Couples Therapy In Kelowna
What is Couples Therapy?
Couples therapy at Crossroads Collective in Kelowna offers a supportive path for you and your partner to foster a healthier, more fulfilling relationship. Regardless of the stage of your relationship or the challenges you face, this type of therapy provides a space to enhance communication, deepen emotional connections, and resolve conflicts effectively.
If your relationship is experiencing turbulence, couples therapy could be a turning point. It provides a platform for you and your partner to openly express feelings, discuss issues, and navigate conflicts under the guidance of a skilled therapist. By promoting understanding, respect, affection, and intimacy, it paves the way for a rejuvenated partnership.
Engaging in couples therapy in Kelowna provides a platform for you and your partner to express yourselves openly, discuss issues, and navigate conflicts with professional guidance. This form of therapy enhances understanding, respect, affection, and intimacy, leading to a stronger, happier relationship.
Strategies Used in Crossroads Collective Couples Therapy
Therapists at our Kelowna clinic utilize a blend of techniques to address specific relationship dynamics while adapting techniques based on individual couple needs:
- Building rapport: Creating a safe and understanding environment.
- Identifying and expressing emotions: Helping partners articulate their feelings.
- Exploring the past: Understanding backgrounds to resolve current conflicts.
- Solution-focused therapy: Concentrating on resolving issues and enhancing relationship dynamics.
- Skill development: Including training in anger management, conflict resolution, and problem-solving.
Diverse Therapeutic Approaches Available in Kelowna
Couples therapy encompasses various methods tailored to the unique needs of each couple:
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): This method enhances attachment and bonding by addressing emotional patterns that cause disconnection.
- Gottman Method: Focused on conflict resolution and skill-building, this approach aims to strengthen the friendship and intimacy in your relationship.
- Ellen Wachtel’s Approach: A strength-based strategy that encourages positive recognition and self-reflection.
- Psychodynamic Couple’s Therapy: This explores deeper emotional motivations and fears to foster better mutual understanding.
- Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (BCT/CBCT): These therapies aim to modify behavior through positive reinforcement and thought pattern transformation.
Starting Couples Therapy at Crossroads Collective
- To begin couples therapy at Crossroads Collective in Kelowna, discuss with your partner the potential benefits and agree to pursue therapy together. Choose a therapist who both partners feel comfortable with, ensuring the sessions fit your schedules and location preferences. Prepare to engage actively in the therapeutic process to maximize the benefits for your relationship.
DEMOGRAPHIC: Children, Youth, Adults, Couples, Group Therapy, Seniors
SPECIALTIES: Anxiety, Depression, Music Integrated Therapy, Play Therapy, Self Esteem, Life Transitions, Trauma, Mindfulness Based Techniques
Amanda Morazain, MA
MA Counselling Psychology, RCC, CCC, Clinical Counsellor
Languages: English
Many of us feel stuck in our daily lives, not knowing exactly how to get the progress that we want. Depression, anxiety, and trauma can hold us back from where we deserve to be and can negatively affect our well-being and relationships. No two people are the same and it is my goal to help you recognize your own unique strengths, integrating a case-specific approach to create your unique therapy plan. I am here to offer mental health support in a non-judgmental, friendly, and compassionate space.
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I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and licensed with the BCACC with an RCC designation. I am also registered with the CCPA and have a CCC designation. I am a member of the BC Chapter of the Association of Family Conciliation Courts.
Additionally, I am registered as a counsellor with the Crime Victim Assistance Program and have further training and certification in Trauma-Focused CBT to be able to help those who have symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, fear, anxiety, or depression, related to traumatic life events.
I am part of the Crossroads Collective High Conflict team which specializes in working with families who are navigating heightened levels of conflict, and/or have been court-involved. I am trauma-informed and have specialized knowledge and extensive training in high-conflict family dynamics.
I have experience working with clients who are neurodivergent and recognize the unique differences that come with that. I have supported children, youth, and adults with ADHD, Autism, ODD, and OCD.
