Burnout Counselling in Nanaimo & Online

Feeling Drained and Overwhelmed?

Burnout can creep in quietly — a little more tired each day, a bit more irritable — or it can hit hard, leaving you exhausted, disconnected, and wondering how you’ll keep going.

It’s not a personal failure. Burnout is your body and mind’s way of saying, “This pace isn’t working anymore.” And for many men, it’s tied to the pressure to push through, “be strong,” and never ask for help.

Andrej Klimo, Registered Therapeutic Counsellor in Nanaimo BC

My story

I’ve Been There Too

I know what it’s like to keep going when every part of you is telling you to stop. I once believed strength meant carrying it all alone. Learning about burnout flipped that belief on its head. Therapy helped me understand where those expectations came from, set boundaries I never thought I could, and reconnect with what matters most.

Signs You Might Be Experiencing Burnout

It’s More Common Than You Think

Over half of professionals report symptoms of burnout, yet many hide it behind a mask of productivity. For men, burnout often shows up as cynicism, irritability, or a short fuse rather than obvious exhaustion.

We push ourselves to meet expectations, ignore our own needs, and keep moving — until something breaks.

“Stress is not just in our minds; it’s a physical response with real consequences.”


How Counselling Can Help

In our sessions, we’ll work together to:

  • Pinpoint the real sources of your stress — not just the surface triggers
  • Build daily rhythms for rest and recovery
  • Learn to set boundaries without guilt
  • Reconnect with your values and the parts of life that give you energy
  • Create a realistic plan to sustain balance over time

Learn more about my counselling approach.

Standing portrait of Andrej Klimo, Registered Therapeutic Counsellor in Nanaimo

What Sessions Look Like

  • We’ll start by mapping out what’s causing the most strain
  • I’ll help you identify where you have room to step back or make changes
  • You set the pace — whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly
  • I’ll offer tools you can use between sessions so progress continues outside the room

Tools We Explore

  • Boundary-setting and stress awareness
  • Completing the stress cycle: rest, reflection, reconnection
  • Building habits and rhythms that help you stay grounded

Common Questions

Can burnout lead to depression?

Yes. When burnout goes unchecked, it can develop into depression. Counselling helps you understand what’s happening and take steps before it gets there.

Not always. Often it’s about changing how you relate to work, not leaving it altogether.

Some people notice small shifts — better sleep, a bit more patience — within a few sessions. Lasting change takes time, but it starts with the first step.

Do you have more questions? Check out my FAQ page.

Portrait of Andrej Klimo RTC at the start of a counselling session in Nanaimo

If You’re Ready to Press Pause

Burnout doesn’t have to define you. You can reclaim your energy, your focus, and your sense of self — one step at a time.

I offer burnout counselling in-person from my Nanaimo office and online for clients across BC, including Parksville, Ladysmith, and Victoria.

Resources for Living with Burnout

Here are a few resources you may find helpful if you’re looking to understand or manage chronic pain on a deeper level.

Read more:

Man outside holding his back in pain, symbolizing chronic tension and counselling support in Nanaimo

The Link Between Emotional Pain and Chronic Physical Pain

A deeper look at how emotional struggles and physical pain connect — and why addressing both matters for healing.

Explore related:

an sitting alone with anxious expression in a calm setting

Counselling for Anxiety and Work-Related Stress in Nanaimo

Stress and anxiety often intensify physical symptoms. Counselling can help ease both body and mind.

Book recommendation:

Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski & Amelia Nagoski

A powerful look at how stress affects the body and mind, and how completing the “stress cycle” can restore balance.