OEI and Trauma Therapist in Vancouver

Therapy with Malar

I am committed to walking alongside you and empowering you to navigate life’s
complexities. I believe in co-creating a safe and empowering space for you to explore your emotions, build resilience, and reconnect with your authentic self. I desire to walk alongside you with empathy, integrity, and a deep respect for your lived experiences. With nearly a decade of experience in the mental health sector, I have worked with many individuals navigating trauma and abuse, chronic stress, and relational challenges. I believe that healing happens in relationship—both with ourselves and others. Together, we will work to increase self-awareness, build emotional resilience, and develop a sense of inner safety. Instead of feeling stuck in trauma responses like shame, self-criticism, or emotional overwhelm, we can work together to help you build a more compassionate and connected sense of self.

As a trauma therapist in Vancouver, I take a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and person-centered approach in therapy. My anti-oppressive approach 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 and lived experiences are seen, valued, and respected. I integrate parts work, Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST), Polyvagal Theory, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) techniques into my practice. I also incorporate Sandtray Therapy and Observed Experiential Integration (OEI) Therapy for deeper trauma processing, tailoring interventions to the individual’s unique needs and therapeutic goals.

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

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
• Anger Management
• Anxiety
• Bipolar Disorder
• 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
• Self-Harming
• Sexual Abuse and/or Assault
• Substance Use
• 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

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.