About Jennifer Chepil
Jennifer Chepil, Junior Associate Counsellor
Hi, I’m Jennifer Chepil, and I’m a Junior Associate Counsellor who works with children, youth, and families, including neurodivergent children and youth. I bring over nine years of experience supporting young people and caregivers in a variety of settings, including work with children and youth who have developmental delays, learning differences, and diverse ways of experiencing the world. I approach counselling with curiosity, compassion, and a genuine respect for each individual’s strengths, needs, and lived experiences.
I understand that seeking counselling can feel like a big step, particularly for families who may already feel overwhelmed or unsure where to turn. My intention is to offer a supportive and welcoming space where children, youth, and caregivers feel comfortable exploring challenges and building skills at a pace that feels right for them.
I strive to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel safe, heard, validated, and supported. Building trust and emotional safety is central to my work, especially for children and youth who may have experienced stress, transitions, or challenges within their relationships or environments. I recognize that each person’s story is unique, and I take care to honour that individuality within the counselling process.
My work is grounded in a trauma-informed, client-centred, and strengths-based approach. This means I prioritize collaboration, consent, and emotional safety while helping clients recognize their resilience and existing coping abilities. Rather than focusing solely on problems, I work alongside clients to identify strengths, values, and goals that support meaningful and sustainable change.
I have a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent children and youth, including those who may experience challenges related to attention, sensory processing, emotional regulation, anxiety, self-esteem, or social relationships. I believe neurodivergence is a natural and valuable part of human diversity and not something that needs to be fixed or changed.
My approach focuses on understanding each child’s unique nervous system, communication style, and learning needs. Through counselling, I support neurodivergent children and youth in developing self-awareness, emotional regulation skills, and confidence, while also helping caregivers better understand and support their child’s needs at home, school, and in the community.
Training | Education | Experience
Jen has a background in kinesiology and psychology, as well as training in children’s yoga, and enjoys incorporating movement-based and mindfulness-informed approaches into counselling sessions with children and youth. These body-based practices can be especially supportive for clients who benefit from experiential learning, sensory awareness, and opportunities to regulate their nervous system through movement.
When appropriate, sessions may include gentle movement, grounding exercises, breathing techniques, or mindfulness practices designed to support emotional regulation, focus, and self-awareness. These approaches can be particularly helpful for neurodivergent children who experience big emotions, restlessness, or difficulty expressing themselves verbally.
I value working collaboratively with families and caregivers, recognizing the important role they play in supporting children and youth. I aim to create a space where caregivers feel included, supported, and empowered, while also respecting each child’s autonomy and individuality. Together, we explore practical strategies, communication tools, and routines that align with family values and daily life.
Whether working with a child individually or alongside caregivers, my focus remains on strengthening relationships, building understanding, and supporting emotional well-being within the family system. I believe that small, meaningful changes can have a lasting impact when families feel supported and understood.
Outside of counselling and ongoing studies, Jen enjoys spending time outdoors hiking and trail running in the nearby mountains. She values balance, movement, and connection with nature, and brings this holistic perspective into her work as a counsellor. Jen is committed to continued learning and professional development to ensure she provides thoughtful, informed, and compassionate support to the children, youth, and families she works with.
Professional Affiliations
BC Association of Clinical Counsellors – Student Member
Education
- Master of Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University
Additional Training
- Introduction to Neuroscience and Satir in the Sand Tray – February 2025
Experience
- Clinical Counsellor
- Family Support Worker
Behavioural Interventionist