Our Approach and our team
Our Vision
We envision a connected and compassionate world that begins with each individual choosing to pause, breathe, and live with greater presence.
New Ground Wellness exists to create space for people to access the wisdom within and bring that wholeness into families, workplaces, and communities.
Healing is not a checkbox or an endpoint, but a continuous, living process.
When we honour what is alive within, we begin to embody the kind of world we hope to live in.
Our Mission
We support people in becoming who they truly are.
Through three dynamic platforms: Mental Wellness, Workplace Wellbeing, and Holistic Living, we hold space for individuals, teams, and communities to grow, express, and embody their truth.
Whether beginning a journey of self-discovery or navigating what comes next, we offer pathways that nurture the whole person and build capacity for real, lasting change.
Our Values
Integrity: We walk our talk, choosing honesty, embodiment, and self responsibility in everything we do.
Health: We prioritize wellbeing from the inside out, knowing it is the foundation of impact, joy, and presence.
Collaboration: We rise together. Our strength is in the collective, with diverse modalities united by purpose.
New Ground is present in various locations in British Columbia.
We provide different services in each of our locations, but our wellness practitioners are all experienced and dedicated to the same mission and values.
Our Team, Locations & Practitioners
Vancouver
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![Elisabetta Risso, MA, CCC, RCC]()
Elisabetta Risso, MA, CCC, RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Elisabetta offers a holistic, person-centred approach that supports clients navigating stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, and life transitions through collaborative and compassionate care. With advanced training in psychology and Gestalt counselling, she integrates cultural awareness and mindfulness-based practices to foster clarity, connection, and well-being.
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![Natasha Bailey, MC, RCC]()
Natasha Bailey, MC, RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Natasha is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who supports adults, couples, and families through anxiety, relationship challenges, midlife transitions, and parenting concerns. She combines a compassionate, strengths-based approach with modalities like EFT, ACT, and Gottman, drawing on her extensive experience as a parent educator, crisis volunteer, and group facilitator.
Penticton
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![Lucinda Bibbs, MC, RCC]()
Lucinda Bibbs, MC, RCC
Lucinda is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and co-founder of New Ground Wellness. She blends traditional talk therapy with holistic practices like breathwork and nervous system regulation. Lucinda supports adults navigating anxiety, trauma, and life transitions with compassion and clarity.
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![Stefanie Iverson, MC, RCC]()
Stefanie Iverson, MC, RCC
DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL OPERATIONS & PRACTICUM SUPERVISOR
Stefanie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor, supervisor, and co-founder of New Ground Wellness. She brings 15+ years of experience supporting individuals and couples with a grounded, heart-centred approach. Her practice is rooted in deep presence, curiosity, and connection.
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![Amy Thain, MA, RCC]()
Amy Thain, MA, RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Amy has over 12 years of experience providing trauma-informed, mind–body support for anxiety, trauma, and stress. She holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Adler University and is a registered member of the BCACC.
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![Tyler Janzen, MC, RCC]()
Tyler Janzen, MC, RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Tyler has a compassionate, client-centred approach and supports individuals through life’s challenges in a non-judgmental, culturally sensitive space. He holds a Master of Counselling from Gonzaga University and is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in good standing with the BCACC.
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![Gabrielle Krilow]()
Gabrielle Krilow
PRE-LICENSED COUNSELLOR
Gabrielle is a pre-licensed counsellor who supports children, youth, and parents using a trauma-informed, play-based, and strengths-focused approach. She brings extensive experience from elementary school settings and is passionate about helping young people build emotional regulation, confidence, and resilience in a safe and supportive space. -
![Tina Stasuik, MC, RCC]()
Tina Stasuik, MC, RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Tina is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who works with individuals, couples, and families using a compassionate, strengths-based approach grounded in attachment and trauma-informed care. She holds a Master’s in Clinical Counselling and is a member in good standing with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors. -
![Cheryl Jaggers, MA, CCC]()
Cheryl Jaggers, MA, CCC
CANADIAN CERTIFIED COUNSELLOR
Cheryl provides a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, supported, and understood while working through challenges such as anxiety, grief, depression, and life transitions. She holds a Master of Counselling from Briercrest College and is a member in good standing with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).
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![Sarah Krehel, MA, RCC]()
Sarah Krehel, MA, RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Sarah provides a warm, inclusive, and client-centred counselling approach, with a special focus on youth and adolescents navigating anxiety, disordered eating, body image, and life transitions. She holds a Master’s in Counselling Psychology from Adler University and draws on evidence-based and creative approaches to support meaningful growth and healing.
