James Braun (he/him), MC, RCC · RCC #23840
Because we all need support sometimes.
Online counselling across British Columbia, including Saturdays.
What you can bring to therapy
People come to counselling for all kinds of reasons. Anxiety, stress, burnout, a loss, a change you did not choose, a space to talk about drinking or substances, or something you have been carrying on your own for a long time.
Any of it is enough to start with.
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Stress and burnout
When you’ve been carrying too much.
Work pressure, exhaustion, feeling stretched thin, or finding it hard to switch off even when you’re home.
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Anxiety and low mood
When things have felt harder lately.
Worry, overthinking, feeling flat, disconnected, or not quite like yourself.
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Relationships and life changes
When something in your life is shifting.
Breakups, conflict, grief, betrayal, family stress, work changes, or figuring out what comes next.
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Patterns that keep repeating
When the same things keep happening.
We slow it down and get curious about the reactions, habits and relationships you keep ending up in.
From colleagues on Psychology Today
These are professional endorsements from other counsellors, not client reviews. Read them on Psychology Today.
“James has a lovely way about him. He’s kind and curious. He offers deeply empathetic therapy that allows you to show up as you are. He also brings his whole self into the room so you are never doing the work alone.”
“James has the ability to create an affirming safe space where queer folks, and anyone seeking an open conversation about substance use, can feel seen and understood. His warmth, authenticity, and compassion make him an exceptional therapist.”
“James is a very compassionate counsellor. He has a friendly, welcoming, and down-to-earth presence. With years of experience supporting diverse individuals, James will help you feel supported through whatever life challenges you are going through.”
“James is a kind, soft-spoken counsellor who helps people feel genuinely heard and validated. His warmth, thoughtfulness, and commitment to continued learning and growth come through clearly in the care he provides. I’d highly recommend James as a counsellor!”
About me
Where I am coming from
I work with adults from all walks of life. Who I am and where I have worked shape what I bring into the room.
I am queer, and some people choose me for that reason. I know minority stress from the inside, and I want to understand how it has been for you.
My interest in mental health began with a Buddhist practice I have kept since 2013. Before private practice, I counselled youth at Peak House, and during my practicum at Health Initiative for Men I facilitated substance-use groups.
I still see my own therapist, so I know what it is like to be the client.
A few things people ask
Answers to common questions
What happens in a first session?
It’s completely normal to be nervous, and showing up at all is a real step. We’ll start with the practical stuff, including how confidentiality works. Then I’ll ask what brings you in, and we’ll figure out together what you want from our work.
Is what I say private?
Almost everything we talk about stays between us. The few standard exceptions, required for any RCC in BC, mostly relate to immediate safety: if I believe you or someone else is at serious risk of harm, or if I have reason to believe a child or vulnerable adult is being abused or neglected, I’m required to act. A court can also subpoena records. I also receive clinical supervision and may discuss session details there so I can give you the best care possible. Outside those situations, what you share stays private, and if something ever might require breaking confidentiality, I’ll do my best to talk with you first.
Is this the right kind of counselling for me?
I work with adults individually, and relationship difficulties are very welcome. We can look at what is happening in the relationship, the patterns you get caught in, and what you may be carrying into it. I don’t provide couples counselling. Some situations deserve specific treatments I don’t offer, like EMDR, DBT, or exposure-based therapy for OCD and PTSD, and I’m glad to help you find the right person.
Do we have to talk about my past?
Only with your permission, and only when it’s useful. The reason I may suggest visiting the past is that it’s often how to move forward: the present situation usually has roots, and understanding them is what can help with lasting change. We always go at your pace.
What does it cost, and how does booking work?
Sessions are $155 for 50 minutes, online, and you need to be physically in BC during them. Booking is through Jane. A card is kept on file and charged after each session, and Jane emails you a receipt with my RCC number for your claim. RCC stands for Registered Clinical Counsellor, the designation most extended health providers in BC recognize, so many plans cover our sessions. Check yours before we start. You can cancel or reschedule free up to 24 hours ahead. Inside 24 hours the fee is $50, with one courtesy waiver every 3 months.
What if I’m in crisis?
If you’re in crisis or having thoughts of harming yourself, please reach out right away to 9-8-8 (Canada’s Suicide Crisis Helpline) or go to your nearest emergency room. I’m not available for crisis support between sessions.
A place to begin
Bring what has been difficult.
You do not need to have anything figured out before you arrive. We can begin by making sense of things together.
50 minutes$155Online across BC
View available appointmentsI work every Saturday. Weekday times vary from week to week.
