For the past 12 years I have supported youth, adults, and families facing diverse challenges. Connection, respect, and collaboration are the underlying values that inform my practice. Currently, I am a mental health clinician with a local Health Authority. I also have experience working for a local school district and non-profits providing individual and group services. It continues to be an honour to walk alongside anyone looking to make change or navigate difficult situations.
Words to live by
When we are no longer able to change a situation…we are challenged to change ourselves
Q & A With our Staff
A little bit more about me
Education?
I have a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Guelph focusing in history and philosophy. After a ten year “breather”, I completed my Masters of Counselling from City University.
Top three Specializations:
- Addiction and problematic substance use
- Men’s Issues
- Supporting Youth and Families
Top Three Modalities of Therapy:
- Person Centered Therapy
- Strengths Based Therapy
- Solution Focused
What do people say your biggest strength is?
Speaking of strengths… I’m totally guessing here but either my honesty or my sense of humour?
Next question, please?
Something you’re proud of (challenge you’ve overcome, etc.)?
My relationship with my partner; I’m proud of the quality of our marriage and how we work hard to turn towards one another as we grow.
What led you to counseling?
I fit the cliché of knowing I was interested in helping others from an early age. My privilege afforded me the opportunity to go to university, travel, and gain life experience. I moved to British Columbia in 2006 and started volunteering with several non-profit agencies. From here, I found my footing supporting others as a youth worker. I loved the work and felt called to grow my skill set. This led me to my next step of becoming a counsellor.
Favorite book?
Stoner by John Williams
The book follows the life of a teacher of the same name. It’s one of those books that what makes it great is not related to what happens, but how it is described. In my opinion it is incredibly well written and beautiful. I also like that it’s somewhat obscure.
What/who inspires you?
I’m continually awed by the incredible diversity of humankind.
Favorite things to do?
Hobby wise, I enjoy modern board gaming, reading, and experimenting with trying out new recipes. For self-care I like to weight train, stretch or one on one conversations with friends over food or coffee. share a coffee/meal with a friend.
What would you tell a client who is meeting you for the first time?
Having seen several counsellors myself, I would want to speak to the importance of fit in the work we might do together and how a strong connection forms the basis of this work. I would then want to assure you that I’m committed to a collaborative process: making sure we’re on the right path, adjusting course as necessary or finding the right person if we don’t click.
One thing you’ve learned from working with people?
Never assume anything.
Favorite quote?
My favourite quote often changes depending on where I am drawing inspiration. Most recently I’ve been returning to: “When we are no longer able to change a situation…we are challenged to change ourselves” Viktor Frankl.
Additional therapies used:
- Motivational Interviewing
- Acceptance and Commitment therapy
