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Burnout Therapists in Canada

Burnout is more than tiredness. It builds gradually through prolonged stress, often leaving people depleted, detached, and unsure how to recover. Therapy can help you understand what drove you here and build a more sustainable path forward.

What to look for in a Burnout therapist on Purple Lotus

  • Experience with burnout, occupational stress, and helping-profession clients
  • Familiarity with CBT, ACT, or mindfulness-based approaches for stress and recovery
  • Comfort addressing both internal patterns and practical life changes
  • Non-judgmental stance toward rest, limits, and stepping back

21 therapists for Burnout in Canada

Browse 21 therapists specializing in Burnout. Find the right counsellor or psychotherapist for your needs.

Jackie Dodd

Jackie Dodd

Hello! I'm glad you're here. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (#11949) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, and a Canadian Certified Counsellor (#11249171) and am able to support clients who reside in within Canada. My aim in any therapy session is to support you in a way that you find helpful, while holding a safe enough space to challenge beliefs and behaviours you deem unhelpful. I have varied work experience in the field of mental health, including several years working alongside individuals who live with the lasting impacts of trauma, substance use, mental health diagnoses, poverty, and homelessness. I am Canadian born and Indian, and part of my work is rooted in my lived experience existing between cultures to support clients who face similar struggles. My Masters of Counselling Psychology degree is supplemented by additional postgraduate training in cognitive behaviour therapy, mindful self-compassion, anti-oppressive psychotherapy, narrative therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, and strengths-based listening. I incorporate an intersectional feminist lens in my work, and am continually learning to be a more effective ally to multiple communities (including Black, Indigenous, people with racialized identities, and LGBTQ2SIA+). Outside of Counselling work, I enjoy spending time with friends, animals, and my niece and nephews. I see clients in person or virtually at my Vancouver office on Monday evenings and Fridays, and offer virtual only sessions on Thursday evenings. If you would like to know more about how we could work together or know more about what the counselling process could look like in general, I invite you to book a free 20-minute consultation session (virtual or over the phone). My hope is that I can offer support that is helpful to you! Areas of Practice: - Depression - Anxiety - Stress Management -Identity and Cultural Concerns - Mental Health Diagnoses - Difficult Life Transitions - Grief and Loss - Trauma - Substance use Approaches Used: - Strengths based listening - CBT - Mindful Self-Compassion - Anti-Oppression Psychotherapy - Narrative Therapy - Dialectical Behavioural Therapy -Intersectional Feminist Lens The land I work, live and play on is the unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the territories of the Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh), the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and the Stó:lō Nations.

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Nish Laszczuk

Nish Laszczuk

Are you a highly motivated individual in all aspects of your life, but always feel yourself falling short? Do you find that your pursuit of success often comes at the cost of your own well-being and fulfillment? Do you just want to reconnect with your inner self and body and gain more trust in who you are? I'm here to offer you a safe space to practice letting go—a space where you can navigate the complexities of your demanding life without sacrificing your mental and emotional well-being. My name is Nish and I'm so happy that you're here. I'm a registered social worker with 10 years experience, and I'm here to help you get through high stress, anxiety, self-doubt and burnout. I specialize in helping high-stress professionals struggling with burnout and work-life balance. Using CBT, EFT, and Somatic Attachment Therapy, I provide tools to manage stress, set boundaries, and reconnect with yourself. Together, we’ll work on building resilience and finding balance, so you can thrive both personally and professionally. I have an office in Yaletown and work evenings.

