Experience

I graduated with a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Victoria in 2003, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC).

My predominant approach in this work has been Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) and Mentalization Based Therapy (MBT). I also employ mindfulness, solution focused, narrative, and motivational interviewing. Outside of my private practice, I am a Mental Health Therapist with Island Health. I have over 16 yrs experience, providing individual  psychotherapy, within an integrated, multidisciplinary mental health clinic.

I am inspired by the resilience and courage  I see in people as they seek a better understanding of themselves and the roots of their issues. I have journeyed with many clients as they overcame issues with depression, anxiety, addictions and dysregulated emotions and behaviours. I respect the courage that is needed to seek change, envision something different and act on it. I believe strongly in helping people build the skills and coping strategies needed to help bring change as well as increased self understanding and self compassion to help people feel more settled with themselves as they are. 
I previously trained and clinically supervised over 500 volunteers with the NEED Crisis and Information Line in addition to spending nearly 5 years working with the public as a volunteer. Through this work, I learned the power of attuned listening and asking the important questions. I repeatedly witnessed the strength and resilience people have within themselves that blossoms with the right support.

Additional experience working with children and adults in family transition (Separation and Divorce Resource Centre), as well as assisting people impacted by crime and trauma (Greater Victoria Police Victim Services) has taught me the importance of pairing concrete information while enhancing coping skills to help people during times of personal crisis.  

To find out more about my experience and background, please do not hesitate to contact me regarding a consultation with no obligation.