Here is a little bit about me to give you a glimpse of who I am and the context in which I live. I am married, am the mom of two adults and step mom to a teenager. I have the personal experiences of parenting alone, blending a family, supporting a family member struggling with mental illness, and navigating our provinces many systems. I love the outdoors (when it is nice out!), gardening, beaches and water, travelling to sunny destinations, time with friends and family and time alone. I like being physically active but I also love potato chips and chocolate!
Yoga helps me breathe, be still, and listen to my own voice.
I am still learning about maintaining balance in my life and realize that it is simply an ongoing process. I have learned to embrace imperfection and tolerate the unpredictability that life brings. I use my sense of humour in my work, and often connect with clients over laughter. I love the work I do and am truly blessed to have been given this opportunity.
“It is an honour to work with others on their personal journeys. I believe that everyone has their own answers within, and when feeling stuck, professional guidance can help show the way. ”
Education and Experience
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology 2002
Masters of Education in Counselling Psychology 2006
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #6263) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors
Expressive Play Therapy - Justice Institute of BC
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy Externship
Observed Experiential Integration (OEI)
Ongoing development, both personally and professionally, including regular Clinical Consultation with a Psychologist
20 years experience working in the non-profit counselling sector (Families Impacted by Domestic Violence) in various roles including Children’s Counsellor, Clinical Counsellor, Counselling Program Director and Clinical Supervisor
Expertise includes anxiety, depression, domestic violence, addiction, trauma, grief and loss, communication, boundaries, women’s issues, sexual abuse, parenting, and relationship concerns.
I work with individuals, children, couples and families.
Approaches to Counselling
I use a blend of approaches including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Attachment, Family Systems, and Observed Experiential Integration (OEI). Work can range from very short term to longer term, dependent upon client needs. I am trauma informed and have a solid understanding of how to move through the various stages of trauma work. Emotions are a critical part of my approach to the work. I will support you to feel them without having them run you over so they can be better utilized in your day to day life. In sessions, moment by moment, I will help you pace and pay attention to what it is that may need to be brought to your awareness, so that you can create the changes you desire.