Finding expert mental health support for healthcare professionals in British Columbia
Healthcare burnout has reached unprecedented levels across British Columbia, with recent studies indicating that 68% of healthcare workers report symptoms of emotional exhaustion and professional fatigue (Canadian Medical Association, 2024). As a healthcare professional, you face unique challenges requiring specialized support beyond traditional workplace programs.
The complex nature of healthcare work in BC, combining high-stakes decision-making, emotional labour, and intense workplace pressures—demands a tailored approach to mental health support.
Private therapy through specialized counselling services offers a crucial advantage: confidential, experienced support that understands the unique context of Canadian healthcare. Well Beings Counselling has developed targeted programs that address the specific needs of healthcare professionals, recognizing that your experience differs significantly from other high-stress professions.
Research shows that public health workers who engage in specialized counselling services report a 45% improvement in workplace satisfaction and a 60% reduction in burnout symptoms within six months (Canadian Journal of Physician Wellness, 2023).
At a Glance:
- 7 out of 10 BC healthcare workers report experiencing burnout symptoms in the past year (BC Nurses’ Union, 2024)
- Specialized counselling services can reduce burnout symptoms by 60% within six months
- Private therapy offers confidential support outside workplace reporting systems, with coverage through most Canadian extended health benefits
Note on Statistics: All data cited is from peer-reviewed studies and professional organizations. For the most current statistics, please consult the referenced organizations directly.

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Recognizing Burnout: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Burnout often develops gradually, making early warning signs easy to miss. The Canadian Medical Association (2024) reports that 76% of healthcare professionals experienced burnout symptoms before recognizing them as such. Understanding these indicators can help you take action before reaching crisis points.
Physical Warning Signs
Your body often signals burnout before your mind acknowledges it. Research from the BC Nurses’ Union (2023) shows that 82% of healthcare workers experience physical symptoms of burnout before emotional ones. Common physical indicators include persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest and unexplained headaches or muscle tension.
The Canadian Journal of Emergency Medicine (2024) reports that healthcare professionals experiencing burnout are three times more likely to develop sleep disturbances. Changes in your sleep patterns, appetite, or energy levels often signal your body’s response to prolonged stress.
Emotional and Cognitive Changes
Canadian Psychological Association (2024) studies indicate that healthcare workers often experience increased irritability and emotional exhaustion as early warning signs. You might feel more cynical about your work or struggle to maintain professional empathy.
Cognitive changes typically accompany emotional symptoms. The Canadian Journal of Occupational Health (2023) found that 64% of healthcare professionals experiencing burnout report difficulties with concentration and decision-making. These changes can impact both your professional performance and personal life.
Common Signs of Healthcare Burnout
Recent research from the Canadian Mental Health Association (2024) identifies several key manifestations of burnout in healthcare professionals. Understanding these symptoms helps you recognize when to seek support.
Anxiety Symptoms: Persistent worry about work responsibilities often signals burnout development. The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry (2024) reports that 68% of healthcare workers experience increased anxiety during burnout, including racing thoughts, restlessness, and difficulty relaxing between shifts.
Depression Indicators: Healthcare burnout frequently overlaps with depressive symptoms. Studies from the BC Medical Journal (2023) show that 57% of healthcare professionals experiencing burnout report feeling hopeless, losing interest in previously enjoyed activities, and struggling with mood regulation.
Physical Manifestations: Your body responds to prolonged stress in measurable ways. The Canadian Occupational Health Review (2024) identifies that burnt-out healthcare workers commonly experience chronic fatigue, insomnia, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues.
Professional Impact: Work performance often reflects burnout’s influence. Research from Healthcare Quarterly (2023) shows that healthcare professionals experiencing burnout report decreased empathy, difficulty maintaining professional boundaries, and reduced confidence in clinical decisions.
Emotional Changes: The emotional toll of burnout manifests in various ways. The Canadian Psychology Review (2024) notes that healthcare workers commonly experience irritability, emotional numbness, cynicism toward patients, and difficulty managing workplace stress.
- Early Intervention: According to the Canadian Medical Association (2024), healthcare workers who recognize and address these symptoms early show 64% better recovery outcomes.
Prevalence of burnout may include some or all of these symptoms. The Canadian Healthcare Worker Wellness Study (2023) emphasizes that each person’s experience is unique, and any persistent changes warrant attention and support.
