BIPOC Trauma Therapist in Vancouver

Therapy with Malar

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in past trauma, or navigating relationship challenges, I offer a supportive space to help you make sense of what you’re carrying—and begin to heal. Together, we’ll work toward helping you feel more grounded, emotionally connected, and in charge of your inner world. Rather than staying stuck in trauma responses like shame, self-criticism, or emotional overwhelm, we can work together to build a more compassionate and connected sense of self.

With nearly a decade of experience in the mental health sector, I’ve supported individuals facing trauma, abuse, chronic stress, and relational challenges. I believe healing happens in relationship—both with ourselves and with others. It can feel scary to bring that into counselling, so we’ll go at your own pace. You’ll be met with empathy and deep respect for your lived experiences.

As a trauma therapist in Vancouver, I take a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and person-centered approach. This means I work to recognize and challenge the ways power, privilege, and systemic injustice can show up in therapy—creating space where your full identity is seen, valued, and respected.

Therapy is always tailored to your individual needs and goals. I integrate the following modalities into my work:

• Parts Work
• Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST)
• Observed Experiential Integration (OEI) for deeper trauma processing
• Polyvagal Theory
• Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
• Sandtray Therapy

I provide counselling in English and I also love to connect conversationally with clients who speak Tamil and Malay.

If you’re ready to feel less stuck, more seen, and more at home in yourself, I’d love to hear from you.

Areas of Focus

I welcome working with diverse clients of all ages, cultures, genders, sexual orientations, and abilities. I have experience working with children, youth, and adults. I have specialized training to support individuals in the following areas:

• ADHD, Autism and Neurodiveristy 
• Addictions
• Adoption
• Anxiety
• Borderline Personality Disorder
• Childhood Abuse
• Chronic Pain & Chronic Illnesses
• Depression
• Dissociative Disorders
• Divorce
• Domestic Violence
• Learning and Intellectual Disabilities
• LGBTQI2S+
• Grief
• Immigration and Life Transitions
• Racial Trauma
• Religious Trauma
• Relationship Issues/Relational Trauma
• Self-Esteem
• Sexual Abuse and/or Assault
• Suicidal Ideation
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Complex PTSD

Education & Credentials

• Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Psychology, Nanyang Technological University
• Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Trinity Western University
• Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #23889) accredited through the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors
• Canadian Certified Counsellor (#11254506) certified by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association

Malar is an RCC and her sessions are eligible for reimbursement with ICBC if you have approved counselling sessions.

Certifications & Training

• OEI Level 1 Practitioner
• Sandtray Therapy

Grief Therapy Group

Malar is also offering a one-day group for grief and sudden loss on June 14th from 11-2pm PST. If you are interested in learning more you can read about the group here or sign up for a free consultation call with her to learn if this group is right for you.

Outside of Work

I find balance in both connection and solitude. I love spending time with my beagle, Jasper, whose playful energy and companionship bring me so much joy. Quality time with family back in Singapore or here in Canada is also something I deeply value, whether it’s sharing meaningful conversations, exploring new hikes or recipes, or simply enjoying quiet moments together. At the same time, solitude helps me recharge—whether that’s through taking mindful walks in nature, watching a new series, or playing the piano.