Dr. Villeena Villantheran
Hi! I’m Villeena, a Post-Doctoral Clinician here at North Shore CBT Centre. With a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, I offer both in-person and online treatment for youth (8+) and adults
under the supervision of Dr. Jennifer Campbell, R.Psych.
I am a firm believer in the potential for everyone to lead fulfilling lives. Yet, when we find ourselves constantly struggling with difficult thoughts and emotions, it is easy to feel trapped in our circumstances. Intense emotions and persistent thoughts can take us on an unpleasant ride, leaving us feeling exhausted and demoralised. We then become our own harshest critics, constantly beating ourselves up for not being “good enough”. Just like that, we are trapped in a vicious cycle that can get us down, leading us to behave in ways that push us further away from those closest to us and even ourselves. Feelings of inadequacy can make decisions hard, further reinforcing the idea that nothing will change. But you are here reading this, so you have already made the decision to change things and that is where I come in! My clinical training and experience will help me support you with anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), trauma, eating disorders, and emotion regulation difficulties.
In our sessions, I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to voice the unwanted thoughts and emotions that pop up every day. Together, we will learn to accept and work with all the different parts of you – the ones you like and the ones you do not – and explore your goals, values, and strengths to shape the life you want. Therapy can be uncomfortable at times, as we uncover intense emotions and recognise coping styles that no longer work. I will lean into the discomfort with you and walk you through accepting the tough parts of being human. However, I also believe in the value of ease and play, so expect to have a healthy dose of humour in sessions!
Originally from Malaysia, I made the move to BC in 2017 to pursue my doctoral studies. Growing up in a multicultural country has given me a deep understanding of how intersectionality can impact mental health, and I am here to help. My background has taught me to embrace diversity and appreciate the unique experiences of each person I work with. I believe in tailoring the therapy process to fit your goals and needs.
The evidence-based therapeutic approaches that I primarily work from are:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Person-Centered Therapy
Mindfulness-Based Approaches
When I am not in the therapy room, you will find me tending to my plants, foraging for mushrooms, breathing through the poses in a yoga class, biking or hiking through the outdoors, diving into a game of dungeons and dragons, or on the hunt for my next hobby.
If you’re ready to embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth, do not hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to work with you!
CLINICAL EXPERIENCE
Pre-Doctoral Internship, Adler Community Health Services
Child and Youth Mental Health
Pacific Community Resource Society
EDUCATION
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology, Adler University
Dissertation Title: Predictors of Treatment Outcomes in Anorexia Nervosa:
A Systematic Review and Meta Analysis
Bachelors (Honours) in Psychology, HELP University (Malaysia)
MEMBERSHIPS
British Columbia Psychological Association – Student Affiliate