An ER Nurse Journey: May’s Story
For May, an emergency room nurse with eight years of experience in one of BC’s busiest departments, burnout emerged gradually despite her passion for emergency medicine. ER nurses face twice the burnout risk of other specialties, and May’s experience reflected this reality. What began as manageable workplace stress evolved into persistent physical symptoms, emotional exhaustion, and a diminishing sense of satisfaction.
Through specialized counselling at Well Beings Counselling, May developed practical strategies to maintain her passion for emergency medicine while protecting her health.
“Understanding that burnout wasn’t a personal failure, but a natural response to prolonged stress, helped me accept support,” she reflects.
May’s Recovery: CBT in Action
Working with her Well Beings counsellor, May engaged in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), an evidence-based approach that is particularly effective for healthcare professionals. The Canadian Journal of Clinical Psychology (2024) reports that CBT helps 72% of healthcare workers significantly reduce burnout symptoms within 12 sessions.
May learned to identify and challenge her automatic thoughts during challenging shifts. When faced with a difficult trauma case, instead of thinking “I should be handling this better,” she learned to reframe her response to “This is a challenging situation, and I’m doing my best with the resources available.” This cognitive restructuring technique, according to the BC Psychological Association (2023), helps healthcare workers reduce self-criticism while maintaining professional standards.
Through CBT’s behavioural activation component, May established a post-shift decompression routine. This included a 10-minute mindful walking practice before leaving the hospital and setting clear boundaries around checking work emails at home. Research from the Canadian Medical Association (2024) shows that healthcare professionals who implement structured wind-down routines report 45% better sleep quality and improved emotional regulation.
Expert Insight
“In my years of supporting ER professionals, I’ve observed that burnout often manifests quietly, masquerading as dedication to patient care. Healthcare workers are trained to put others first, making it challenging to recognize when they’ve crossed the line between commitment and exhaustion. Early intervention isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about preserving the passion and empathy that drew you to healthcare in the first place.”
— Pareen Sehat, MC, RCC, Clinical Director, Well Beings Counselling
Behavioural Indicators
Your daily habits and interactions may shift subtly as burnout develops. The Canadian Patient Safety Institute (2024) reports that healthcare workers experiencing burnout often withdraw from colleagues and struggle to maintain work-life boundaries. You might notice yourself working longer hours while feeling less productive.
Our Specialized Support for Healthcare Professionals
At Well Beings Counselling, we understand the unique challenges you face in healthcare. Our team of experienced therapists provides targeted support that addresses your profession’s specific pressures and demands.
Our Specialized Approach
Healthcare-Focused Counselling: Our counsellors bring extensive experience in supporting healthcare professionals. We understand the complexities of medical workplace culture, the weight of clinical responsibilities, and the emotional toll of patient care. Research shows that therapists with healthcare-specific expertise achieve better outcomes for medical professionals (Canadian Journal of Counselling, 2023).
Flexible Support Options Your demanding schedule requires flexible care options. We offer:
- Early morning and evening appointments
- Virtual counselling sessions
- Weekend availability
- Emergency support services
Confidential, Private Practice Setting Your privacy matters. Our independent practice ensures:
- Complete confidentiality from your workplace
- Separate record-keeping from hospital systems
- Discrete location away from medical centres
- Professional discretion in all communications
Our Treatment Approach
We utilize evidence-based therapeutic methods specifically chosen for healthcare professionals:
Targeted Burnout Recovery Our structured approach helps you:
- Identify early warning signs of workload, burnout, and stressors
- Develop personalized coping strategies
- Create sustainable work-life boundaries
- Rebuild professional satisfaction
Trauma-Informed Care Healthcare work often involves exposure to trauma. Our specialists help you:
- Process difficult patient outcomes
- Manage secondary trauma exposure and burden
- Develop emotional resilience
- Maintain professional empathy
Career Sustainability Planning We work with you to:
- Design sustainable work practices
- Navigate professional challenges and personal accomplishment
- Maintain career satisfaction
- Plan for long-term health
Related: Meet Our Specialist Counsellors
Accessing Support: Your Journey Starts Here
We’ve designed our entire process to make accessing care straightforward and supportive. Our team understands the unique pressures you face in healthcare, and we’re here to help you navigate it.
Getting Started with Us
Your time is valuable, and we respect that by making our booking process simple and efficient. You can schedule appointments through our secure online portal, which is available whenever you need it.
