Areas of Practice:

Adult & Teen Psychotherapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, Depression, Childhood Emotional Neglect, Low Self-Esteem, Grief, Procrastination, Perfectionism, Issues Related to Cultural Adjustment, Difficulties with Peers

Who I See:

In my practice, I work with teens and adults who are worried, anxious, and scared of being judged by others. They replay their actions and decisions, particularly in social situations, and feel ashamed or guilty for how they behaved. They notice every mistake they made.

My clients also feel enormous pressure to live up to their own and others’ expectations. They feel like nothing they do is good enough. On the outside, they work hard to make it look as though they’re fine when, on the inside, they feel like they’re a near-constant disappointment and failing in many aspects of life. They’re exhausted. They don’t believe in or trust themselves.

The teens I work with often worry and need repeated reassurance. They struggle to get along with their peers, siblings, and family. They seem uninterested in social interactions and spend a lot of time in their room. They get angry or annoyed when talking about their peers and refuse to take advice from their parents. When parents attempt to help, it often results in a fight.

Parents often feel frustrated, helpless, and worried about their teen. They want their child to get back on track before it’s “too late.”

My Approach:

I specialize in the practice of Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), which helps clients become aware of, regulate, and transform distressing emotions.

In addition to EFT, I draw upon Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) to tailor treatment to meet your unique needs. EFT often helps clients when these approaches haven’t worked.

Regardless of the approach, I work to create a safe space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. During our sessions, you can expect me to be accepting, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive.

You and I will work together to uncover the emotional patterns and negative self-talk that keep you feeling “stuck.” We will compassionately explore the emotional pain you endured from past relationships and experiences so that you can re-process and make sense of these experiences and feel less weighed down by them. We will also tap into your healthy emotions and use them as a guide to meet your most important needs.

Through our work, clients come to feel less anxious and more confident in themselves. They learn to communicate better, trust themselves more, and feel less weighed down by past experiences. They learn to have emotions without feeling overwhelmed or controlled by them. In turn, their relationships, work, and academic performance often significantly improve.

About Me:

I am registered with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors and completed my Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Mental Health Counselling at Boston College, a university located in Massachusetts, USA. I have practised in private practice and multidisciplinary outpatient centres, providing counselling to adults, teens, and children who struggle with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I have also co-facilitated DBT skills training groups for women with histories of complex trauma.

As a therapist, I enjoy helping clients access their natural strengths and wisdom, and transform emotional experiences so that they can feel calmer and more confident in their relationships with themselves and others.

In my spare time, I enjoy painting in watercolour, taking walks in nature, and having dessert with my close friends.

Client Focus: Adult Individuals, Teens (13-18 years old)

Types of Therapy: Emotion-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy

Areas of Practice: Adult & Teen Psychotherapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Social Anxiety, Gener... Read More

Areas of Practice:

Adult Psychotherapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Work Challenges, Complex Childhood Trauma, Grief, Substance Use, and Issues Related to Family of Origin

Who I See:

I work with people who feel unhappy or overwhelmed by their present-day circumstances and whose past continues to block them from living fuller, happier lives.

Many describe feeling unacknowledged, unsupported, and powerless at work. Some feel overwhelmed, like there’s too much coming at them. They feel frustrated with how others work and often feel “dumped on.” When asked to do something, they say “yes,” only to resent it. They struggle to set healthy boundaries.

At home, they feel like they can’t get anything right. Nothing they do is enough. They don’t understand why they can’t “do” relationships and what it is about them that’s the problem, but they keep running into the same problem, so they figure it must be them. They get anxious or tense going home, not knowing if their partner will be happy to see them or upset with them for something.

Some people have a clear picture of what they want in their life, they just don’t know how to get there. Others don’t know what they want, but they’re motivated to figure it out and feel better. That’s where I can help.

My Areas of Focus & Approach:

I utilize a holistic approach throughout the therapeutic process to accommodate each client’s unique experience, needs, and goals for therapy.

My approach to therapy emphasizes making sense of our emotions and uncovering and working through experiences from our past that continue to impact our present.

