Suzanne St. John Smith (She/Her)
Counselor/Therapist, M.A., M.A. (Psych.) FEA, C.C.C Relationship and Family Therapist; Life Coach
In-Person in West Vancouver, BC V7V 1L2
Online in
Multiple Canadian Provinces
Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland And Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan
The reason clients return time after time, and year after year, is due to the fact that I've made it a priority to build a strong connection with them. I listen, I guide them when they ask, and I'm honest with my feedback. Simply, they trust me. and nothing could be more important to me or to them. And because my work has always felt like both an honour and a gift, I value the opportunity of being brought into the emotional lives of my clients where I can offer them the kind of safe space they may not have ever experienced previously.
Client Focus
Session Format: Couple, Family, Group, Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Adult, Young Adult
Demographic Expertise: Asian, Black / African American, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Hispanic / Latino, Jewish, LGBTQ+, Men, Middle Eastern, Military / Veterans, Muslim, Native American, Persons with Disabilities, Sikh, Women clients.
Languages: English
Treatment Approach
- Adlerian Therapy Focuses on understanding a person’s sense of belonging and purpose. It helps people overcome feelings of inferiority and create healthier relationships.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) One of the most widely used approaches, CBT helps people identify unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier patterns. It is effective for anxiety, depression, and many other concerns.
- Family Systems Therapy Looks at problems within the context of the family as a whole. It aims to improve communication and balance in family relationships.
- Person-Centered Therapy (Rogerian) Emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity. It provides a safe space for self-discovery and growth.
- Psychodynamic Therapy Explores unconscious thoughts and patterns that influence current behavior. It builds insight into how the past impacts the present.
- Psychoeducational Therapy Provides education and coping tools about mental health conditions. It empowers clients with knowledge and practical skills.
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) Focuses on solutions and future goals rather than past problems. It is practical, short-term, and goal-driven.
Approach Description: For me, the most important part of my work is to support you in finding your way back to yourself - whatever way that looks to you. And, I remain committed to my role as a trustworthy and non-judgmental collaborator.
Fees & Insurance
Insurance
- Accepts Insurance
- Extended Health Insurance. Client submits the invoice I provide to them and they get reimbursed by their insurer.
Education & Credentials
Suzanne St. John Smith M.A., M.A. (Psych.) FEA, C.C.C Relationship and Family Therapist; Life Coach
- Female
- License # 0397
- Licensed in Canada-wide
- Practicing Since 2004
Education: M.A. Communications
M.A. Counselling Psychology
Doctoral courses in a PsyD. program of Clinical Psychology
Suzanne St. John Smith Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available In-Person in West Vancouver, BC V7V 1L2
- Available Online for residents of Multiple Canadian Provinces Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland And Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan
- Online Therapy Details: Zoom Sessions
I’m a psychotherapist in private practice in West Vancouver, with more than 22 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I offer in-person (on Wednesdays) and Zoom sessions Monday through Friday. My practice includes support for relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, separation and divorce, and the changes and questions that can arise in midlife. I also help clients work through betrayal and emotionally harmful relationships. I welcome people of all backgrounds, identities, and beliefs, and strive to create a space where you feel respected, understood, and comfortable being yourself.
Whatever your background, beliefs, or life experience, I’m here to listen, understand, and work with you in a way that respects who you are.