Declan White, BA

Declan is a clinical counselling intern in the final year of his Master of Counselling program at City University. He is dedicated to creating a warm, client-centered space where people feel comfortable sharing their stories and exploring their experiences. Declan works with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges, among others.

He takes an eclectic approach to therapy, blending tools from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Somatic Therapy. His work is deeply influenced by over four years of experience in community mental health, including roles with the Health Authority’s mental health services and the Crisis Centre. Above all, Declan values helping people feel heard, understood, and supported as they navigate their own paths.

Born and raised in the Lower Mainland, Declan feels a strong connection to the community he serves. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, rock climbing, and skiing. He’s genuinely excited to meet new clients and hear their unique stories.

Highlights:

  • Declan’s research focuses on the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Noting that OCD ranks among the top 10 most debilitating disorders globally (according to the WHO), he is passionate about expanding accessible treatment options for this often underserved population. Through his work, he has gained valuable insights into managing intrusive thoughts, intense anxiety, and difficult emotions.

  • Declan has completed several workshops in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and holds Level 1 training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) through Fraser Health Authority. His time at the Vancouver Crisis Centre helped him deepen his practice of client-centered care. He looks forward to further training in EMDR and Internal Family Systems therapy.

  • Currently, Declan works as a Mental Health and Substance Use Clinician with the Health Authority. He previously volunteered at the Crisis Centre, providing crisis support during hundreds of hours of calls. He also has experience supporting people on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, aiding those facing challenges related to substance use, mental health, and securing basic needs.

Discover articles by Declan