Karmen Skrajnar
- Accepting new clients: YES
- Availaibility: Mon-Fri 4:30-8:30PM. Sat-Sun 9-3PM
- Accreditation: Registered Clinical Counsellor 19937
- Spoken Languages: English, Slovenian
- Therapy Formats: Individual/Virtual Therapy
- Clientele: Young adults aged 18 and older, extending support to individuals through their senior years.
Originally from Slovenia, Karmen has called Canada home for nearly two decades, and this experience has instilled in her a deep appreciation for personal connections. She is dedicated to creating safe spaces where meaningful dialogues can unfold. At the heart of her counselling philosophy is the belief that a strong therapeutic relationship thrives when a client feels heard, understood, and respected.
With a background in harm reduction, Karmen brings a wealth of experience to her counselling practice. She specializes in offering support to those dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, substance use challenges, struggles with self-worth, body image issues, and eating disorders. Karmen’s expertise encompasses guiding individuals in making well-informed career choices, effectively managing workplace stress, and strategically planning their professional development. She also offers support to people who are new to Canada, drawing from her own experiences as an immigrant to Canada. Additionally, Karmen provides compassionate counselling for older adults who may be facing feelings of isolation and other age-related challenges.
Karmen’s practice is rooted in person-centered therapy, prioritizing the client’s journey and unique needs, and meeting individuals wherever they are on their unique path. She aims to create an environment where growth, healing, and self-discovery can flourish.
“Counselling, to me, is more than a profession; it’s my vocation. In each session, I aim to create a safe space for vulnerability, recognizing the immense courage it requires. As we engage in a continuous dialogue during counselling, I guide and support clients as they take the lead in crafting their narrative, fostering an atmosphere of openness and authenticity. Central to this process is my belief that authenticity is key to building self-worth. I actively encourage clients to embrace their true selves, strengths, and flaws alike, laying the foundation for genuine self-acceptance.
My integrative counselling approach involves drawing from diverse therapeutic techniques and perspectives. I customize interventions based on each client’s unique needs, incorporating methods like cognitive-behavioral techniques, psychodynamic exploration, and mindfulness practices. This flexibility allows me to address various aspects of the client’s experience and adapt my approach to their evolving needs. Above all, I believe the key lies not in the therapeutic approach we use, but in the counsellor’s core identity. I believe that genuine change comes from the real connection, empathy, and sincere rapport built between the counsellor and the client.
In addition to providing support for anxiety, depression, grief, disordered eating, feelings of isolation, and more, I also work with people to strengthen their sense of self-worth. With a background in harm reduction, I deeply value supporting those navigating substance use challenges. Meeting people where they are in their journey, I approach this work with compassion and a commitment to providing a non-judgmental space. I refrain from imposing expectations, recognizing the importance of honoring each person’s unique path to healing and growth. This aspect of my practice is particularly dear to my heart, emphasizing the importance of honoring diverse paths to fulfillment.
Approaching every therapeutic encounter with humility, I deeply value the trust placed in me to hear and honor clients’ experiences and challenges. I look forward to sharing a therapeutic space with you and helping you find your inner peace and fulfillment.”