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Cordelia Mejin

Cordelia Mejin

Hi, I’m Cordelia and I’m honoured that you are here. I desire to provide gentle and compassionate care, empathy and a safe place as I believe that we as humans have longings to feel seen, heard, known, understood, felt, accepted, and cared for, especially in difficult moments. The one thing that remained constant throughout my life is that I have always found meaning in connecting with others on an authentic, deep, heart level and in making meaningful impact in the lives of others. A longing to lead a life in alignment with who I am at the core of my being led me to pursue counselling not just as a profession, but as a calling and passion. I love what I do and am honoured that I get to hold space for my clients and see transformation happen in their lives. It makes my heart full to know that I am making a daily difference, one person at a time. I consider it an honour to walk alongside you and to meet you where you are at – be it a time when you are navigating everyday difficulties, a time when you feel lost, a time of grief, loss and transitions, a time when hope feels out of reach, or a time when you find that you are desiring growth and change within yourself and in your relationships. Although I am experienced in my work a generalist, I have specialized training and extensive experience in the area of grief and loss. Additionally, I have special training and extensive experience in various areas of concern. My personal experience of grief and painful loss of my family member’s death led to my deep devotion and passion to people who are grieving a death and/or non-death losses. Through my own journey of integrating grief into my life story, I developed a strong desire to support others in carrying their grief, remembering their person and integrating their grief into their life story. As one who grew up in a multicultural community, I have strong cultural awareness and strive to provide culturally sensitive therapy from a place of cultural humility. I value holding space for your story to be told and acknowledged in a supportive space where your experiences are validated, honoured, processed and integrated into your life story in a way that is fitting for you. In sharing your stories and allowing them to be witnessed in the presence and safety of a therapeutic relationship, it is my hope that what may have once felt unbearable becomes less heavy and eventually more bearable. On A Personal Note As one who is nearing my mid-30s, I have navigated various challenges, including life transitions, chronic pain, endometriosis and grief of all kinds (death and non-death losses). I cherish beautiful moments that unfold in life while also seeing the value of holding space for feelings that emerge from the difficult places of life. It is from my lived experiences and my own human-ness that I draw my compassion for each person I encounter in the therapy room. I live in beautiful British Columbia with my husband whom I have been married to for almost a decade. I treasure spending quality time with my family and friends. I am an avid reader, and am most fulfilled when I am outdoors in nature. I enjoy hiking, biking, playing the piano, listening to music and visiting new places around the world. I look forward to getting to know you and to connecting with you. It is my honour to meet you. Warmly, Cordelia

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Lexie Morgan

Lexie Morgan

Are you looking for a ‘hype you up’ but call you on your shit therapist? I might just be your gal! Are you dealing with perfectionism? Going through a break up? Contemplating making a big life change? Experiencing grief, stress, overwhelm or loneliness? I prioritize authenticity in therapy, and aim to help people untangle themselves from problems that hold them back. I work with you as we navigate the peaks & valleys of life experiences. I often support, students, hospitality workers, parents, teachers, nurses, shift workers, ski patrollers, guides & 'first timers' to therapy. Life can be messy & complex. Are you looking for a ‘hype you up’ but call you on your shit therapist? I might just be your gal! Are you dealing with perfectionism? Going through a break up? Contemplating making a big life change? Experiencing grief, stress, overwhelm or loneliness? I prioritize authenticity in therapy, and aim to help people untangle themselves from problems that hold them back. I work with you as we navigate the peaks & valleys of life experiences. I often support, students, hospitality workers, parents, teachers, nurses, shift workers, ski patrollers, guides & 'first timers' to therapy. Life can be messy & complex. My office located in the Kitsilano neighbourhood of Vancouver at 4th & Arbutus. I offer virtual counselling via telehealth throughout BC. *Insurance* Counselling is covered or reimbursed by many extended benefits programs. I am registered with many major Canadian insurance providers: Canada Life | Great-West Life Green Shield Canada Manulife Medavie Blue Cross Mines & Associates SunLife AMS - UBC Student Benefits Vail Resorts EAP *Education & Registration* I hold a master's degree in counselling from City University and a bachelor's degree in Child and Youth Care from the University of Victoria. I am dual licensed with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) as a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) as a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC). License Numbers: RCC # 20414 CCC # 11250646 *A bit more about how I work & my background* Lexie (she/her) is a Registered Clinical Counsellor practicing on the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Səl̓ílwətaʔ (Tsleil-Waututh) and Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) territories. Lexie’s approach to counselling is characterized by warmth, authenticity, and compassion, with a goal of fostering a relaxed environment where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. Lexie roots her work in a trauma informed, anti-oppressive, social justice lens. This may involve looking beyond the individual to understand their experiences within broader social and cultural contexts, as she joins clients on the path to self-discovery, healing, and change. Lexie has over ten years of experience working in the field of mental health. She draws on her experience providing counselling and practical supports to diverse communities, including children and families with complex medical and mental health needs, new immigrants and LGBTQQ2S+ folx. She has worked as a grief and loss counsellor at a hospice, provided crisis and suicide prevention support and developed industry specific work place mental health trainings for the hospitality and tourism sector. Montira Mental Health was born out of Lexie’s own experience as a hospitality manager at different backcountry lodges across British Columbia. As a lodge manager, Lexie observed the intersection of mental health and personal challenges within remote and isolated live/work environments which lead to high rates of burnout amongst her staff. ​​The transient nature of tourism dependent communities, seasonal employment, high cost of living and limited access to low barrier community mental health offerings further impacted her staff. Lexie’s connection to the outdoor community is born out of years of living, working, and recreating in the Rocky, Purcell, Selkirk and Coast mountains. She is an avid backcountry skier, trail runner, and hiker who finds a deep sense of connection to herself and her community through time spent in the outdoors. To learn more, please see my website: montiramentalhealth.com

