READY FOR CHANGE?

LET’S TURN YOUR STORM INTO A STORY OF STRENGTH

Counselling in Victoria BC, Cobble hill BC & ONline

Nikki Berti, MA (Cand.)

Practicum Student Counsellor 

Accepting new individuals for counselling in Victoria, BC, Cobble Hill BC & online across Canada.

Free 20 minute virtual consultations, Free 1st session & then $35 per session

(Under the supervision of Carla Mae Leuschen, RSW #14081)

“I ….”

Individual Counselling: Free 1st session & then $35 per session.

Areas of focus

  • DBT Therapy

  • Solution-Focused Therapy

  • ACT Therapy

  • Trauma

  • ADHD

  • Adoption

  • Borderline Personality Disorder

  • Mental Health 

  • Grief and Loss

  • Relationships

  • Anxiety & Depression

  • Spirituality & Faith

My Approach

My approach to counselling is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and the belief that healing begins within, but that we all need support and guidance at times to access that inner strength. I take a trauma-informed perspective, understanding that many of the challenges people face whether emotional distress, relational difficulties, or self-destructive patterns are often adaptations to pain rather than personal failings. Creating a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic space is my priority, where clients feel genuinely seen, supported, and empowered to explore their experiences.

I am especially drawn to Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), which is the modality I feel most connected to. While DBT is often associated with borderline personality disorder, I believe its true strength lies in its flexibility it offers powerful, evidence-based tools for anyone struggling with emotional dysregulation, trauma responses, or difficulties navigating relationships. I appreciate how DBT balances validation and change, and how its practical skills can help clients build greater stability, awareness, and self-trust in their day-to-day lives.

My role is not to fix, but to walk beside clients as they rediscover their capacity for growth, regulation, and connection. Together, we work toward emotional resilience, self-understanding, and a more empowered, authentic life.

My Story

I was born in Dublin Ireland and 100% Irish. I left when I was 2 and haven't been back since, but I hope to soon! I immigrated to Canada when I was 17 and have never looked back, I love Vancouver Island! I am immensely grateful to live and be on unceded traditional lək̓ʷəŋən territory of the Songhees, WSÁNEĆ, & Esquimalt First Nations.

I became a counsellor because I know how much it matters to feel heard, seen, and understood. My life has been shaped by many experiences some incredibly painful, others deeply transformative. I’ve lived through childhood abuse, sexual trauma, bullying, adoption, divorce, immigration, the loss of a parent, military family life, and navigating my own mental health and learning challenges. These experiences don’t define me, but they’ve given me a deep well of empathy and a real understanding of how complex and courageous healing can be.

I don’t take it lightly when someone trusts me with their story. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic space where you feel comfortable to show up exactly as you are. I believe that healing looks different for everyone, and I’m here to support you in becoming the most authentic, empowered version of *your* self.

With a strong focus on building a trusting, supportive therapeutic alliance, I’ll walk beside you offering compassion, insight, and practical skills as you navigate your own path forward. You don’t have to do this alone.

Education & Training

  • Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology – City University (in progress)

  • Bachelor of Arts on Art and History- University/College Malaspina

  • Bachelor of Education – Vancouver Island University

  • DBT Course

  • Solution-Focused Therapy Course

  • Trauma Informed Practice Course

  • Trauma Focused CBT Course

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Course 

  • Couples Counselling Course