Ryan Newman, RCC

I am in the business of helping people become themselves. In other words, I think that every person has a unique Self with distinct longings, desires, strengths, and core emotions. This Self sometimes becomes hidden, as we construct defenses to protect it from the pain that life brings.

It is my passion and joy to help people reconnect with who they really are. I’m honoured that you would consider inviting me to join you in this journey. It is a sacred privilege to discover what it means to live fully and freely.

I grew up as a sensitive child, but soon learned that expressing my emotions was not acceptable. I did not want to be perceived as weak, so I learned to repress my feelings and hide behind a guise of strength and stability. Eventually I became aware of this tendency and sought to reconnect with my inner child – the free, innocent boy that did not fear the gaze of others. I discovered that the only way I could do this was through relationships with caring others – the people in my life that I knew I could trust.

As I slowly learned to be open with those around me, I decided to pursue the field of counselling to similarly provide a space for those who are hurting and broken. Having experienced the power of human connection amidst life’s challenges, I dedicated my time and energy to understanding how best to meet others in their pain.

My Professional Biography

I completed my undergraduate education in Counselling and Human Services from Columbia Bible College. I earned my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Trinity Western University.

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor, and a member in good standing with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.

I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and couples with a variety of different concerns:

• Relationship issues
• Trauma and PTSD
• Depression and anxiety
• Issues related to spirituality, religion, faith, and existence
• Grief and bereavement
• Transitions and general life dissatisfaction

My Counselling Approach

Human relationships can be a tremendous source of joy and delight. However, they also can be a catalyst for significant pain and suffering. I believe that in the same way that hurt and shame can occur in the context of relationships, so can healing, restoration, and renewal. Because of this, I approach therapy with an attitude of warmth, compassion, and curiosity.

I operate from a lens that is highly relational and experiential, as I believe that change occurs when people experience something new and corrective in the here-and-now. I love having the privilege of walking alongside others in this way.

My counselling orientation is informed by the trainings I have completed, particularly Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP, level 1) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I find these models to be elegant, non-pathologizing approaches that harness our built-in movement toward healing and growth. I truly believe that we are wired to thrive, not just survive.

I also practice ketamine-assisted therapy through my connections with Upstream Health and would be happy to discuss this option more if it interests you.

I provide in person counselling in our Maple Ridge office (click here for our location), as well as virtually.​

Book a free consultation with me today.