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Maitri Gupta

Maitri Gupta

Starting therapy is daunting. Existing in this world is not easy! There is much uncertainty and hurt. I congratulate you for taking the initial steps to find the right fit for you. I believe that everyone has the right to healing and community. We heal in community. The work I do with my clients in essence is relational. The work you will do in therapy is a radical act of self-advocacy in a world that often demands from us productivity and perfectionism. As a social justice activist, yogi, and post-modernist my approach to healing work is holistic. I aspire to go beyond the medical model and do not conform to what the norm demands from us. As your therapist, I engage with you curiously to go deeper, exploring many aspects as you unpack the layers of your narratives. Healing can only begin when we separate who we are from our problems. Coming from a bi-cultural background, I believe the narratives we have to speak to our individualistic and collective experience of events. It is vital to look within and around the communities to which we belong. I can provide services in Hindi, Punjabi, and English. My goal as a therapist is to facilitate mindful exploration of your trauma in a safe, collaborative, and open space. I want to hear your stories. Revisiting painful, challenging, and stressful stories can be a complex process. You are not alone! We work at your pace to restore your agency so that you can reclaim the narratives that serve your interpersonal growth and well-being. Through a trauma-informed lens, together, we can unpack: Anxiety and Low Moods Addictions Abuse Sexuality Social Anxiety Self-esteem and self-worth Burnout Challenges around social justice advocacy and activism Fear and hopelessness Body Image Self-Care Chronic Illness Ableism Navigating bi-cultural reality and expectations Relationships Perfectionism ADHD Feelings of isolation My approach is multi-faceted, and I will be combining traditional talk therapy with somatic psychology practices. I believe movement is essential for our healing and self-regulation. With virtual sessions, I want us to acknowledge that we are present with each other in our whole bodies and not just our floating heads. Therefore, I invite you to get in touch with your senses and body through practices such as tapping exercises or body scans. I will also lean on my mindfulness philosophy to help guide a process through which you can access inner wisdom, be present in the here and now, to release your traumas, and narratives which no longer serve you. My mental health work background is grounded in traditional Vedic-Yoga practices, Buddhist psychology, and Western psychology. Over the last decade, I have strived to do collective healing work through my activism and mental health aid for community members. I am committed to supporting you on your healing journey with great compassion. At this time, I can only see clients that are currently residing in Canada. I wish to express gratitude, and acknowledgment that I currently live, work and play in the ancestral, traditional and unceded territory of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Tsleil-waututh Nations.