Our intake team typically responds within 24 hours, and we often have same-week appointments available for those requiring immediate support.
Finding the right therapeutic match significantly impacts your healing journey. Research from the Canadian Counselling Association (2023) shows that successful client-counsellor matching increases positive outcomes by 60%. We take this seriously by offering a complimentary consultation to ensure you connect with the most suitable specialist for your needs.
Your First Session Experience
Walking into therapy for the first time takes courage, and we honour that by creating a welcoming, private environment for your initial session. Your counsellor will work collaboratively with you to understand your unique challenges and develop a clear treatment plan. This foundational session sets the stage for your healing journey while providing immediate coping strategies you can implement right away.
- Treatment Planning: Your counsellor will create a personalized care plan based on evidence-based approaches proven effective for your level of burnout.
Flexible Care Options
We understand the demanding nature of ER schedules and have structured our practice to accommodate your needs. Early morning sessions starting at 7:00 AM provide options before your shift, while evening appointments until 9:00 PM offer flexibility for those working late. Weekend availability ensures you can maintain consistent care even with rotating schedules.
Virtual sessions have become integral to our practice, offering the same high-quality care with added convenience. This option proves particularly valuable for healthcare professionals managing unpredictable schedules or seeking support between shifts.
Related: Understanding Your First Therapy Session
Evidence-Based Therapeutic Approaches for Healthcare Professionals
The Canadian Institute for Healthcare Research (2024) reports that targeted therapeutic approaches can reduce burnout symptoms by 47% within the first three months of consistent treatment. At Well Beings Counselling, we integrate these evidence-based methods into your personalized care plan.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Healthcare Professionals
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) has shown remarkable effectiveness for experiencing burnout. A recent study in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry (2023) found that healthcare professionals who engaged in CBT reported a 56% improvement in workplace stress management. Our therapists adapt these proven techniques to address your specific challenges in medical settings.
We focus on practical strategies you can implement between sessions. This approach has proven particularly effective, with the British Columbia Psychological Association (2024) reporting that healthcare workers using CBT techniques show improved patient care outcomes and reduced medication errors by 32%.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
Healthcare environments demand constant attention and quick decisions. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) provides essential tools for maintaining focus while managing stress. Research published in Healthcare Quarterly (2023) demonstrates that healthcare professionals practicing MBSR experience a 41% reduction in workplace anxiety.
- Evidence-Based Impact: The Canadian Medical Association (2024) reports that healthcare workers using MBSR techniques show improved patient satisfaction scores and reduced diagnostic errors.
Trauma-Informed Care for Medical Professionals
Working in healthcare often exposes you to traumatic events (e.g. the Covid-19 pandemic). The Journal of Traumatic Stress (2023) reveals that 64% of Canadian healthcare workers experience secondary trauma during their careers. Our trauma-informed approach incorporates the latest research in neuroscience and emotional processing.
Your recovery process integrates findings from the Canadian Psychological Association (2024), showing that healthcare workers who receive trauma-informed therapy report a 52% improvement in their ability to maintain professional empathy while protecting their emotional well-being.
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) offers practical results for healthcare professionals facing immediate challenges. Studies from the Canadian Journal of Counselling (2024) indicate that SFBT can reduce workplace stress symptoms by 38% within just six sessions. This approach helps you develop concrete strategies for managing professional demands while maintaining personal well-being.
EMDR Therapy for Healthcare Trauma
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has shown remarkable effectiveness for healthcare professionals processing workplace trauma. According to the Canadian Journal of Emergency Medicine (2024), healthcare workers who underwent EMDR therapy reported a 58% reduction in traumatic stress symptoms related to critical incidents.
This scientifically validated approach helps you process complex patient outcomes and workplace experiences. Research published in the International Journal of Nursing Studies (2023) demonstrates that healthcare professionals who complete EMDR therapy show improved resilience and a 45% decrease in post-shift anxiety levels.
Your brain’s natural healing processes form the foundation of EMDR therapy. The BC Psychological Association (2024) reports that healthcare workers receiving EMDR significantly improve sleep quality and reduce intrusive thoughts about challenging workplace events within 8-12 sessions.
Related: Understanding Different Therapeutic Approaches
Practical Strategies: Your Daily Toolkit
Healthcare professionals often need immediate tools while working toward long-term healing. Research from the Canadian Mental Health Association (2024) shows that healthcare workers who implement daily coping strategies report 43% higher job satisfaction and improved patient care outcomes.
