Aileen Fearman

About Me

I'm Aileen Fearman, a counselling intern with 14 years of experience as a registered nurse in hospital and community care. I bring a steady, compassionate presence to counselling and meet clients where they are. My approach is warm, hopeful, curious and reflective.

Throughout my nursing career, I valued the privilege of working closely with people and their families during some of life's most challenging moments. As a counsellor, I aim to build the same kind of trusting relationship: one where you feel heard, respected and supported as we explore what is happening and what you need.

Who I Support

I support adults, couples, families, post-secondary students and teens. You may be facing a clear loss or transition, feeling worn down by the demands of work or caregiving, or simply sensing that the way you have been coping is no longer working.

• People moving through grief, loss or a major life transition

• Individuals and couples navigating infertility or reproductive mental health concerns

• Health care and helping professionals experiencing stress, burnout or compassion fatigue

• People adjusting to illness, caregiving responsibilities or end-of-life concerns

• Teens and post-secondary students experiencing anxiety, overwhelm or difficulty regulating emotions

How I Work

I believe counselling begins with a strong therapeutic relationship. I take time to understand what matters to you, the experiences that have shaped you and the changes you hope to make. I bring curiosity rather than assumptions, and we work together at a pace that feels manageable.

My work is person-centred and trauma-informed. Depending on your needs, I may draw from solution-focused and narrative therapy, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These approaches can help you recognize your strengths, understand the stories influencing your life, make room for difficult thoughts and feelings and take practical steps toward what matters to you.

Common Focus Areas

• Grief, loss and life transitions

• Infertility and reproductive mental health

• Stress and burnout, particularly among health care and helping professionals

• Family communication and relational conflict

• Adjustment to illness, caregiving or end-of-life concerns

• Anxiety and emotional regulation

My Path to Counselling

Some of my most meaningful work as a nurse was at Victoria Hospice, where the relational side of care was deeply valued. That work felt like practising the art of nursing: being fully present with people and families during uncertain and painful times. Working alongside colleagues who were both nurses and counsellors helped me see counselling as a possible next chapter.

Life took a few detours before I was able to return to school. I now come to this work in my 40s with experience in post-operative surgical care, hospice and home and community care, as well as a clear understanding of both the gifts and the pressures of health care work.

My own experiences with childhood illness, family loss and infertility have also shaped the way I understand care. During infertility, I experienced how powerful it can be to work with a counsellor who brings both professional skill and lived understanding. That experience continues to inform my interest in reproductive mental health.

Collaborative Care at Harbour

I grew up in a close-knit community, and I carry those values into my work. I value Harbour Family Counselling's collaborative approach and the ability to respond to each family's unique situation. When helpful and with your consent, our team can coordinate support for different family members while respecting each person's individual counselling relationship.

It is a privilege to care for people in my community, and I believe a positive counselling relationship can make a meaningful difference in a person's life.

Credentials & Background

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing University of Victoria

• Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, City University in Canada, Victoria, in progress; expected completion June 2027

• Student Member, BC Association of Clinical Counsellors

• 14 years of experience as a registered nurse in hospital and community settings, including Victoria Hospice and Home and Community Care

Outside the Office

I grew up on Hornby Island and still spend much of my time there. Outside work and study, I enjoy adventures with my husband and our two school-aged children, especially time on the water, boating and travelling. I also love spending time with friends in cafes and staying connected to the close-knit community that shaped me.

Those roots continue to influence how I see counselling: as a privilege, a relationship and a way of caring for the wider community.

Next Steps

If you're interested in learning more or seeing whether we might be a good fit, you are welcome to get in touch with Harbour Family Counselling or book a consultation through our website.