LAURA BATES

Laura is grateful to live, work, and raise her family on the lands of the Lekwungen-speaking Peoples, including the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations. She recognizes and honours the ongoing relationship these Nations have with these lands and approaches her work with respect, humility, and an awareness of the histories and systems that shape the lives of those she works alongside.

Laura is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with a Bachelor’s degree in Child and Youth Care from the University of Victoria and a Master’s degree from City University in Seattle. She brings a warm, compassionate, trauma-informed, and solution-focused approach to counselling.

Laura has many years of experience working as an Educational Assistant within the school district, as well as experience in the Indigenous non-profit sector. She specializes in working with teens and post-secondary students, supporting them through transitions, relationships, identity, academic pressures, and other challenges that can arise during these stages of life.

Laura primarily works from the Oak Bay location. She has specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which she incorporates when appropriate and in collaboration with her clients.

Laura recognizes that professional credentials and credentialing systems are shaped by colonial histories and practices. While she values education and training, she also believes the therapeutic relationship extends beyond credentials. She welcomes questions about her experience, training, and approach to help determine whether she may be a good fit for you.