Who Am I?

Rethink is a private counselling service operated by me, Doug Elliott.

Originally from Toronto, Ontario, I moved to Vancouver in 1994. I have a wealth of experience working with people, both in and out of the field of psychology. My colleagues tell me that I bring a lot of positive energy and humour into their lives and this is reflected in my practice.

In my free time, I enjoy music and playing the piano, baking bread and any opportunity to get outdoors to hike, snowboard, and work in my garden.

My Education and Experience

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) (see below for an explanation of what that means). In addition to my private practice, I have about 14 years of experience in the healthcare field, specifically helping people with substance misuse and recovery.

I hold a Masters of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology from City University. I have also received specialized training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), individual and group psychotherapy, human sexuality, family systems, Narrative and Solution Focused therapy, managing alcohol and substance misuse (across youth and adults), marital therapy, mood disorders, anger management, and dream interpretation.

I have undertaken extensive training and have a diploma in North America’s only program on Existential Analysis, a type of therapy that helps people make fundamental decisions towards acquiring a deeper understanding of their lives. To learn more about Existential analysis, click the button below:

What is a Registered Clinical Counsellor?

A Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) is (1) a fully qualified mental health professional with a minimum of a Master’s degree in counselling psychology or related studies, and (2) a registered member of the B.C. Association of Clinical Counsellors. This association maintains high standards that ensure the safety and well being of clients.

Sometimes called the “talking cure”, both counselling and psychotherapy take the form of conversations between the client and counsellor. This is a collaborative process in which the client discusses their concerns, problems, and current challenges. At all times, the needs of the client are paramount. The counsellor’s job is to assist the client in understanding and exploring the choices available to them, and to consider new possibilities.

Regulations governing the counselling field in BC are currently under review by the Health Professions Council. Please ensure the counsellor you want to see is properly trained and licensed by a governing body (e.g., as a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) through the B.C. Association of Clinical Counsellors, or as a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling Association).