Couples Counselling with David

Book Online

Questions? david@wholeheart.ca

David Hadaller, M.A., MFT, RCC #20909

Registered Clinical Counsellor in BC

Couples Counsellor

Extensive training in EFT for Couples

Phone (texts may be missed): 778-557-9522

Email: david@wholeheart.ca

"Human connection is the reason we are on this planet. It gives purpose and meaning to our lives."

— Brené Brown

My inspiration as a couples counsellor comes from Brené Brown and Sue Johnson, who both boldly stand up for the value of close relationships.

Like many people, I previously undervalued human connection in favour of independence, particularly during my days as a computer scientist. It wasn't until I found the work of these two brilliant relationship researchers that I began to value healthy dependence in my own life.

Their work transformed me and my marriage, and propelled me into my career as a couples counsellor.

[Status as of Apr 24 2025: Space for two couples Mon/Thurs daytime appointments. Short wait list for couples needing evening or Saturday appointments (likely to start in June). Please email me (david@wholeheart.ca) to discuss availability.]

about WHC TOGETHER

I want to help you have a fulfilling relationship. Bickering about who did the dishes rather than cuddling next to each other? Even the best relationships can drift apart and little jabs about housework take the place of the closeness we once enjoyed.

I've been there, and I want to help you feel together again.

Education & Training

My passion for working with couples led me to complete a masters degree in marriage and family therapy, as well as extensive training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.

How do you work with couples?

Open in YouTube

I believe a strong close relationship is the bedrock of a fulfilling life.

So many couples have been right where you are. With a little guidance, it is possible to get out of that same argument you both get stuck in over and over again. It has probably become so familiar it's like a broken record, leaving you feeling less and less connected as it plays over and over again. Many find they end up arguing about the argument, and who said what five minutes ago or five days ago, rather than what first sparked the disagreement. The feeling of closeness begins to fade over time and you wonder if your partner is still into me or us anymore. You jab and bicker to get a response but that softness you once saw in your partner has seemed to turn cold.

I've helped hundreds of couples over the past ten years find their way out of this stuck spot. Many end up feeling the warmth soon return as they feel more understood and less separate. Their stronger foundation has them doing more together and having more fun. There's still bumps in the road, but they have come to know each other's emotional language in a way that allows them to talk things out without becoming defensive.

I know it can be hard to take that first step. I've been there myself. I get it, and I'm here to help.

I warmly welcome clients of all identities, backgrounds, and experiences. This includes people of all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and neurotypes. I strive to create a supportive and affirming environment where everyone feels seen, respected, and valued.

EFT: The Gold Standard of Couples Counselling

I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples, which has become known as the gold standard of couples therapy. Pioneered by Dr. Sue Johnson, 30 years of scientific research has demonstrated that EFT creates lasting change even for the majority of the most distressed couples. EFT is a nine step couples therapy that often completes in 12 to 20 sessions.

Most of how I'll work with you will involve highlighting the ways you both approach disagreements that keep you stuck in the same pattern of conflict and distance. I'll draw your attention to aspects of you or your partner's emotional experience that you may not typically notice. This will often reveal new ways of interacting that I will help you practice during and between sessions.

We will typically meet weekly or every other week, depending on availability. Our first session will be held together, then I will meet with each of you individually, and the remainder of the sessions will be together.

No cost meet-and-greet

Choosing the right counsellor can be difficult. I want us to fit well together and for you to feel that your relationship is in good hands. I welcome you to explore your options and invite you to a 30 minute meet and greet, with no pressure.

Availability

I am currently offering in-person sessions in Courtenay on Thursdays and Comox on Mondays & Saturdays as well as online sessions by request. Use our online booking tool or email me (david@wholeheart.ca) to schedule a meet-and-greet or first session.

Fees & Insurance

My fees are reimbursable by most extended health insurance policies that cover counselling services performed by a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in BC. Please carefully check your coverage documents or contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage, as policies vary even within the same provider.

50 minute couples session: $155

70 minute couples session: $185

All fees include applicable taxes and can be paid with credit card, debit card, or Interac e-Transfer.

Book No-Cost Meet and Greet

Book First Session

Questions? david@wholeheart.ca

(Thursdays) Courtenay In-Person Office

2426 Rosewall Crescent #1B, Courtenay, BC

(Inside Comox Valley Counselling - East)

Building

The Red Doors!

Waiting Room

Tin Town Office

(Mondays & Saturdays) Comox In-Person Office

1829 Beaufort Ave Suite 220, Comox, BC

(Inside Beaufort Counselling & Consulting)

Harbour Centre, 1829 Beaufort, Comox

Waiting room

Comox In-Person Office (Saturdays)

My services are not suitable for more serious relationship struggles, such as:

Situations involving potential physical danger or harm, including:
- Violence or serious threats of violence
- Substance or alcohol abuse or heavy use
- Any immediate danger
Significant mental illness complexity best addressed with a higher level of care, including:
- Serious ongoing thoughts of suicide
- Prolonged clinical depression or anxiety
- Diagnosable personality disorders
- Legal or court involvement, including child custody disputes

For such situations, I recommend the services of a psychologist or psychiatrist, as it is not within my scope of practice to diagnose or treat significant mental illness.