Brandon James
Individual Counsellor/Therapist
Registered Social Worker*
Pronouns: He/Him
About My Practice
As an individual therapist, I work collaboratively with adults of all ages and genders to explore and support neurodivergence, well-being, and self-esteem. My work is grounded in a deep respect for each person’s unique experience and a passion for supporting meaningful change through understanding, self-compassion, and connection.
Areas of Focus
I have a strong interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals navigating a wide range of experiences, including:
Anxiety and depression
Stressful life transitions
Loneliness and social isolation
Shame, self-criticism, and burnout
Insomnia and sleep difficulties
Addictive patterns and behaviours
Existential concerns and questions of meaning
Many of the clients I work with are Autistic, ADHD, and/or gifted (formally or self-identified). Together, we will work toward deepening self-compassion, strengthening emotional awareness, resilience, and a sense of grounded identity, including reconnecting with qualities like clarity, steadiness, curiosity, and care for yourself and others.
My Approach
In our work together, I bring a warm, curious and grounded approach. I aim to create a space where you can slow things down, make sense of what you’re experiencing, and talk openly without pressure to perform or have things figured out.
We will explore your lived experiences in the context of your values, life history, and current stressors. This often includes making sense of patterns around pressure, responsibility, self-criticism, disconnection, or difficulty accessing rest and ease. I support you in building a clearer understanding of your internal world so you can respond to life with more intention, steadiness, and self-trust.
My work is integrative, strengths-based, and person-centered, with a strong foundation in compassion and cultural safety. I draw from several therapeutic modalities, including Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). I am also informed by Polyvagal Theory and trauma-Informed principles of care. These approaches allow me to tailor therapy to your unique needs while supporting nervous system awareness, emotional regulation, and self-understanding.
Identity & Values
As a second-generation immigrant and white settler, I hold awareness of the ways systemic forces such as colonization, migration, and inequality shape mental health and lived experience. I strive to provide a therapeutic space that is inclusive, culturally responsive, and attentive to these broader contexts.
Outside of my role in this practice, I have several years of experience offering supportive and therapeutic counselling for youth and adults clients in primary care and community settings.
Availability
I currently have availability for new clients and look forward to connecting with you.
*Registered Social Worker (British Columbia College of Social Workers #15020)
Fees
Individual/Couple/Family Counselling:
$160 per 50 minute session, covered by some private insurance plans. Direct billing to Autism Funding is available.
Credentials
Education
Master of Social Work (MSW), University of British Columbia
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), University of British Columbia
Bachelor of Arts (Philosophy), University of British Columbia.
Additional Training
Internal Family Systems Therapy Level 1 Training Program (91 hours). IFS Institute.
Certificate in Compassion Focused Therapy Essentials (18 hours). The Association for Psychological Therapies.
Certificate in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Essentials (18 hours). The Association for Psychological Therapies.
Certificate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (19 hours). PESI Canada, Inc.
Trauma-Informed Practice Training: Level 1 and 2 (11.5 hours). Trauma Informed Practice Institute.