Community Counselling Program

Free counselling for individuals in the East Kootenay region

Our Community Counselling Program offers free counselling support to those ages 10+ in the East Kootenay who would otherwise not be able to afford counselling services.

Our counsellors use a variety of methods including talk therapy, internal family systems and other evidence-based approaches. See each bio below to learn more about the current program staff. Counsellor preference may be considered, but cannot be guaranteed.

Evening, daytime and virtual appointments available.

New Clients - Pre-screening Form

Current Clients - Online Booking

CCS intends to continuously provide practicum placements to Counselling and Social Work Masters students in order to provide this service to our community. If you are seeking such a practicum placement beginning in 2026, email [email protected] to express your interest.

Counsellors

Nancy has worked in the social sector for 35 plus years. Nancy is returning to her earlier passion of counselling part-time while continuing her role in non-profit administration and supervision. She has a Masters of Social Work and is completing her hours to become a Registered Clinical Counsellor. Nancy has been Executive Director of Community Connections Society of Southeast BC since 2020.

She hopes to support individuals to navigate life and personal development/healing. Nancy is a generalist social worker who provides a bio-psycho-social assessment and uses various therapeutic modalities including solution-focussed, narrative, problem-solving, expressive and talk therapies.

Nancy’s experiences parenting her own neurodiverse children and navigating her own learning differences give her unique sensitivity for those who understand the world differently. She sees the value in practicing self-compassion and hopes to coach others to practice this in their therapeutic journey.

Nancy has done family systems therapy, anti-violence work and victim support and is known for her empathy, compassion and person-centered approach.

Outside of work, Nancy is a wife, mother to four, grandmother to three, and an active member of the community, serving in various capacities. She enjoys crafting, milk chocolate and a good cup of tea. She sees the value in taking care of others, tending to the self and connecting with those we love.

Nancy is accepting new clients for in-person and virtual appointments and is overseeing the Community Counselling Program as part of her role as Executive Director.

Supervised by: Mary Hunter, MACP, RCC; Angela Kemperman, MA, RCC, CCC.

Suzanne is a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) student counsellor currently completing her practicum with the Community Connections Society of Southeast BC. She provides individual counselling in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, self-esteem, stress, and life transitions.

With over 37 years of experience as a physiotherapist, Suzanne brings a deep understanding of how life’s physical and emotional challenges are often interconnected. Her background in healthcare has given her a unique, holistic perspective on wellness, and she approaches each client with compassion, respect, and genuine care.

Suzanne’s counselling work is grounded in a person-centered approach. She believes in meeting each client where they are, honouring their lived experience, and working together to create a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. Her approach to therapy is collaborative and flexible, drawing from talk therapy and evidence-informed practices tailored to the individual needs of each client.

Transitioning into counselling later in her career is a reflection of Suzanne’s lifelong commitment to learning, growth, and supporting others. Her calm presence and empathetic nature create a space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives.

Outside of her professional role, Suzanne values connection, authenticity, and time in nature. These personal values are deeply woven into her therapeutic practice and guide the way she shows up for those she supports.

Suzanne is currently accepting new clients as part of her practicum and is honored to walk alongside individuals on their journey toward greater emotional well-being.

Supervised by: Angela Kemperman, MA, RCC, CCC

Hello! My name is Kyla Hambly.

I love working with people and creating a space where they feel truly seen and supported. My style is fun, bubbly, and approachable, and I want clients to feel like they can be themselves when they are with me. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and passionate about helping individuals build confidence, navigate body positivity, and embrace their unique strengths.

Outside of counselling, I am also a teacher, which has allowed me to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds in meaningful ways. I have a Bachelor’s of Education and am completing my Masters of Education in Counselling Psychology.

Right now, I am navigating the exciting journey of becoming a new mom as I prepare to welcome my first baby. This experience has deepened my empathy and understanding of life transitions, change, and the emotions that come along with them.

I believe counselling should feel safe, supportive, and collaborative, and I am here to walk alongside people as they grow, heal, and move toward their goals.

Kyla will be accepting clients beginning in December 2025.

Supervised by Mary Hunter, MACP, RCC