I provide a range of evidence-based therapy services for adults, children, and teens. I offer individual, couples, family, and parent-support sessions.

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Getting started can sometimes feel like the hardest step. I offer a free 15-minute consultation (virtual or in-person) with no pressure or obligation attached.

Think of it as a casual two-way conversation where we can learn a bit about each other, talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, and see whether working together feels like a good fit.

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I blend warmth with steady direction.

I genuinely enjoy human connection and have a knack for emotional understanding, while also recognizing that people come to therapy for a reason — they want something to shift.

Creating goals and bringing in practical, science-backed tools to support meaningful change is a big part of my approach.

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sthompson@thebuddingelm.com

My standard session rate is $172 per 50-minute session.

Accepted by most extended benefits.

I believe therapy should be as accessible as possible, so I also keep a small number of sliding-scale spots available for lower-income clients. If finances are a concern, you’re welcome to reach out and we can talk about options.

sthompson@thebuddingelm.com

Clients often describe me as approachable, down-to-earth, and easy to talk to, while also appreciating that I can gently challenge them when needed. I aim to create a space that feels supportive, genuine, and collaborative, while also helping clients build insight, practical tools, and meaningful movement toward their goals.

I currently offer in-person sessions in Victoria through The Budding Elm Counselling & Consultation Services, with office locations in Oak Bay and the West Shore, along with virtual sessions across British Columbia.

I’m also working toward offering sessions closer to home in the future, so stay tuned for a potential Saanich Peninsula office location.

I get asked this question a lot. It can help to first understand that anxiety is a normal human experience — it’s our brain and body’s warning system, like a smoke alarm designed to keep us safe. The problem is that sometimes our “smoke alarms” become overly sensitive and begin reacting to situations that are uncomfortable, but not actually dangerous. Over time, we may start avoiding certain situations or constantly worrying about anxiety itself, which can unintentionally make anxiety grow stronger.

Rather than trying to completely eliminate anxiety, therapy often focuses on changing our relationship with it. This can involve understanding our warning systems more clearly, reducing avoidance, learning how to sit with discomfort, and gradually building confidence through small, manageable steps over time. Anxiety tends to shrink when we stop organizing our lives around avoiding it.

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