Practicum Student Intern, Masters in Counselling Candidate
Life can be complex. Day-to-day realities that feel predictable and safe can change in an instant. Relationships that are dearly important to us can become painful and conflictual. And sometimes, despite our best efforts and resources, we’re not able to move the needle on our own. I see this, and I’ve lived it, too.
But with loss and transition, there is also tremendous opportunity. Change and upheaval, even when demanding or unwelcome, can call on you to explore ‘what do I want, need and deserve? And, how can I get there?’
I believe that getting closer to what we want starts with looking inward. When we are willing to look at ourselves and the stories we hold with curiosity, compassion and honesty, we open ourselves up to endless possibilities. I also know that we’re not meant to do that part on our own.
I love that therapy is a space where we are free to explore ourselves and our situations without worrying about judgment or taking up too much space (it’s your space to take up!). I’m struck by how much is going on within each person I meet that is ripe for exploration. Our emotions can hide, only to spring up unannounced. Our bodies can store old traumas. Our thoughts can consume and pester us. I thrive on helping clients move towards lightness though raw conversation and building deeper connections to themselves and the people and world around them.
For me, therapy begins with providing a space where you are welcome to unapologetically be yourself. Our relationship sets the foundation for the changes you’ll be working on in therapy, and within this, your trust in me is key. I work with clients to create a sense of safety and encourage showing up with openness and honesty towards each other. I welcome the hard conversations, as I truly believe that they are where the most profound growth comes from.
Together we will look at the meanings you pull from and narratives that are generated through your experiences. We’ll see how this impacts not only the way you think and how you see the world but also how your body, emotions and relationships are shaped by them.
I truly believe that connection is the heart of life and feel a passion towards working with individuals, couples and families on how to strengthen their relationships. I work with them on moving through the stuck places by finding compassion through understanding one another. I see all behaviour as rational and all truth as valid. In my experience, scars from relational ruptures need a safe relational container to heal. In working with dyads and families, my goal is to help create a shared understanding of both the individual and collective experience.This sets the groundwork for moving towards deeper, more meaningful relationships.
In 2012 I graduated from UBC with a Bachelor of Human Kinetics. Years later I had started to feel like there was something missing; as though surely there is more to life that I could be contributing to. This led me to volunteering with and eventually becoming staff at the Crisis Centre of B.C., where I still currently work while at the same time studying for a Masters in Clinical Counselling at City University of Seattle.
I love learning and continue to be amazed by how much I have yet to discover. I have an adventurous spirit, but also love quiet nights at home with my family. I’m a Mama to a silly and sensitive l’il boy who inspires me to slow down, be present and play. Counselling was not something I chose, but rather something that came to me after having my world turned upside down. It would be nice to say that I have it all figured out, but I don’t. All I know is that I’m right where I want to be.
