Meg Kapil, CCC-S, RCC-ACS

APPROACH

In my approach to counselling, I draw primarily from ideas and concepts situated in trauma-informed, person-centered, cognitive behavioural, positive psychology and interpersonal neurobiology approaches. I also look at gathering information about individuals in a holistic way and consider psychological, biological, environmental, family and interpersonal factors that shape a person’s life experience. I have had the opportunity to work with a diverse group of clients with a range of presenting issues including; depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, substance misuse, trauma, family conflict and separation, employment concerns, anger, and relationship issues. I offer individual and group sessions and work with children, adolescents, and adults. Most of all, I view counselling as a collaborative endeavour and I value the personal insight and knowledge each person contributes to this process.

I also highly value working with the person and their support system and frequently collaborate with other professionals and family members to create a team of support for each person. With this team approach in mind, I have created curriculum for collaborative group and workshop offerings that consider the whole system. For example, the Creating Calm anxiety group included an interagency team of facilitators and parallel groups for both the children with anxiety and their parents, equipping the whole family to best support the child and increasing the chance of success. 

I have also delivered workshops to in recent years to provide information about understanding and supporting stress and anxiety, mental health and wellness, and a range of other topics. Workshop audiences include high school students, postsecondary students, school teachers and administrators, and parents. 

IPNB 

Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) is a highly integrative approach that draws from multiple perspectives and branches of science and research to understand human knowing and experience. A key component of this perspective is understanding the mind as an emergent, relational and embodied process of energy and information flow that is includes consideration of the brain, body, and relationships in the search for wellness. Central to understanding wellbeing is the concept of integration, the linkage of separate parts. For example, linkage of different brain regions, mind and body, thought and feeling, and relationships. Kindness, resilience, and wellness are the result of integration.

CBT 

Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is an evidence based form of therapy that considers how a person’s thoughts and beliefs, interact with their feelings and behaviour. Challenging and unhelpful thoughts are noted and collaboratively addressed and changed. Practical coping strategies to address current challenges are developed and personal strengths are explored. 

Positive Psychology

Positive psychology is a broad area of research and practice that explores the positive aspects of the human experience such as well-being and flourishing, self-compassion, gratitude, mindfulness and positive emotions. Positive psychology considers positive personal characteristics, growing positive emotions and experiences, and positive systems and institutions. 

Trauma Informed 

A trauma informed approach includes an understanding on how trauma impacts individuals and systems both historically, in the present, and in the future including and understanding on the impact of trauma on the human nervous system and relationships. Trauma informed practice includes being aware of the impact of trauma, fostering relationships and a space that is safe (physical, emotional, cultural and spiritual safety), supporting collaboration, connection and choice; and growing strengths to promote resiliency and regulation.  

My Background

I have had the privilege of providing counselling support since 2009. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors and a Certified Canadian Counsellor – Supervisor (CCC-S) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.
I provide counselling to children, youth, adults, and families who are seeking support for mental health concerns, interested in fostering wellness, and developing health coping strategies. From over a decade of counselling experience, I have worked in community mental health, on collaborative counselling teams, in private practice, as well as in several volunteer counselling roles. I have clinical experience addressing a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, gender identity and sexuality, life and career transition, parenting, healthy relationships, self-injury, anger and ADHD.
I graduated from the University of Victoria Counselling Psychology program in 2009. As a curious and dedicated learner, I have continued with professional development with a range of training and certifications including EMDR. As part of my lifelong appreciation for learning, I recently started a PhD program in Educational Psychology and am exploring the intersections of mental health and learning as part of my search to understand the whole person.
When I am not pursuing my passion for supporting mental health and wellness, you can find me outside biking or running and enjoying spending time with my wonderful family.