I have a play therapy certificate and love working with kids to offer mental health support in a fun, friendly, and compassionate space. Trained in the foundations of play therapy, I use this method to help children express and process their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, while guiding them in building coping skills and emotional regulation.
As an option, I am able to meld my two passions: psychology and music to offer music-integrated therapy. This can be particularly useful in calming the autonomic nervous system, reducing anxiety, and building self-confidence and competency through a creative outlet that brings joy.
Some Specific Types of Therapy I Offer:
– Child and Youth Counselling
-Trauma Therapy
-Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
– Play Therapy
– Couples Therapy
– Virtual as well as In-Person
– Music-integrated Therapy
Some of the areas I can support you with include:
– Trauma
– Anxiety
– Depression
– Building self-confidence, self-esteem, and sense of self
– Parenting
– Relationships
– Time management
– Stress management
– Goal setting
– Mindfulness based techniques
– Health and wellness
– Personal development
– Life Transitions
– Burnout
DEMOGRAPHIC: Toddler, Child, Youth, Adult, Adults 65+ Individual and Groups
SPECIALTIES: Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Ideation, Low self-worth,Confidence Relationship and couples/Physical and Mental abuse
Gurdeep Patara, RPC, CT
Diploma of Applied Psychology and Counselling
Languages: English and Punjabi
It’s my goal and passion in life to help people heal, grow, and navigate through periods of transitions in their lives.
Whether you’re dealing with pain from the loss of a loved one. Or a recent job loss or career change. When the family dynamics that change and can be a surprise. The feelings that can come from being lonely or afraid. The crippling anxiety that can come from something new and strange happening in your life. The times that you’re too depressed to get out of bed and start your day. When the daily stresses can turn into physical pain.
My passion is to help people maneuver through all the obstacles with compassion and empathy in an open and calm setting.
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There are many different challenges that can come up in life, and it is my goal to help you through it by working together in a collaborative approach that gives you the skills and confidence to navigate life and all it has to offer.
As an Indo-Canadian I have experience with being brought up in two wildly different cultures. That knowledge has helped me to gain an understanding of cultural differences and how we are all raised with different beliefs and that one belief does not trump another. Gaining perspective of how multi-culturalism has helped shaped who we are today. Which allows me to help all types of people in whatever situation they can be in. I believe that with my education and personal experience it has allowed me to hone my skills to help others and gave me the tools I need to help people get the necessary confidence to create change for themselves in a way that aligns with their culture and beliefs.
The following list below are my areas of specialization:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder in children and Adults
- ADHD in Children and Adults
- Individual Counselling
- Personal development
- Assertiveness / Boundaries
- Depression, anxiety & panic disorders
- Suicidal Ideation
- Suicide Crisis Intervention
- Past or recent trauma
- Mental and or Physical abuse
- Low self-worth/ Confidence / Self esteem
- Relationship and couples counselling
- Drug and Alcohol Addictions
- Gender dysphoria and transitions & other issues
- 2SLGBTQIA+ Support
- Communication building
- Grief/ Loss counselling
- Career planning
DEMOGRAPHIC: Couples, Children, Adults, Family Therapy
SPECIALTIES: Relational Issues (Couples, Parental, Etc.), Anxiety, Depression, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Autism, Pre/Post Natal Issues, Life Transitions, Neurodivergence, Behavioural, Emotional Regulation, Intimacy Issues
Rubynoor Sohal, MFT
MA-Marriage and Family Therapy, Pre-Licenced Psychotherapist
Languages: English and Punjabi
Every relationship encounters challenges, but the right support can turn these moments into opportunities for deeper understanding and growth. I specialize in guiding couples through the complexities of their relationship, helping you not only overcome difficulties but build a connection that’s stronger, more resilient, and more loving than ever before.
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I take a systemic, integrative approach, blending evidence-based methods like Structural and Behavioral Family Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Emotion-Focused Therapy to uncover the root causes of conflict. Together, we’ll work through communication barriers, unmet emotional needs, and life transitions that may be hindering your relationship’s growth. Whether you’re navigating daily stress, intimacy struggles, or parenting challenges, I’m here to help you rediscover balance and reignite the love and partnership you truly desire.
