In my journey, I've naturally gravitated towards being a mediator and confidant, driven by
genuine care. I create a safe, non-judgmental environment where others feel comfortable sharing.
This way of being has lead me to a career in psychology counselling and art therapy, where I am
able to facilitate growth and witness the resiliency of my clients as we begin to understand their
past, navigate the present, and set future goals.
I have often been drawn to both the arts and psychology, and started my journey as a mental
health professional after obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in art therapy from Lesley University in
Cambridge, Massachusetts. I later pursued a Master’s in Counselling Psychology; Art Therapy,
from Adler University in Vancouver, which gave me the foundation to practice both counselling
and art therapy. I find that creative collaboration when unpacking whatever may bring a client
into the session is a natural part of the progression of our therapeutic time together.
I have had years of experience which have included working with groups and individuals in
recovery from substance abuse, folks living with developmental disabilities, indigenous recovery
circles, and groups exploring the healing modalities of various expressive art therapies. I offer a
compassionate, person-centered approach to healing in a comfortable and confidential
environment. As a client, this means you will receive a level of care that allows you to feel seen,
understood, and supported in a session that is tailored to your needs and concerns. Although I
come from an arts-oriented background, I primarily work from a CBT, Narrative, or attachment-
focused approach with a holistic focus. In my sessions, I consider all mental and social factors at
work in a client’s life rather than just focusing on symptoms of a possible disorder. With this in
mind, the approaches I use in sessions will often consider early attachment experiences, current
relationship dynamics or patterns, and how various thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are
interconnected.
Counselling has been such a helpful tool for me in navigating my own life’s challenges and I
strongly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I have been blessed with
counsellors who have taught me strategies for navigating difficult emotions, unhelpful thoughts,
and challenging experiences in my life. My time as a client has contributed to the counsellor I am
today and I’m more than happy to continue to pass the knowledge and techniques down to help
others reach their goals. I consider inclusivity, cultural competence, gender-affirming, and
trauma-informed care a few of many ethical requirements in my personal and professional
practice. I am a certified counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy
Association (CCC) with a professional membership with the BC Association of Clinical
Counsellors (BCACC) and the BC Art Therapy Association (BCATA) currently pending for
approval.
One of my favourite artists, Frida Kahlo once said “I am my own muse, I am the subject I know
best. The subject I want to know better.” - and this is so accurate to all our individual
experiences, and as a counsellor I assist in the strengthening of client’s self-understanding,
acceptance, and empowerment.
I extend a heartfelt invitation for you to share your narrative with me, fostering a collaborative
journey towards achieving your aspirations.
