Counselling / Psychotherapy Services

 Life Transitions Counselling

What do the birth of a child, a new marriage, a divorce, the death of a loved one and a major move have in common? Whether 'positive' or 'negative', all transitions create a shift in identity and may increase levels of stress and anxiety. When we identify with the role of 'wife', for example, and are faced with a divorce, our experience of this transition can be difficult.

However, when we learn how to shift our focus from the roles that we may have played to our authentic selves, transitions can bring opportunities for a fresh way of thinking and a deeper experience of joy in our lives.

If you are in the midst of a life transition, not only can it be beneficial to have professional emotional support, but also support with changes to one's physical space that may arise. Whether you are going through the loss of a partner, a new marriage, the birth of a child, or a move to a new home, it is natural to feel overwhelmed with 'stuff'. To learn about how Clear Spaces Coaching can support you in clearing space in your environment visit the Coaching & Decluttering page.

Life Purpose Counselling


What is my life purpose....why am I here? 

If you are asking this question, then you are not alone. Many of the challenges we face in today's society are opportunities to break out of conditioned belief structures. It is natural for questions to arise about one's true purpose, and very existence: our reason for being in this body, at this time.

Purpose is not about what you do, but about the energy you bring to what you do. Clear Spaces Counselling will help you to uncover the limiting beliefs that have prevented you from realizing your true purpose so that you can embrace a life of meaning.

Spiritual Guidance & Spiritual Crisis Counselling

Spirituality is inherently inclusive; it encompasses all belief systems, embracing all cultures and faiths. It is about realizing and experiencing our interconnectedness with life.

A spiritual journey is a very personal affair. We travel to depths within ourselves that have been hidden from our awareness. The paradox is that, while we must undertake this journey alone, it is essential that we have compassionate support along the way. Spiritual guidance can help you to regain, and often expand, your sense of interconnectedness to yourself, others, and to life itself.

Spiritual Crisis or "Dark Night of the Soul"

People across the globe, from all walks of life, are 'waking up' to their true nature. Awakening episodes can occur through meditative or energetic practices and also spontaneously, in those without any spiritual inclinations. As a result, dramatic shifts occur in one's mental and emotional state.

Traditionally referred to as 'Dark Night of the Soul', a spiritual emergency can be a scary experience. It is, however, a normal and often necessary stage in one's spiritual evolution. It involves a shift in identity, from the ego to that of Awareness/Spirit. Disorientation is common and it is beneficial to have professional support during this time.

  Personal Growth & Self-Esteem Counselling


In our culture, self-help books, personal workshops and quick-fix strategies have become a household commodity. "Show me how I can improve my life or fix myself now and get back to the way I think life should be lived". Does this sound familiar?

There is nothing wrong with this way of thinking. We are conditioned to believe that our life should look a certain way and that we are imperfect or simply not good enough. We constantly compare ourselves to others, creating enormous suffering as a result.

While self-help literature and positive affirmations have their place, many people still find themselves repeating the same negative thought patterns and behaviours.

Clear Spaces Counselling will support you in understanding and releasing the core belief patterns that may be preventing you from true growth and joy in your life.

Grief, Loss & Bereavement Counselling

In our western, fear-based society, there is a lack of acknowledgement around death and loss. Loss or anticipatory loss (loss that has not yet occurred, but is anticipated to occur in the near future) can take many forms:     
Grief is a natural, healthy response to loss and, when it is left unacknowledged or denied, suffering occurs. However, when grief is met with compassion, patience and an open heart, it has the potential to positively transform our lives.

If you are experiencing the aftermath of a major loss, not only can it be beneficial to have professional emotional support, but to also have support with practical challenges that may arise. It is natural during this time of grieving to feel overwhelmed with clutter, as you face sorting through and letting go of the possessions of a loved one. For more information click here: Coaching & Decluttering

Anxiety & Stress Counselling

Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress. It is a way for our internal system to attempt to deal with a perceived 'uncontrollable' external stressor. When anxiety becomes unmanageable it can cause havoc on our physiological, emotional, and physical systems.

Symptoms of anxiety may include:
Nausea, heart palpitations, fatigue, chest pain, shortness of breath, as well as feelings of dread, irritability, obsessive fears, worry and difficulty concentrating. Contact a medical doctor if you need immediate help.

Anxiety is not a primary feeling, but rather a cover for deeper feelings. Often we learn as young children to mask feelings that were deemed inappropriate in our families. Anger, for example, is a normal emotion. When anger arises, anxiety levels will also increase, especially if you learned that you were not 'supposed' to feel angry. 

In this way, anxiety can serve as a gage to let us know there is something that has not yet been brought to consciousness. When underlying feelings are given space to arise and be felt, they are then able to move out of the body and anxiety may lesson or disappear.

It is incredibly freeing to realize that there is no need to get rid of any thoughts, sensations or feelings. Clear Spaces Counselling welcomes this opportunity to assist you in discovering what lies beyond anxiety.

 Depression Counselling

Millions of people worldwide struggle with depression; in fact, it is estimated that 1 of every 6 will suffer with this illness at some point in their lives. Some do not even realize they are dealing with depression and that this isn't just 'the way life is'.

Symptoms of depression may include: persistent sadness, anxiety, feelings of emptiness, frequent thoughts of suicide/death, weight gain or loss, sleep pattern changes, loss of interest in activities, shift in appetite, loss of energy, restlessness, and/or unexplained aches or pains.

Depression literally means the pushing down or 'depression' of feelings. Often the feeling of anger, in particular, is turned inward, focused towards oneself. Self-deprecating thoughts or thoughts of self-harm are not uncommon. The mind becomes literally at war with itself and this causes great suffering.

Genuine support is available, and it is possible to awaken from the insanity of our fear-based mind and into a peaceful reality.

Chronic Pain Counselling


Millions of people suffer from chronic physical pain, with the majority (it is estimated over 85%) of patients having no clear diagnosis. Every aspect of life is impacted: personal relationships, careers, physical activity, and health.

Many people have lived with un-diagnosed chronic pain for many years and know the frustration of endless doctor's visits and treatment programs. The medical system can be helpful in pain management, but generally views pain as negative - something to be removed.

Pain as an Ally
The traditional view of pain as our enemy, puts us at war with our bodies. Shifting our perspective to one of curiousity and compassion is enormously beneficial. Pain has been Chloe's greatest teacher. It has taught her the value of patience, presence, humility, acceptance and compassion. Her view of pain is that it has a specific message for us, and if we get still enough, we may be able to hear it.

Clear Spaces Counselling will support you in accessing a deeper understanding of the message within your pain, and help improve your quality of life. 

Healthy Relationships and Boundaries Counselling


Our lives are inherently inter-woven with others. The ability to have healthy relationships is essential to emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.

Relationships can include those we have with partners, parents, children, siblings, employers, colleagues, friends, etc. It is paradoxical that it is often the people we care about the most with whom we have the greatest relationship challenges.

Learning how to communicate effectively and set healthy boundaries can seem like a daunting process. However, by learning and practicing some simple communication skills it is possible to gradually and radically transform your relationships into ones which are vibrant and healthy. 
Chloe Oliver, MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker; Therapist

Contact (289) 251 7775 or chloe@clearspaces.ca now for your complimentary consultation.