Hello, I am Tanya Kamagiannis, a Master of Arts in Counselling student at Yorkville University. I came to counselling after many years working in mental health research, much of that time in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work alongside people experiencing addiction, psychosis, depression, anxiety, trauma, physical health challenges, and often several of these things at once. Those experiences have shaped the way I see people. I have learned that there is almost always more to someone’s story than what we see on the surface. I am naturally curious about people. I want to understand how you see the world, what has shaped you, what matters to you, and sometimes what might be going on underneath the things that are bringing you to counselling. I believe that each person is the expert on their own life. My role is not to tell you who you are or what you should do, but to listen, ask questions, and create a space where you can make sense of things in a way that feels meaningful to you. My approach is person-centred and integrative, which means I draw from different ideas and perspectives rather than believing there is one approach that works for everyone. I am particularly interested in how past experiences can continue to influence the way we understand ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. Having grown up in Vancouver, I have a deep appreciation for the many cultures, communities, and stories that make this city home. I value meeting people with openness and respect, and I try not to make assumptions about what someone’s life should look like. Most of all, I want counselling to feel like a place where you can be honest. You do not need to have everything figured out before you walk through the door. We can start wherever you are and see where the conversation takes us. I look forward to meeting you. Tanya

Hello, I am Tanya Kamagiannis, a Master of Arts in Counselling student at Yorkville University. I... Read More

MA Candidate, Practicum Student Counsellor

Hello!

My name is Sean Paredes and I am currently a student at Yorkville University completing the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology program. While I am currently an intern, my approach to counselling is relational, trauma-informed, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change can happen when people feel safe, heard, and understood.

Before entering the counselling field, I spent many years supporting children, youth, and families in both educational and community settings. Throughout this time, I had the opportunity to support children with diverse learning, developmental, and behavioural needs while collaborating closely with families and multidisciplinary teams. These experiences shaped my appreciation for the importance of compassionate, strengths-based support, in order to help foster the resiliency of an individual.

In my counselling work, I draw from several approaches, including but not limited to cognitive behavioural therapy, emotionally focused therapy, as well as solution-focused and strengths-based practices. I aim to create a collaborative space where clients can explore their experiences, make meaning of life’s challenges, and reconnect with their inner strengths and values.

I feel both excited and honoured to support a wide array of clients and their needs, as we work towards greater clarity, connection, and healing.

MA Candidate, Practicum Student Counsellor Hello! My name is Sean Paredes and I am currently a ... Read More