I’m passionate about welcoming individuals of all backgrounds into my practice and my primary areas of focus are clients with anxiety and depression, substance use challenges, developmental trauma, stress management, and life transitions. I use a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lens to guide my clients in finding greater strength and resiliency in their lives. As someone who has changed careers a few times, I understand the process of finding purpose in your life and am able to provide tools to those searching for meaning in their everyday lives. I also have personal expertise within the LGBTQ+ community and do specialize in supporting clients navigating life transitions and matters of identity.
Words to live by
“Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and joy and belonging” – Brené Brown
Q & A With our Staff
A little bit more about me
Education?
- Bachelors of Arts, Major in Psychology at the University of British Columbia
- Masters of Counselling Psychology at Adler University.
Top three Specializations:
- Substance use
- Anxiety and Depression
- Men’s and LGBTQ+ issues
Top Three Modalities of Therapy:
- Narrative Therapy
- Client-Centered Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Professional Clinical Counselling Certification
Certified with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors: Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)#: 20610
What do people say your biggest strength is?
People often tell me I am kind. In this world where there can be so much darkness, I think it’s a strength to be able to shine the light of compassion on others.
Something you’re proud of (challenge you’ve overcome, etc.)?
Having overcome addiction and living my life as a sober person for over a decade has been my most cherished achievement.
What led you to counseling?
After working in both non-profit and corporate environments, I decided I wanted to pursue work that was deeply meaningful to me, helping others one on one, allowing me to be of greater service to my community.
What/who inspires you?
I’m inspired when people have the courage to make mistakes.
Favorite things to do?
I love being active outside! I enjoy running, hiking, and swimming.
What would you tell a client who is meeting you for the first time?
My approach to counseling is that the client is the expert on their own lives. I have knowledge about the counseling process, but the client possesses wisdom on their experience. Together we explore those experiences to find how it shapes their perspective and discover how they prefer to describe their stories.
One thing you’ve learned from working with people?
Genuine connection can be remarkably therapeutic.
Favorite book and why?
My favorite book currently is The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, because it provides a thorough and accessible explanation for how trauma affects people and offers ways to heal.