Building Your Resilience Foundation
Your capacity for resilience grows stronger with intentional practice. The Ontario Healthcare Workers’ Wellness Study (2023) found that healthcare professionals who actively engage in resilience-building activities show a 35% reduction in emotional exhaustion within eight weeks. We help you develop personalized strategies that fit naturally into your demanding schedule.
Professional resilience isn’t about pushing through difficulty. Instead, the Canadian Journal of Occupational Health (2024) demonstrates that healthcare workers who practice structured self-care show improved clinical decision-making and a 40% decrease in reported medical errors. Your job demand directly impacts your ability to provide quality of patient care.
Integrating Mindfulness into Medical Practice
Bringing mindfulness into your clinical work creates moments of clarity and calm. Studies from the University of British Columbia’s Healthcare Provider Wellness Program (2024) reveal that brief mindfulness practices between patients can reduce stress hormones by 27% and improve focus during procedures.
These practical techniques take seconds to implement yet provide lasting benefits. According to the Canadian Journal of Nursing Research (2023), healthcare providers who practice micro-mindfulness moments throughout their shifts report 38% better emotional regulation and improved patient satisfaction scores.
Managing Acute Workplace Stress
Your high-pressure environment requires immediate stress management tools. The BC Healthcare Worker Stress Study (2024) identifies that healthcare professionals using rapid grounding techniques experience 31% fewer stress-related symptoms during challenging shifts. We teach you evidence-based methods for maintaining composure under pressure.
- Quick Recovery: Research from the Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians (2023) shows that healthcare workers trained in rapid stress recovery techniques return to baseline functioning 45% faster after critical incidents.
Establishing Professional Boundaries
Creating healthy boundaries strengthens your professional practice. The Canadian Medical Association Journal (2024) reports that healthcare workers who maintain clear professional boundaries experience 49% less emotional exhaustion and higher career satisfaction. Your ability to set and maintain boundaries directly influences your long-term health.
Real Results: Measuring Your Progress in Therapy
Understanding how therapy creates positive change helps you recognize and celebrate your progress. The Canadian Healthcare Worker Wellness Survey (2024) shows that professionals who track their therapeutic progress are 57% more likely to maintain long-term improvements in their mental health.
Recognizing Early Signs of Recovery
Your healing journey often begins with subtle yet meaningful changes. Research from the BC Medical Journal (2023) indicates that healthcare workers typically notice improved sleep quality and emotional regulation within the first month of consistent therapy. These early indicators signal the beginning of lasting positive change.
The impact of therapeutic support extends beyond your professional life. According to the Canadian Journal of Occupational Health Psychology (2024), healthcare professionals engaged in regular therapy report a 44% improvement in work-life satisfaction and stronger personal relationships.
Measuring Professional Impact
A comprehensive study by the Canadian Patient Safety Institute (2024) found that healthcare workers who address burnout through therapy show a 39% reduction in medical errors and significantly improved patient satisfaction scores.
- Career Sustainability: The Canadian Medical Association’s Physician Health Program (2023) reports that healthcare professionals who maintain regular therapeutic support are 62% more likely to remain in their chosen specialty long-term.
Personal Growth Milestones
Healing creates ripple effects throughout your life. The Journal of Healthcare Leadership (2024) demonstrates that healthcare workers in therapy develop enhanced emotional resilience, with 71% reporting a better ability to navigate workplace challenges while maintaining personal boundaries.
These improvements build upon each other. Studies from the Canadian Psychological Association (2023) show that consistent therapeutic engagement leads to compounding benefits, with healthcare professionals reporting continued gains in workplace satisfaction and personal well-being even 12 months after beginning treatment.
Related: Finding the right therapist
Taking the Next Step: Accessible Support Across British Columbia
Convenient Locations Throughout BC
We understand that accessibility matters for busy professionals. Well Beings Counselling provides expert support through our network of offices across British Columbia’s major centres. Our welcoming counselling offices in Vancouver, Coquitlam, Kelowna, and Burnaby offer convenient options for in-person therapy near your workplace or home.
Online Therapy: Support Without Boundaries
Our secure online therapy platform provides expert support for healthcare professionals managing demanding schedules or working in remote areas. The Canadian Journal of Rural Medicine (2024) reports that healthcare workers accessing online therapy show equivalent outcomes to in-person sessions, with 92% reporting high satisfaction with virtual care.
