Derek Van Dalen
Registered Provisional Psychologist
MACP, CCC
I am very glad that you are looking for help as seeking counselling takes tremendous courage.
I am often described as curious, compassionate, and caring. I enjoy hearing and engaging the stories and experiences of other people, and then exploring how I can come along my clients to help them understand their strengths and make the changes they desire. I am committed to the growth of my clients and enjoy seeing them flourish.
I have always had an interest in how people become who they are and the underlying reasons for their behaviour. My experience as a therapist and my studies in psychology have provided insight and expertise in how the mind, brain, body, and soul can interact with external factors to shape thoughts, feelings, and moods. I find that looking at situations and experiences with an understanding of the brain, memory and emotions can provide meaningful ways to understand experiences and lead to possibilities for change.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals, which sometimes means using client strengths so they can find solutions which work best for them. Each client is unique, and their needs are a motivating factor for me to learn and apply approaches which are most suitable for them. I have experience working with complex client situations, including complex trauma, complex PTSD, workplace burnout, anxiety, depression, adult ADHD, and providing therapy for intimate relationships. I also am skilled in working with people who have experienced trauma from a faith community. I am also able to use faith and religion as a resource for healing.
I bring myself and my experiences to serve you. In addition to my education and experience with clients, I also draw on my experience as a husband for over 26 years, a father of two young adults, and a range of career experiences including being a professional engineer and a pastor. I know the importance of family, friends, and work while navigating different stages of life and career. I have an interest in working with people to develop a life worth living as individuals, couples, and parents.
Derek's Training and Education
- Gottman Method for Couples Therapy – Level 1 & 2
- EMDR and Ego State Therapy
- Mindfulness
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy
- Solution Focused
- Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Providence Theological Seminary
- Master of Divinity from Regent College
- Bachelor of Applied Science from the University of Waterloo
Derek at Home
I enjoy spending time with my wife, young adult children, extended family members and friends. Regular exercise, walking, cycling, hiking, stand up paddleboarding, backcountry camping and skiing are some of the activities I find refreshing. I also enjoy giving back to my community through volunteering. I currently help facilitate a mindfulness meditation group. I have served as volunteer crisis line counsellor and as a volunteer firefighter.
I enjoy traveling, backcountry hiking, canoeing and camping.
Derek's Professional Affiliations