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Natasha Nystrom

Natasha Nystrom

Hi, I’m Natasha (she/her) At the heart of my practice is a deep value of connection and a belief in both the wisdom of the body and our innate ability to heal and thrive. I have a masters degree in counselling (MC) and work as a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in British Columbia. I also have specialized training in trauma. My approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and draws on Feminist Theory. My therapeutic orientation is Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and integrates somatic therapy, inner child exploration and internal parts work. I’m drawn to these experiential approaches as they recognize the systemic interconnection of our mind, body, and emotions, as well as our greater society and environment. I believe you are the expert of your life and already hold many answers and innate resources. In collaboration together, I focus on creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship that helps you navigate difficulties, re-connect with your internal strengths and resources, while also celebrating your successes and joys along the way. Throughout this process, I take a non-judgmental stance and remain committed to your healing. During a session, I may invite you to notice what is happening for you in the present moment, fostering curiosity about your experience as we work together. Through mindful exploration, we can make space for your feelings, emotions, and sensations to be expressed and released, transform core beliefs that may be keeping you feeling stuck, heal relational wounds, and reconnect with your authentic core self. These processes may enhance your resilience and foster growth and change. Currently, I am offering sessions online using an encrypted video platform called Jane and am able to offer support to those living in British Columbia. If therapy is something you are curious about, please reach out or visit my website for more information! I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation. We can spend a bit of time getting to know each other and discuss what you’re looking for in therapy. I look forward to getting to know you and hearing your story!

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Kayla Migrino

Kayla Migrino

Hi, I’m Kayla, I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and I work to support autistic adults and other neurodivergent experiences. I’ve spent a big part of my career in the disability sector, especially supporting autistic folks. I’ve worn a lot of different hats along the way and these precious experiences are what shape and inspire my work as a counsellor today. My practice is grounded in a judgement free, neurodivergent-affirming, collaborative space. I provide counselling for adults who want clarity, a sense of direction and guidance. We can work to understand you, make sense of your experiences, and identify meaningful changes that align with who you are and who you are becoming. Many of my clients are young adults with autism navigating the current phases of their life. For some this includes transitional periods, for others this means settling in. I offer a safe and supportive space to explore who you are, and work to build a clear sense of direction and identity within you.

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Peter Reid

Peter Reid

I work with LGBTQ2S+ adults who are tired of being "hooked" by their own minds—that loop of anxiety, the "not good enough" narrative, or that "stuck" feeling. Whether you’re navigating a life transition or just feeling "flat," I help you get your hands back on the steering wheel of your life.

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Francois Perron

Francois Perron

Welcome, I'm passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and cultivate a deeper sense of well-being. Change is daunting when you are alone at the start of a journey. My approach is rooted in creating a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your inner strengths, overcome obstacles, and foster lasting change. Having a someone working with you as you go through change can make it a lot more manageable. My therapeutic style is best described as empathetic, genuine, safe and collaborative. I am trained to help you overcome your current challenges and emerge more resilient. Working together, we will develop strategies for you to meet your own personal goals. You are more than a label or a set of symptoms. You are unique and my approach is developed to be adjusted based on your personal needs. My practice draws from various therapeutic approaches. I guide clients in embracing their emotions, clarifying their core values, and taking meaningful steps toward a life rich in purpose and fulfillment. I also help individuals and couples develop secure emotional bonds, strengthen their relationships, and nurture healthier ways of connecting with themselves and others. Whether you're seeking support for trauma, anxiety, relationship struggles, or personal growth, I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your unique needs. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and empowerment. Your mental health matters—let's take the first step toward a brighter and more fulfilling future I used to work as an C-suite executive in the corporate world and have decided to orient my future to helping others on their journey.

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Samantha Lee

Samantha Lee

Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or struggling to balance different parts of yourself? Maybe you’ve felt misunderstood or like your needs aren’t being fully seen. You might also be dealing with relationship challenges or difficult emotions. Trying to meet the expectations of family, society, culture, work, and your own inner standards can add extra pressure. Holding multiple identities can make this even more complex. As a queer woman of colour, I can relate to how challenging this can be. I’m passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ and racialized individuals, as well as folks from all walks of life. Together, we’ll work to create a space where you can feel heard and supported as you navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re seeking understanding, practical tools, or a safe space to process difficult emotions, we’ll go at your pace to find what feels most helpful for you. Life can be tough, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. If this resonates with you, let's connect for a free 15-minute consultation to see if we might be a good fit.

