Meet Dr. Rosemary Rukavina
RELATIONSHIP PSYCHOLOGY
Let me start by saying this:
You deserve to feel better.
I’m Dr. Rosemary Rukavina, a Licensed Psychologist based in Burnaby, B.C. I have worked with adults, couples, and groups since 2011, first as a Clinical Counsellor and now as a Psychologist.
Clients describe me as direct, thoughtful, and engaged. I look closely at what is happening, provide clear direction, and keep therapy focused on changes that extend beyond the session.
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CHILDREN KEEPING ME HUMBLE
WHY RELATIONSHIP PSYCHOLOGY
Because so much of who we become is shaped in relationship.
Many of the patterns we struggle with did not develop in isolation; they emerged through what we experienced, what we learned to expect, and how we learned to protect ourselves.
That is why my work with trauma and my work with couples are not separate worlds: both involve patterns that are shaped and reinforced in how we relate.
My goal is to help you feel more grounded, less defined by the past, and more fulfilled in your relationships.
I BELIEVE
Therapy should do more than help you cope
Our inherent capacity for growth is at the heart of my work. Therapy should be purposeful, responsive, and structured around what will best support meaningful change.
It should help you feel differently, relate differently, live differently.
what that looks like in practice
Active and Experiential
We pay attention to what happens emotionally, physically, and relationally in the moment, so insight can become something you actually experience and practise.
Focused and Intentional
I do not believe therapy should drift indefinitely. Our work is guided by your goals, your history, and what is getting in the way of the life or relationships you want.
Direct and Collaborative
I will not simply sit back and leave you to figure everything out on your own. I offer observations, ask difficult questions, and help us stay focused while making decisions about the work together.
Responsive and Adaptive
I pay close attention to what is happening as we work and adjust the pace, focus, and approach when needed. Therapy should fit what is actually happening—not force you through a predetermined process.
Issues Frequently Addressed
ANXIETY, OVERWHELM, AND BURNOUT
SHAME, SELF-CRITICISM, AND PEOPLE-PLEASING
Trauma AND ATTACHMENT WOUNDS
CONFLICT AND COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWNS
TRUST, BETRAYAL, relationship injuries, AND affairs
EMOTIONAL DISCONNECTION AND INTIMACY
Issues Frequently Addressed
ANXIETY, OVERWHELM, ANd BURNOUT
SHAME, SELF-CRITICISM, AND PEOPLE-PLEASING
TRAUMA AND ATTACHMENT WOUNDS
CONFLICT AND COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWNS
TRUST, BETRAYAL, AND RELATIONSHIP INJURIES
EMOTIONAL DISCONNECTION AND INTIMACY
Are We a Good Fit?
Here’s what tends to make the work with me most effective.
GOOD FIT
We’re likely a good fit if you:
Want therapy that is active, compassionate, structured, and focused on change.
Are ready to work beyond insight and supportive conversations.
Are willing to look honestly at your own patterns, responses, and role in what is happening.
Can commit to the consistency and structure the work requires.
NOT A FIT
We’re likely not the right fit if you:
Are looking for occasional or one-off sessions rather than ongoing work.
Prefer primarily supportive talk therapy or brief skills-based treatment.
Want therapy to focus only on symptoms or on what someone else needs to do differently.
Need more immediate or specialized care than I provide.
The training, experience, and clinical depth behind the work:
- Licensed Psychologist in British Columbia
- Registered Doctoral Psychologist in the Yukon
- Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology
- Master's degree in Counselling Psychology
- Certified in EMDR Therapy
- Certified in Gottman Method Couples Therapy
- Currently completing IFS Institute Level 1 training
- Adjunct faculty experience in clinical counselling and psychology programs at the Master’s and Doctoral levels
For Clinicians
I value thoughtful professional relationships with clinicians who are invested in their work, continued growth, and providing excellent care.
I offer EMDR consultation for clinicians looking to strengthen their practice, deepen case conceptualization, and build confidence applying EMDR with complex presentations.
Consultation is available for clinicians seeking support with their EMDR practice or working toward EMDRIA Certification.
I’m exploring a small, curated collective for experienced clinicians who want the independence of private practice with more connection, consultation, and trusted referral relationships.
Members maintain fully independent practices while being part of a professional community they know and trust.
Consultation
Community
Ready to explore working together?
Learn more about individual EMDR therapy and couples therapy, or view current availability.