Counselling for college and university students navigating the weight of academics, independence, identity, and everything in between in Kelowna and online across BC.
You left home. You showed up. You enrolled, unpacked, introduced yourself to strangers, figured out the bus route, sat through the first lecture, made it through the first week. You did all the things you were supposed to do, and still, somewhere underneath all of it, something feels off.
Maybe it’s the 2 a.m. spiral when an assignment you don’t understand is due in six hours. Maybe it’s the group chat back home that reminds you of a life that still feels like yours, while this one doesn’t quite yet. Maybe it’s the quiet, the particular kind of alone that happens in a room full of people when you don’t yet know where you belong. Whatever it is, it’s real. And you don’t have to carry it by yourself.
At Renew, we work with students who are doing their best and still struggling, because those two things can be true at the same time. We understand the particular pressure of this season: the academic load, the financial stress, the social navigation, the loss of your old support systems, and the work of building new ones. We offer a space where you don’t have to perform okay. You can just be honest.
We don’t take lightly what students are being asked to do. This isn’t just “going to school.” This is a complete reorganisation of your world all at once, with very little runway.
We don't take lightly what students are being asked to do. This isn't just "going to school." This is a complete reorganisation of your world all at once, with very little runway.
Understanding what your anxiety is responding to and building practical tools to manage it, especially during high-pressure academic periods.
Addressing the flatness, the withdrawal, the loss of pleasure in things that used to matter — and finding a path back to feeling like yourself.
Navigating the social landscape of university, building new connections, managing social anxiety, and sitting with the in-between of not yet feeling at home.
Getting honest about what's underneath the procrastination and avoidance, and building a relationship with your work that feels sustainable rather than punishing.
Working through the questions of who you are, what you want, and what you believe about yourself, often the most important work a young adult can do.
Recognizing the signs early and building the habits, sleep, recovery, boundaries, self-compassion that keep you in the game for the long haul.
"I finally felt truly heard and supported. These sessions helped me understand myself better and make real progress. I’m so thankful for the calm and safe space they provided."
Yes. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from counselling. Many students come to us feeling low-grade overwhelmed, not falling apart, but not okay either. That in-between space is exactly where early support makes the most difference.
Absolutely. Virtual sessions are available across BC, all you need is a private space and a connection. Many students actually find online sessions more accessible and comfortable, especially when you're working around a packed schedule or living in a small space.
Many student health plans through BC universities and colleges include coverage for registered clinical counsellors. Check your plan's mental health benefits and contact us if you're unsure. We can help you understand what's available and direct bill where possible.
We understand that student budgets are real. We encourage you to check your extended health benefits first. Many plans cover more than students realise. We're also happy to have a transparent conversation about fees and options during your free consultation.
Yes. We know that 9 to 5 doesn't work when you're a student. We offer flexible scheduling including evenings to make sure support is actually accessible around your academic commitments.
The frequency of your sessions will vary according to your requirements and objectives. Certain clients can benefit from sessions for short-term assistance, while others would prefer regular sessions to deepen their exploration and ongoing personal development.
Some extended health insurance policies include sessions with licensed counsellors. It is recommended to contact the insurance company to verify the details specific to your plan prior to your first visit.
Absolutely. Your safety is crucial in your healing. In the event that you require a new suitable fit, we'll assist you to change counsellors with no obligation or judgement.
We employ evidence-based techniques that are specific to every client's needs, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques as well as trauma-informed treatment, in order to provide you with effective and individualized assistance.
The process of getting started is simple. Contact us via our website or by phone. We'll walk you through the next steps before setting the first appointment at an appointment that's convenient for you.
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