Here you’ll have accessibility to an online therapist that will assist you in processing your emotions and teach you the tools you need to gain a better quality of life. If this sounds like something you're looking for reach out! I’d love to help you.

Sharing Your Story in a Safe Space

You may find that the above underpins my approach to therapy. As I believe in creating a warm and judgment-free space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. Sharing your story, no matter how difficult it may be, is a courageous step, and I'm here to listen without judgment. That’s why I started The Woods Counselling Co.

As an Online Therapist I founded this private therapy practice to address the gaps in support as I saw in both chronic illness and trauma populations an inability to get help when it’s needed. And when I see a problem, I can't ignore it. Which is why early on, it pained me in my early police work to witness trauma survivors placed on long waitlists for underqualified help. This is because I knew that if it was left untreated the traumatic experiences that my clients were experiencing was at an Acute Stress stage which is very treatable. Yet, if this acute trauma is left on a long waitlist, it often leads to PTSD and then it will take longer to treat and progress into worsening symptoms. My frustration with our healthcare system made me passionate about becoming a trauma therapist when I was starting out as then I would be able to provide more qualified help that’s completely accessible from anywhere with online therapy. And I still work to address this gap in my practice as I’m dedicated to meeting those critical needs. Then as I saw doctors for my own chronic illnesses and soon noticed similar issues in our healthcare system. As chronic health patients often face lengthy waitlists for doctors or specialists, and then compounding issue of gaslighting, the paperwork not reaching them, plus accessibility challenges. All of which makes it twice as hard when you're exhausted and in pain.

Making it accessible

And as a qualified Registered Clinical Counsellor, I have a goal to address these challenges with creating accessible online therapy Canada wide, to anyone needing help. You can get counselling sessions from the comfort of your own home and meet with someone who gets it. These sessions are typically covered by insurance, ICBC, WorkSafe and others making it both easy and accessible to get to. I am dedicated to ensuring that, no matter what you're going through, you can access reliable online therapy when you need it.

I also provide added resources in the online shop for self-directed care and a youtube channel to teach free therapy skills for chronic illness management. At The Woods Counselling, you can rely on me to offer you a weekly space for your personal, family, or crisis support in our online therapy sessions. You can book a session directly into my calendar below, email me, or call me with your questions (604-302-2193). This is a dedicated space for you to prioritize your health and wellness. Together we can find ways to help you adapt to life and process your emotions. Whether it’s navigating an illness or managing stress and trauma, I’m here to provide you with the personal support you need, when you need it.

Connect with a registered clinical counselor where your online therapy covered by insurance and get the personal support you need

Our Treatment Areas

Your in good hands with an registered clinical counsellor (RCC) trained she's been called a cancer therapist, personal therapist, & Health Therapist .

Insurance Coverage and Financial Support

Insurance Coverage and Financial Support

At Woods Counselling Co., we understand the importance of making therapy accessible. Here are some options to help you cover the cost of your online therapy sessions:

  • Most insurance companies in BC and Canada reimburse sessions with Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs). We recommend checking directly with your provider to confirm your coverage details.

  • We are pre-registered with several insurance providers including ClaimSecure, Humanacare, Equitable Life of Canada, Green Shield Canada, Pacific Blue Cross, Manitoba Blue Cross, and Sun Life. Always feel free to call them and double-check how you can get your online therapy covered through insurance, if you are unsure about your plans coverage.

Additional options include:

  • Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP): We are approved by CVAP, and clients with CVAP approval can submit receipts for reimbursement.

  • ICBC and WorkSafe: We are an approved by both WorkSafe and ICBC as a Health Care Provider. And if you have a recent claim with ICBC, you may be eligible for reimbursement of up to $140 per session for 12 sessions. Please contact your adjuster to confirm coverage.

  • Telus Health: Now Covers BC Clinical Counsellors

  • First Nations Health Authority: We are an approved provider for FNHA.

Please note:

  • We do not offer direct billing due to our client confidentiality policy. You can easily submit receipts that are sent after session to your insurance provider for reimbursement.

  • Reimbursement amounts and program details are subject to change. We recommend checking with your provider for the latest information.We are committed to providing accessible and affordable therapy services. If you have any questions about coverage or financial options, please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • Denied therapist coverage?

    • Here's how to advocate for your mental health choice. Appeal the denial by providing proof of your therapist's necessity and requesting a detailed explanation from your insurance company. Obtain a letter of support from your doctor or therapist emphasizing the therapist's qualifications and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. Review your insurance policy for exceptions based on medical necessity and advocate for broader coverage if needed. Your voice matters in shaping mental healthcare options, so take these proactive steps to increase your chances of getting the coverage you need for the therapist you trust.

      We are committed to providing accessible and affordable therapy services. If you have any questions about coverage or financial options, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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Additional Support

At The Woods Counselling Co., we are committed to connecting you with resources that best suit your needs. Here are some organizations offering free or low-cost therapy in British Columbia:

Learning Through Loss:

Provides financial support for short-term grief counseling for teens and young adults (13-24) in BC. Visit their website to complete a referral form and mention The Woods Counselling Co. for potential financial support to get counselling provided through us.

West Coast Cancer Kids:

Offers various programs for children, youth, and families facing childhood illness, including financial support for online therapy and in-person support groups, food assistance, and home deliveries.

Mighty Warriors:

Supports families with chronically ill children in BC by providing financial assistance for online therapy, access to nutritious food, and other essential needs.

ALS Society of BC

Offers pro-bono psychological support services for individuals affected by ALS who lack extended health benefits.

To access support from these organizations, please visit their websites or contact them directly. You can also mention you'd like to work with The Woods Counselling Co. (if applicable).

We are constantly expanding our network of partner organizations. For more resources, please feel free to contact us.

BC Association of Clinical Counsellors logo on blue background with abstract design
Logo of The Canadian Pain Society featuring a stylized maple leaf and bilingual text.

Our Counselling Rates

Book Your Appointment Today & start your journey.

Get Your own Licensed professional counselor with Flexible Online Therapy.

$0

20 Minute

Free Counsultation

$150

$150

60 Minute

Weekly Online Therapy Appointment

*Safe and Sound Protocol is Now Available!

Please note: for the Safe and Sound Protocol Sessions are $180/session as it includes weekly monitoring, periodic assessments, and full access to the SSP technology.


Take Control of Your Well-Being: Book Your Online Therapy Today!

Ready to prioritize your mental health and feel your best? Book an online therapy session at Woods Counselling Co. it’s quick and easy. Don't wait to invest in health and wellness. Taking care of your mental well-being is essential for a happier and healthier you.

Learn More About Our Qualifications And Services

Get Free Resources, Management tools & Online Courses

If you are not feeling ready to start online counseling, we understand. And you can still benefit from our helpful free handouts, Youtube videos, and Resources. Try joining our free online course, the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program. Here you'll find coping skills, self-care guides, and more. Download them today to begin your journey of healing and growth.