Sarah Race Counselling
Registered Clinical Counsellor
Many people come to counselling not knowing exactly what they need- only that something doesn't feel quite right.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, tender or simply carrying more than feels manageable right now. If that sounds familiar, counselling could help.
I'm Sarah, a registered clinical counsellor in the Cowichan Valley, I offer individual counselling sessions in-person, online or by phone. I aim to create a space that feels safe, respectful, and non-judgemental.
I’m interested in your story, what’s shaped you, and how we can make sense of what you’re carrying in a way that feels supportive rather than overwhelming.
About Me.
I came to counselling after more than twenty years of working with young people and families in the school system, as an English and resource teacher. Teaching showed me how differently people carry their experiences, and how often individuals are expected to cope, adapt, or “push through” without space to understand what they’re actually living with. I learned that struggles rarely exist in isolation, and that meaningful support begins with understanding the person in front of you — not applying a one-size-fits-all solution.
Over time, I became especially aware of how frequently trauma, grief, and loss go unrecognized, particularly when they don’t fit neatly into timelines or labels. That awareness continues to shape how I work, grounding my belief that change happens through understanding, not pressure.
Alongside my professional work, my own life experiences have deepened my respect for how complex and emotionally layered it can be to be human, especially within family life and during times of uncertainty. These experiences inform the care, sensitivity, and steadiness I bring into the counselling space.
Education
I hold a Master’s degree in Counselling from City University of Seattle (in Victoria, BC). My graduate training emphasized trauma-informed practice, ethical care, and relational approaches to counselling, with a strong focus on working thoughtfully and collaboratively with clients. I hold a valid teaching certificate and a diploma of inclusive education from UBC.
Research consistently shows that the relationship between a counsellor and client is one of the strongest predictors of positive outcomes in therapy. In other words, feeling safe, understood, and comfortable with the person you’re working with really matters.
Finding the right counsellor can take time, and it’s important to trust your sense of fit. You deserve to work with someone who feels steady, respectful, and attuned to you. I offer a free consultation so you can ask questions, get a sense of how I work, and see whether it feels like a good match before getting started.
