I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor working Parksville, BC (Vancouver Island) and surrounding areas. Before beginning this work, I was a music teacher for many years, and still maintain a studio with a few students. I completed an undergraduate degree in music, played with small ensembles, orchestras, and bands, and did some solo work from time to time. As a teacher, I worked with very young students, teenagers, and adults, and found it very rewarding to see the growth and self-learning that accompanies learning to play an instrument well. My interest in psychology and human development grew as I accompanied my students through their various life-challenges and developmental stages.
I returned to school after more than fifteen years of teaching, prompted by a desire to delve more deeply into my own journey of personal growth, both spiritual and psychological, and a wish to be able to use this new personal and academic knowledge to assist other people — not just musically, but in all aspects of life.
My counselling work draws on my combination of theological studies, contemplative practice, musical training, academic study, research, and counselling training. I believe that this combination of experience assists me in guiding clients towards a path of growth and healing that is holistic, experiential, creative, and deeply respectful of the spiritual beliefs and practices that resonate best with each individual. My approach draws on the evolving field of interpersonal neurobiology, attachment-based theories, experiential work including mindfulness-type approaches and contemplative practices, and other methodologies depending upon the needs of the client.
I work with individuals on concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, family of origin issues, and life transitions. I have led groups on stress management with seniors and graduate students, and have co-led a group for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. I also lead retreat days and workshops for groups on topics such as spirituality, music, and contemplative prayer.
Academic Credentials:
MA in Counselling Psychology — The University of British Columbia
MA in Theological Studies (Spirituality and Spiritual Direction) — Vancouver School of Theology
BMus — Brandon University, Brandon, Manitoba
Professional Memberships:
Registered Clinical Counsellor, British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors
Canadian Certified Counsellor, Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association
Recent professional-development activities:
2016 to present – Ongoing supervision and professional development in AEDP
November 2015 – June 2016 AEDP Core Training
December 2014 – June 2015 AEDP Essential Skills
July 2012 Immersion Course in AEDP (Accelerated, Experiential, Dynamic Psychotherapy)
A designation of the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors
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