Trauma Therapist in Vancouver
My Story: Healing from a Traumatic Experience
Over 20 years ago I was involved in a house fire. Although I didn’t fully realize how it affected me at the time, it turned out to be very traumatic.
For over a year after this incident, I had symptoms of trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I experienced flash backs of the fire that interfered with my entire life. I was hypersensitive to loud sounds, especially sirens, which triggered even more flashbacks.
Eventually, I found a therapist who practiced the highly effective, scientifically-proven approach called Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). Fortunately, through EMDR my symptoms were alleviated.
After the EMDR treatment for my PTSD, I continued therapy to resolve other issues in my life. I found EMDR to be highly effective in treating not only my PTSD symptoms, but also injuries from past relationships and childhood issues that had interfered in my present day life.
The resolution of my PTSD symptoms and the other benefits I received from EMDR were so profound that I was inspired to study counselling and EMDR Therapy.
Why Choose Me As Your Therapist
- I know what it’s like to have been traumatized and to be a counselling client. I also know how wonderful it feels to heal after a long struggle. My experience has shown me that there is always hope, regardless of how much you are struggling.
- I am intuitive and caring. My clients tell me they feel safe and understood when working with me.
I have practiced meditation and Eastern yogic practices for over 30 years. I bring this compassionate wisdom philosophy into my counselling practice. These spiritual practices help me be patient, understanding and accepting of the problems you bring into the therapy room. - I receive ongoing supervision on my therapy work from an EMDR approved therapist. This supervision helps me grow as a therapist, ensuring that I offer the best service possible to my clients.
- I continue to do personal growth work because it helps me provide a better service to my clients. Working on myself helps me be more engaged and present with my clients.
- I have been involved with many different people who have had varying ways of being and thinking. These have included those in the arts (artists, musicians, poets), those in science (scientists, physicians, physicists), those with different sexual orientations, those with different spiritual orientations, those with severe mental illness, those with everyday problems, those in business, and those in different professions. I am comfortable with people from all walks of life.
Counselling Experience
I have 20 years experience as a counsellor. For 13 of these I worked in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver with a population that experiences a high rate of mental illness, addiction, impoverishment and trauma.
I am honoured to be able to help my therapy clients on their healing journeys. I’m inspired by their courage and uplifted with joy to see them reclaim their lives and move forward with a positive outlook for their future.
Research shows us that the basis of psychological healing is the loving presence of another in a supportive relationship. I ensure that I offer this for my clients.
Workshop Presenter and Group Facilitator
October 2013 – Co-facilitated a workshop on Trauma Informed Practice – Presented to Vancouver Coastal Health staff
2011 – 2013 – Co-facilitated an ongoing group, “Understanding Trauma and Recovery” in the Downtown Eastside
Counselling Education and Training
Counselling Education
Master of Education in Counselling Psychology — 2004-2007
University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C.
Bachelor of Arts; Major in Psychology — 2000-2003
University of British Columbia/Capilano College, Vancouver, B.C.
Specialized Counselling Training
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy for Trauma — 2013
Indigenous Cultural Competency Training — 2013
Boston Trauma Centre Summer Training Institute — 2013
Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD — 2012
EMDR Level 2 — 2008
Certificate of Fundamental Core Training in Gestalt Therapy — 1997-1999
Counsellor Memberships
British Columbia Association of Clinical Counselors #3365
EMDR Canada
EMDR International Association
My Personal Life
Here are some highlights about me as a person:
- I have a close connection to animals and birds. I grew up with a dog and have been honored to have furry soul companions in the form of cats, dogs, and a horse for most of my adult life.
- I love all forms of creative expression and have a passion for abstract art. I have painted since I was a teenager.
- I am physically active. I love swimming, biking, yoga, and walking in nature. I do my best to live a balanced and healthy life.
- I hold most dear to my heart my mother who has Alzheimer’s, my friends who have become family, and my most amazing dog, Bear.