Personal Clinical Counselling Certification
Certified with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors: Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) #19152
Certified with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association: Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) #11255721
What moment did you know counselling was the job for you?
Although I started going to school for counselling, I still wasn't entirely sure I would enjoy it or even be any good at it. It was only when I started doing practices with the other students and I could sit alongside some of the most intense emotions that I knew this is what I loved doing and wanted to continue to do.
What is your process for turning a bad day into a good one?
When I'm having a bad day, I usually try to take a moment to check in with myself and ask "what am I missing right now? What do I need that I'm not getting?" Sometimes it's because I'm feeling I need reassurance from others, or I haven't had a 'win' for a while. I'd like to say that I always go about finding the healthiest way of meeting those needs, but sometimes I just buy myself an unhealthy treat instead, which is definitely not the best option.
Something you’re proud of outside of work (challenge you’ve overcome, etc.)?
I'm really proud of a few things, both big and small. I'm proud of my relationships and the work I put into them and I'm also proud of some of the achievements I've gotten on my favourite video games. I'm really proud of the library I have at home, not because I've read every book I have on the shelf but because I've collected a lot of books and I will definitely probably hopefully read them all one day.
What do you strive for as a therapist?
As a therapist, I want to help my clients recognize the tools and abilities they already have at their disposal to help them meet their needs and take care of themselves. I also really want my clients to know that their stories, feelings and everything else they want to express is always worth listening to.
What are some indicators of self-growth?
I think one of the best indicators of self-growth is acting differently when you encounter the same problem you once had before. The difficulty is you often don't recognize it as a problem anymore, so you don't even get to congratulate yourself on how far you've come.
If you were to have one superpower what would it be?
I've always wanted to have the power to move things with my mind... not for anything grand, I usually only think about it when I drop something and don't want to have to reach down and get it.
Favorite things to do?
I really love books, both reading books and listening to audiobooks. I love to watch very bad movies and laughing at them. I love hanging out with my cat, even though he feels it's ok to bite me when he never does that to anyone else.
What would you tell a client who is meeting you for the first time?
I always tell clients the most important thing about therapy is that they feel comfortable working with their therapist. I don't take any offence if anyone doesn't feel that way about working with me, it's so much more important to find that right fit.If you had to give a Ted Talk tomorrow, what would it be on? What are some interesting points you know about this topic?
I have a conspiracy theory that involves Pink Floyd, Tom Jones, and The Phantom of the Opera, but I don't want to say anything until I've finished my giant corkboard at home.
What or where makes you the happiest?
I'm really happiest when I'm reading along with other people, whether in a library or a cafe. It's just nice to do something parallel with others while also getting some me-time in the same moment.
What are three words to describe your personality?
I'd say I'm compassionate, curious, and a critical thinker.
Favourite book and why?
The Brothers Karamazov. I think Dostoevsky understood a lot about mental illness, trauma and the infinite depth of every person’s inner world without fully having the words for it that we have now.
Favorite song from your youth?
My favourite song to listen to when I was young used to be Gorillaz "Feel Good, Inc." It still is my favourite, but it used to be, too.
What structure do you have in your first session?
Usually, my first session with any client is a bit looser to start, meaning we can talk about harder stuff or more casual stuff, depending on how you feel.
Thoughts on humour in session?
I think humour can be a very powerful way to connect two or more people and in sessions I never want to use it to make anyone feel ashamed of their thoughts and actions.
