Deirdre Kear RTCc

For nearly a decade, I have worked in the Surrey School District, where I discovered my passion for supporting students, especially during my time in an inner-city secondary school. It was there that I found myself connecting easily with students, becoming their go-to person, including those who were frequently in trouble. This experience opened my eyes to the deeper needs these young people had, and I realized I wanted to help them on a more profound level. For the past five years, I have worked as an Outreach Worker, closely engaging with students who face a range of mental health challenges from a wide array of cultural background as well as multiple LGBTQIA+ students. The closer I worked with these students, the more I realized the importance of having the right tools to make lasting changes in their lives. This led me to pursue a counselling diploma. My own journey with mental health, along with supporting my daughter through hers, has given me a unique perspective on the counselling process. We’ve both experienced firsthand that counselling is not a one-size-fits-all approach. This insight has shaped my practice into one where the client is truly in the driver’s seat. I take a person-centered approach, utilizing various modalities to best meet the needs of each individual. I also recognize that not everyone thrives in a traditional office setting, so I offer to meet clients in the community—whether it’s for a walk, a coffee shop chat, or at a local community center or library. Walking and talking can be particularly beneficial for mental health, and I find it helps clients feel more at ease. Understanding the financial barriers many face when seeking counselling, I aim to ensure my services are accessible to everyone. I am committed to providing support that is both effective and inclusive, meeting clients where they are, both figuratively and literally.