I strive to provide individuals with ways to explore, cope, and manage concerns of mental health, feelings of being stuck, and family/relationship issues, as well as to find ways to improve on their overall well-being and health. My aim is to collaborate with individuals and families to find solutions on issues that are causing them pain and suffering by tailoring my approach to specific needs. I work with clients from a goal oriented perspective and encourage exploring the meaning behind behaviours, thought patterns, and feelings so as to provide transferable skills both inside and outside of the counselling realm.
My Background
I enjoy working with youth, adults, and families who struggles with mental health and relational concerns. My passion lies in two distinct areas that overlap: One is the decrease of mental health concerns for children and youth from a family and community perspective. The second being about reintroducing connection (to community, family, sense of self, etc.) to the concept of mental health and well-being for people of all ages.
I have previously worked with children, youth, and families who have experienced trauma, high-risk behaviour, suicidality, self-harm, abandonment, systemic oppression, and varying mental health concerns.
My Approach & Philosophy
My practice is informed by evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy . I believe that providing ethical care for clients comes from a place of integrity and transparency – which begins with developing a trusting therapeutic relationship. I also believe in communication and connection as central to well-being, of which the first step is already initiated when clients reach out for counselling.
Accessing counselling can be difficult – logistically, emotionally, and due to the ongoing stigma around mental health and therapy. My practice is also rooted in non-judgment that seeks to increase comfort with vulnerability. Sharing about one’s self is not always an easy process – it can be emotionally taxing or unsafe at times. Developing a therapeutic relationship from a non-judgmental approach, with transparency, and using evidence-based approaches is key to breaking down barriers that prevent us from being able to discuss difficult topics with others.