Kaitlin is a clinical counsellor whose passion is working with: couples; teachers; clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and similar issues; clients who struggle with disordered eating; clients who struggle with substance use and addiction; prior to that, she spent three years as a classroom English teacher. She has spent the majority of her studies and work in addiction treatment, using ACT, DBT, and existential modalities.
M.S., Registered Clinical Counsellor
She/Her
Kaitlin Harvey
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Words to live by
“The answer must be, I think, that beauty and grace are performed whether or not we will or sense them. The least we can do is try to be there.” – Annie Dillard, Pilgrim at Tinker Creek
Q & A With our Staff
A little bit more about me
Education?
I received a M.A. in Secondary English Education and a B.A. in English Literature with a minor in Women’s and Gender Studies from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. I also earned an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Nebraska – Omaha.
Top three Specializations:
- Substance use disorders, sober-curious folks, harm reduction, or anyone looking to make a change in their habits
- Eating disorders
- Anxiety and depression
Top Three Modalities of Therapy:
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Existentialist therapy
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Professional Clinical Counselling Certification
Certified with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors: Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)#: 19485
Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC)#: 11241404
What do people say your biggest strength is?
The people in my life have acknowledged my empathy and my sense of adventure.
Something you’re proud of (challenge you’ve overcome, etc.)?
I’m proud of my move to Vancouver from Omaha, Nebraska. I had no clue what the city was like or what would be in store for me, and I have loved every moment. I’m also quite proud to be able to deeply understand addiction and recovery.
What led you to counseling?
My career path started in education. I had hopes of becoming a high school English teacher; however, my path led me straight to teaching in a middle school, and I found myself derailed and dissatisfied. My biggest takeaway was that the issues that students have at school primarily come from systemic issues and a lack of mental health treatment and support, and I wanted to make change where I felt it mattered most.
Favorite book?
My first favorite is My Antonia by Willa Cather. It’s stunning and, most importantly, it’s the epitome of my home state, Nebraska. The other is Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallce, because I love great writing and I love to laugh.
What/who inspires you?
Writers, thinkers, artists, and comedians inspire me. These people can range from Annie Dillard (for her observations of nature) to Sarah Silverman (for reminding me to be unapologetically silly). I also felt inspired by high school students while I was substitute teaching. Each generation seems to become more vocal, brave, and curious, and that makes me feel hopeful.
Favorite things to do?
I love to read literature, cook, bake, hike, ride my bike, camp, and travel. My favorite thing about living in Vancouver is that there’s a library around the corner, a bike path down the street, and a mountain to climb outside my window.
What would you tell a client who is meeting you for the first time?
Your relationship with your counsellor is the most important thing, so I want you to feel that I’m the right fit. There is nothing you can tell me that will cause me to lose respect for you, and I am happy to walk alongside you as you choose to change, explore, and grow.
One thing you’ve learned from working with people?
Absolutely every person is worthy of love and empathy.
Additional therapies used:
- Feminist therapy
- Bibliotherapy
- Adventure therapy