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Amelia Jones

Amelia Jones

Do you struggle with anxiety, people pleasing or feelings of overwhelm? Do you have a difficult relationship with your parents or get easily triggered? Maybe you have ADHD (or think you do) and feel like you can't do life "right"? If you experience any of these, I can help! You likely need to uncover unhelpful patterns, heal the past wounds holding you back, and develop actionable tools to help you return to a more grounded, regulated state. I'll help you process AND keep you accountable (warmly and compassionately of course). I'm trained in both Talk and Art Therapy. You can try both or choose whatever one feels best for you. Why try art therapy? Because sometimes our thoughts and feelings are hard to express with words alone. Creativity can provide another avenue of expression to dig in deeper. Heads up: No art skills are needed and we'll still use talk therapy approaches too! My style is warm, curious and collaborative. That involves both listening AND supporting you shift out of patterns no longer serving you. Together, we'll build on sessions over time with intention and direction. Let's get you thriving, not just surviving! To book a free consult, email or visit my site for the online booking link.

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Megan Hill

Megan Hill

I offer a space where you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. I invite all parts of you forward, taking a calm, intuitive, and reflective approach to help you understand where these patterns come from and reconnect with the parts of you that need care. Together, we will work toward greater balance, confidence, and emotional ease in your everyday life.

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Kinza Jat

Kinza Jat

Have you ever felt caught between who you are and who others expect you to be? Perhaps you’re navigating cultural pressures, identity-related challenges, or a lingering sense of never fully belonging. As a second-generation Canadian raised by immigrant parents, I understand how isolating it can feel to exist between different worlds and expectations. Drawing from my lived experiences with marginalized identities, I strive to create a warm and inviting space where you can slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself on your own terms. I am currently a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) completing my Master’s in Counselling Psychology. In my practicum, I provide queer-affirming, pay-what-you-can psychotherapy to individuals aged 14 and older, while welcoming clients of all identities, orientations, and backgrounds. My work is client-centered and trauma-informed, aimed at fostering deeper understanding by revealing unconscious patterns, emotions, and experiences that may be shaping your current challenges. Together, we move at a pace that feels grounded for you, co-creating a treatment plan that reflects your needs, intentions, and goals. Much like a flower that blooms when given the right conditions, I believe meaningful growth unfolds when we are supported in the ways we need most. My goal is to help cultivate those conditions, tailoring our work together to support your growth in a way that feels authentic to you. If this resonates, I invite you to reach out for a free 20-minute consultation. Book Here.

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Lisa Vanderpas

Lisa Vanderpas

I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, specializing in nervous system regulation and the mind-body connection. My work focuses on understanding how chronic stress, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, trauma, and chronic pain can impact both psychological and physiological wellbeing. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based modalities including CBT, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and person-centered therapy to support emotional awareness, resilience, and lasting personal growth. I am passionate about psychoeducation and helping individuals better understand the relationship between their thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and nervous system responses. I strive to create a grounded, compassionate, and collaborative therapeutic environment where healing, self-understanding, and meaningful change can take place.

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Roberta McClelland

Roberta McClelland

You are thinking about facing an issue that you are carrying (big or small), and changing things for the better. I'd like to be a part of that change. I'm Roberta McClelland. I'm a registered social worker with over 10 years of experience in the field. I work with female teens, post-secondary students, and adults who are coping with grief, caregiver fatigue, major and minor life transitions, relational stress, depression, anxiety, self-harming behaviors, trauma, and abuse via in-person, virtual, and phone appointments I will create a safe, collaborative space for you that is focused on your strengths, that respects your needs and your voice, and that will flex with you as you move through your change journey. And I will support you in this journey by using a variety of treatment techniques based on what fits best and feels best for you. As a counsellor I'm committed to providing a non-judgmental place where you can bring what is heavy, look at what hurts, say what you need to say, and plan for a better tomorrow. If this sounds like a good fit for what you're looking for right now, please get in touch and consider meeting with with me for a free 15 minute consult to see if we're a good match Call or Email Roberta McClelland now for a free 15 minute consultation - (226) 242-3641 Let's Connect(226) 242-3641

