Aviva Boxer
B.A., MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Independent Contractor
(905) 527 - 6337
aviva@everwellcounselling.ca
Availability
Accepting new clients
Afternoons, Evenings and Saturdays
Aviva Boxer
Registered Psychotherapist
Over the last few years, I have realized that what I truly care about is helping people find their way through tough times and helping them to be themselves, both in therapy and in the rest of their lives.
I love talking about every type of feeling and I am curious about people and understanding all that has brought them to this moment. Hearing people’s stories is interesting and important to me. Being able to do all of this as a job is an extraordinary gift.
I would like potential clients to know that I am a sincere, caring, open-hearted person, who is a good listener and sees the relationship between client and therapist as a collaboration. As a therapist, I see myself as a guide and support, and as the client, you are the expert on yourself.
Q & A with Aviva
What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about mental health?
“ I think many people still think that they must be in a crisis before seeking help from a therapist. In reality, taking time out for therapy is an incredible act of self-love at any point in a person’s life and giving this gift to yourself on a consistent basis can help to create a more positive and peaceful existence.”
What is your biggest achievement to date - personal or professional?
“ I have been practicing meditation daily for the last four years and this has had a profound effect on my life. I consider this to be a big personal achievement, which has inspired much positive growth in my life. “
What’s the best piece of advice that you ever received?
" Some helpful advice I have received is when I am feeling stuck, to stop, close my eyes, take a deep breath, and ask myself: What do I want? What do I need? Then really listen to what my thoughts, feelings and physical reactions are telling me. “
What are the top 3 things you do to keep healthy?
" I practice meditation and take time alone to walk as well as to write in my journal and reflect. “
What is your favourite book?
“ Three of my favourite books include:
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain. This book has had a profound effect on my life. It is an exploration and celebration of being an introvert and this book has helped me to know myself better and appreciate these qualities about myself.
The Dance of Anger, by Harriet Lerner. This book was a game-changer for me – it was the first book I read about boundaries, and as a recovering people pleaser, this book helped me begin my journey of taking myself into consideration when making decisions in my life.
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. This book took my breath away and completely captivated me. It is the story of a teenage girl in Second World War France and how she survives the Nazi occupation by using her wisdom, intuition, grit, and courage. “
Why should a potential client come to everwell?
" everwell is a welcoming and inclusive place. It is an open, caring, and collaborative practice where the first goal is to make sure that you are talking to someone who you feel comfortable with and who you feel understands you and your specific concerns. “
What do you value most in a client?
“ I understand that simply taking the first step of calling to see a therapist and having the first meeting can feel daunting and a bit scary – that it takes courage to take that step and I respect the strength it takes to do this. I value openness and willingness to be curious about the feelings and thoughts that arise. ”
What would you like a client to say about working with you?
“ I would like clients to say that they felt comfortable and safe talking to me, that they felt respected, listened to, and supported. I would like clients to feel that as their therapist I am working with them, side by side, to explore their concerns together. ”
Areas of Practice
Depression
Anxiety
Self-esteem / Self-compassion
Life Transitions (new parent, parenting teenagers, menopause, etc.)
Relationships (work, family, friends)
Mindfulness and Meditation
Education / Accomplishments /Awards
Masters in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University
Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association
Registered Psychotherapist
Average Cost
$150 per session, sliding scale available
What personal qualities are important for the job that you do?
Honesty
Ethics
A good listener
Authenticity
Caring
What is your personal mantra or favourite quote?
“If I am not for myself, who will be for me? And being only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?”
Just for fun
Do you know any other languages?
“ I know a little bit of French and a little bit of Hebrew. ”
Do you have a favourite season?
“ My favourite seasons are fall and spring – as a native Vancouverite, extreme cold and heat are still uncomfortable for me. Fall and spring are more mellow and are all about growth, rebirth and potential. ”
What is your favourite place to find inspiration?
“Having grown up in Vancouver with the mountains and ocean nearby as well as being an Aquarius, I am most at home near or in water. “
What's your favourite thing to do on weekends?
“ On weekends I enjoy spending time with my husband, our three kids (almost all teens) and our dog (who is always up for another walk). I enjoy cooking, baking, reading, and watching movies, walking, and listening to inspiring podcasts as well doing yoga and meditation to help me be centred and present. “