For over a decade in both my professional and personal life, I have had the honour of companioning individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief and loss. In my practice, I draw upon a combination of therapeutic approaches including person-centered, solution focused, attachment based, somatic, mindfulness and existential. As a caring and compassionate counsellor, I strive to create a safe nonjudgemental space for clients to share their concerns. I listen with an open heart, and an open mind. From a young age, I have been guided by an inner calling towards this profession, and am deeply passionate about the work I do.
Professionally, I have worked for governmental and non-profit organizations in the areas of crisis intervention, intake and assessment, treatment planning, individual and couples counselling, and employment support. I have also facilitated support groups and workshops for youth and adults in the areas of grief/loss, caregiving, disability, mindfulness, suicide awareness, and cancer care.
The personal perspective I can offer you:
Without a doubt, there are times in our lives that require contemplation and a turning inward. In my own life, facing these challenging times is what ultimately led me to study psychology and to pursue a career as a therapist.
My own personal lived experience with chronic illness, caregiving, disability, grief and loss have gifted me a knowing “felt sense” of what it is like to struggle with these and other life challenges. I have been to those low places and felt their sadness, fear, anxiety, anger and confusion. I know that with the right support and tools, you can learn to live alongside your struggles, grow to appreciate the wisdom they offer and embrace life’s joys again.
How advances in psychotherapy will inform our work together
In the last 20 years the fields of psychology and counselling have gone through an incredible transformation. Research taken from neuroscience, interpersonal neurobiology and mammalian physiology now informs therapeutic practice and illuminates exactly how therapy facilitates positive change. In a nutshell, it supports the idea that eastern practitioners have known for many years, which is the mind-body connection and the necessity of safe human relationships to re-wire the brain and develop an increasingly regulated nervous system.
In my practice, I am committed to ongoing learning. I see great value in keeping up with these changes, and in offering this knowledge to my clients. Providing psychoeducation helps to de-mystify therapy. It empowers my clients to try new things, and see their problems in different ways. Working with me, you will get practical tools (that are supported by research), and a safe space to do the “emotional work” that will assist you in your healing journey.
Education
Masters degree in Counselling from City University of Seattle
Bachelors degree with Major in Psychology and specialization in Counselling and Human development, and Sociology from Simon Fraser University
Additional Training
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) (Level 1)
Trauma Informed Somatic Practice Certification Course with Dr. Sharon Stanley
Clinical Hypnosis for Health Professionals (Level I and II) with the Canadian Society of Clinical Hypnosis
Introduction to Existential Analysis with the Existential Society of Canada
Critical Incident Debriefing
Art Therapy (BC Association of Clinical Counsellors)