my personal story
I didn't become a counsellor because I had it all together. I chose this path because I lived through a lot of pain, done the healing work and experienced the freedom that's possible.
I’m a complex trauma survivor. For a long time, anxiety, mood challenges, low self-worth and difficulties maintaining relationships were the backdrop of my life.
I developed coping strategies that helped me get by for a long time. But after I had kids, I saw how my personal struggles were impacting my ability to be the parent I wanted to be. So, I went to see a counsellor for the first time.
Many years of in talk therapy gave me a deep understanding of the vulnerability it can take to sit in the client's chair. The experience of complex trauma and significant personal crises allowed me to inhabit the space of someone who's really struggling.
Then, while working a high-stress job during the pandemic, I couldn’t hold it together any more. My body and mind both said “no.” I had a breakdown. Things fell apart.
As I emerged from that experience, with the help of psychedelic assisted somatic therapy and a deep, dedicated mindfulness practice, I started to really heal.
It was a long, winding road. But I learned so much along the way—about myself, about what it means to be human, and what it takes to become truly whole again.
Everything I went through, learned from and overcame on my personal journey is the most valuable resource I offer my clients.
“The genius in a person is often hidden in the wound. It’s the place where we feel most broken that can also become the point of greatest connection to others and to meaning.”
my professional journey
My career up leading up to my breakdown was...diverse. After earning bachelors degrees in English and Journalism, I worked as a journalist at community newspapers. Then I did a stint as a professional photographer. After my partner and I had our second child, I took a job in the marketing department for a local software company.
I’d considered shifting careers to become a therapist in the past. But inside I knew I wasn’t ready to support others on their journey—because I needed to do my own work first.
Going through my own trauma recovery after my breakdown was critical training. It prepared me to meet others where they're at and walk beside them on their healing and growth path.
But, I knew I needed formal instruction so I could offer people a truly safe space to do their work.
With that in mind, I completed a Diploma in Counselling Skills at the Orca Institute, focused on person-centred, relational and humanistic therapies.
As long-time meditator and student of Buddhist spiritual traditions, mindfuless was a critical part of my healing journey. I knew I wanted to offer this to my clients. So I completed a two-year Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program with teachers, Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach.
“All you need is already within you, only you must approach yourself with reverence and love.”