Meet Sean M.

About

My name is Sean (he/him), and I have mixed settler ancestry. I was raised on the unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan Nation (otherwise known as Vernon), near the Okanagan Indian Band. I currently have the privilege of living and working as an uninvited visitor on the traditional territories of the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees and Xʷsepsəm/Esquimalt) and W̱SÁNEĆPeoples, also known as Victoria. I am completing my PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Victoria.

Alongside my clinical work, my research focuses on intimate partner violence (IPV) within sexual and gender minority relationships, with particular attention to how discrimination, minority stress, and experiences of marginalization shape health and wellbeing. Outside of my work, I enjoy running, playing Scrabble, hiking, and spending time with friends.

Counselling approach

I approach counselling from an integrative, person-centred perspective grounded in cultural humility, trauma-informed care, and attention to the broader social and systemic contexts that shape people’s lives. I draw particularly from emotionally focused therapy (EFT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and narrative therapy, while incorporating cognitive-behavioural principles when helpful.

I strive to create a collaborative and affirming space where clients feel understood, respected, and supported in exploring their experiences and goals. To date, I have supported individuals navigating concerns including:

•      Anxiety
•      Depression
•      Trauma
•      Chronic pain
•      Interpersonal difficulties
•      Gender identity and expression

Conflict of Interest Statement

Students I have worked with through research or teaching should be aware that I am unable to see them as clients due to a potential conflict of interest.