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![Natalie Maxson, MACP, RCC]()
Natalie Maxson, MACP, RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Natalie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who supports adults, youth, and couples through anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and issues related to identity and meaning. She integrates existential, mindfulness, feminist, solution-focused, and emotion-focused approaches to provide a compassionate, anti-oppressive, and client-centred space for growth and healing.
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![Sheridan Clifford, MACP, RCC]()
Sheridan Clifford, MACP, RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Sheridan is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who provides a compassionate, affirming, and client-centred space for children, youth, and adults to explore healing, self-acceptance, and personal growth. She holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and is a member in good standing with the BCACC.
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![Deanna Buckner, BSW, RSW]()
Deanna Buckner, BSW, RSW
REGISTERED SOCIAL WORKER
Deanna Buckner is a Registered Social Worker who provides integrative, client-centred counselling for adults experiencing trauma, relationship challenges, and other personal concerns. Drawing on over 20 years in emergency services and specialized training in CPT-PTSD, DBT, and grief work, she creates a supportive space where clients are heard and empowered to heal.
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![Nannette Hill, MEd, RCC]()
Nannette Hill, MEd, RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Nannette Hill is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 20 years of experience supporting adults and couples through trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship challenges. She integrates evidence-based approaches such as CBT, EMDR, Gottman Method, and mindfulness to provide a compassionate, strength-based, and tailored space for healing and growth.
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![Brittany Rust]()
Brittany Rust
STUDENT INTERN
Brittany is a practicum student in counselling and psychology at Yorkville University, supporting clients in exploring intimacy, codependency, and personal growth. She offers a compassionate, reflective approach that values connection, self-understanding, and the unique journey of each individual.
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![Melissa Page]()
Melissa Page
STUDENT INTERN
Melissa Page is a Master of Counselling student at City University (Vancouver) and clinical intern who supports clients in exploring self-identity, relationships, and personal growth. She combines over 20 years of medical experience with a warm, embodied, and collaborative approach to create a safe space for healing and self-discovery.
Summerland
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![Lucinda Bibbs, MC, RCC]()
Lucinda Bibbs, MC, RCC
Lucinda is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and co-founder of New Ground Wellness. She blends traditional talk therapy with holistic practices like breathwork and nervous system regulation. Lucinda supports adults navigating anxiety, trauma, and life transitions with compassion and clarity.
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![Deanna Buckner, BSW, RSW]()
Deanna Buckner, BSW, RSW
REGISTERED SOCIAL WORKER
Deanna Buckner is a Registered Social Worker who provides integrative, client-centred counselling for adults experiencing trauma, relationship challenges, and other personal concerns. Drawing on over 20 years in emergency services and specialized training in CPT-PTSD, DBT, and grief work, she creates a supportive space where clients are heard and empowered to heal.
New Denver
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Maddy Maxinuk, MC, RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Maddy offers a compassionate, authentic, and collaborative counselling approach that integrates mind–body and trauma-informed practices. She supports clients with concerns such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and eating disorders, drawing on CBT, mindfulness, somatic therapy, and parts work to foster lasting change.
Online Only
Please note that all our practitioners are available online, with the exception of the practitioners listed below, who are available only online.
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![Christopher Kinman, MSC, PhD, ACS-RCC]()
Christopher Kinman, MSC, PhD, ACS-RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Dr. Christopher Kinman is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and family therapist with over 30 years of experience supporting individuals, families, and communities through diverse challenges, including mental health, addiction, and legal matters. He draws on his extensive work with Indigenous communities and his teaching experience to provide a strengths-based, culturally informed, and client-centred approach.
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![Christy McLeod, MA, RCC]()
Christy McLeod, MA, RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Christy is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who supports adults and youth (14+) with anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem, and relationship or workplace challenges. She integrates CBT, mindfulness, narrative therapy, and EMDR to provide a safe, practical, and strengths-based space for personal growth and healing.
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![Robert Bal, MA, RCC]()
Robert Bal, MA, RCC
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR
Robert uses Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) to help clients address anxiety, depression, self-critical patterns, and relationship challenges by reconnecting with their inner experiences. He provides a direct, compassionate, and collaborative approach to support personal growth, resilience, and lasting change.
Funding Support for Counselling
We’re grateful to partner with several organizations that offer funding for mental health support. If you qualify, these programs can help cover the cost of counselling.
