Counselling support for those living in, leaving, or healing from abusive relationships
Abuse can take many forms — emotional, psychological, financial, physical, sexual, verbal, spiritual, digital, coercive, and controlling — and it does not have to come from a romantic partner. Abuse can occur in any relationship, including with parents, children, siblings, caregivers, friends, and coworkers.
Whether you are still in the relationship, preparing to leave, or rebuilding your life afterward, counselling can help you regain clarity, confidence, and a sense of control.
Additional Areas Of Focus
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Love addiction and relationship dependency
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Narcissistic abuse recovery
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Codependency and boundary repair
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Abusive, coercive, and controlling relationships
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Relationship and attachment concerns
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Separation, divorce, and blended family transitions
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Infidelity and trust repair
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Family and intergenerational trauma​
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Depression and mood concerns
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Anxiety, emotional regulation, and self-worth​
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Sexual assault (past or present)
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Indigenous identity, healing and community-based care
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Parenting and co-parenting challenges
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Trauma and complex trauma
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Substance use and recovery support
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Spirituality
What Working Together Looks Like
My work is attachment-based, solution-focused, and grounded in real-life problem solving. I don’t sit back and simply listen — I actively work with you to understand what’s happening in your relationships, identify patterns that keep you stuck, and help you build the skills needed to create real change.
I am honest, direct, and practical. I treat people like capable adults, not fragile patients. I will tell you the truth, challenge patterns that are harming you, and support you in making decisions that move your life forward.
I specialize in complex relationship dynamics, including infidelity, narcissistic abuse, coercive control, and emotionally abusive or cyclical relationships. I work with individuals and couples, and I recognize that meaningful relationship work can be done even when only one partner is willing to attend counselling. I also have experience working with high-conflict relationships and complex legal or custody situations.
I do not believe that diagnoses define people. They are labels for patterns — patterns that can be understood, worked through, and changed. My role is to help you build a stronger internal foundation, healthier boundaries, emotional regulation skills, and a clearer sense of self.
My ultimate goal is for you to not need counselling forever. The work we do is focused on helping you develop insight, tools, and confidence so you can move forward independently.
How To Work With Me
I offer virtual individual counselling for adults across British Columbia. Sessions are provided by secure video or phone.
Appointments are booked online through a secure booking system. If you’re wondering whether we’re a good fit, you can book a free 15-minute phone consultation.
Fees & Coverage
Session Fees
Free 15 minute phone consults for prospective clients.
Individual counselling sessions are 50 minutes and billed at $170 per session.​
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Sessions are provided virtually by secure video or phone.
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Insurance Coverage
I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC). Most extended health insurance plans in British Columbia cover counselling with a CCC. Clients are responsible for confirming coverage with their provider. Receipts are provided after each session for reimbursement.
Direct Billing Options
I am an approved provider for:
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First Nations Health Authority (FNHA)
If you are eligible sessions may be fully covered.
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If you’re unsure about coverage or eligibility, you’re welcome to reach out before booking
About Me
My name is Charlene Hickey, I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) based in British Columbia, offering virtual counselling to adults across the province.
My work is grounded in trauma-informed, attachment-based, and relational practice, with a specialization in emotionally abusive, coercive, and controlling relationships. I have extensive experience supporting clients recovering from narcissistic abuse and other traumatic relationship dynamics, including gaslighting, manipulation, betrayal, and long-term emotional harm. I support individuals and couples navigating complex relationship dynamics, infidelity, separation, identity rebuilding, and recovery from relational trauma. I work with clients both individually and as couples, and I also support individuals who are attending counselling on their own when their partner is unwilling or unable to participate.
I also support individuals who are navigating relationships with partners or family members who struggle with significant mental health concerns, including personality disorders, addiction, and chronic emotional instability.
I do not take a one-size-fits-all approach. My work is tailored to the needs of each client, their individual personality, and their unique situation. Therapy is collaborative, practical, and responsive to where you are in your life and healing process. I have extensive experience working in community-based and frontline mental health settings, supporting individuals and families through crisis, transition, and long-term healing. I also work with Indigenous clients and communities and provide culturally grounded care that respects identity, history, and lived experience.
I am an approved provider with First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), I work with clients accessing extended health benefits across British Columbia.
My approach is direct, compassionate, and practical. I believe in helping people build clarity, confidence, and the internal stability needed to move forward with strength and self-trust.
Credentials & Professional Registration
Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) — Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA)
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Master’s Degree in Counselling — University of Victoria
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Bachelor of Arts in Psychology — Thompson Rivers University
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Diploma in Early Childhood Education — Algonquin College
