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Insight Recovery Therapists - Kim Phua

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Kim Phua, Therapist, MACP, B.Sc. (She/Her)

Taking the first steps in seeking help is hard; it takes courage, strength, and vulnerability. I believe that every human has intrinsic worth and an innate capacity for change. I consider therapy to be a collaborative approach, where you are the expert in your life, your wants, and your needs. With empathy, acceptance, sincerity, and support, I hope to create a safe space for you to explore your experiences, broaden your understanding, and reach your goals. I aim to bring an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from a myriad of counselling approaches and interventions that best fits you and your needs.

*NOTE: Our Post-Practicum Therapists offer reduced rates for counselling support. Please be aware that FEES WILL BE NON-REIMBURSABLE by Extended Health Care Benefit Plans.

  • Edmonton North

  • Edmonton Central

  • Online Counselling

More About Kim Phua

As a Registered Provisional Psychologist, my work is guided by the belief that healing happens within safe, supportive, and collaborative relationships. My foundation as a therapist is shaped not only by my Master of Counselling from Yorkville University, but also by nearly a decade of experience as a social worker in Edmonton hospitals. During that time, I had the privilege of supporting individuals and families through moments of crisis, transition, and vulnerability—experiences that deeply influenced my commitment to compassion, dignity, and client-centred care.

In therapy, I take an eclectic and integrative approach. This means I draw from a variety of evidence-based modalities—including cognitive-behavioural techniques, mindfulness-based strategies, trauma-informed approaches, and emotion-focused work—to meet clients exactly where they are. I recognize that each person’s story is unique, and I tailor treatment to align with their values, goals, and lived experiences rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all method.

Regardless of who I am supporting in therapy, my intention is to create an environment where clients feel truly seen and heard. I prioritize building trust, offering genuine warmth, and fostering a sense of safety that allows clients to explore their emotions, challenges, and strengths at their own pace. My role is not to direct or judge, but to walk alongside clients as they make sense of their experiences and discover meaningful paths forward.

I am particularly passionate about helping individuals enhance emotional well-being, navigate life transitions, strengthen resilience, and develop greater self-understanding. I view therapy as a collaborative process where insight, empowerment, and skill-building come together to support lasting change.

Above all, I believe that every person is capable of growth, healing, and transformation when supported in a caring and attuned environment. It is an honour to hold space for that process and to be part of each client’s unique journey.

A QUESTION:

Kim, what is your favourite quote?

"It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

What do you think the world needs more of?

A little sparkle, even in the darkest or hardest of times.

Addictions Specialty Areas:

  • Alcohol Dependence

  • Drug or Substance Use

Other Specialty Areas:

  • Anger Management

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Life Transitions and Adjustment Issues

  • Relationship Dependence

  • Self-Esteem Issues

  • Stress Management

  • Abuse

  • Compassion Fatigue

  • Cross Cultural Issues

  • Emotional Regulation

  • Family Therapy

  • Trauma

  • Workplace Stress

  • Workplace Trauma

I Have Experience in:

  • Aging Parents

  • Alternative Sex Behaviours

  • Anorexia Nervosa

  • Antisocial Personality Disorder

  • Anxiety Disorders

  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Adults

  • Becoming a Parent or the Addition of Children

  • Behavioural Issues

  • Blended Family Adjustment

  • Borderline Personality Disorder

  • Bulimia Nervosa

  • Changes in Health

  • Cognitive Disability

  • Coming Out

  • Communication and Negotiation

  • Custody Access Issues

  • Dealing with Infidelity

  • Dealing with Physical Health Issues

  • Death or Loss of a Pet

  • Delusional Disorder

  • Dependent Personality Disorder

  • Difficult People

  • Divorce or Separation

  • Emotional Abuse

  • Family Caregiver Stress

  • Family Violence

  • Female Sexual Issues

  • FASD

  • Food or Eating Issues

  • Gender Identity

  • Grief and Loss

  • Histrionic Personality Disorder

  • Insomnia

  • Intercultural and Interracial Relationships

  • Issues Related to Bullying

  • 2SLGBTQIA+ Issues

  • Losing Someone to Suicide

  • Loss of a Preterm Child

  • Loss of a Loved One

  • Career Changes or Loss of Employment

  • Major Depressive Disorder

  • Couples Therapy

  • Narcissistic Personality Disorder

  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

  • Out of Control Shopping

  • Panic Disorder

  • Parenting Issues & Support

  • Physical Abuse

  • Pornography Issues

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Premarital Counselling

  • Religious or Spiritual Trauma

  • Retirement

  • Self-Harming

  • Sex Compulsion/Out of Control Sexual Behaviours

  • Sexual Assault and Abuse

  • Sexuality and Intimacy Issues

  • Suicidal Thoughts

  • Weight & Eating Disorders

  • Avoidant Personality Disorder

  • Empty Nest Syndrome

  • Graduation

  • Problem Gambling

  • Family Therapy

  • Fetishes and Philias

  • Handling Chronic Illness & Chronic Pain

  • Impulsivity in Children

  • Male Sexual Issues

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder

  • Paranoid Personality Disorder

  • Problem Internet/Gaming in Children & Youth

  • Sexual Arousal Issues

  • Social Anxiety Disorder

  • Common Mental Health Disorders

  • Financial Risk & Security Stress

  • Front-Line Workers

  • Supporting Someone who is Grieving

  • Free 15 Minute Phone Consultations

Qualifications

  • Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology

  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology (with a minor in Sociology)

Affiliations

  • Psychologist Association of Alberta 

  • Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association

  • American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists 

Certifications

  • Mental Health First Aid

  • Non-Violent Crisis Intervention

  • Suicide and Self-Harm Prevention

  • Family Violence Intervention

  • Cultural Consciousness and Awareness Training

  • Indigenous Awareness Training

  • Dare to Lead Trained

  • Motivational Interviewing Basic Techniques

  • Understanding ADHD Workshop

  • Understanding Eating Disorders and Body Dysmorphia Workshop

  • Understanding Borderline Personality Workshop

  • Children from Substance Abusing Families Workshop

  • Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton – Trained Volunteer

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