THE POWER OF GROUPS®
Counselling Groups
Online
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY FOR MEN
Dr. John Álvarez
Cost
$250
When
Tue, Wed, Thur
9-5:30pm PST
June 11th - December 22nd

Ever feel completely overwhelmed by the constant pressure? Between working non-stop to get ahead, navigating demanding relationships, marriage, and family life, it can feel impossible to find a moment for yourself.

When the pressure mounts, it inevitably takes a toll on your mental health—showing up as chronic stress, anxiety, burnout, or depression. In a culture where most men choose to isolate and go it alone, trying to keep up by yourself just doesn’t work.

One of the most effective ways to maintain resilience in a high-stakes world is to stay connected and check in with a trusted professional who actually gets it. No matter what you are going through, you don’t have to navigate it in isolation. My practice is strictly geared toward men’s unique challenges, including chronic stress, relationship pressures, depression, anxiety, anger management, and reclaiming a sense of purpose and meaning in life.

Professional Profile & Approach

My therapeutic style is highly pragmatic, grounded, and heartfelt. I am a straight shooter who has weathered my fair share of storms, and I bring real-world perspective combined with top-tier academic training to every session.

Academic & Professional Background

  • Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) | BC Association of Clinical Counsellors

  • Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MA) | University of British Columbia (UBC)

  • Doctor of Medicine (MD – Non-Practicing) | McMaster University

  • Graduate Certificate in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PATGC) | Vancouver Island University (VIU)

Professional Practice Note: While I hold a Medical Degree (MD) from McMaster University, my professional practice is strictly focused on clinical counselling and psychotherapy. I operate exclusively under my scope as a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and do not provide medical advice, medical diagnoses, or medical treatments.

In addition to clinical counselling, I am fully trained in university-accredited protocols for Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy. I work with individuals interested in evidence-based preparation, integration, and therapeutic support within this rapidly evolving field.

Clinical & Legal Scope Disclaimer: In strict compliance with the BCACC Standards of Clinical Practice and Health Canada regulations, my role as a clinical counsellor is limited exclusively to non-directive psychological preparation and post-experience integration care. I do not recommend, prescribe, provide, or administer controlled psychedelic substances, nor do I facilitate access to unauthorized channels.

Testimonials
From Our Participants
Evan
"Straight up, if you're thinking about taking a risk with a therapist and want to grow as an individual take it with Dr. John. He has a lot of Experience, Insight, and Guidance. He helped me find my "flex", and I hope he helps you find yours. :D"
Luke
"Dr. John has been amazing with helping me with my mental health. I highly recommend him to anyone that just needs someone to talk to."
Hans
"The authenticity with which Dr. John and his team are able to offer a broad range of services with the working with the psyche, body and the spirit both individually and in group is impressive. I participated in a community of progress program and a Men's Meditation Academy at a vulnerable time in my life. The program, the therapy and the accountability helped me to overcome mid life challenges and helped to set me on a path of recovery and growth."
Graham
"Dr. John provides a great service and the Community of Progress that he runs has created great opportunities for me to grow and learn as a person."
Mitch
"The Garuda Centre is a special place. Dr. John and Ren are both incredible people, the world would be a better place if we had more like them. I have done both individual & group therapy sessions which were both helpful. Dr. John has a way of meeting people where they are at yet also knowing when and how to push. I've recommended them to many men in my life and will continue to do so."
Devon
"I am beyond grateful for the work I have done with Dr. John. He is straight with me and has always met me where I am at. He is relatable and has been just the mirror I have needed to support me through my journey as a Father, Husband and man."
August
"I love working with Dr. John!! He’s really helped me through it all sobriety, losing my kids, my relationship with both friends and family and as well as my day to day relationship with my wife, I’ve been through a lot of crap and when I walked in I was nervous to open up because of my “Man-Pride” but eventually I opened up and felt so much better."
Vartan
"I can’t recommend this place enough. The group sessions and the meditation academy are on point. Very worthwhile"
INDIVIDUAL | COUPLES THERAPY
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLING
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1
Choose your Group
This is the fun part! Pick a Transformational group that speaks to you and aligns with your needs.
2
Apply online
This helps us verify your interest and the basic information necessary to begin the enrolment process.
3
consultation
We will contact you to set up a free quick consultation with the group facilitator to make sure it’s a good fit.