Are you between the ages of 12 and 35 years old struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, body image concerns and not sure why it all started? Are you struggling to manage your stress levels and all of life's demands? Are you or one of your loved ones struggling with psychosis? I am here for you. My PASSION is helping young folks navigate the difficulties that are so apparent during these stages of life. If you are looking for someone to celebrate you, challenge you, see you, & remember your story, I vow that to you.
So let's dig deep together. I offer a non-judgemental space for you to explore who you truly are. To build connection & meaning. To be vulnerable & know you are safe. In our sessions, I get curious about who you are. I offer a range of services from individual counselling; family consultation; outreach support; and psychosocial rehabilitation support.
I guarantee that you will hear back from me within 24 hrs Mon-Fri! I understand that when you're looking for help, you need it NOW, not weeks from now. You do not have to suffer alone. Please visit www.supportwiths.ca for more information and to book a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation. I offer in-person and virtual appointments to people across BC. I look forward to connecting with you!
Alan Stamp with feathered friend!
I've been fortunate to have spent 40 years in the counselling and therapy field. I knew from a young age that I wanted to be in human services. I completed a diploma in counselling in 1978 and started my career working and living on First Nations Reserves in North Western Ontario. After working for several more years, I eventually attended graduate school. I worked as a therapist for a time, and applied for a 4 year internship in Family Therapy at Pacific Coast Therapy Training Institute. Under the guidance of Dr. David Freeman, among others, the academic emphasis was placed on understanding the importance of theory in clinical practice. That training was one which resonated with me the most, and it enabled me to understand the power of the stories we are told, and the stories we tell ourselves about who we are. I remained at the Institute as a faculty member, therapist, Clinic Director and Instructor for another 8 years. Additionally, I maintained a private practice where I work with clients employing a Systems orientation. For the past 18 years, I have been the Clinical Director at Jewish Family Services.
In April of 2017, I published “My Life Under Water", a semi-autobiographical tale of my struggle in the Vancouver of the 1970s. It told the story of coming out as a gay young swimmer. I'm pleased to say that my book was a finalist for the Canadian Book Awards, and it brought attention to the broader community that being different for many continues to be a complex struggle. My second book - "My Life Above Water" - details the advent of the HIV/AIDS pandemic in Vancouver during 1983 and was published in 2019.
Throughout many years of training, I've come to believe that for many, the past is alive in the present. My guiding philosophy is to understand how family and/or family of choice may influence who we are and who we may become.
Monja is a trauma-informed, person-centred counsellor who offers a steady, welcoming space for clients seeking support. She works with adolescents, adults, and families facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, burnout, identity exploration, relationship concerns, trauma, and substance-related or behavioural difficulties.
She is a Certified Member of the Canadian College of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapists (CCPCP) and holds both the Registered Professional Counsellor designation (CCPCPR) and the International Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor (ICADC) credential.
Monja draws on evidence-based approaches—including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness-based strategies, harm reduction, and relapse-prevention methods—integrated with a holistic, culturally aware lens. Her work focuses on helping clients understand core patterns, strengthen boundaries, improve communication, and build lasting resilience.
She believes meaningful change is possible at every stage of life and supports clients with clarity, compassion, and grounded guidance as they move toward greater emotional well-being and self-understanding.