Who am I?

I am a psychotherapist and coach with a specialization in human service issues including burnout, compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma, organizational humiliation or shaming, targets of bullying & harassment, and abrasive leadership styles.

I have been practicing and teaching in these areas for approximately 7 years.

My therapeutic style…

My style is grounded in empathy, warmth, and understanding. I work collaboratively with you on whatever you bring into the room.

I use an integrative approach based in many modalities including affective neuroscience, attachment theory, emotion theory, and body-focused (also called somatic) approaches. Since everyone is unique in the way they approach life and suffering, I tailor my approach to what you need and who you are.

Anti-oppressive practice is a core principle of my work. I come from a relatively privileged background as a white, heterosexual, cis gendered, middle aged, settler woman. I am committed to continuing to learn about and work toward socially just practices and systems in my practice. 

I believe that everyone has the capacity to grow, heal, and live a joy filled life.

My credentialing

Master of Social Work in Leadership and Human Services - University of Calgary

Master of Arts in Theology - Regent College

Bachelor of Social Work - University of Victoria

Bachelor of Psychology - University of the Fraser Valley

Specific therapeutic trainings:

Organizational Coaching Certificate - UBC

Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy - Level 1 - AEDP Institute

Somatic Therapy level 1- Center for Mindfulness Based Somatic Therapy

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy - DBT Center Vancouver

Memberships

Registered Social Worker in the province of British Columbia (BCCSW #11440)

Member of the BC Association of Social Workers

Canadian Association of Social Workers

Other things about me…

Being a psychotherapist and coach is only part of my identity – I am also a partner, a mom (to a teen, a mischievous little dog & a grumpy cat), a sister, an aunt, a cousin, a daughter, and a friend. I am also a cleaner, homework tutor, cook, chauffeur, late night confidante...I’m sure other folks reading this can relate. I have, of course, taken on other roles throughout my life but the core connection with myself and my spirituality is always the key that allows me to act with joy, compassion and integrity.

Having fun is a key part of looking after my wellbeing. I love to swim, walk, and laugh till I can’t breathe with my family over silly stuff. I gain a lot of inner strength and grounded-ness from hanging out with my friends and family. I also thoroughly enjoy keeping my own company. When I get the chance, I love to take long walks. I am an avid reader of all sorts of books. My favourites are usually fantasy and dystopian lit (like Octavia Butler, Eden Robinson, and Cherie Dimaline).

Thanks for reading and I hope I get to meet you soon. Take care of yourself.