My Approach
I recognize that both love and pain are natural and universal human experiences. I am passionate about supporting my clients in moving toward a more rich and meaningful life that allows them to embrace their humanity through the use of mindful self-compassion and acceptance strategies.

My work is intentionally guided by an integrative approach to therapy that is tailored to each client's unique needs. My professional interests involve attachment-based practices that are viewed through a trauma-informed lens. I am passionate about creating a safe, empathetic space for you to explore and process your journey collaboratively.

I have completed trainings in a variety of evidence-based approaches that include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I completed a graduate level program in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University that was primarily guided by a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach. I am also trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy (GMCT) Level 1 & 2. Under professional supervision, I have completed a 7.5 month practicum at Good Grief Halifax where I worked alongside clients through their own experiences of grief and loss. Also trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), I virtually facilitate mindfulness-meditation practices that are available through Mindful Leader.

My core values

  • Authenticity

    To be authentic is to be your true, honest self. Being authentic means being connected to one's emotions, owning them, and being willing to express them. It also involves an acknowledgement of all of our parts and accepting them for what they are while also committing to choices that move us toward our true selves.

  • Openness and Curiosity

    I value an open mind that approaches new experiences with curiosity. Open-mindedness can evoke creativity, new opportunities, new ways of understanding, and a curiosity about our inner and outer world. These values also encourage an attitude that is non-judgmental, inquisitive, and offers a high degree of accepting what is.

  • Self-Compassion

    Having compassion for oneself is an offering of understanding and kindness. Rather than ignoring or criticizing ourselves harshly for inadequacies or shortcomings, having self-compassion means that we are gentle and accepting when confronted with personal failings.

  • Common humanity

    Embracing our shared humanity implies a basic mutuality in the experience of suffering, and the understanding that we are all fallible. When we can make contact with common humanity we remember that feelings of inadequacy and disappointment are universal. The pain I feel in difficult times is the same pain that you feel in difficult times. The triggers are different, the circumstances are different, the degree of pain is different, but the basic experience is the same.

  • Vulnerability

    There is a saying, "if you aren't vulnerable there is a lot less pain, but a lot less love." When people hurt us, we build up walls to protect ourselves. We shy away from intimate relationships and we keep people at arm's length. We believe that we are protecting our hearts without realizing that we're preventing ourselves from experiencing the most pure expression of our own being: love. And while opening up we may be more vulnerable to pain and loss, we allow ourselves to open up to true, authentic intimacy and connection.

  • Courage

    Living courageously requires vulnerability and risk. It involves expressing oneself authentically while asking for what's needed. When we commit to living courageously, we are able to express ourselves appropriately, meaningfully, and fully. While this isn't always easy, acknowledging our needs and standing up for oneself is necessary for healthy boundaries and maintaining one's own safety and well-being.

Qualifications
As a Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate (RCT-C) my license is regulated provincially by the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT). The NSCCT regulates the practice of Counselling Therapists through established and comprehensive standards of practice, ethical decision making, on-going professional development, and licensing.

I also hold the title of a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) through the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), a national association that promotes the profession of counselling and psychotherapy within Canada.