I was born in Vancouver and have lived here most of my life. I am a mother,  daughter, sister, friend, and a therapist. I have been a student, volunteer, workshop facilitator, conference presenter, teacher, and researcher and have held many roles in different jobs. Common threads weaved through these roles is the ability to have exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, as well as the ability to be a good leader and teacher. These are gifts I am grateful to have.

I have been working in the field of mental health and addictions for over 15 years. I work with diverse populations, but have been involved in the Indigenous community for many years.  I have a diverse training background and work experience. Some examples of presenting issues that I have worked with include working with: people who have experienced trauma, mental health issues (e.g., anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis), abuse, grief and loss, stress, residential school issues/problems, relationship challenges, domestic violence, substance misuse and addictions. I have also worked with people exploring identity, personal growth, wellness, goals, purpose, and meaning in life.

My background, breadth and depth in psychology is expansive. I completed a Bachelor of Science degree in biopsychology in 1999, followed by a Master of Arts degree in forensic psychology in 2003 (both in the UBC Psychology Department). In 2008, I completed my PhD in Counselling Psychology at UBC.

In March 2010, I received a diploma in basic training in Existential Analysis.  This was a training  course in existential counselling and psychotherapy. Theory and clinical training are both encompassed in the training. Topics included the theory of personhood, the theory of existence, existential motivations in theory and practice, and some general methods. Group-self-experience, group supervision and individual supervision were also provided. The tenets of EA fit well with my values and my beliefs about mental health and wellness, therefore, EA has created a foundation for clinical work and personal growth.

In addition to my formal education, I have worked in different organizations, volunteered in the community (e.g., Vancouver Aboriginal Transformative Justice Society), and have worked on various projects as a consultant.

In my years as a therapist, I have heard stories of distress and great sadness. But I have also heard stories of strength, courage, and triumph. I believe that therapy can take a lot of work, but that the work is worth it.

In my years as a consultant/contractor, I have had the opportunity to provide workshops on topics like grief/loss, self-care, wellness, addiction and mental health;  research and write papers; create course outlines/content; and provide information to organizations concerning Aboriginal mental health and addictions. I really enjoy this part of my work and appreciate the diversity that consulting provides.