Hello! I'm Cecilia.
At its heart, Cee Counselling is a place for healing, growth, and genuine connection. I'm a counsellor with a unique perspective, shaped by my 10+ years as an ICU nurse right here in Vancouver, at Vancouver General Hospital (VGH). This isn't just a profession for me; it's a deep-seated calling born from personal experience and a passionate drive to support those navigating life's toughest challenges.
What you'll find here: My website is designed to be a warm, welcoming guide to the support available to you. You'll discover individual counselling for challenges like stress, burnout, trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief. We offer family counseling that understands the intricate dynamics of relationships, including the significant role of Cantonese culture and heritage. And through psychoeducation, we'll demystify mental health, empowering you with knowledge and tools for resilience.
My mission is clear: to offer a safe, confidential space where your unique story is honored. Whether you're a dedicated healthcare professional facing immense pressure, a Cantonese speaker seeking culturally informed support, or a UBC student navigating academic and personal transitions, Cee Counselling is here to help you breathe, find your footing, and embrace a more wholehearted life. Through my counselling, and resources like my Amazon #1 Bestselling book, "Pee, Eat, and Breathe!", my commitment is to guide you towards profound well-being and lasting resilience.
My Journey from an ICU Nurse to a Therapist
To every nurse, every healthcare hero: I see you. I’ve lived the relentless pace, the profound responsibilities, the quiet battles fought in the face of immense pressure. For 10+ years, I stood at the frontline as an ICU nurse, experiencing firsthand the unique demands and heart-wrenching moments that shape those in our profession. When COVID-19 swept through our lives, I witnessed the immense toll it took – not just on patients, but on the incredible individuals pouring their hearts into care.
A deeply traumatic incident in the ICU ignited a fire within me. I felt an undeniable pull to protect my fellow nurses from similar invisible wounds. When my pleas for systemic support were met with silence, I realized I couldn't wait for permission. I chose courage. I created an initiative to provide vital support to nurses across Canada, born from a fierce passion to shield those who give so much. This work, fueled by determination, was even recognized with the Business in Vancouver Forty under 40 award, a testament to the urgent need for mental health support in healthcare.
My path from nurse to counsellor wasn't just a career change; it was a calling. It's about combining my 15 years of lived nursing expertise with dedicated counseling skills to truly understand the world you navigate. My aim? To help my fellow healthcare warriors build resilience, heal from compassion fatigue and moral injury, and restore their mental well-being amidst an often overwhelming environment. You don't have to carry it all alone. I've walked in your shoes, and I'm here to walk with you now.
And a Special Word to My Cantonese Community
Beyond my journey in healthcare, my heart holds a deep connection to Cantonese culture and language. I understand the nuanced layers of family dynamics, the unique challenges of new beginnings for immigrants from Hong Kong, and the powerful role culture plays in our mental and emotional well-being. This understanding is woven into every session, offering a space where your heritage is truly seen, respected, and embraced. Here, you can express yourself fully, in your mother tongue, knowing you are deeply understood.
Exciting News: My Book, "Pee, Eat, and Breathe!
I am absolutely thrilled to share a piece of my heart and experience with you through my book, "Pee, Eat, and Breathe!" This guide, now an Amazon #1 Bestseller, is a direct extension of my passion to support nurses.
In its pages, I combine my ICU nursing insights with practical counselling tools to help you prioritize your self-care, mental wellness, and resilience. Each chapter begins with relatable stories – because I know you'll recognize them – leading into actionable advice designed to empower you to thrive, both personally and professionally.
Why this book matters: Nurses face unique challenges every day. It's vital to acknowledge their impact on our mental and emotional health. My mission is to empower you to take charge of your well-being, so you can continue to deliver exceptional care without sacrificing yourself.
Ready to prioritize your well-being?
Email me for a FREE copy!
Order Now on Amazon!
I'd love to hear your thoughts on the book or connect on social media. Together, let's build a supportive community for nurses and anyone seeking a path to wholehearted well-being.