Hopper Koshlay, MSW, RSW
Therapist / Social Worker
Approach
Hopper’s therapeutic approach is rooted in honouring the inherent dignity and worth of each individual. Her approach draws from relational therapy, humanistic therapy and trauma-informed practice. She knows we develop in the context of our relationships with other people, groups and social systems, and these relationships can sometimes leave us hurt or wounded. Building a safe and trusting relationship with a counsellor can be a powerful move towards healing our relationship with self, practicing healthy boundaries, and building satisfying connections with others.
Hopper views the therapeutic alliance as a tool for self-exploration, growth and healing. At the core of her practice, she strives to create safety, respect and collaboration. Being trauma-informed and anti-oppressive means honouring each client’s expertise in their own lived experience. She works alongside folks, not over them. Counselling isn’t only for times of crisis or significant distress. It can be a space for self-exploration, reflection and growth.
Hopper’s style is earnest, curious, accepting and warm. In addition to Humanistic and Relational therapies, her work is informed by Systems Theory, Existential Therapy, Art Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Who She Supports
Hopper works with youth and adults who feel misunderstood or like they struggle to fit in. She is passionate about working with folks exploring self-acceptance and self-compassion, reflecting on life’s purpose, navigating creative blocks, or experiencing persistent anxiety, shame, sadness or dread.
Sometimes people simply need a safe space to talk about stresses in their workplace, friendships and/or relationships. Engaging with a counsellor can be an opportunity to process the day-to-day workings of our lives. Counselling can be a form of self-care and a valuable component of attending to whole-person health.
About Hopper
Hopper grew up in a remote village with fewer than 150 people. From an early age, she developed a deep love of entertaining herself with books, creative projects and whimsy. Hopper’s approach is inspired by her own lived experience of healing and growth, and grounded in education, training, and professional collaboration.
Hopper is currently in school to become an art therapist, leaning into a long-time dream of connecting creativity with healing in her professional world. Hopper embraces reading, long walks in beautiful BC (where she can appreciate mosses and slugs), listening to history podcasts… and cozy frolicking (because we are never too old to play).
Ready to take the next step?
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Finding the right counsellor is personal. Hopper may be a good fit if you’re looking for someone warm, curious and collaborative who will make space for you to explore your experiences without judgment.
An initial introductory call can also give you a chance to meet Hopper, ask questions and get a feel for whether working together feels right. Book a call with Hopper to learn more.
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Not at all! While Hopper has a love of creativity and is currently studying art therapy, you don’t need to consider yourself creative or artistic to work with her. Traditional talk therapy can be the focus of your sessions, and creative approaches can be explored when they feel helpful and interesting to you.
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That’s completely okay. You don’t need to know what to say, understand therapy language, or arrive with clearly defined goals. Hopper can help you get comfortable with the process and begin exploring what brought you to counselling at a pace that works for you.
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Your first session is an opportunity for Hopper to get to know you and what brings you to counselling. You can talk about what’s been happening in your life, what you’re hoping for from counselling, and anything that might help Hopper understand you and your experiences. There’s no pressure to tell your whole story in the first session.
You don’t need to have everything figured out before you begin.
— Hopper