Humanistic and Gestalt Therapy In Vancouver, BC
Discover your inner strength in a judgment free environment
What is Humanistic Therapy?
Humanistic therapy is a client-centered approach to counselling that focuses on the belief that every person has worth, potential, and the ability to grow. At Sana Counselling, we offer humanistic and gestalt therapy in Vancouver, BC, creating a supportive space where you can explore your feelings, past experiences, and personal story without judgment.
Unlike more structured methods, humanistic therapy emphasizes the present moment. With the guidance of your counsellor, you’ll bring attention to your inner experiences and develop greater self awareness of how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours connect. Gestalt therapy, a branch of humanistic psychotherapy, often uses interactive techniques such as role playing or the empty chair technique to help resolve unfinished business and gain a new perspective.
This integrative approach provides a safe space for clients to explore their emotions, take personal responsibility, and move toward positive change in their well being and life.
Understand yourself on a more holistic level, mind, body and spirit
The belief that every person is unique, is capable of growth and has worth is at the foundation of all Humanistic therapeutic approaches. Throughout your sessions you’ll focus on learning to explore, trust and accept your feelings and experiences. The goal is for you to leave your sessions feeling more self-aware and empowered, with an increased sense of self, direction, confidence and personal fulfillment.
At our Vancouver studio, Humanistic approaches to therapy are less structured and open to clients who want to explore their feelings, patterns, and curiosities on a deeper level. If your goals around your depression, anxiety or relationships are more specific, these will be woven into your process but will not be the primary approach used. Humanistic Therapy is ideal for people looking to understand themselves on a more holistic level.
Types of Humanistic Therapy
Humanistic Therapy is a collaborative approach that blends 3 types of modalities: Client-Centered, Existential, and Gestalt therapy. These interventions often incorporate social and cultural issues, while taking an introspective approach to the human experience.
Client-Centered Therapy
Client-Centered Therapy is built on three main pillars: active listening, unconditional positive regard, and empathy toward your experience and story.
Gestalt Therapy
Gestalt Therapy is a holistic approach that brings the past into the present through engaging exercises. The counsellor acts as an observer, allowing more information to surface in experimental settings.
Existential Therapy
Existential Therapy focuses on four main concerns: life/death, freedom, isolation, and meaninglessness. You’ll explore the meaning behind these concerns and connect them to your personal ideologies.
Benefits of Humanistic Therapy
Humanistic therapy goes beyond simply addressing symptoms like anxiety or depression; it helps clients cultivate deeper self-understanding and lasting change. By working with a trained counsellor, you’ll learn to explore and accept your feelings with empathy and unconditional positive regard, building resilience and self confidence along the way.
Some of the key benefits include:
Developing greater self awareness and clarity about your life direction
Learning healthier ways to manage anxiety, depression, and stress
Improving relationships by building deeper connections and better communication
Healing from unresolved trauma and gaining freedom from the past
Building confidence and personal growth through increased self acceptance
Strengthening emotional regulation and coping strategies for life’s challenges
Humanistic therapy is not a single approach but a blend of therapeutic approaches such as Gestalt therapy, Client-Centered therapy, and Existential therapy. This flexibility allows your therapist to tailor each therapy session to your unique needs and goals, supporting your well being and transformation.
““Sana is wonderful clinic. I enjoyed all my sessions. They were genuine, non-judgmental, and each therapist had an arsenal of on-point techniques to help when talking about it just won’t cut it. They also ask the best questions and can really help you change your perspective and think about things (including yourself) differently. I highly recommend Sana!” ”
Who is Humanistic Therapy For?
Humanistic and Gestalt therapy in Vancouver, BC, is well-suited for people seeking a greater understanding of themselves and their place in the world. It can be especially helpful if you:
Struggle with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues
Feel self critical or disconnected from your emotions
Are navigating major life transitions or difficult situations
Want to process past experiences or trauma in a safe, supportive environment
Are looking to build confidence, self awareness, and resilience
Wish to create positive change and live with more authenticity and balance
Humanistic therapy is also a good fit for clients who value an explorative process rather than a strictly structured method. By working with a compassionate counsellor, you’ll focus on fostering self growth, developing new perspectives, and learning how to respond more effectively to life’s challenges.
Whether you join us for in-person therapy in Vancouver or connect online across British Columbia, humanistic therapy offers an empowering path to personal growth and healing.
How to start with Humanistic Therapy at Sana
Here’s how you can begin your journey with Humanistic Therapy at Sana in 3 simple steps:
Step 1: Book your free consultation
This free 15-minute consultation with one of our counsellors allows you to talk about your thoughts, feelings, and concerns surrounding therapy.
Step 2: Match with your counsellor
We’ll pair you with the Humanistic counsellor whose experience best suits your needs.
Step 3: Your first session
Your first session can happen online or in person at our Vancouver studio. This session is often a more in-depth meet and greet.