About Deborah Buthmann (she/her)
I have been working in the helping profession for eight years, with experience across the non-profit sector, hospitals, and private practice. From a young age, I have been fascinated by what it means to be human and in relationship, with a deep curiosity about the body-mind connection.
Having grown up in a family with dysfunctional dynamics, I deeply understand the impact this can have on adult life and relate closely to the journey of healing from relational trauma. My personal experiences with health issues and PTSD have illuminated the challenges of the healing process, fostering compassion and strength that enrich both my personal life and professional practice.
Born and raised in Germany, I offer counseling in both German and English. Since falling in love with the Pacific Northwest in 2013, I have enjoyed exploring the outdoors and adventures of British Columbia in my spare time. I am a white cisgender woman and an immigrant, living and working on the occupied, traditional, and sacred territories of the xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) nations.
What I provide
The therapeutic relationship we build is fundamental to the success of counseling. As humans, we are inherently relational and often find healing within nurturing, empathetic connections.
- I create a welcoming, non-judgmental space where you can freely explore your thoughts and emotions.
- I approach our journey with humility, curiosity, and unwavering presence, offering a range of innovative ideas to explore.
- Through keen observation, I help uncover the root causes of your challenges, allowing us to identify and implement meaningful changes effectively.
- My goal is to be your compassionate guide, providing solid support and gentle understanding throughout your therapeutic journey.
"I will not save you, for you are not powerless.
I will not repair you, because you are not broken.
I will not heal you, for I see you in your wholeness.
I will walk with you through the darkness while you remember your light."
- Sheree Bliss Tilsey
Membership
- Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the British Columbia Association for Clinical Counsellors (#15343).
- Mental Health Provider for the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA)
My practice is secure, confidential, respectful and non-judgmental. I also draw on training for cultural security and trauma-informed practice
ICBC Provider
I am dedicated in supporting your recovery from an automobile crashes with direct billing.
- LGBTQ2S+ ally.
I welcome all bodies, all identities and all abilities. My practice supports the LGBTQIA2S community and honors gender identities, sexual preferences, and humanity of all people.
Education and Training
Bachelor and Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, Humboldt University of Berlin/ Germany - Specialized in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
- Training in Internal Family Systems Level 1
- Training in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy Level 1
- Training in Brainspotting, Level 1, 2, 3 ,specilization in OCD, combining IFS, certifications in Progress
- Training in Indigenous Cultural Safety, San’yas
- Training in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Training Level 1
- Training with Janina Fisher (Phd), author of Healing the Fragmented Selves of the Trauma Survivors
- Training with Peter Levine (Phd), author of Healing Trauma. Restoring the Wisdom of Trauma.
- Training with David Kessler, expert on grief and loss
- Training in Integrative Body Psychotherapy
- Training in 200 Hr Yoga Teacher Certificate + 25 Hr Trauma-informed Yoga Certificate
- Training in ABA, Applied Behavioral Analysis
- Training for ADHD with Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance (CADDRA)
- Various Trainings in Harm Reduction
