Dr. Riva Coupland

Psychologist

When it comes to the human experience, one size does not fit all. It is with this spirit that Dr. Coupland approaches her work, and as such she tailors her therapeutic approach to adapt to the unique needs, challenges and personality of each individual client. This process involves drawing on various therapeutic traditions (including cognitive behavioural, person-centred, Gestalt, solution-focused, trauma-focused, and psychodynamic models as appropriate), and enhancing the process with the use of creativity, humour and metaphor.

Dr. Coupland has worked in a variety of settings within the healthcare and non-profit sectors, including community-based mental health services, early intervention and inpatient psychosis units, hospitals and GP services. In these settings she has had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients facing a variety of mental health-related challenges, including anxiety (such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, worry, panic, agoraphobia), obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, low self-esteem, anger management, loss and grief, postpartum distress, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, chronic pain, psychosis and schizophrenia, ADHD, bipolar disorders and borderline personality disorder. Dr. Coupland is also experienced in working with police officers, RCMP members, and military veterans, and worked as an in-house psychologist at the Victoria Police Department for two years.

Attending therapy can sometimes feel a little intimidating or uncomfortable for many people, which is why Dr. Coupland places great importance on creating a safe, judgement-free, collaborative space where you can prioritize what is important to you and what you want to achieve in your work with her.

Dr. Coupland is licensed with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (CHCPBC).