Ocean Johnston
Counselling
she/they
BA, MACP, RCC, CCC​
“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo.
“So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
- J.R.R. Tolkein
Self Location
A bit about me and where I come from:
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I am a queer white-settler woman born and raised on W̱SÁNEĆ territory, currently residing on the lands of the xÊ·mÉ™θkÊ·É™yÌ“É™m (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and sÉ™lilwÉ™taɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
As well as being a therapist, I am also an eldest daughter, a serial crafter, a song writer, a cat lover, and a proud auntie. ​
What you can expect from me:
Values
In this work I describe the "true north" on my compass to be a compassionate curiosity. You can expect me to be a committed passenger as I help you navigate your journey of challenges and triumphs.
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I hope to provide a loving space to be challenged, and a real relationship in which to heal.
In session, you can expect a genuine warmth, humility, humour, and a shared humanity.​
Approaches
​I have developed my eclectic therapeutic style, pulling inspiration from attachment-focused therapy, narrative therapy, existential therapy, internal family systems therapy (IFS), and eye-movement desensitization reprocessing therapy (EMDR).
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My understanding of trauma integrates the somatic, inter-generational, and cognitive processes that form our sense of self, and our core beliefs about ourself, other's and the world.
I believe that despite finding one's self in challenging cycles (behaviourally, relationally, emotionally) you ultimately make sense. I hope to help you better understand yourself and relate to yourself and your experiences through a felt sense of compassion and acceptance.
Areas of interest and expertise
My previous work experience in non-profits supporting youth ages 15-25 has provided me an opportunity to develop my therapeutic lens toward empowerment and meaning-making while acknowledging the complexities of marginalization, power and privilege, and common humanity.
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Presenting concerns I am eager to support you through:​
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Exploration of sexuality and gender
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Shame, self-criticism, and resentment
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Grief, loss, and change
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Deconstruction of religion and other spiritual concerns
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Those navigating the ongoing impact of colonization, racism, and xenophobia ​
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Those who have experienced gender-based and sexual violence​
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Substance use and addiction