Hi, I’m Lucy.

I'm a Kelowna-based psychotherapist specializing in sex, relationships, and sexual health.

I work with individuals and partnerships navigating challenges in these areas, including sexual trauma and gender exploration. My work is holistic and sex-positive, combining thoughtful exploration with practical support for change.

Lucy Snider, sex and relationship therapist based in Kelowna, BC

What Inspired This Work

I have always been fascinated by human relationships, what makes us feel drawn to certain people, what helps relationships flourish, and what seems to cause problems.

After completing an undergraduate degree in psychology, I knew I wanted to explore relationship therapy. I've also always had a personal interest in biology, sexual health, and a strong passion for social justice. These interests led me to a career in sexual health and training in sex therapy.

After immigrating to Canada, I wanted to create a space where I could continue to support people with a focus on empowerment and creating positive sexual experiences.

Therapeutic Approach

My primary therapeutic modality is Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, which means I believe difficulties in the present are likely to have originated in the past.

I take a bio-psycho-social approach to sex therapy, considering biological, psychological, and sociological factors. I also use Internal Family Systems therapy and Eye-Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, which provide a non-pathologizing approach to symptoms of trauma.

Lucy Snider presenting at a professional event on sex therapy
Lucy Snider presenting at a professional event on sex therapy

Professional Background

I have been working in the field of mental health since 2009. I spent 10 years in London, UK working with some of the largest sexual health clinics and HIV and sexual health charities in Europe as well as running my own private practice.

My roles have varied between psychosexual and relationship psychotherapist, sexual health advisor and educator and specialist sexual health and HIV counsellor for both the British National Health Service (NHS) and the private sector.

I moved to Canada in 2018 and started my Kelowna based private practice. I was the counselling supervisor at the Central Okanagan Elizabeth Fry Society, supporting survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence, until the agency closed in 2026.

I am an adjunct faculty member at Adler University where I teach Introduction to Sex Therapy. I have previously taught a workshop for the Alberta Society for the Promotion of Sexual Health (ASPSH) and volunteered at Options for Sexual Health, Kelowna.

I have had many years of psychoanalysis and psychotherapy.

Professional Qualifications

    • Master of Science (with Merit) in Psychosexual & Relationship Therapy (MSc), University of East London (2018)

    • Advanced Diploma in Couples Therapy, Middlesex University (2013)

    • Postgraduate Diploma in Psychosexual & Relationship Therapy (PgDip), Middlesex University (2011)

    • Foundation Certificate in Counselling & Psychotherapy, Regent's University (2010)

    • Master of Arts (Honours) in Psychology, University of Edinburgh (2007)

    • Registered Clinical Counsellor – Approved Clinical Supervisor (RCC-ACS), BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (#15707)

    • Senior Accredited Member, College of Sexual & Relationship Therapists (AccCOSRT Sen #2526)

    • Certified Sexologist, American Board of Sexology (#24052)

    • Professional Member, Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association (#10005841)

  • I believe continued learning is an essential part of providing ethical, evidence-based care.

    Recent professional development includes:

    • Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 - IFS Institute - 2026

    • ADHD and Sex: A Clinical Presentation - Dr. Lyne Piché - 2024

    • Perspectives on Feminist Therapy - Feminist Therapy Network - 2024

    • Ace and Aro Affirming Practice Webinar - Laura Guenzel Counselling & Consulting - 2024

    • Emotionally Focused individual Therapy (EFiT) Level 1 - ICEEFT - 2023

    • Clinical Supervision Level 2 - Justice Institute British Columbia - 2023

    • Clinical Supervision Level 1 - Justice Institute British Columbia - 2023

    • Certificate in Compulsive Sexual Behaviour - Contemporary Institute of Clinical Sexology - 2022

    • Treating Dissociative Disorders with EMDR: The Progressive Approach - Ripple Affect - 2020

    • Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Basic Training - Life Journeys Counselling - 2020

    • Indigenous Cultural Safety Training - First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) - 2020

    • Trauma Informed Relationships: Building Safety & Trust - The Saint Elizabeth FNIM Program - 2020

    • Exposing the Links Between Intimate Partner Violence and Traumatic Brain Injury - Kelowna Women's Shelter - 2018

    • Cross Cultural Working with Domestic Violence Perpetrators - Respect UK - 2017

    • BDSM and Further Sexualities Workshop - Christina Richards, College of Sexual & Relationship Therapists - 2015

Lucy Snider beyond the therapy room

Beyond the Therapy Room

I am originally from Edinburgh in Scotland and my mum still has to send me care packages of tea because I don't know what this stuff is that Canadians call tea.

When I'm not at work you'll usually find me in a yoga class, eating sweet treats, or spending time with my cats.