Talk Therapy
What is Talk Therapy?
Talk therapy is a space to talk, reflect and make sense of what's happening and could happen in your life. Through collaborative conversation we explore your experiences with care, curiosity and respect.
It can support you through stress, relationships, work, identity and life transitions, helping you feel more grounded and able to move forward.
Who I Work With
I support individuals aged 12+, couples and families through life's nuances, relationship challenges and mental health support needs such as low mood, anxiety and addictions.
I have particular experience working with people from marginalised and racialised communities, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, as well as those navigating stigma related to mental health or neurodivergence.
Much of my work involves supporting people who feel as though they don’t fit into the narrow expectations set by society and may have internalised the belief that they are failing in some way, as a result. Together, we explore these experiences with care, helping to unpack and de-gaslight society's internalised messages, increase self-understanding and reconnect with what actually matters to you. We'll shape a future that aligns with your values and not simply the one you’ve been told you should want.
How I Work
My approach is warm, relational and collaborative. I aim to create a space where you can speak openly, reflect honestly and feel supported without pressure to perform or have things figured out.
I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches including systemic and family systems, narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, solution-focused and coaching. Rather than following a set formula, I work flexibly and responsively, guided by what feels most helpful for you.
As a qualified yoga and mindfulness practitioner, I also value the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Where appropriate and if desired, this may include gentle awareness of the body or nervous system alongside conversation.
My work is grounded in care, curiosity and respect, with a focus on supporting meaningful, values-aligned change.
15 minutes Complimentary Conversation
Reaching out for support can be a big step so I'm highlighting here, this is already a win! Let's connect for a free, no commitment, 15 minute informal chat. It's simply a chance to connect, ask questions and after, decide your next steps.
Insurance Coverage
For licensing and insurance purposes, I can currently only provide talk therapy sessions to people physically located in British Columbia and the Yukon, Canada. Many insurance providers cover registered social work, so I encourage you to check with yours. I provide receipts which you can submit for reimbursement from your provider.
For First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) clients, I am a approved provider and can bill FNHA directly.
Fees
Individual
50 minutes
Couples/Families
60 minutes
75 minutes
90 minutes
Clinical social work in BC is tax exempt and deductible. I offer limited availability sliding scale rates for those low income and without extended health benefits for mental health, you're welcome to contact me if this is you. For pre-paid packages of 6 and 10, please get in touch for discounted rates.
Availability
Wednesdays: 8am - 2pm | Thursdays: 12 - 8pm
All sessions held online. Increasing availability through 2026.
My Qualifications
MA Social Work Practice (Systemic Practice focus), University of York, 2018
BSc (hons) Psychology with Applied Criminology, Canterbury Christ Church University, 2012
Foundation diploma in Dance and Movement Psychotherapy, Goldsmiths, University of London, 2016
Diplomas in Personal Performance Coaching & Corporate Coaching, The Coaching Academy, UK, 2016
Certificate in Counselling Skills, City, University of London, 2011
I have also completed a wide range of additional training, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, neurodivergence, gender diversity, self-harm, suicidality, adult and youth mental health, and dual diagnosis.
I am committed to ongoing learning and regularly undertake further professional development to support thoughtful, ethical and relevant practice.
Testimonials
"Working with Araba, I have always been impressed with how well she relates with and understands people, She is kind, warm and attentive. The feedback I have heard from clients has been exceptional."
-RSW, Colleague
"Araba has a caring and thoughtful approach to working with her clients. She listens attentively and ensures she fully understands their experiences without judgment or assumptions.
Working with Araba, I’ve observed how her background in yoga and meditation brings a holistic perspective to her work in mental health—a quality deeply valued in this field.
She is a tremendous source of support, consistently dedicating her full energy and commitment to those she works with."
-RPN, Colleague
Registered Social Worker in BC, Canada and in England, UK. Yoga Teacher based in Vancouver, BC and global.