Our Story
MEET OUR FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR OAK BAY
Dr. Katie Elmhurst, DSW, MSW, RCSW, RCC
Welcome to The Budding Elm. Founded in 2019, our practice has at its heart a deep, unwavering commitment to the health, healing, and flourishing of families across the Island.
Built on the belief that every individual and family holds an innate capacity for growth, resilience, and transformation, The Budding Elm was created by Dr. Katie Elmhurst. Dr. Katie brings a compassionate heart, exceptional warmth, and extensive experience to children, youth, teens, and families navigating life’s challenges.
Dr. Katie’s journey in clinical social work and counselling spans across North America. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work from McGill University in Montreal, followed by her Master of Science in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University in New York City. She later earned her Doctorate of Clinical Social Work from Tulane University in New Orleans, specializing deeply in trauma-informed practice.
Her background is as vast as her education—ranging from supporting children and youth in care in Kelowna to working with complex trauma systems. As both a Registered Clinical Counsellor (BCACC) and a Registered Clinical Social Worker (BCCSW), Dr. Katie combines advanced clinical insight with profound empathy.
The Heart Behind The Budding Elm
For Dr. Katie, counselling is far more than a profession—it is a calling. Her heart is genuinely dedicated to seeing Island families heal, rebuild, and thrive together. She understands that family systems are dynamic, and when one person grows, the entire family unit strengthens.
That dedication is the very inspiration behind The Budding Elm. The name reflects both her own lineage—as a play on her last name, Elmhurst—and her core philosophy of care. Just as an elm tree relies on deep, grounded roots to weather every season, families need a strong foundation to navigate life’s challenges. The "budding" represents hope, new beginnings, and the continuous potential for fresh growth. For Dr. Katie, the name is a promise to local families: a commitment to nurture their strengths, honour their deep roots, and help them branch out into a healthier, more connected future.
At her core, Dr. Katie believes that every person possesses inherent worth, dignity, and a purpose uniquely their own. She views therapy not as a place to "fix" what is broken, but as a sacred partnership dedicated to honoring your story and unlocking the strengths already placed within you. Guided by grace, patience, and humility, she provides a safe, welcoming, and grounded space for self-exploration and lasting change.
Dr. Katie honours every small victory along the way, recognizing that true, long-term healing is a faithful process built step by step.
Professional Certifications
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) – Member #15611 with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC).
Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW) – Regulated through the British Columbia College of Social Workers (BCCSW). As an RCSW, Dr. Katie is qualified to provide advanced clinical assessment, diagnosis, and specialized therapeutic support.
Child Abuse Training Certified
Columbia University in the City of New York
Trauma-Focused CBT Certified
Columbia University in the City of New York
Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts and Play Therapy Certificate
The British Columbia Play Therapy Association
Publications
Post-Katrina undergraduate trauma education: Theory, conceptualization, innovation, implementation, and proof of concept.
The Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill: Resilience in the Aftermath of Post disaster Intimate Partner Violence
Finding the right fit shouldn't be complicated. With over 15 diverse, experienced therapists on our team, we make it simple to connect with someone who truly gets it.
We take the time to listen—learning your story, your struggles, and what you want for your life. From there, we build a tailored care plan with practical strategies to help you move forward, continually checking in along the way to ensure your therapy evolves with you.
Providing therapy for individuals,
couples, families, teens, & children in
Victoria and across Vancouver Island
Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, or the impact of trauma, we help you understand the root of your pain. Together, we’ll draw out your natural strengths so you can move forward and live fully.
Take a tour of The Budding Elm Therapy office in Langford.