As we welcome the vibrant spirit of spring, we at South Island Counselling want to acknowledge the continuous support of our community, the dedication of our counsellors, the generosity of our volunteers, and the invaluable contributions of our donors. Your collective commitment to the mission of providing accessible counselling services is crucial to our success, and we thank you for your support.

As we move through the final months of 2024, we are grateful for the support that continues to sustain South Island Counselling. This year has been marked by tremendous growth, and we are proud to share that we are on track to serve a record number of clients.

In 2023, we saw an unprecedented number of individuals reaching out for support, and this year we are set to serve close to 900 clients. We are also on pace to slightly exceed last year’s record number of counselling hours, a testament to both the increasing demand for mental health services and the dedication of our counsellors, practicum students, and volunteers.

In 1975, a small counselling non-profit in Saanich sprouted from a need to provide clergymen and their parishioners guidance in navigating life’s hardships and sensitive issues. 

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Today, South Island Counselling has blossomed into a full-fledged secular organization, offering some of the region's most affordable services to hundreds of clients, as it celebrates its 50th anniversary of supporting the community.

Adopting a sliding-scale model, the charity offers subsidized rates ranging from $35 an hour with master-level interns working towards their registered clinical counsellor designation, to $140 for sessions with accredited therapists.

As we welcome the spring season, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey South Island Counselling has taken over the past five decades. What began as a small, community-based service has grown into a trusted mental health resource for individuals and families across British Columbia. This year, we are proud to celebrate our 50th anniversary—a meaningful milestone that invites us to honour our past, recognize our present, and look with hope toward our future.

Recommended by Danielle McCann, RCC

As we navigate Earth Month and reflect on our relationship with the planet, it’s common to feel overwhelmed by the realities of climate change. Whether you're experiencing grief, anxiety, stress, or uncertainty—these feelings are valid and you're not alone. Below are some free, thoughtful resources that can help support your mental health during this time. We hope they offer guidance, comfort, and a reminder that caring for ourselves is part of caring for the Earth.

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Climate Psychology Alliance – North America
Find articles, toolkits, and events like Climate Cafés that create space to share feelings and build resilience.
🔗 Visit Site

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Unthinkable by Britt Wray + "Dear Climate Therapist" Column
Subscribe for regular insights on how to live with courage and compassion through the climate crisis.
🔗 Visit Substack

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Visual Guide: How We Cope and Adapt to Climate Change
A beautifully illustrated model that explores how we process and work through climate-related emotions.
🔗 View the Visual Guide