I have over 20 years of experience providing therapy, clinical assessment and treatment, as well as clinical supervision and consultation. I’ve worked in hospitals, outpatient psychiatric clinics, in community and non-profit agencies and in schools, with youth. I have provided direct therapy to children, youth, adults, couples and families of all compositions that have experiences with multiple challenges along the continuum of mental health and illness. I offer services inclusively to folks of all intersecting identities (as self-defined).
You should also know that a significant percentage of my work has been dedicated to trauma, including responding to crises (mental health emergencies), managing the short-term and long-term impacts of traumatic events, as well as working with generational and complex trauma and post traumatic stress (PTSD). I have worked with survivors of residential schools, youth and adults navigating severe mental illness and addiction, as well as individuals and families living with the effects of systemic and personal violence, the impacts of war and civil unrest, as well as marginalization and stigma. My practice is grounded in the principles of recovery, harm reduction and social justice.
I have certifications and training in a number of therapeutic modalities. I frequently utilize cognitive behavioural and dialectical behavioural therapy (CBT and DBT) as well as mindfulness-based and somatic methods, such as breath work and techniques support the regulation of the nervous system.
When possible, I incorporate nature into the therapeutic process. Integral to this experience is the awareness of self in connection to the natural environment, influencing the environment and being influenced by it. We could go for a walk in a park while we talk; we could explore the natural surroundings in an engaged and mindful way; or we could do a nature-based activity together. With children (typically, but not exclusively), this can be outdoor play therapy. All of these activities are done strategically and safely and with additional pre-planning.
I view any approach as a means towards gaining new insights and opening up possibilities for alternative ways of being and engaging with our lives. I also believe that the key to change is not in the approach itself, but in the unique relationship between us: the space of trust we jointly work to create. This is where you get to experience yourself as you are in that moment and where you are unconditionally accepted.
The work between us is collaborative (there is ongoing feedback between us) and tailored to your needs. It is the work in sessions and in between. It can be structured and focus on strategies and it can evolve in the process, as well as change direction from time to time. We will walk this path together and at your pace.
