What is your education?
I recently completed my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of British Columbia (UBC)! In addition to many psychology courses, I also almost minored in Biology! Biology allowed me to dive deeper into my passion for learning about the intersection between physical and emotional well-being. I hope to supplement that knowledge even further with a graduate degree in counseling or clinical psychology!
What led you to counselling?
Having gone through my journey in mental health, I recognize how significant the role of support is. I am lucky enough to have had a great team and support system behind me—one that showed patience, authenticity, and empathy. That kind of support inspired me to pursue an education in psychology and counselling, where I can strive to embody those traits when helping to uplift others!
What do people say your biggest strength is?
My persistence! It doesn't matter how many times I have to try again or how long it takes me to reach a certain goal – if I am deadset on it I will accomplish it! I like to think that the more you fail - the more you learn! When I was younger, I was bad at ice skating (I was so bad I got on the news) but by persistence (and hardheadedness) I managed a whole winter of skating by myself! As I get older and my goals feel harder to reach, I find that my persistence and drive remain the same.
Something you’re proud of (challenge you’ve overcome, etc.)?
Liking the gym! If you knew me when I was any younger, you’d know that I was the last person anyone would ever expect to like the gym and weightlifting. That said, over the last couple of years I kept going despite reallyyyy not wanting to and eventually I started to love it! I am proud to say that having a consistent gym routine now makes me happy! (I am still working my way to loving the treadmill though... Baby steps!)
What/who inspires you?
My family. I could ramble for so long about how great they are but what truly inspires me about them is their growth mindset. In addition to coming from a difficult socioeconomic background, they are also first-generation immigrants in a new country with a completely different culture. While both circumstances have setbacks of their own – in the face of any challenge they are presented with: they work hard to make the most of the hand they were dealt. At the same time, they are also dedicated to helping those around them.
Favourite things to do?
I love taking hip-hop dance classes. I never really got to take dance class when I was younger, so admittedly this is relatively new. It’s humbling, but every time I take a class, I leave feeling so positive, even if I completely mess up the choreography (which I usually do). Dance has been so much more than just perfecting the movements. It’s also a great way to meet people, stay active, enjoy music I love and build confidence. Aside from dancing, I also love exploring the food scene in metro Vancouver! Specifically looking for the best strawberry matcha around town! I am not from here, so it's just been great exploring what the lower mainland has to offer alongside my best friends.
Something you've learned about working with people?
I’ve learned the value of emphasizing grace and patience towards oneself. This can go for anything, but I find that some people might get discouraged when they feel like they haven't ‘grown’ the way they wanted to. Sometimes it can be easy to compare your progress to someone else’s, but it is so important to realize that growth is not linear, and it does not look the same for everyone. Everyone is dealing with different things and subsequently, everybody defines growth differently. Recognizing that helps you not compare yourself to others and instead helps to give yourself grace and patience in your journey. In summary - I have learned how important it is to be kind to yourself!
Favourite book and why?
A book that will always be special to me is The Hunger Games. While it does not align with what I like to read now, I say it’s my favourite because it’s the book that got me really into reading. I picked that book up because I had just watched the first Hunger Games movie and I could not wait to know what happened next. I ended up buying the book trilogy and got through all three books in two days. While I don’t know if I can still remember everything that happened in the books, I vividly remember the feeling of not wanting to put the books down until I’ve turned every page. I probably loved the feeling more than I loved the book!
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a child psychiatrist. I started seeing one when I was younger to navigate some family dynamics. I remember being pretty hesitant to go to one but after each visit, I felt lighter. I thought it was pretty special that he was able to guide and support me even though it felt like half the time we were just playing with random toys. Working with kids as a behaviour interventionist I was privileged enough to support clients of my own. I enjoyed making learning and therapy fun. As I got older, my interest in psychology only grew. That said, I think I would prefer supporting individuals through counselling as opposed to supporting them as a physician to focus more on building and maintaining connections with others.
What is your process for turning a bad day into a good one?
A bad day for me usually means that for whatever reason – everything felt like it was out of my control. When that happens I try to break down the things I can control with a checklist, schedule, or to-do list – anything that helps me regain a bit of structure and choice. Usually at the end of the schedule or to-do list will be something I can look forward to. Whether that’s getting a sweet treat, going out to dinner with family or friends or even spending some time by myself at the gym. I try to give myself something to look forward to even if it is a harder day!psychology only grew. That said, I think I would prefer supporting individuals through counselling as opposed to supporting them as a physician to focus more on building and maintaining connections with others.
Do you have any pets?
I am a huge dog person. When I was younger I had two puppies: Princess – a toy poodle, and Kulasa a Shih Tzu puppy. The name Kulasa means little girl in Tagalog – we picked the name because she acted more like a human than like a dog. Unfortunately, we had to leave both puppies with a family friend in the Philippines when my family immigrated to Canada but I miss them so much! While I have yet to have any new pets of my own since then- my aunt got a Berenadoodle back in 2021. His name is Squirrel and I love him as my own –even though he is probably sick of me coming over and wanting to play 24/7.
Other languages spoken?
Tagalog
