Our Counselling Team
Darcy Harbour, B.Ed, MA, RCC
Director, Clinical Counsellor & Chaos to Calm Program Facilitator
Hi, I’m Darcy. I’m passionate about helping people feel more grounded in themselves and more connected in their relationships. Over the past 20 years—as a teacher, school counsellor, and now therapist—I’ve supported children, teens, parents, couples, and individuals through all kinds of emotional and relational challenges.
My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and practical. I meet you where you’re at, help you notice your strengths, and gently support you to shift unhelpful patterns that may be getting in the way. Whether we’re navigating anxiety, parenting struggles, emotional regulation, or relationship dynamics, I aim to create a safe space where you can feel seen and supported while also gaining new tools to move forward with more confidence.
As both a parent and a former educator, I bring a nuanced understanding of child development, neurodiversity, and how emotional needs show up in different environments—at school, at home, and within families. I especially enjoy working with parents to build emotional resilience in their kids, strengthen connection, and feel more steady in themselves while doing so.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, both from the University of Victoria. I’m a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) through the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors and spent many years certified as a BC teacher.
Outside of counselling, you’ll often find me in the garden, baking something with my kids, or watching a movie with my family. I know the juggling act of modern parenting well, and I’m here to walk alongside you as you find more clarity, calm, and connection in your life.
Maria Butler, BA, B.Ed, MA, RCC
Clinical Counsellor | Children & Teens
Hi, I’m Maria. I specialize in working with children and teens to help them feel seen, heard, and supported. I’ve spent over a decade as a school counsellor and have a background in both elementary and high school teaching. These experiences have given me deep insight into the emotional worlds of young people, as well as the challenges families face as children grow and change.
I support clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, emotional regulation, self-esteem, grief and loss, life transitions, self-identity and self exploration, and relationship issues. Whether I’m helping a child express big feelings through play or guiding a teen through the stress of post-secondary planning, my goal is to create a safe space for reflection, problem-solving, and personal growth.
My approach is person-centred and strengths-based, drawing from modalities like CBT, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and creative, play-based strategies. I listen carefully, ask thoughtful questions, and work with each client to recognize what’s not working, tap into their strengths, and develop tools that build resilience and confidence.
I have a Bachelor of Arts degree from the UK and a postgraduate professional certification in high school teaching, also from the UK. In addition, I hold a Bachelor of Education in elementary teaching from the University of Victoria, and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, NB. I have worked as a teacher, tutor and, most recently, as a school counsellor in a preschool to Grade 12 independent school. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.
Outside of work, I love walking near the ocean or in the forest and spending time with my family. I also enjoy yoga, tai chi, theatre, and dance. As a parent of a teen and a preteen, I understand both the joys and challenges of parenting—and I bring that perspective into every counselling relationship.
Talita Nell, B.Sc, MA, RCC
Clinical Counsellor & Mood Managers Program Facilitator
Hi, I’m Talita. I believe that healing and growth happen in the context of safe, supportive relationships. That’s why I focus on creating a space where you—or your child—can feel heard, accepted, and encouraged to explore emotions and challenges without fear of judgment.
My approach is strength-based and collaborative. I help clients recognize their own inner resources, ask empowering questions to deepen self-awareness, and offer practical tools for emotional regulation, communication, and problem-solving. Whether I’m working with a child navigating anxiety, a teen facing social stress, or a family working through communication struggles, I aim to support lasting, positive change.
Over the years, I’ve supported children, youth, and families in schools, community settings, and now in private practice. I bring a warm, relational style along with a solid understanding of child development and family dynamics. I care deeply about helping families feel more connected and equipping young people with the tools they need to thrive.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from the University of Victoria and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from City University. I’m also a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.
Outside of work, I enjoy staying active, spending time in nature, and connecting with family and friends. It’s a joy and a privilege to walk alongside clients as they build resilience and move toward greater emotional well-being.
Talita will be accepting new clients in fall/winter 2025
Rebecca Quirie, B.Sc, B.Ed
Client Success & Digital Design Strategist
I support clients to ensure they’re receiving the tools and support they need while participating in Darcy’s programs. I also strategize, design and create learning, web and marketing content to best address client needs.
Growing up in Ottawa, ON, I went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Biology at UMass Amherst in the U.S., before continuing on to obtain my Bachelor of Education from Western University in 2019.
I’m also a high school French Immersion Science teacher and a former swim coach, after swimming competitively myself for 15 years.