Here are some areas where we can focus together:
- Conflict Resolution: Transform arguments into moments of connection and mutual understanding.
- Emotional Connection: Rekindle the intimacy that strengthens your bond and sense of security.
- Healthy Communication: Cultivate clear, empathetic conversations that allow both voices to be heard.
- Affection & Intimacy: Reawaken the closeness and physical connection that builds a fulfilling partnership.
- Parenting Support: Strengthen your co-parenting strategies to align your approach and create a cohesive family dynamic.
- Prenatal & Postpartum Care: Navigate the life-changing transition to parenthood with confidence, support, and ease.
My approach is collaborative and deeply empathetic—I work with you and your partner to meet you where you are, ensuring every session is tailored to your specific needs and goals. I bring cultural sensitivity to my practice, honoring your unique experiences, backgrounds, and values while focusing on what truly matters to you both. Together, we’ll explore healthier patterns of relating, building a relationship that feels emotionally secure, deeply connected, and empowered.
Let’s take the first step toward the partnership you deserve—where both of you feel seen, heard, and supported.
DEMOGRAPHIC: Children, Youth, Adults and Families
SPECIALTIES: Children, Youth, Family Therapy and Parenting Support, New Parents, Couples, Adults
Katerina Medina, MA
Registered Clinical Counsellor, RCC
Languages: English & Czech
As a couples counsellor, my work is grounded in evidence-based approaches that honor both the science and the emotional complexity of relationships. Drawing from the Gottman Method, Family Systems Therapy, and Attachment Theory, I support couples in building stronger, more resilient connections by helping them understand and change the patterns that keep them feeling stuck or disconnected.
Whether you’re navigating conflict, life transitions, betrayal, or disconnection, my approach is collaborative, non-judgmental, and tailored to your unique relationship. Together, we’ll work to strengthen your emotional bond, rebuild trust, and create the kind of partnership that feels safe, fulfilling, and connected.
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I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) through BCACC. I completed my master’s degree in general psychology from Harvard University, placing on the Dean’s list. After graduation, I completed a 16-course diploma program specializing in clinical counselling.
With training in the Gottman Method, I offer practical tools to improve communication, manage conflict, and deepen emotional intimacy. I help partners recognize destructive patterns—like criticism, defensiveness, and withdrawal—and replace them with habits that foster trust, respect, and mutual understanding.
Using Attachment Theory, I focus on the emotional bonds that form the foundation of every relationship. Whether a couple is struggling with anxiety, avoidance, or insecurity in their connection, I help them build secure attachment through vulnerability, responsiveness, and emotional attunement.
My background in Family Systems Therapy allows me to view each couple within the broader context of their family histories and intergenerational influences. I help partners uncover how their family of origin dynamics may be playing out in their current relationship and guide them in creating healthier ways of relating.
Building a Strong Foundation
A solid relationship starts with friendship and mutual understanding. I would love to help with strengthening the emotional connection between you and your partner, managing conflict with respect, nurturing positive interactions, creating a safe space for open communication, overcoming negative patterns, de-escalating conflicts, and embracing your individual differences.
Whether you want to tackle specific challenges or simply enrich your partnership, couples counseling can help you create a deeper, more fulfilling relationship. I’m here to support you both on this journey and look forward to helping you build a lasting connection.
DEMOGRAPHIC: Youth, Adults
SPECIALTIES: Personal Development, Assertiveness / Boundaries, Adult ADHD tools/support for suspected diagnosis, Depression, Anxiety, Phobias, Relationship and Couples Counselling, Pre-Marital Counselling, Life transitions, Issues Facing Older Adults, Grief Counselling – Group and Individual
Eleanor McAlpine
MA Counselling Psychology, RCC
Languages: English
Relationships are a bit like owning a car. You do your initial research before committing to buy a certain vehicle. Then you get yourself set up to experience the best automobile health that you can experience. From time to time there are breakdowns but overall, with maintenance and regular checks, a good car can take you anywhere you need to go.
