Avneet Sandhu
Counsellors
Hi, I’m Avneet! I’m a Punjabi-speaking Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) based in the Lower Mainland, BC, offering compassionate counselling for youth, adults, couples, and families. I offer warm, culturally responsive, trauma-informed counselling with a multicultural lens, providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel truly heard and valued. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism, grief, stress, self-esteem challenges, and personal growth, tailoring each session to your unique needs. With over seven years of experience in mental health, trauma services, schools, and community organizations, I bring expertise, empathy, and understanding to every session.
If you’re looking for a culturally aware counsellor in the Lower Mainland who understands Punjabi culture, book a free 15-minute consultation today to see if we’re the right fit!
Brenda Lao
MC, RCC
Counsellors
I’m Brenda Lao, a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #23001) offering culturally responsive, trauma-informed counselling for youth, adults, and individuals navigating relationships. I support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, identity and self-worth concerns, family conflict, and life transitions.
I identify as a Chinese Canadian, second-generation immigrant, and as a person of colour, I’m especially mindful of how culture, intergenerational experiences, and social expectations can shape mental health. Creating a space where clients—particularly those from racialized and immigrant communities—feel genuinely seen and understood is central to my work.
My approach is person-centred, trauma-informed, and attachment-based. I believe healing happens through safety, trust, and authentic connection. Clients remain the experts of their own lives, and I work alongside them with warmth, curiosity, and care, integrating evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and emotion-focused strategies when helpful.
With over ten years of experience across government, nonprofit, and educational settings, I bring a relational, strengths-based perspective to therapy. I aim to support clients in developing deeper self-awareness, healthier patterns, and greater emotional resilience.
Devisha Nadan
MC. RCC
Counsellors
Devisha is a registered clinical counsellor with the BCACC. She holds a Masters of Counselling and a Bachelors of Art in Child and Youth Care. Devisha has 8 years of experience working in the field of mental health and social services. Devisha’s background consists of working with children and youth who have complex mental health challenges.
Devisha strives to create a safe and inclusive environment within the therapeutic space. Utilizing trauma informed practices she works towards breaking down barriers and making therapy an accessible and positive experience.
As a member of the Indo Fijian diaspora, Devisha utilizes a multicultural lens, while taking into account intergenerational trauma and cross-cultural views. Devisha has experience utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), narrative therapy, solution focused therapy, inner child healing, attachment theory, client centered and strengths-based approaches. Languages: Fluent in English and Fijian Hindi; and is able to understand other dialects of Hindi also.
How It Began
Vanua Wellness was established to address the critical need for accessible, culturally sensitive mental health support, particularly for marginalized communities. Recognizing the barriers created by stigma and the lack of trauma-informed care, our goal is to provide a safe, inclusive space where individuals can receive holistic, evidence-based counselling. We are committed to empowering clients through a compassionate approach that promotes healing, personal growth, and resilience.
Why You Matter
Because your story, experiences, and well-being deserve to be honored. In a world that often overlooks certain voices, we are here to provide a safe space where you can heal, grow, and reclaim your strength
