Counselling in Victoria BC, Cobble hill BC & ONline

The Story of strength in heart counselling

Hi, I’m Carla Mae, the founder and director of Strength in Heart Counselling in Victoria BC, Cobble Hill BC & online across Canada. Strength in Heart was born out of a desire to create a space where people could find hope, love, and acceptance. The name itself holds a special meaning—it was inspired by my late dear mentor and friend, Will Pegg, whose unwavering support and wisdom deeply influenced my life and career. Before his passing, Will encouraged me to follow my dream of opening a private counselling practice, often reminding me of the value of authenticity and connecting with internal strength.

Will helped me to choose the name “Strength in Heart” and, after his passing, I created the logo image. The lion symbolizes the strength and courage that Will brought to my life, and the hummingbird reminds me of Will sitting in his garden enjoying the hummingbirds. And, of course, both the lion and hummingbird heart are known for their amazing strength!

Starting Strength in Heart in 2018 was not just a career move; it was a way to honor Will’s legacy and the lessons he taught me. Today, Strength in Heart Counselling thrives as a space where clients are empowered to transform their pain into strength, reconnect with themselves and others, and live more authentic, fulfilled lives. In Will’s words - “Just be yourself, that’s enough!”

Our philosophy

Each person has a natural, infinite inner strength that transforms pain & supports their physical, mental, & spiritual health. Painful life experiences cause this power to become blocked which leads to dissatisfaction & dis-ease. Our Victoria therapists empower clients to re-access the strength in their hearts so that they can live a joyful life with balance & connection. We support people who are ready to recalibrate & reconnect to their inner healing intelligence so that they can deepen their relationship with self, others & the world.

“When you close your heart or close your mind, you hide in the darkness within you. There is no light. There is no energy. There is nothing flowing. The energy is still there but it can’t get in…That is what it means to be “blocked”. That is why you have no energy when you’re depressed”

— Michael Singer

Contact us to release the past & embrace your potential!