Parenting can feel gratifying and fulfilling, yet difficult. Many parents report feeling judged or blamed when their children’ s behaviour does not match societal or cultural norms and expectations. Children can also feel judged, especially if their way of ‘being’ is not accepted by their peers. Add to this the modern complexities of screens and social media, family stressors like financial or relationship difficulties, and differences like neurodivergence and disorders, and we can find ourselves in need of help.
As a play therapist, I am committed to providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment where children and youth can practice creative, tactile ways to:
- explore and process their thoughts and feelings,
- improve self-awareness and confidence,
- heal from experiences and trauma,
- develop skills such as communication, emotional regulation, & problem-solving,
- explore who they are and who they want to be, and
- grow while doing activities that are stimulating and fun!
Having been a professional artist and art instructor for the past twenty years, and a swim instructor and coach for ten years prior, I have a deep understanding and appreciation for the unique benefits of creative, kinesthetic, inspired learning.
In honour of your child’s individuality, I aim to tailor the approaches and interventions to those that best suit their process, preferences, personality, and cultural identities, balanced with your values, circumstances, and preferred outcomes.
I have a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP Hons.), and my previous degree is an Honours BA in Philosophy. I am a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.
I have over 30 years’ relevant professional experience in service to others as a teacher, facilitator, and mentor. I have had the honour of witnessing people’s vulnerability and courage as we collaboratively explore their inner and outer worlds. As a professional artist, I help people address psychological barriers, learn and practice skills, create meaning, and find their artistic voice. I work with people holistically, and it has been noted by others that I do so with empathy, patience, and warmth. I have worked with people of all ages, including brain trauma survivors, entrepreneurs, 2SLGBTQIA+, skeptics, athletes, and cultural creatives.
In my personal life, I am mom to three young adults who have a combination of neurodivergence and/or queer identities.
Special Training:
- SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) –
- Lifespan Integration Therapy – Levels 1 & 2 –
- LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy
Child and Youth Therapy
Areas I work with parents and children include, but are not limited to:
- ADHD
- Anxiety, depression & panic disorders
- Autism
- Emotional Disturbance
- Gender dysphoria and transitions
- Grief and loss
- Improve coping skills and resilience
- Navigating parental separation & divorce
- Relationship issues
- School issues
- Self-esteem and confidence building
- Trauma and PTSD
Child play therapy using play therapy techniques and other play therapy interventions such as:
- Sandtray therapy: Using miniature figures and a tray of sand to create scenes that reflect the child’s thoughts and feelings.
- Art therapy: Utilizing art materials to help children express themselves visually and explore their emotions.
- Puppet play: Allowing the child to express their feelings and thoughts through interactions with puppets.
- Therapeutic games: Using board games or other structured activities to facilitate emotional expression and problem-solving.
- Storytelling: Encouraging the child to create or narrate stories that reflect their experiences and emotions.
- Role-playing: Engaging in pretend play scenarios to explore different perspectives and practice new coping skills.
- Movement or dance therapy: Incorporating movement and dance to help children release pent-up emotions and enhance self-expression.
- Symbolic play: Encouraging the child to use toys and objects symbolically to work through conflicts or challenges.
