Katy recently attained her bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the University of British Columbia. From her years of experience in research, she grew particularly interested in studying the relationship between neurological processes and health outcomes amongst individuals diagnosed with brain and addiction disorders. Through her studies at UBC, she has engaged in fMRI research examining impulse control in Bipolar populations and presented research on key determinants of health for aging adult populations. Additionally, she assists in research at Red Fish Healing Centre for Mental Health & Addiction to expand evidence-based treatments for comorbid mental health and substance use conditions. Katy hopes to pursue a career in clinical psychology in order to further develop treatment research and inform her evidence-based approach in clinical practice.
Words to live by
“Witnessing survival can make us believe in our own.”
Q & A With our Staff
A little bit more about me
Education?
I completed my Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Psychology and a Minor in Health & Society at the University of British Columbia. I hope to attend graduate school for Clinical Psychology wherever life takes me!
Something you’re proud of (challenge you’ve overcome, etc.)?
I can say that I’m proud of the quality of people and relationships that I have in my life, but believe me when I say that hasn’t always been the case! I’ve experienced so much trial and error with all sorts of relationships, and they can be so tough sometimes. Although it takes a lot of work (and sometimes hurt), it’s a great feeling to find a place of security in the company of those around you.
What led you to counselling?
Through years of research, mental health has been uncovered as a key factor for healthy aging, purpose in life, positive relations with others, life satisfaction, physical health, and many more factors that ultimately make life worth living.
I found that such an essential pillar of health and well-being is worthy of my life’s work. I hope to be part of a generation that reduces the stigma and revolutionizes public perception of mental health in a way that is empowering and hopeful.
What/who inspires you?
Travel. I always find myself challenged towards growth when I meet new people, places, and cultures, yet oddly enough I feel comforted by the magnitude of it all. It’s an awfully inspiring thing to see beauty all over!
Favorite things to do?
I love experiences that are accompanied by big feelings, whether that’s going on a day hike, traveling to a new place, reveling in live music, or journaling about something that’s been on my mind. I also place a lot of value in my friendships and love soaking in quality time over some good food!
Favorite book and why?
I have so many. One book I unequivocally recommend is When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi. I have no words to describe the amount of wisdom and inspiration contained in Dr. Kalanithi’s story.
What do people say your biggest strength is?
I will never forget when a friend in high school wrote to me that I make people feel seen and valued through the way that I treat them. I hope to live up to those words in whatever I do.
One thing you’ve learned from working with people?
Ego is perhaps the most dangerous divider between people, while vulnerability and authenticity is the most powerful reconciler. I believe that ego will yield in the face of authentic connection nine times out of ten.
What would you tell a client who is meeting you for the first time?
I so badly want to help you it isn’t even funny!!
