NOTICE: Retirement Announcement Shirley Friesen will be retiring from her psychology practice in British Columbia, effective March 31, 2027.

Shirley will continue to be available to her current clients until that date. She is committed to continue to support her clients and help them process this difficult time of change and transitions. As she transitions into retirement from psychological practice, she may offer a limited number of executive coaching opportunities going forward.

Clients who are experiencing difficulty scheduling appointments are encouraged to contact Shirley directly and she will ensure that you are heard, supported, and cared for as always. Individuals considering becoming new clients should be aware that services will be limited to short-term therapy, with treatment plans tailored accordingly.

Shirley is committed to supporting her clients through this transition. Both current and former clients will be provided with referrals and recommendations for psychologists who are accepting new clients. Where appropriate, assistance with transitioning to a new therapist, including an introduction, may also be available.

Thank you for the trust you have placed in Shirley and for the opportunity to be part of your journey. Your understanding and support during this transition are sincerely appreciated.

Shirley is a highly respected Registered Psychologist (BC #1013471) with over 30 years of experience in providing comprehensive mental health services. Specializing in cognitive-behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based approaches, she works with adults from all ages and stages of life, facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions such as ageing, career transitions, retirement prepping and adapting, parenting, relationship navigating, workplace burnout/conflicts, and support for medical health challenges (i.e. IVF, weight loss programs etc.). Shirley is known for her empathetic and solution-focused methods, helping clients build resilience and achieve their personal goals. Committed to ongoing professional development, she regularly participates in workshops and conferences to integrate the latest psychological research into her practice.

Feeling Stuck? Let’s work together toward growth and lasting change. If you’re dealing with anxiety, overwhelm, or depression you’re not alone—and there’s a way forward. I’m here to provide professional support that’s compassionate, non-judgmental, and grounded in science. I specialize in working with adults, usually professionals in their 20s to 80s, who want to feel more connected/balanced, and content with their lives and relationships.

My experience is broad and I have worked in Psychiatric centres, correctional facilities, health and wellness industries, and private practise. As well, I have experience in as an executive Board Member and have background and insight into accommodations, human rights, strategy and policy, and labour relations.

My goal is to help you feel safe, heard, and empowered. In our sessions, we’ll get to the heart of what’s keeping you stuck. Together, we can create a plan that fits your unique needs, helping you gain clarity, break free from what’s holding you back, and move toward a fulfilling, confident future. If you’re ready for change, let’s take that step together. I am known for my ability to bring clarity and make complex topics approachable and relatable, using an evidence based, tailored approach to guide individuals toward meaningful, sustainable change.

NOTICE: Retirement Announcement Shirley Friesen will be retiring from her psychology practice in ... Read More

My work is built on the principles of Carl Rogers’ core conditions, and I’m a big believer in showing up as authentic and genuine as I can with you. When it comes to counselling or any kind of self-work, it can be difficult if it feels like you’re being sold something or being handed some generic tips to follow that leave you feeling misunderstood. This is why I place strong emphasis on showing up as a genuine person and building a strong working relationship with you before trying to tackle the big-ticket items.

Counselling with me is collaborative and involves shared goal setting and frequent progress monitoring. Early sessions typically focus on understanding where you are coming from and establishing a strong foundation of regulation strategies to help you manage day-to-day and become more resilient. When this feels sufficient, we will work towards the goals we’ve set together and look at some bigger picture meaning and purpose pieces. My goal is to equip you with the skills and outlook so that I’m no longer needed.

I currently offer virtual sessions ranging from 50-80 minutes. If working with me sounds like a good fit, you can book a free consultation here or if you have any questions first, you can reach out to me at Jordan@goinginsidecounselling.ca.

My work is built on the principles of Carl Rogers’ core conditions, and I’m a big believer in sho... Read More