My Experience…
I have been working professionally with people since I was in high school, starting with a part-time job working in a day-care. This was an exciting and enjoyable experience for me and ‘hooked’ me into work that involved children. Following high school and university, I moved to Edmonton and worked in and supervised group homes for teenagers for nine years. This intense work gave me unique and rewarding relationships with the youth. When I moved back to the island in 1995, though, I knew that it was time for a new challenge.
Since moving to Parksville, I have worked as a Youth Outreach Worker, Parent Educator and Family Support Worker in the Oceanside communities. I have counselled youth who are at risk for suicide, co-facilitated many parenting courses, and worked with parents and their children and teens to improve communication skills, address behavioral issues in the home, and strengthen the family relationships. More recently, I was involved in mentoring young professionals when I coordinated the practicum program and taught courses for the Child & Youth Care and the Early Childhood Education & Care Programs at Vancouver Island University.
In the summer of 2011, I chose to focus my energy and time on my private counselling practice as I continue to thrive as an Individual, Couple and Family Therapist in the Parksville/Qualicum area.
My Credentials…
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Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors
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Masters of Arts Degree in Counselling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. 2006
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Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Child Care from the University of Victoria, 1986
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Over 25 years experience working with children, youth, adults and families
My Philosophy…
For me, work with people continues to be fulfilling. It is an honour to be invited into people’s lives and to travel with them on a part of their journey. Although I appreciate and trust the training, education and experience I bring to the work, I have learned that it is an individual’s unique creativity and resourcefulness that is the magic to the healing and growth.
It is my belief that people are doing their best to cope and move through life with what they know and understand at the time. Counselling can open the door to a new awareness of your self and others and bring about healthy and restorative experiences.
Our work together is a partnership – a synthesis of the wisdom of both you and me. My responsibility is to listen closely and carefully to your story in order to understand your experiences and concerns. The goals we set together are directed by your needs and wishes. My role is to ensure a safe, supportive and confidential atmosphere, to provide information, strategies and tools, and to challenge you with new insights and new possibilities.
