Phoenix Counselling LogoPhoenix Counselling

Introduction

Originally from Ontario I moved to the Lower Mainland in 1973 (having heard that the flowers come out in February). I did all my post-secondary education here, worked in a variety of social service agencies and opened up a private practice in 2005. I have a general interest in experiential, non-intellectual therapies. In addition to reducing suffering and increasing satisfaction I find experiential work enables deeper healing.

In integrating my various influences I am guided by my Satir family and individual counselling training. It is highly positive and allows for considerable flexibility. (Satir is one of the pioneers of family therapy – including the inner psychological work now called internal family systems work, see www.satirpacific.org). Other influences include attachment theory and research, Option counselling, somatic experiencing and breath work, and the Socratic dialogue.

I also offer clients the opportunity to improve their relationships with a universal part of themselves called the critic / judge. Our sessions can help you sharply reduce negative criticism and judgement, making your relationships more satisfying and giving more motivation, energy and clarity for your goals and plans and living. Whether you are looking for help with anxiety and / or depression, looking for some help with a relationship, or are just hard on yourself this work can be very worthwhile.

About Me

Tim Head

Education

  • Ph.D in Developmental Psychology, U.B.C. (Specialized in Family Attachment Relationships, and in Developmental Psychopathology)
  • Master's Degree in Health Education, U.B.C. (Specialized in child issues of neglect, physical and sexual abuse)

Internship and Experience

  • One year Psychology – Family Counselling Internship.
  • Many years experience as a family counsellor (since 2005 in private practice, prior to that four with Delta Youth Services).
  • One year as a Clinical Consultant to foster parents.
  • Additional six years in part time private practice.
  • Twelve years of experience working with children, youth and families in group homes, family homes, and therapy office settings - including work experience with autistic teens, teens on probation, homeless people, and individuals with drug and alcohol addictions combined with other psychiatric disorders.
  • Past facilitator of workshops in counselling.

Philosophy

Everyone, no matter how old or unhappy -- can learn, grow, solve problems, let go of suffering, and heal.

For each of us, well-being is more than possible, and achievable through understandable methods of self-care.

Couples can engage in good communication and cultivate a healthy relationship if they accept that their own and their partners' intentions are good (assumption of good will), and assume that understanding is possible (assumption of understanding) but requires patience and hard work (assumption of commitment to relationship, and perhaps therapy).

Counselling Services

In general I work with clients at multiple levels according to what best fits with each individual or family – emotional and psychological, breath and body (internal sensation and other experience), and spiritual.

Individual

  • Individual counselling
  • Teen counselling
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Bullying issues
  • Self-esteem work
  • Grief or loss
  • Childhood neglect and abuse issues
  • Family of origin work
  • Critic / Judge work
  • Drug or alcohol issues
  • Work problems
  • Road rage / Anger
  • Life transitions
  • Stress reduction
  • Healing of trauma
  • Other

Family

  • Family counselling
  • Marriage or couples counselling
  • Parenting challenges
  • Parenting through divorce
  • Conflict resolution
  • Communication building
  • Families affected by mental illness
  • Any Individual item above

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are your offices?

2657 127 St. in the South Surrey, BC – White Rock area close to Crescent Beach, within a half hour drive of Ladner or North Delta

How much does it cost?

$120 for a session lasting an hour to an hour and a quarter

How do I make an appointment?

By phone 604-728-5207 or email timheadcounselling@gmail.com

How long does it take to get an appointment?

I can usually see you fairly quickly, the next day if I have a cancellation.

Is there any coverage?

I am approved as a therapist by the B.C. Crime Victim Assistance Program, which provides coverage for some children and adults. Other possible funding through Employee Assistance Plans offered by employers or unions, eg, BCGEU.

Do you specialize in working with men or women, children or teens?

I'm equally comfortable with men and women and work with them in about equal numbers. I am happy to see your teen; I recommend acting quickly as soon as they say they are willing.

What does R.C.C. stand for?

Registered Clinical Counsellor. It means I am registered with The B.C. Association of Clinical Counsellors www.bc-counsellors.org/ They provide and demand a standard of professional and ethical behavior, provide ongoing professional updates, and investigate complaints, through the courts if necessary.

Have you had any complaints?

I encourage open and honest feedback about all feelings including complaints. I know I am not perfect, and in addition that the therapeutic process can generate some sensitive feelings. I have not received any formal complaints since becoming a member of BCACC or at any prior time.

Testimonials

"

Dear Tim, I want to thank-you for the encouragement you have given me to explore the tools available for self-discovery available to all of us. With your guidance, intuition and ability, you were able to capture the emotion I was experiencing in our sessions and help me process and understand where it comes from. This understanding combined with learned breathing techniques and a new self-awareness in our sessions has given me the ability to accept myself with love and enthusiasm. I am now much more centered and able to live life with more freedom and peace. I am more connected with myself and know and feel that I am an integral part of my family. It has been hard work but also very rewarding and is evidenced in my relationships. Thank-you for your caring, supportive and effective therapy.

Richard
Storm landscape
"

I have suffered from bouts of anxiety since I was a child. Tim has helped me examine the anxiety and give it a positive edge, like it has something to teach me, a positive intention to it. In recent years I have found that my anxiety has diminished. Tim has taught me not only to look at my anxiety in this way, but also to incorporate breath into the physical side of anxiety, which has been very helpful in easing the effects of it. Tim's skilled questioning allows me to find a different perspective on the problems in my life. In most cases, the solution to the problem is in seeing it in a completely different light. I find that Tim can lead me in the right direction with his questions to help me find the perspective I need. Tim is someone I find to be very easy to talk to so that I have been able to share (and get perspective on) the grief around my Father's death, 2 miscarriages, my marriage & children, including an addict son. I appreciate all that he has done for me.

L.S.
Beach with driftwood log
"

My name is Jim. I was referred to Tim by my family Doctor. I went to my family Doctor for a referral after my wife left me without warning for someone I thought was my friend. I am someone who believes that we have within ourselves the strength to create a better and happier life for ourselves and those around us. The means is what is usually lacking. I knew that I was not the first person on this earth who was in my situation. Tim was able to tap into my inner strength through: inner reflection, guiding words, hard truths, kind encouragement and physical exercises that enabled me to use my sadness and anger as a means to wholeness. His education and knowledge ensures that he does not lead one down some garden path where sugar coated solutions are created only to dissolve when a storm hits. He is a good listener, but also knew when I was just talking to avoid an issue. He knows how to push, but will not push you too far.

Jim G.
"

Tim is phenomenal, intuitive, compassionate, & accepting as always.
5/5 on punctuality, helpfulness, and knowledge

"

Very professional, friendly, compassionate, and intelligent. I highly recommend Tim to everyone.
5/5 in punctuality, helpfulness, and knowledge

Contact Me

Address
2657 127 St. in the South Surrey, BC – White Rock area close to Crescent Beach