a safe space for your healing and growth
all parts of you are welcome here.
Sometimes, the most important thing we need to overcome our challenges and heal our wounds is a safe space. The act of simply showing up as the perfectly imperfect humans that we are and being received with compassion and without judgement can be a powerful experience.
That safe space is at the core of my practice. I hold a compassionate container to share what’s on your mind and in your heart. You can be however you need to be in the moment without fear of judgement, pathologizing, or pressure to “get somewhere” before you’re ready.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, relationships, or big life transitions—I’ll meet you with warmth, humility, and authenticity. We’ll walk the healing path together—side by side.
hi, i’m heron.
You may know me as Colin. Heron is the name I chose as part of a significant process of healing from complex trauma and relational wounding. That journey has given me strong legs to stand on my own and powerful wings that have allowed me to fly free.
I’ve experienced painful mental health crises. I’ve lived with the impacts of complex trauma. I’ve struggled with self-worth and a deeply critical inner voice. For much of my life, relationships were so hard. Anxiety was my constant companion.
I know all too well the vulnerability it takes to even start therapy, let alone share your shame with a stranger. I can easily inhabit the place of someone who’s struggling hard—because I’ve been there. The bodily numbness, or those awful sensations? I’ve met those too.
Everything I went through, learned from and overcame on my personal journey is the most valuable resource I offer my clients.
And I bring my full, imperfect, human self into this work—because I know how much easier it is to feel safe with someone who shows up as real.
Certified Therapeutic Counsellor
testimonials
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Having Heron as a safe anchor during the past year and a half has been pivotal to my healing journey. I now find myself in a vastly more desirable place, thanks to the help of his astute questions, sensitive reflections, and ability to mirror me accurately.
KC - Peer Client
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Heron is a terrific listener. I feel very skillfully heard and that’s rare.
EL - Coaching Client
individual counselling for
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anxiety
Anxiety is often the result of pushing down big feelings and sensations just to get through life. In other words, it’s a survival strategy. Together, we’ll gently explore these hidden parts. We’ll offer them kindness and invite them to let go. This can help you feel lighter and more at ease.
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complex trauma
As Dr. Gabor Maté says, trauma is what happens inside us from what happened to us. It often comes from harmful relationships. I offer trauma survivors a steady, warm, and compassionate connection. I combine this with mindfulness-based somatics, parts work, and self-compassion.
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relationships
Are relationships—romantic or otherwise—hard for you? Maybe you’re struggling with a partner, having trouble finding or keeping good friends, or feeling stuck in family dynamics. Whatever the challenge, we’ll explore how it’s showing up now, uncover the roots, and work toward relationships that simply feel better. (Note: I don’t offer couples counselling at this time.)
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insecurity
Think of this as a catch-all for self-criticism, low self-worth, and even perfectionism. Whatever the name, it’s tough. Self-compassion can be the key that unlocks the door out of that cage. It’s like self-esteem’s wiser, steadier sibling—especially when things go wrong. Together, we’ll explore how you're hard on yourself and learn how to be your own best friend.
I offer sessions exclusively online via secure Zoom to clients in many Canadian provinces.
some lenses i look through