Dr. Kirthana Ganesh (she/her)
Licensed Psychologist (#1017422)
Who I See
Many people I work with find it hard to enjoy their lives because they’re overwhelmed by painful memories, thoughts, and emotions. They describe feeling anxious, ashamed, and sad about their past. They’re scared to trust others and get hurt.
Often, they tell themselves, “I’m the problem,” “I’m not enough,” “I’m unworthy.” Some even say they “hate” or strongly dislike themselves.
They’ve tried to “push through” or run away from the places, people, or situations that hurt them, but the hurt follows them wherever they go.
Deep down, they worry that something is wrong with them and they’ll feel this way forever. They fear that if they start talking about their experiences, they won’t be able to keep it together, or that therapy won’t help them or could even make things worse.
They think that because they’re an adult, they should be able to “get over it” or deal with it on their own.
My Approach
I offer individual counselling to adults (19+), both in person in Burnaby and online across British Columbia.
In our work together, I create a safe space to face painful thoughts, emotions, and memories, and acknowledge those parts of ourselves that we often push away or are too scared, ashamed, or angry to face.
I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and integrate other trauma-informed approaches such as Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
These approaches help clients become more aware and mindful of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and learn ways to regulate and manage painful emotions without feeling like they’re “taking over.”
My style is collaborative and transparent. I believe clients lead the journey. My role shifts between confidant, coach, and guide, supporting your pace, direction, and need for rest along the way.
Through this process, clients learn to notice, soothe, and calm difficult thoughts and emotions. They discover what they truly value in their lives, and find ways to build a life that aligns with those values. They feel better about themselves and start to trust others, often for the first time.
About Me
I am a Licensed Psychologist in British Columbia. I completed my PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of British Columbia (Okanagan campus) and my pre-doctoral residency with the Nova Scotia Health Authority.
My clinical experience includes working in clinics, hospitals, and community organizations providing assessment and psychotherapy services for individuals struggling with issues related to trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, and personality-related concerns.
I am passionate about providing inclusive and culturally responsive care, and have had the privilege of working with racialized, Indigenous, and 2SLGBTQIA+ clients.
Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new restaurants and experimenting with different cuisines. When outdoors, you’ll find me hiking, snowshoeing, visiting beaches, and reconnecting with nature.
Client Focus: Adult Individuals
Specialties: Complex Trauma • Physical, Emotional & Sexual Abuse/Assault • Addictions • Anxiety • Panic Attacks • Grief & Loss • Intergenerational Trauma • Trauma Therapy for Adults in British Columbia
Types of Therapy:
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
- Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)
WORK WITH US
Get Started With Oceanside Psychology Group
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Call: 604-239-4640