Polly Cooper, RCSW · Counselling · BC
Welcome,
I am glad you are here.
Life often feels like a roller coaster, full of ups and downs. I am here to work with you — to help you thrive, learn, and build tools and strategies to support you through this process.
Welcome — I am glad you are here
Life often feels like
a roller coaster.
Life events can affect us in many ways, shaped by both our personal experiences and the circumstances around us. While challenges are inevitable, how we respond to them matters. Difficult situations, whether related to health, relationships, work, or changes in mood may arise suddenly or build gradually over time, often leaving us feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and unsure of the next step.
During periods of stress, transition, or unexpected change, it can be difficult to feel grounded or confident in how to move forward. While we may not always have control over what happens to us, we can develop healthier ways of responding and navigating through those experiences. I am here to support you in building insight, resilience, and practical tools that help you manage challenges, reconnect with your strengths, and move toward the life you want to create.
“Freedom is what you do with what’s been done to you.”
Jean-Paul Sartre
What I can offer you
Almost 30 years in
the helping profession.
I have worked in the helping profession for almost 30 years in various environments, working with diverse populations of people. For the last 20+ years I have worked as a counsellor and social worker in healthcare in acute, outpatient and community-based settings walking alongside clients who are working through complex life issues.
During my career I have developed expertise in counselling individuals going through distressing or unexpected life circumstances involving themselves or those close to them. I work collaboratively with you, respectfully, encouraging you to be in the drivers seat, always wanting you to feel heard, understood and safe.
I will provide a framework that encourages you to set your own counselling goals and help determine what you want to accomplish in our time together.
My philosophy & approach
Change is inevitable — how we meet it matters.
Change is inevitable, we can adapt to change without compromising who we are as individuals. How we deal with a crisis or change and the associated loss(es) impacts how we feel during the process. It can also shape who we will become and the outcomes we experience. When we take charge we can start to better understand ourselves, heal and move forward from a place of strength and optimism.
I work from a client centered and empowered position seeing you where you currently are, recognizing your potential and where you want to be. Together we will break down potential steps in the therapeutic work.
I work attentively, with patience and compassion, at your pace to support you during times of change, transition, crisis or conflict. Together we will explore underlying obstacles that might be working against you. I will support you in better understanding your issue, unearth and manage your emotions while developing skills and strategies to move forward with a renewed perspective and plan.
“Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow; it empties today of its strength.”
– Corrie ten Boom
Modalities I draw on
I use a number of modalities depending on the situation, including but not limited to cognitive and dialectical behavioural therapies (CBT/DBT), mindfulness -based approaches, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), bereavement, grief and serious illness therapies, and motivational and strengths-based approaches — all within a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive systems perspective.
About you
Is this speaking
to you?
If you are experiencing issues in any of the following domains, we can work together therapeutically to explore them:
- Physical & mental health changes
- Serious/Chronic illness
- Anxiety, depression & mood changes
- Life transitions
- Grief, bereavement, loss
- Burnout - caregiver, workplace, compassion fatigue
- Impacts of substance use
- Relationship, interpersonal & role strain dynamics
- Stress management
- Sleep, adjustment & coping
- Anything creating crisis or turmoil in your overall wellbeing
If a new, or ongoing issue is occurring in your life that is impacting you or if you feel stuck in a cycle that isn’t serving you we can work together to create the change you want. I aim for clients to change, grow, thrive, and achieve the outcomes they are seeking to live the life they want.
While it might not always feel easy, having others with you on this path helps. Let me walk along side you as you learn about yourself.
About me
Experienced, credentialed,
and I've been there too.
I have extensive experience counselling individuals across the life span who are dealing with complex and challenging life situations in their personal lives, with family, health, vocational and/or personal relationships.
I am a registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW) with the BC College of Social Workers and a member of the BC Association of Social Workers. I have a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) from UBC and completed my Clinical designation (RCSW) in 2011. Additionally, due to a special interest in (chronic) health, pain and substance use, I completed a year-long Fellowship in Substance Use in 2021 with the BC Centre on Substance Use (BCCSU). I am continually engaging in professional development to learn and advance my clinical skill sets.
On a personal note, I live with and experience a chronic health condition that has life-altering impacts. I, too, like most, have experienced my own physical and psychological ‘roller coaster’. I continue to utilize my own strategies to cope, manage and ultimately thrive. As such, I know how to move through a crisis and can help you move through yours, too!
BOOKING
Fees & Appointments
My counselling fee is $180 per 50-minute session for individuals and $220 for a couple’s session. Most extended medical plans provide counselling coverage. Please review your plan for more specific details. I will consider sliding scale clients on a case-by-case basis for limited lower-income clients — inquire directly.
Counselling appointments will be provided virtually/online via the Jane App or via phone. Generally speaking, sessions will be on Fridays or other mutually agreed-upon times.
Individual Session
$180
Couples Session
$220
The services of an RCSW are a deductible expense through Canada Revenue Services — you may be able to claim counselling on personal income tax.
Ready to get started?
I am happy to provide an initial 10-minute client consultation for us to determine that we are a good fit to work together effectively.
Appointments booked through Broadway Wellness:
Broadway Wellness Tel:
604 732 5222
Cancellation: 24 hours notice required. Full fees apply otherwise. Considerations for emergencies beyond your control.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ
Are counselling fees covered?
Are sessions confidential?
- if you have a clear plan of self harm or harming another person
- if a minor is at risk of being harmed
- if counselling records are subpoenaed by a court of law
Who do you normally work with?
Who decides what is talked about in counselling?
How often do I come for counselling sessions?
What is your cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled appointment otherwise full fees apply. Considerations might be made for emergencies beyond your control.
Get in touch
Contact Polly
I am happy to provide an initial 10-minute client consultation for us to determine that we are a good fit to work together effectively. Please reach out.
BOOKING & APPOINTMENTS:
Broadway Wellness
Booking: broadwaymassageandtherapy.com
Email: broadwaywellnesscenter@gmail.com
Phone: 604-732-5222
SESSIONS:
Virtual via Jane App or phone · Fridays & by mutual arrangement