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Jeff O'Neill

Jeff O'Neill

Life can feel overwhelming when your mind won't slow down, when a habit has taken hold, or when burnout has quietly emptied you out. I work with adults navigating ADHD, addiction, suicidal thoughts, and work/life burnout — offering a grounded, judgment-free space to untangle what's been weighing on you. For many women, ADHD goes undiagnosed for years — mistaken for anxiety, depression, or "being too sensitive." That long road of masking and self-doubt leaves real marks. Having ADHD myself, I bring genuine understanding of what it's like to live with a busy, overstimulated mind. As an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), I blend the emotional depth of therapy with the practical focus of coaching. I use CBT, DBT, and ADHD-focused approaches to address both emotional patterns and real-life skills — in sessions that are structured, flexible, and ADHD-friendly. Areas I work with: rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), emotional dysregulation, executive dysfunction, procrastination, ADHD burnout and late diagnosis, addiction (substances, gambling, pornography, social media) and affected family members, suicidal ideation, workplace and life burnout, perfectionism, men's issues, and relationship challenges. You're not broken. Let's build something that actually works for you.

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Tehreem Fatimah

Tehreem Fatimah

I am currently pursuing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University and have several years of experience working within community mental health settings. Throughout my career, I have supported individuals facing challenges related to substance use, homelessness, depression, anxiety, burnout, stress, trauma, and systemic barriers. These experiences have strengthened my appreciation for the resilience and strength individuals demonstrate while navigating difficult life circumstances. My work has shaped a compassionate and client-centred approach that is rooted in empathy, respect, authenticity, and cultural sensitivity. I understand how trauma, chronic stress, and experiences of marginalization can significantly affect emotional and psychological well-being. Because of this, I am committed to creating a supportive, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore their experiences and work toward meaningful growth and healing. I take a holistic and strengths-based approach to counselling, recognizing that every person brings unique experiences, abilities, and inner resources to the therapeutic process. I believe in working collaboratively with clients, allowing them to guide their journey while supporting them in developing practical coping tools, building resilience, and fostering greater self-awareness. My goal is to help individuals enhance their emotional well-being, improve their quality of life, and create sustainable, positive change.

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Elika Yamauchi

Elika Yamauchi

Hello! My name is Elika (Eh-lee-ka) and I am a neurodivergent, cisgender, second generation Okinawan immigrant settler occupying the stolen traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, and səlilwətaɬ Nations. I am an intern counsellor completing a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology degree, and am excited for the opportunity to lean into over 15 years of experience working in community-based programs and social services. I have had the privilege of working alongside individuals of all ages, identities, and diverse family/caregiver structures such as young folks living in the foster care system. I bring a deep passion for welcoming and exploring the unique story of each person, nurturing their strengths, interests, and capacities while creating a supportive space to work through life’s challenges. Together, we’ll explore how your past experiences, your environment, and the different parts of who you are shape the person you are becoming today. Through developing a meaningful and trusting connection to ground our work together, I strive to support your vision of health and well-being with warmth, openness, empathy, and kind care. I believe in exploring and (re)discovering your inner resources, and nurturing your authenticity in a way that is meaningful to you.

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Fiona Smith

Fiona Smith

I support clients navigating anxiety, life transitions, grief and loss, relational difficulties, burnout, and perfectionism. I work with clients to develop a more compassionate understanding of themselves and their experiences, reconnect with their strengths, and move toward a life that reflects their authentic self and values. I offer low-cost sessions for individuals through the Full Circle Program at Design Your Life Centre as a student therapist working under the supervision of Dr. Stacy Thomas. This program is for individuals who would not otherwise be able to afford therapy. My approach is rooted in humanistic and person-centred principles, drawing on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I bring a warm, nonjudgmental, and grounded presence to my work. I am committed to creating a space where you feel safe enough to explore difficult experiences and emotions and to supporting you, with patience and genuine belief in your capacity to change, as you work toward the life you want to lead.

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Sierra Jones

Sierra Jones

I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) under clinical supervision and an MA Counselling Psychology student. With over 5 years of experience supporting individuals on the spectrum, I bring both training and lived clinical practice to my work. I offer a warm space for growth and learning. As a first generation Canadian, I understand the work it takes to seek help. It can be stressful to take the steps to talk to someone about the difficulties going on around us, fearful of judgement or stereotypes. That's why I strive to make the environment as safe and inclusive as possible, let's joke about a meme and sip coffee, the session is your time to feel free and express your true authentic self. In our work together, I focus on creating a collaborative and compassionate environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at your own pace. My approach is grounded in empathy and curiosity, while also offering practical tools and strategies to help you move forward in tangible ways. I enjoy using interventions such as CBT, which allows us to understand the roots of problems and how it affects our emotions and behaviours. Though I am not limited to just CBT, I implement different theories to best fit your needs, making the process smooth and comfortable. Starting therapy can feel a bit intimidating, you might not know what to say or where to start. That’s okay. You can show up exactly as you are. If you’re ready to explore things and feel more like yourself again, when you’re ready, reaching out can be the first step forward.

