We are dedicated to helping you feel better at a pace that is comfortable for you and have extensive training in cognitive therapy for the treatment of anxiety, OCD and stress. 

Christine Korol, Ph.D., R.Psych.(BC & Alberta), Clinic Director

With over two decades of experience, Christine has been dedicated to helping adults and children manage and overcome anxiety since 1998. Her personal journey with panic attacks, generalized anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) gives her a unique and compassionate perspective in her therapeutic practice.

Christine understands firsthand the challenges of living with anxiety and OCD. Having navigated these conditions herself, she knows the fear and embarrassment that can come with seeking help. You can trust that Christine will never think you're "weird" or "crazy" – she’s been there, and she’s here to help you find relief and quiet your mind.

Christine is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Psychology at UBC and a CACBT-certified expert in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT). She is currently serving as President of the Canadian Association of Cognitive and Behavioural Therapies. Recently retired from her role as a psychologist in the Department of Psychology at BC Children's Hospital, Christine is now excited to focus on her private practice, continuing her work to support individuals facing anxiety, OCD, and insomnia.

Colleen Cannon, Ph.D., R.Psych (BC, Alberta & Saskatchewan)

Depression, anxiety, stress, grief, shame, relationship, and family of origin challenges can be overwhelming and dominate your wellbeing.  Colleen can help you sort out what you're already trying that is working and not working, learn skills that will help create change, and put you and your values back into the driver's seat in your life.   Her clinical approach is focused on helping people understand what they can change in the short, medium, and long term to feel better and move forward.  Colleen has had a dynamic career in clinical psychology for over 20 years, working with people struggling to manage the stress of diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol, cardiac conditions, pain, disordered eating, and weight management.  

In addition to her individual practice, Colleen has taught countless groups stress management and skills for managing depression and anxiety, integrating humour and day-to-day examples to help keep it all "real". Colleen is the co-founder of Craving Change Inc, Canada's #1 cognitive-behavioural intervention for problematic eating. 

Theo DeGagne, Ph.D., Registered Psychologist (BC)

Theo has been helping people cope with anxiety, depression and chronic health issues since 1996. He is a believer in cognitive therapy because he knows firsthand the relief that it can bring! Personally, he has learned the hard way that being a people pleaser or perfectionist to avoid rejection, can lead to exhaustion, stress and even harm your relationships with friends and family. He loves helping people find ways to take care of themselves without worrying that they are letting other people down. Schedule an appointment with Theo if you would like to learn how it is possible to deepen your connections with others without neglecting your own needs.

Theo also has a special interest in helping people living with bipolar disorder learn the strategies that can help reduce stress and notice patterns.

Theo is also an Adjunct Professor, Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia and CACBT-Certified in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Previously, Theo was the Professional Practice Leader for Psychology at Vancouver Coastal Health and the Director of Clinical Training.

PLEASE NOTE that Dr. DeGagne manages his schedule on a separate online booking system. To schedule an appointment with Dr. DeGagne please visit https://drtheo.janeapp.com

Brittney Russell, Ph.D. (Pending Registration)

Meet Dr. Brittney Russell! Brittney recently earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of British Columbia (UBC) and is currently practicing under the supervision of Dr. Christine Korol while completing her registration process. Brittney is passionate about helping preteens, teens, and young adults navigate anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

With a strong background in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and experience in treating various psychological concerns, Brittney provides a warm, supportive, and professional environment tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. She is excited to offer therapy sessions specifically for preteens and teens who are struggling with anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorders, OCD, and related concerns.

Brittney is committed to empowering young clients to achieve their mental health goals and develop resilience, coping skills, and confidence to face life’s challenges. If you are looking for expert guidance in managing anxiety or other mental health issues, Dr. Brittney Russell is here to help.

