Wes McVey

Wes is inspired by the strength shown by anyone (young people in particular) brave enough to engage in therapy and accept the vulnerability required. He strives to match this courage while walking with clients in pursuit of their self-directed goals. Wes’ primary tools as a therapist include a deep sense of curiosity, non-judgmental openness, and expressive empathy. His approach is rooted in principles of collaboration and empowerment underlying Person-Centered Therapy for individuals, and Narrative Therapy for couples and families, while also offering therapeutic techniques from multiple other modalities when supported by evidence – commonly including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.

The lenses Wes see through have been coloured primarily by his experiences as a son, brother, husband and father. Also influential has been his 15 years of work as a youth probation officer and practice analyst with the Ministry of Children and Family Development. Every unique person and group Wes came across in that work brought strengths that could be enhanced alongside any problems to address. The only meaningful assistance he ever provided them depended upon developing trusting relationships, and then a deep understanding of a client’s context. Wes has relied upon clients as the experts of their own lives to guide me towards that deeper understanding.

Secondary to influences of his personal and professional experiences, his therapeutic approach was developed while completing a Master of Arts Degree at the University of Victoria’s School of Child and Youth Care, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology at Simon Fraser University.

When not at the office, you are likely to find Wes on nearby trails, hiking, biking or skiing, or at the ice rink, playing or coaching hockey.

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