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What is Burnout?

Burnout is a state of chronic exhaustion that develops when prolonged stress outpaces a person's ability to cope. Psychologist Herbert Freudenberger first described it in 1974, and researcher Christina Maslach later identified three defining features: emotional and physical exhaustion, cynicism or emotional detachment, and a sense of reduced effectiveness or accomplishment. The World Health Organization recognized burnout as an occupational phenomenon in its International Classification of Diseases in 2019. It is not a medical diagnosis, but it is a recognized pattern of distress that significantly affects daily functioning.

Burnout is often misread as laziness, weakness, or a need for a vacation. In reality, it tends to develop in people who are highly committed, conscientious, and care deeply about what they do. Over time, the combination of demanding work, insufficient recovery, blurred limits, and a strong internal drive toward achievement creates a cumulative depletion that rest alone rarely resolves.

Therapy for burnout addresses both the internal patterns that contributed to it, such as perfectionism, difficulty saying no, or tying self-worth to productivity, and the practical skills needed to recover and prevent recurrence. Common approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based methods, though the right approach depends on the person and what drove their burnout.

Who this approach may help

People in high-demand roles

Healthcare workers, teachers, lawyers, social workers, and others in professions with heavy workloads, emotional demands, or limited control over outcomes often develop burnout over time.

Caregivers

People caring for a family member with illness, disability, or age-related needs can experience burnout and compassion fatigue, particularly when care responsibilities are ongoing and largely unsupported.

High achievers and perfectionists

People whose sense of worth is closely tied to performance, productivity, or recognition may push through exhaustion long past the point where others would step back, making burnout more likely and harder to detect.

People feeling detached from work they once cared about

A gradual shift from engagement to cynicism, disillusionment, or emotional numbness in a role that once felt meaningful is a common sign that burnout has progressed beyond early-stage fatigue.

People with physical symptoms alongside emotional exhaustion

Disrupted sleep, recurring illnesses, persistent headaches, or tension without a clear medical explanation can accompany burnout, particularly when stress has been sustained over a long period.

What happens in a session?

  1. 1

    Assess contributing factors

    The therapist asks about your work situation, responsibilities, lifestyle, and history to understand what has been driving your stress and where recovery has been lacking.

  2. 2

    Identify internal patterns

    Together, you explore beliefs and behaviors that may have contributed to burnout, such as difficulty delegating, saying yes when overwhelmed, or measuring worth through output.

  3. 3

    Clarify values and meaning

    Burnout often involves losing touch with what matters to you. Part of therapy involves reconnecting with what you actually value, separate from external expectations or obligation.

  4. 4

    Build practical skills

    The work includes developing concrete tools for recovery: protecting time for rest, communicating limits, reducing chronic overcommitment, and recognizing early warning signs.

  5. 5

    Plan for sustainable change

    Toward the end of treatment, the focus shifts to what ongoing habits and conditions support your wellbeing, and what to watch for so depletion does not accumulate again.

How it compares to other approaches

Clinical Depression

Burnout and depression share many symptoms, including exhaustion, withdrawal, and low motivation. Burnout is typically tied to a specific context, such as work, and may ease somewhat when removed from that context. Depression tends to affect all areas of life regardless of circumstance and often requires different or additional treatment.

Anxiety

Anxiety is characterized by excessive worry, fear, and anticipatory distress. Burnout involves a collapse of energy and motivation rather than heightened activation. The two often co-occur, but the underlying patterns and most effective interventions can differ.

Compassion Fatigue

Compassion fatigue is a form of burnout that specifically affects people in caregiving roles. It centers on the emotional cost of repeatedly absorbing others' pain or trauma. While similar in feel, treatment may focus more specifically on emotional processing and protecting against vicarious trauma.

