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Karlien McGrath

RSW, MACP (Practicum Student)

About

Karlien is currently completing a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. She is also a Registered Social Worker with the British Columbia College of Social Workers.

Karlien's approach is grounded in compassion, authenticity, and a deep respect for each person's unique journey. She brings a calm, warm, and down-to-earth presence to her work, helping clients feel safe, supported, and truly heard. She believes meaningful change occurs when individuals have the space to explore their experiences without judgment while reconnecting with their strengths and resilience.

Combining professional training with a wealth of life experience, Karlien works collaboratively with clients to foster healing, personal growth, and lasting positive change. Whether you are navigating stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, or the impact of past experiences, Karlien is committed to walking alongside you on your journey toward greater well-being.

Karlien's practice is client-centred and draws from Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Adlerian Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). She tailors therapy to each client's unique needs, helping them recognize and build on their strengths, understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and develop practical strategies for managing life's challenges. Her goal is to empower clients to gain insight, cultivate resilience, and create meaningful, sustainable change in their lives.

Areas of Focus

Mental Health & Emotions

  • Anxiety

  • Panic attacks

  • Depression

  • Self-esteem

  • Emotional regulation

  • Burnout

  • Anger

  • Grief and loss

  • Shame and guilt

  • PTSD

  • Complex/developmental trauma

Relationships

  • Communication issues

  • Trust issues

  • Healthy boundaries

  • People-pleasing/fawning

Identity & Personal Growth

  • Life transitions

  • Cultural identity and belonging

  • Career stress or direction

  • Body image

Other

  • Childhood abuse

  • Disordered eating (non-diagnostic)

  • Aging and retirement

  • Indigenous clients

  • Caregiver burnout

  • Sleep concerns

  • End-of-life issues

Approach to Counselling

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

  • Solution-Focused Therapy

  • Trauma-Informed Therapy

  • Culturally Sensitive Therapy

  • Adlerian Therapy

  • Psychodynamic Therapy

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