Kristen Johnston

At Juniper Counselling, we often speak about compassion as one of our core values — creating spaces where clients feel seen, supported, and safe. But not all compassion is created equal. In fact, there’s a term coined by Tibetan Buddhist teacher Chögyam Trungpa that captures this beautifully: idiot compassion. While it may sound harsh at […]

When you’re looking for a therapist you will inevitably see the phrase “You are welcome here.” It’s often intended as a gesture of inclusivity, a way to create a safe atmosphere and affirm that all identities, stories, and struggles are invited into the room. However, this well-meaning phrase subtly reinforces a dynamic we at Juniper

At Juniper Counselling Port Moody, we often say that therapy is a journey—not a quick fix. One of the most common questions we hear is, “How often should I come?” or “How long will this take?” The answer depends on a few personal factors, but there’s one thing that research and experience agree on: consistency

Mental health support shouldn’t make you feel broken.And yet, many people who walk through the doors of therapy have already internalized the idea that something is “wrong” with them—that they are flawed, sick, or damaged. But what if healing didn’t begin with fixing?What if it began with remembering your wholeness? At Juniper Counselling, we believe

If you’ve ever felt like therapy was too clinical, too fast, or just didn’t “get you,” trauma-informed counselling might offer the safety and understanding you’ve been looking for. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or a loved one, this approach centres your experience, dignity, and emotional safety. Juniper Counselling in Port Moody specializes in trauma-informed

When we talk about the “mental load” of parenting, the spotlight often falls on mothers—and for good reason. But there’s another side to the story that often goes unnoticed: the invisible workload of dads. These are the quiet responsibilities, emotional labour, and constant mental tabs that many fathers carry in the background. And just because

Grief is a deeply personal journey, and no two experiences are exactly the same. Whether you’re mourning the loss of a loved one (human or pet), navigating a divorce, or adjusting to a major life change, the weight of grief can feel overwhelming. At Juniper Counselling in Port Moody, we offer gentle, trauma-informed support to

If you’re searching for anxiety counselling near me or feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, you’re not alone—and support is closer than you think. At Juniper Counselling, we offer compassionate, evidence-based anxiety therapy in Port Moody to help you feel more grounded, confident, and in control. Whether anxiety shows up as racing thoughts, sleep problems, constant worry,

Nutritional psychiatry reframes food as medicine for the mind. Guided by experts like Dr. Uma Naidoo, you can use nutrition to support mental wellness. Pair these with lifestyle strategies (sleep, movement, therapy) to build a foundation for lasting mental health. Nutritional Psychiatry: Why Food Is More Than Fuel Nutritional psychiatry is the emerging field that

Thinking about seeing a therapist but not quite sure where to start—or even why you want to? You’re not alone. Maybe life just feels harder than usual. Or you’re tired, overwhelmed, stuck, or simply curious about how to feel better. Whatever brought you here, reaching out for support is a powerful first step—and you don’t