Occupational Stress

Stress involves pressure with some expectation of relief. Burnout is what develops when that pressure has been sustained too long without adequate recovery. It is accompanied by a sense of hopelessness, detachment, and diminished effectiveness that typical stress does not produce.

Adjustment Disorder

Adjustment disorder is a response to a specific identifiable stressor and typically resolves once that stressor changes. Burnout builds over time across multiple stressors and does not necessarily resolve when a single trigger is removed.

How to choose a Burnout therapist

Questions to ask before booking:

  1. 1

    Ask whether they have experience working specifically with burnout or occupational stress, not just anxiety or depression in general. Burnout has its own patterns and the therapist should be familiar with them.

  2. 2

    Ask what therapy approaches they use for burnout and why. CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based methods are commonly used. A therapist should be able to explain their approach clearly and why it might fit your situation.

  3. 3

    Ask how they balance the internal work, such as unhelpful patterns and beliefs, with the practical and environmental factors that contribute to burnout. A good fit is someone who takes both seriously.

  4. 4

    Ask how they approach rest and recovery in treatment. Many people with burnout have internalized messages that rest is unproductive. A therapist comfortable addressing this directly may be a better fit.

  5. 5

    If your burnout is tied to a specific profession, ask whether they have experience working with people in similar roles. Burnout in healthcare looks different from burnout in law or education.

  6. 6

    Ask what progress looks like and how they will know if the approach is working. Clear, honest answers to this question are a good sign.

When this may not be the right fit

Burnout overlaps significantly with clinical depression and anxiety. If you are experiencing symptoms that feel more pervasive than occupational stress, such as persistent hopelessness, loss of interest in all areas of life, or significant difficulty functioning day to day, a clinical assessment is an important first step. Therapy for burnout works best when any co-occurring conditions are also identified and addressed.

If you are in crisis or experiencing thoughts of self-harm, please reach out to a crisis line or mental health professional who can provide immediate support. Crisis Services Canada can be reached at 1-833-456-4566.

Burnout sometimes reflects systemic problems in a workplace, such as understaffing, lack of support, or an unsustainable culture, that individual therapy cannot solve. Therapy can help you respond to those conditions more effectively, but it is not a substitute for occupational health support, organizational changes, or career decisions that may also be necessary.

If you are expecting to feel significantly better within a few sessions, it helps to know that recovery from burnout usually takes time. Therapy addresses patterns that built up over months or years, and sustainable change tends to be gradual.

Related specialties

Frequently asked questions

What is burnout and how is it different from stress?

Stress typically involves pressure with some expectation of relief. Burnout develops after prolonged, unmanaged stress and includes three core features: physical and emotional exhaustion, cynicism or detachment, and a reduced sense of effectiveness. Unlike stress, burnout often involves a feeling of emptiness or hopelessness rather than tension.

Can therapy help with burnout?

Therapy can be a useful part of burnout recovery. It helps identify the patterns that contributed to burnout, build practical skills for recovery, and address beliefs that make it hard to slow down or ask for help. Research supports CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based approaches for reducing burnout symptoms.

What type of therapy is most effective for burnout?

No single approach works for everyone. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) have the most research support for burnout. The most effective therapy depends on what drove your burnout and how you prefer to work.

Is burnout the same as depression?

Burnout and depression share many symptoms, but they are not the same. Burnout is typically tied to a specific context, especially work, and may ease when removed from that environment. Depression affects all areas of life and persists regardless of circumstance. A therapist or physician can help clarify which is present, as both may require attention.

How long does it take to recover from burnout with therapy?

Recovery timelines vary. Therapy for burnout commonly runs for several months, though meaningful change in specific patterns can begin earlier. Recovery also depends on factors outside therapy, including workload, rest, and whether structural stressors can be reduced. Most people need time and consistency rather than a short intervention.

Can I do burnout therapy online?

Yes. Most therapists who work with burnout offer online sessions, and research suggests that virtual therapy is comparably effective to in-person for stress-related concerns. Online therapy can also reduce one more logistical demand for people who are already stretched thin.

Looking for a Burnout therapist?

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