Nicole Makin

About Nicole

For as long as I can remember, I sensed the pain and struggles of people around me and recognized the human potential to heal families and communities, through honest communication and willingness to change. As a result of my own journey of self-discovery and inner repair, which was greatly aided by the help of a skilled and loving therapist, I was called to the field of counselling psychology in 2007.

After extensive training and practice in multidisciplinary teams, in both residential and outpatient settings, I became a clinical supervisor and manager for a national program that provided services to families dealing with trauma, addictions and related mental health issues.

In 2017, I made the move to explore my identity as a private practitioner. A number of individuals, who believe in the work I do and understand the positive impact of quality counselling on the course of people's lives, contributed to the development of Clear Coast Counselling. I am still grateful for and encouraged by their vision and assistance.

I welcome adults of all ages and backgrounds, to my practice.  I offer my grounded presence, treating people with kindness, respect and dignity. Through careful and compassionate listening, I work with clients to develop the understanding and tools needed to navigate the crisis they are faced with and move forward with their lives in a meaningful way.

I counsel in a manner that invites curiosity, paying attention to the body's signals and working with what naturally arises. I tailor my approach to suit individual needs, using a blend of mindfulness, EMDR, and somatic therapies, as well as DBT. Every person has natural strengths and resources, and exploring and enhancing those with clients is one of my favorite parts of the work.

I participate in regular consultation (with client's permission) to ensure that I am providing the most effective care possible. I regularly engage in training in the trauma and mental health field, in order to stay current in my theory, skills and ethics. I am also an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) through the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors with a commitment to assisting other Registered Clinical Counsellors to provide trauma-informed care.

I strongly believe that a therapist's level of wellness and consciousness directly influences what is possible for their clients. I am committed to my own personal growth and deep self-care practices, which allow me to conduct my work effectively and with heart. I enjoy simple pleasures in life such roaming in nature with friends, taking in arts and culture, paddle boarding with my dog, writing poetry and pursuing other creative endeavors.

I acknowledge the beautiful lands on which I reside as unceded Coast Salish territory. My work to unlearn the ways of dominance culture is active and ongoing.

Nicole Makin is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Bachelor of Social Work and a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology.
"Joy in what we do is not an added feature; it's a sign of deep health."
— Mark Nepo

Get in touch

--Currently unable to welcome new clients as waitlist is full. --
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Office Hours are Monday to Wednesday 9am-5pm and Thursdays 9am-3pm (with the exception of stat holidays). Messages received outside these hours will be returned on the next office day. Thank you.
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Office location

550 - 2950 Douglas Street,
Victoria, BC V8T 4N4


Free Parking
Wheelchair accessible

Located at the Evergreen Business Center, behind Lifestyle Markets in the upper level of the Douglas Center.