Hello! My name is Justin (He/Him), and I am part of the Counselling Therapist Intern team at Couch of Hope. Completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) at Yorkville University led me to the opportunity to support a wonderful community here in Halifax. Prior to pursuing this program, I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) and worked in an inpatient mental health setting for five years. During this time, I developed a strong passion for mental wellness, recovery, and promoting accessible care.
In my work as a nurse, I cared for people from a diverse range of ages, cultures, races, and identities. No matter which walk of life you come from, I am eager to learn about the things that make you, you, and hope that together we can create new self-awareness and appreciation. My approach to counselling is strongly person-centred. From this foundation, I employ elements of Narrative and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I firmly believe that when we know and understand ourselves better, we innately move toward healing and self-improvement. Therefore, my goal is to create an environment in which you feel curious about yourself and comfortable with the vulnerability it takes to self-reflect. I aim to do so by listening actively, supporting and validating as you make sense of your experiences and their impact on your life.
My areas of interest in counselling are in depression, anxiety, relationship and life stressors, challenges in intersectionality, and trauma, particularly complex PTSD. However, I welcome all who have reached out for support and work collaboratively to determine how I can best assist each client with their unique needs. It is my privilege to connect with you, my duty to listen, and my honour to help in any way I can.
Email: justin.wan@couchofhope.com