A bit about me and my approach
Some current ponderings, sources of inspiration, and my experience
You know those moments when you feel like the rug has been pulled out from underneath you - like you cannot ever see yourself or the world in the same way again? I call that insight. And although these moments of insight are disorienting and uncomfortable, I believe they are catalysts for change. Moments of insight - my own, and supporting others to experience them - are my modus operandi. I spend a lot of time pondering the big existential questions of life, and I am genuinely curious about human beings - their stories and the meaning they make of their lives. I hope we can explore this big stuff together and unearth some insight.
Something else I often consider is how to ethically practice counselling when it’s foundation was formed and influenced by misogyny, patriarchy, white supremacy, colonialism, and individualism. Because of the unsettling feeling I have in my body when I remember the roots of my chosen profession, I continue to attempt to address and dismantle the power dynamics inherent within the counsellor/client relationship. An example of a power imbalance is when someone arrives to counselling with the expectation that the counsellor will “fix” them. This expectation stems from the underlying belief that someone other than themselves knows what is best for them. If this is you, there is no shame in holding this belief because it is a part of the dominant culture we are all steeped in. In this case, my role is to reconnect you with yourself, your own wisdom (we all have it!), and the power of your own thoughts and choices.
I have over a decade of experience working in community-based mental health within the anti-violence sector (supporting children, youth, and caregivers that have been impacted by violence in the home). My heart is in social justice and empowerment work. I am a certified Shamanic yoga teacher, and I have been guiding practice since 2009. I have a BA in Gender Studies and Sociology from Trent University, a Wellness Counselling Diploma from Rhodes Wellness College and a MA in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University.
I draw inspiration in life from wild and untamed places in nature, children, the space between my breaths, creative play, poetry, and very nerdy philosophy and psychotherapy podcasts and books. I also really love to laugh, a lot. People can be surprised that therapy often includes a healthy dose of laughter.
I am grateful every day to live on the unceded and traditional land of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation). I am a mother, a partner, a yogi, a rock-climber, a social and environmental activist, a life-long learner, and a Mexican rescue pup lover.
I strive to create A safe-enough space for you to explore your self in a meaningful and transformative way.
I believe in you, even when you don’t believe in yourself. I believe that you can learn to care for yourself with love and compassion. I believe in your capacity to navigate through the dark and challenging times of life when self-abandonment can be so enticing. I believe whole-heartedly in the power of therapy to bring about lasting change in your life. I have seen time and time again how navigating the darkness is easier when it’s not done alone. Through open exploration we will take a deep dive inwards and form an authentic connection.
Because I stand so firmly in my belief in you I situate myself deeply within a Humanistic and Person-Centred practice. You can count on me to be a compassionate witness - which means I will never try to change or fix you. I will be with you through the highs, lows, and in-betweens and continue to offer steadfast presence and compassionate care. I will challenge you to enter a deeper awareness of yourself and how you show up in the world. You can count on me to be honest and real.
Below you will find my current areas of therapeutic interest. I draw upon the wisdom of these evidence-based methodologies in my therapy sessions with people:
Mindfulness, meditation, somatics, Interpersonal therapy (i.e. the magic of the present moment)
