Cynthia Bendickson
Hello, my name is Cynthia (she/her), welcome!
I practice mainly from an existential and psychodynamic perspective, which means that my work focuses on finding a greater understanding of our internal conflicts, and how those show up in our thoughts, emotions and behaviours. Sometimes thinking logically doesn’t feel right or keeps us stuck, and going deeper can lead to meaningful insight and growth.
My areas of interest include trauma, grief and loss, divorce/separation, relationships, life transitions, and the intersection of environment and wellness.
I’m glad you’ve found your way here. I look forward to meeting you.
About me
I come to this work as a second career, after finding therapy profoundly helpful in my own life. Previously, I was an ecologist on Vancouver Island leading community-based environmental and food security projects in the nonprofit world, caring for our ecosystems at a local level. I have always considered community, systems, and context in my work.
In my journey to becoming a therapist, I have volunteered on crisis lines working with people experiencing crisis, as well as in a counselling program supporting self-identified women who have experienced complex trauma such as adverse childhood experiences and interpersonal violence. I continue to work part-time in a Stopping the Violence counselling program.
I continue to maintain my registration as a Registered Professional Biologist with the College of Applied Biologists and also volunteer as a Credentials Assessor with the College for those wishing to join the biology profession.
I am a settler born on the lands of the Liǧʷiłdaxʷ (Laich-Wil-Tach); my ancestry is Norwegian and Quebeçois. I am grateful to now live on the lands of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), and səl̓ílwətaʔi (Tsleil-Waututh).
Who I work With
I work with individuals, couples, and groups who are interested in opening up their lives to change, and greater awareness to how their experiences have shaped their relationships to themselves, to others, and to the world. Experiences such as trauma, grief and loss, divorce/separation, relationships and life transitions are at the heart of my practice, but we will work together to define what you would like to work on. Counselling can be helpful even when there is just a persistent, niggling feeling that something is off, even if you don’t know what it is, or if you are excited for change, but don’t know what that might be. You are welcome to just bring yourself and your curiosity.
I also have a particular interest in supporting those working in or living close to the land or water. I provide services both in-person in Vancouver and virtually through several Canadian provinces.
Working with Me
I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship because relationship is at the heart of creating the conditions for change. I aim to hold a compassionate and non-judgemental space where you can be understood, find relief, and have the freedom to explore who you truly are.
I practice from an existential-humanistic and psychodynamic framework; I see counselling as a way to connect with the deeper issues of what it means to be human. What is it that might be blocking you from finding yourself, connecting with others, finding your freedom, and creating meaning? How might you be able to become who you are?
I believe that the significance of your experiences and your perspectives are never fixed: you have the possibility to re-create your understandings to find meaning and live more fully and freely. The decision to come to counselling takes courage, and I would be honoured to walk with you with curiosity, warmth, and respect.
Rates, billing, and re-imbursement
My fee is $160 CAD for a 50-minute appointment. I offer all new clients a free 20-minute consultation to discuss what you are hoping to work on, assess fit, and address any initial questions.
After each session, I provide a receipt that can be submitted to your insurance provider for reimbursement, depending on your plan. It is recommended that you confirm in advance whether your coverage includes services provided by a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) or Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). If your benefits require a Registered Psychologist, please mention this during the consultation.
Payment is due at the end of each session and can be made by e-transfer, credit card, or cash. I do not currently offer direct billing.
Book an appointment
I offer all new clients a first free 20-minute introduction call. This helps us learn more about each other, give you a sense of what it would be like to work with me, and offer you a chance to ask any questions you might have.
To book a first appointment with me, please fill out the contact form.