Sandra Filippelli

Life is filled with moments of growth, connection, and joy, but it can also bring emotional challenges, transitions, and stress that feel overwhelming at times. I am passionate about supporting children, youth, families, adults, couples, and co-parents as they navigate life’s complexities, strengthen relationships, and build emotional resilience.

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My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic space where clients feel heard, valued, and understood. Together, we work to identify strengths, explore challenges, and support meaningful change and healing.

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I bring over 17 years of experience as an Elementary School Teacher with the Coquitlam and Surrey School Districts. Throughout my teaching career, I have worked with students from Kindergarten to Grade 7, including roles as a Learning Support and Social Development Teacher. This has given me extensive experience supporting children with high emotional and academic needs, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, and complex behavioural challenges.

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I hold a Master of Education in School Counselling (M.Ed, City University of Seattle, 2023), a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed, UBC, 2006), and a Bachelor of Human Kinetics (B.Kin, UBC, 2005). My educational background, combined with my classroom experience, informs a developmentally sensitive and practical approach to counselling children and families.

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In my clinical work, I draw from a range of evidence-based approaches, including: Play-Based Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Person-Centred Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, Attachment Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method principles, and Family Systems Therapy. I am also trained in Basic Level 1 EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).

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In addition to therapy, I am on the Collaborative Divorce Vancouver roster, and provide support in separation and divorce coaching, co-parenting counselling, and child specialist services. I work closely with families navigating separation to support healthy communication, emotional regulation, and child-centred decision-making.

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Whether you are seeking support for your child’s emotional well-being, guidance through family transitions, or strategies to improve relationships and communication, I strive to meet you where you are and walk alongside you with care and collaboration.

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I look forward to supporting you on your therapeutic journey.