STUDENT THERAPISTS

Vancouver Anxiety is pleased to offer training to graduate students in the CPA-Accredited Clinical Psychology programs at SFU, UBC and University of Victoria. All students are supervised closely by Dr. Korol and meet regularly to discuss clients and plan sessions , but at 1/3 of the cost of a session with Dr. Korol. You still get great care but at a much more affordable price. Even better, most extended health plans will reimburse sessions supervised by a registered psychologist (you use Dr. Korol’s registration number in your claim form). Double check with your provider today.

VASILEIA KARASAVVA, M.A., UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA, DOCTORAL STUDENT, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY

Vasileia is an empathetic and skilled therapist currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where she also completed her M.A. in Clinical Psychology. Guided by Dr. Christine Korol, she provides therapy services for adults, young adults, and teens experiencing anxiety and related challenges.

Vasileia's research delves into the complex world of digital communication, focusing on issues such as cyberbullying and technology-facilitated sexual violence. She brings this understanding into her practice, offering a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can feel safe and supported.

With specialized experience in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for OCD, social anxiety, and other anxiety-related concerns, Vasileia is dedicated to helping you navigate your journey toward better mental health.

MEHRNAZ PEIKARNEGAR, M.A., M.S.W., SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY, DOCTORAL STUDENT, CLINICAL AND FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY

Mehrnaz is an experienced and compassionate therapist dedicated to supporting adults facing anxiety and related concerns. She completed her M.A. in Clinical Psychology at Simon Fraser University (SFU) and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at SFU. With a solid foundation in social work from her M.S.W. at the University of Toronto, Mehrnaz brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to her practice.

Under the expert supervision of Dr. Christine Korol, Mehrnaz is committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and inclusive space for all her clients. She believes in the power of collaborative understanding and works closely with clients to empower them in overcoming present and future challenges.

Mehrnaz’s approach is warm, personalized, and evidence-based, ensuring that each client receives tailored support on their journey to well-being. Her dedication to fostering trust and openness makes her an excellent choice for those seeking effective and empathetic therapy.

FAITH JABS, M.A., UBC DOCTORAL STUDENT, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY

Faith completed her M.A. in Clinical Psychology at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in 2021 and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at UBC. Under the supervision of Dr. Christine Korol, she will be offering therapy services to adults struggling with anxiety and related concerns.

Faith’s research focusses on distressing sexual concerns, particularly for women and genderdiverse individuals. Faith is committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental, and inclusive space for all her clients. Her goal is to make you comfortable with a collaborative and supportive therapeutic process.

Faith has experience providing diagnostic assessments for adults. She also has experience providing cognitive-behavioural therapy for depression, OCD, insomnia, anxiety, and other anxiety-related concerns. 

DANA COCHRANE, M.A., SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY, DOCTORAL STUDENT, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY

Dana completed her M.A. in Clinical Psychology at Simon Fraser University (SFU) and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at SFU. Under the supervision of Dr. Christine Korol, she will be offering therapy services to preteens, teens, young adults, and adults struggling with anxiety and related concerns.

She hopes to make you comfortable with the therapeutic process and is committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and inclusive space for all her clients.

RAJAN HAYRE, M.A., SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY, DOCTORAL STUDENT, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY

Raj completed his M.A. in Clinical Psychology at Simon Fraser University (SFU) and is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at SFU. Under the supervision of Dr. Christine Korol, he will be offering therapy services to preteens, teens, young adults, and adults struggling with anxiety and related concerns. 

Adolescence is a challenging period in life – Raj hopes to support preteens and teens find comfort in the chaos and give them a safe space to speak freely, while developing the skills to combat challenges that arise.  His research experience focuses on attachment relationships and he believes understanding those relationships are vital for healthy development into adulthood. Raj hopes to use this knowledge to support young adults and adults and provide them with tools to manage their lives. 

Raj is committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and inclusive space for his clients. He has extensive experience working with difficult topics (e.g., trauma, self-harm, suicide). Further, he is comfortable engaging with clients who have endured social injustice traumas (e.g., racism).