Abby Rizzolo.

Abby is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with BCACC (#22311), offering a grounded, compassionate presence in therapy. She believes nothing is too big or too small for the therapy room and welcomes clients of all backgrounds, whether new to therapy or experienced, where you can unravel your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment.

Abby's approach is holistic and grounded in understanding the whole person - mind, body, heart, and community. They combine warmth, humor, challenge, and a steady presence to help you develop emotional regulation, deepen your relationship with yourself, and navigate life's challenges and transitions. She works with individuals, couples, and relationships from all walks of life, always using a trauma-informed, culturally humble, and intersectional lens. From anxiety, stress, and trauma to identity exploration, self-esteem, and relationship struggles, Abby works with you to explore and process your experiences while gaining new perspectives and sustainable coping strategies.

Drawing on a blend of mindfulness, somatic techniques, cognitive therapies (CBT, DBT, ACT), and emotionally-focused therapies (EFT), Abby supports clients to explore emotions and trauma stored in the bodies, their thought patterns, build safety within themselves, and adjust their relationship to what makes them uncomfortable. She also incorporates Feminist Therapy to examine how the external factors, environments, and systems you live in impact your mental health.

Abby's personal journey with trauma and mental health inspires their passion for supporting others through this life of joy, pain, healing, change, and growth. She believes that one of the most important pieces of effective therapy is the relationship between therapist and client, built on trust, safety, and client autonomy. Abby tailors her approach to best support your unique needs and encourages open feedback about what is and isn't working for you in session, to ensure your time together is as effective and supportive as possible. 

Abby holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Adler University and two Bachelor of Arts from the University of Guelph in International Development and Psychology. She has experience and training in trauma care, supporting folks formerly incarcerated, suicide prevention and intervention, substance use, non-violent communication, mindfulness, and yoga. 

Reaching out is half the battle! If you're ready to safely explore your emotions, develop new coping tools, or work through life's challenges together, Abby is here to walk alongside you.