Surya Govender, RTC

Bio

I am trained in psychotherapy as an art therapist (MSc, RTC: ACCT) with specific interest in somatic approaches, which means I believe that healing is rooted in the body and in our creative selves.

In my practice, I take a feminist, social justice, trauma informed perspective, focused on compassion, harm reduction and the cultivation of joy. I enjoy supporting young folks (aged 3 to 8) who are learning to manage emotions, coming to terms with a challenging experience or transition or exploring their gender identity. I also welcome adults living with addictions or in recovery, BIPOC, sex workers, folks exploring their sexual or gender identity, and people living with anxiety.

I will work with you or your child to create a safe, nurturing space to learn and heal. In my practice, I centre the making of art as a place to begin; I also value the role of verbal and body-centred processing and our sessions may include all these approaches. I can direct bill to Blue Cross and any insurer who is registered with Telus eHealth (for anyone covered for RTC support)

I am biracial, queer, able bodied and cisgendered. In my personal life, I love making art with textiles, paint and collage. I am a co-parent to two teens and a middle aged dog, and an auntie to many in my extended network. I have experience with secular home learning and navigating gender support systems in BC. I am a second and third generation settler, located on the unceded traditional and ancestral land of the xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.

I am fully vaccinated and am happy to wear a mask for in-person sessions on request.

Image Description: Surya is smiling with her teeth, resting her chin on her hand while sitting outdoors. She wears oversized translucent glasses, a bright green puff-sleeve top, matching green-and-white jewelry, and pink nail polish. There are leafy plants and a wooden fence in the backdrop.

Surya Govender

(she/her/hers)
Associate Counsellor
RTC

In-Person and Virtual Sessions

Surya is currently accepting new clients to her waitlist!

If you are interested in connecting with Surya, please contact surya@expressivewellness.ca. For existing clients, self-book here.