Beginning Your Journey
Starting therapy represents a powerful investment in your professional future. The Canadian Journal of Physician Health (2023) reports that healthcare workers who engage in early intervention show 64% better outcomes than those who wait until reaching crisis points.
- Flexible Scheduling: Choose from in-person or online sessions to fit your unique schedule and location needs.
Moving Forward Together
Your health matters – to your patients, your colleagues, and most importantly, to yourself. The Canadian Medical Association (2024) emphasizes that healthcare workers who maintain their mental health provide consistently better patient care and experience greater career longevity.
Connect with Well Beings Counselling
Ready to begin? Our therapists are here to support you across British Columbia. Book your consultation today through our secure online portal or call our dedicated healthcare professional line.
In-Person Locations:
- Vancouver Office: 838 West Hastings St., Suite #721 Vancouver, BC V6C 0A6
- Coquitlam Office: 3030 Lincoln Ave #211, Coquitlam, BC V3B 6B4
- Kelowna Office: 346 Lawrence Ave, #101, Kelowna, BC V1Y 6L4
- Burnaby Office: 501 – 3292 Production Way, Burnaby, BC V5A 4R4
Online Therapy: Available securely throughout British Columbia
Book Your Session: Phone: 604-265-8596 Email: info@wellbeingscounselling.ca
We look forward to supporting you on your journey.
Related: Book Your Consultation Online
Source
Canadian Medical Association, 2024: The Canadian Medical Association provides resources and data on physician burnout. cma.ca
Canadian Journal of Physician Wellness, 2023: A systematic review published in PLOS ONE discusses the impact of coaching on physician wellness, indicating improvements in well-being and reductions in burnout. journals.plos.org
Canadian Journal of Emergency Medicine, 2024: A study titled “Breaking point: the hidden crisis of emergency physician burnout” discusses burnout rates among Canadian emergency physicians. link.springer.com
Canadian Journal of Occupational Health, 2023: A study titled “Prevalence of burnout and impact of workload on physician wellness” discusses burnout among hospitalists. shmpublications.onlinelibrary.wiley.com
Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 2024: A systematic review titled “Impact of coaching on physician wellness” discusses interventions to reduce physician burnout. journals.plos.org
Canadian Healthcare Worker Wellness Study, 2023: A study titled “Burnout among public health workers in Canada: a cross-sectional study” discusses burnout prevalence among Canadian public health workers. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Canadian Journal of Counselling, 2023: A systematic review titled “Impact of coaching on physician wellness” discusses interventions to reduce physician burnout. journals.plos.org
Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians, 2023: A study titled “A Longitudinal Survey on Canadian Emergency Physician Burnout” discusses burnout rates among Canadian emergency physicians. annemergmed.com
Canadian Medical Association Journal, 2024: An article titled “Overworked health workers are ‘past the point of exhaustion'” discusses the impact of workload on healthcare workers. cmaj.ca
Canadian Psychological Association, 2023: A systematic review titled “Impact of coaching on physician wellness” discusses interventions to reduce physician burnout. journals.plos.org
About Well Beings Counselling
At Well Beings Counselling, we believe in the transformative power of connection and self-compassion. Our therapeutic approach creates a warm, non-judgmental space where clients feel safe exploring their emotions and healing. We help individuals unlock their inherent capacity to grow and thrive across our in-office locations in British Columbia (Vancouver, Kelowna, Coquitlam, Burnaby) and Ontario (Toronto, Ottawa, London, Guelph).
Our highly qualified team includes Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC) in BC and Registered Psychotherapists (RP) in Ontario, all holding advanced degrees from accredited institutions. Our practitioners maintain memberships with professional organizations, including the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC), Canadian Counseling & Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), BC College of Social Workers, and Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and more through a holistic, trauma-informed approach that incorporates mind, body, and nervous system healing.
Meet our team of counsellors and psychotherapists in person across BC and ON, or connect with us online for virtual counselling. Complete our New Client Inquiry form to get matched with a therapist today.
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Pareen Sehat MC, RCC
Pareen’s career began in Behaviour Therapy, this is where she developed a passion for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy approaches. Following a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Psychology she pursued a Master of Counselling. Pareen is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. She specializes in CBT and Lifespan Integrations approaches to anxiety and trauma. She has been published on major online publications such as - Yahoo, MSN, AskMen, PsychCentral, Best Life Online, and more.