Just like automobile maintenance, good relationships take effort. Communication, emotional safety, shared values, and the skills to navigate conflict with compassion are buildable components. Couples often come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to talk about the hard things without making them harder. My space is calm and supportive, a place where each partner can be heard, understood, and guided toward stronger connection.
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I use a strengths-based and positive psychology approach, helping couples identify what’s working, what needs care, and how to build the relationship they actually want. Together, we set clear goals, practice communication skills, and learn how to regulate the nervous system during conflict. I have been influenced by the practical connection building teachings of the Gottmans.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with a BA in Counselling from Providence University College and an MA in Counselling from Kairos University. I am completing a post-graduate certificate in Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. My additional certifications include trauma therapy, anxiety treatment, grief support, and Grief Movement Coaching. My practice is Indigenous-informed, shaped by learning through NAIITS, where I studied Indigenous theology and relational healing.
I specialize in pre-marital counselling and new-relationship coaching, helping couples establish healthy patterns from the beginning: communication habits, conflict skills, emotional transparency, values alignment, and shared life planning. My approach is direct, encouraging, and grounded in real-world experience: I have been married for 40 years, and I understand both the beauty and the challenges of a long-term partnership.
I also support couples navigating stress, communication issues, neurodivergence in one or both partners, family dynamics, grief, and life transitions. Many couples notice that therapy helps them feel more connected, less reactive, and more hopeful about their future together.
Areas of support for couples & partners:
• Pre-marital counselling & new-relationship coaching
• Communication skills & conflict repair
• Emotional regulation during disagreements
• Navigating neurodivergence within relationships
• Rebuilding trust & strengthening connection
• Family communication, parenting differences & extended-family stress
• Grief, loss & relational impact
• Values exploration & long-term planning
• Relationship maintenance for couples at any stage
DEMOGRAPHIC: Children, Youth, Adults, Families, and Couples
SPECIALTIES: Anxiety, Depression, Emotional Regulation, Family Reconnection, Play Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Neurodiverse Individuals, Creative Movement, Relationship Communication & Conflict Resolution, Trust & Intimacy Issues, Couple Emotional Regulation
Amanda De Paiva
Intern Counselor
Languages: English
Sometimes relationships face challenges that leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Whether you’re navigating communication difficulties, rebuilding trust, or managing individual stressors affecting your partnership, having the right support can make all the difference. I will work alongside you and your partner to create a safe and compassionate space where you both can feel heard, understood, and begin to strengthen your connection.
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I am currently a student intern counsellor at Crossroads Collective in Kelowna, BC, while completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I hold an educational background in Child and Youth Care and have gained valuable experience supporting individuals, families, and couples in clinical and community settings. As an intern, I receive regular clinical supervision that supports my growth and ensures safe, ethical, and effective care.
Outside of counselling, I enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors. I also have a background in competitive dance and creative movement, which informs my appreciation for expressive, body-based approaches to therapy.
My Approach to Counselling:
I offer an integrative, client-centred, and trauma-informed approach with a focus on relationship dynamics and connection. I deeply respect each partner’s unique story, strengths, and experiences, and work collaboratively to foster understanding and empathy between partners. Grounded in Adlerian principles, I emphasize encouragement, belonging, and purposeful living, exploring how family and relational patterns influence the couple’s interactions.
My goal is to help couples increase emotional awareness, improve communication, and build deeper, more authentic connections. By guiding couples to reframe their shared narratives and understand each other’s perspectives, I support healing, empowerment, and resilience within the relationship.
When working with couples, I focus on creating a safe space where both partners feel heard and valued. I use a compassionate, strength-based approach to help couples navigate challenges such as conflict, trust issues, emotional disconnection, and life transitions. Together, we explore ways to rebuild intimacy, enhance partnership, and develop effective coping strategies that support long-term relationship health.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about our couples therapy services or wish to learn more about Crossroads Collective in Kelowna, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our dedicated team is here to assist and support you through challenging times in your relationship.
We are here to support you along your journey.
We are now accepting both virtual appointments as well as in-person appointments. Click below and schedule your first visit today!