Michelle Carchrae (she/her)
MC (Master of Counselling)
RCC (Registered Clinical Counsellor)
FOT (Focusing Oriented Therapist)
Therapy is a journey of self-discovery and healing. I would be honoured to accompany you on this path. I bring 5+ years of professional experience working with people who have experienced trauma and other challenges that make it feel impossible to live the life you want to live.
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In addition to my work with clients individually and in couples, I've also assisted with Focusing trainings as a coach, been invited to speak about IFS as a guest lecturer at City University, and delivered workshops and small group programs on Focusing and dreamwork.
I know that change is possible because I’ve seen it happen in my own life and in the lives of my clients every day. If you’re in a place in your life where you’re ready for things to be different, I’m ready to meet you there, walk with you, and support you in living in a more grounded, authentic and self-accepting way.
Training
Credentials
MA in Psychology from University of Alberta
Master of Counselling from City University of Seattle
Certified Focusing Oriented Therapist (FOT)
Registered Clinical Counsellor (#18720) with the BCACC (RCC)
Member of CADDRA
Registered with CVAP and FNHA
Training
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IFS with Derek Scott - IFSCA
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IFS (Level 1) - IFS Institute
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Focusing with Donna Steadman and the International Focusing Institute (2yr certification)
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Embodied Experiential Dreamwork with Leslie Ellis (1 yr certification)
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Relational Life Therapy with Terry Real (Level 1)
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AEDP Immersion with Diana Fosha (Level 1)
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ACT for ADHD with Russ Harris
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Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) with Sarah Peyton
Cultural Safety & Ethical Practice
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Trauma-Informed Mental Health Care for Neurodivergent Populations (Therapist Neurodiversity Collective)
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Introduction to ADHD for Healthcare Professionals (CADDRA)
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Writing Efficient, Ethical, & Useful Counselling Session Notes (Dawn Psychological Services)
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San'Yas Cultural Safety Training (Provincial Health Services Authority)
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Introduction to Gender Diversity - Expanded (TransCare BC)
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Families, Family Breakdown and the Law (BCACC)
Guiding Values
Collaborative and Client-Centered
Therapy is about you, and you matter.
Therapy is a space for you and about you. I aim to hold that space effectively while centering your needs, goals and input. I can be both receptive and active, appropriately challenging you while also working together as a team.
Trauma-informed
Safety is key
Trauma-informed care means knowing how our nervous system responds to overwhelming events and being able to track changes in nervous system activation moment to moment in order to prevent re-traumatization. When it comes to trauma, safety is the treatment.
Attachment-informed
Belonging vs autonomy
Relationships are based on attachment, and attachment always involves navigating conflicting needs for belonging and autonomy. Whether we're seeking connection or trying to find ourselves, our attachment systems are involved.
Diversity affirming
Social location matters
In this world, the ways others perceive us can have a significant impact on the opportunities or barriers that we face. A diversity affirming approach means acknowledging both the real impacts that your identity can have on your experience, as well as the basic dignity, rights and value that are your birthright.