How It Works:
Apply First
Start by applying directly to the appropriate funding provider below. Each program has its own eligibility criteria.Receive Approval
Once approved, you’ll receive confirmation or documentation from the funder.Book a Session
After your funding is in place, reach out to us to book your first appointment.
We’re happy to answer any questions and walk you through the process if needed.
Available Funding Sources
Extended Health Benefits and Direct Billing
If you have extended health coverage, you may be eligible to have all or part of your counselling costs covered. Direct billing may be available depending on the counsellor and your benefits provider. Check with your insurer to confirm the details of your plan. Contact us if you have any questions.
Low-Cost Counselling Program
For those without access to benefits or outside funding, we offer an affordable option with our student intern counsellors. Sessions are offered in-person and online.
Individual Counselling (50 minutes): $55
Couples/Family Counselling (50 minutes): $80
Interns are completing their Master’s of Counselling and are supervised weekly by a registered clinical supervisor.
If cost remains a barrier, we invite you to reach out. We’ll do our best to help.
Additional Funding Partners
Métis Nation BC – Counselling Connect Program - Available to Métis citizens in British Columbia): Apply now
First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) - For individuals with status or Indian Residential School Survivors: Learn more
Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP) - Provides counselling coverage to those impacted by crime-related trauma: Check eligibility
WorkBC Programs - Some employment support programs include mental health funding: Visit WorkBC
SAJE Mental Health Program - Support for youth formerly in care and other eligible individuals: Apply here
Princeton Red Cross Grant - Provides funding for mental health services in Princeton and nearby areas: Apply here
YMCA Southern Interior BC - Funding for families with young children: Contact us to learn more
Have Questions?
If you're unsure which option is best for you or need help navigating any of the above programs, we’re here to support you. Please contact us or mention it in your intake form and we’ll guide you through the next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
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RCC's hold a minimum of a Master's Degree and are registered with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). RCCs also voluntarily hold themselves to an ethical code of conduct and standards of practice.
For more information click here
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Although BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) does not cover counselling fees, you or your partner may have coverage for Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) through your extended health benefits provider. Please check with your plan provider directly to see if you are covered.
I do not offer direct billing at this time, but will provide a receipt for you to submit to your extended health plan provider. -
Yes. We offer direct billing with the following 3rd party service providers.
Autism Funding
First Nation's Health Authority: South Okanagan Counselling is an approved provider for the FNHA.ICBC: Claimants are pre-approved for 12 sessions** with an RCC or CCC, and ICBC will cover up to $135/session.
**Within 12 weeks of the date of the accident causing the injury.
Métis Counselling Connection Program | MNBC: Eligible clients are approved for 10 sessions.
WorkBC: South Okanagan Counselling is an approved provider for WorkBC's Personal Counselling for Employment Readiness Program. Clients are pre-approved for 10 sessions.
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Individual Counselling Sessions (50 minutes) - $130 to $160 + gst
Couples Counselling (60 min) - $175 to $200 + gstGottman Method Couples Counselling (75 min) - $175 to $200 + gst
Low Cost Counselling (50 min) - $50 + gst
BCACC's recommended fee schedule.
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This is a difficult question to answer and varies greatly depending on the client's presenting problem and reasons for coming to therapy. 80% of individuals start to feel improvement after as little as one session, whereas other clients (specifically couples) will require longer-term support.
Usually, individuals will start with weekly sessions and then reduce to bi-weekly (or even monthly). There is, however, no "required" number of sessions. You have the right to decide how often and how long you wish to seek support, and you have the right to end services at any time. -
Yes. Everything discussed during our sessions is kept 100% confidential. All documentation is kept in a secure, locked filing cabinet. No information will be disclosed without your informed, voluntary, and written consent.
The only exceptions to this would be if:there risk of harm to yourself or someone else
there is suspicion or disclosure of abuse or neglect to a child, elderly individual, or other vulnerable person
there is a subpoena (court order), or by the order of a regulatory body
your insurance company is paying for some (or all) of your therapy, we may be obligated to disclose information to them. we will advise you of any such disclosure before making it.
However, even in cases where we are obligated to break confidentiality we work hard to collaborate with the client in how the reporting will take place. We offer our support in allowing the client the choice to self-report, report together, or have us report.
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Yes. We offer every new client a no fee 15-minute phone consultation. This is a great opportunity to discuss your main reasons for seeking help, ask any questions you may have about the counselling process, and determine whether we may be a good fit for one another.
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Yes. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to access counselling services and therefore offer a limited number of reduced fee spots. Please contact us to discuss sliding scale rates and availability.
We also offer low-cost counselling services through our Student Internship Program.