We’ll work well together if you’re open to going into your emotions (even if you don’t like them, which I know there’s a good reason for). Unfortunately, there’s no way to bypass emotions: Blocking and stopping our emotions is one of the reasons we get and stay stuck.

In your relationship with me, you will be met with acceptance rather than an expectation of performance. All of your feelings are welcome with me.

I will help you uncover how you got to where you are, whether that’s in a struggling relationship, stuck in an unfulfilling career, or single and unable to attract a healthy partner.

We’ll work through unhelpful patterns, beliefs, and behaviours so that you can express yourself, communicate better, feel more confident and secure in yourself and your relationships, and have more peace, joy, and healthy relationships in your life.

About Me:

I completed my Master of Counselling degree at City University of Seattle and am registered with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors and Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. I also hold a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the Haskayne School of Business at the University of Calgary and a Journalism-Photojournalism diploma from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology.

I am passionate about the work I do and watching people transform their lives.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time on the water in my sea kayak, exploring BC’s natural places, and photography. These activities are a way for me to move my body and be connected to something bigger than myself.

Client Focus: Adult individuals (19+)

Types of Therapy: Attachment-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy

Areas of Practice: Adult Psychotherapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Es... Read More

Areas of Practice:

Adult Psychotherapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety, Addictions, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Emotion Dysregulation, Identity Issues, Life Transitions, Low Self-Esteem, Relationship Difficulties, Suicidality & Self-Harm, Trauma/PTSD

Who I See

The clients I see in my practice often feel overwhelmed and need a safe space to help them understand what they’re experiencing and why. Many of them are afraid of not being heard or understood, not unlike in their past or other aspects of their life.

Many of my clients have histories characterized by long-term abuse and multiple victimizations.

As adults, they view themselves as “damaged,” “defective,” and vulnerable to more harm. They’re vigilant for any signs that they’re not safe.

At an emotional level, my clients describe feeling “out of control.” They struggle with panic, anger, fear of abandonment, shame and depression, and many fluctuate between these feelings and extremes. Their emotions control them, not the other way around.

To cope, they often turn to substances, self-harm, eating unhealthy food, overworking, impulsive spending, “scrolling” on their phones, and other similar strategies. These behaviours often represent their best attempt not to feel painful feelings, only they hurt them in other ways. Their relationships suffer and their work or other commitments often do too.

They want to have more control over their lives but can’t seem to figure out how. They don’t want things to always feel so hard.

My Approach

In my work with clients, I hold a nonjudgmental, empathic, and warm therapeutic stance, and take a client-centered approach.

I also operate from a holistic perspective in which most emotional suffering is viewed as stemming from three interrelated factors: biological components, such as medical illnesses; psychological components, such as coping strategies and thinking patterns; and social components, such as our relationships and environment. I believe that each individual is unique and complex and requires a customized therapeutic approach that considers each of these areas and sometimes others, as well.

My goal is to provide a safe space where we can work together to help process your experiences, validate the emotions attached to these experiences, discover your strengths, and develop your capacity for coping with life’s challenges.

At the end of therapy, clients often report being more aware of and better able to identify their emotions and they feel more in control of their emotions and their lives. They’re less self-critical and more resilient to life’s setbacks when they happen. They have a clearer sense of who they are and what they want and need in their lives.

About Me

I hold a Doctorate of Clinical Psychology (PsyD) from Adler University. I have applied for registration as a Psychologist in British Columbia, and am working under the supervision of Dr. Shauna Randhawa, Registered Psychologist and Clinic Director, during the registration process.

I am passionate about mental health, social justice, and the process of finding and creating meaning.

After more than a decade of working in academia, government, not-for-profit organizations, and the private sector in Canada and abroad, I have brought my unique set of skills and experiences to my practice as a psychotherapist. I have experience providing psychological services at community health centres across the lower mainland, including individual and group counselling, psychosocial support to health care staff, psycho-educational and diagnostic assessment, and program development. I have experience treating PTSD, complex trauma, substance use disorders, and multiple, complex conditions, including personality disorders. I am proud to serve a diverse population including individuals from BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities.

Outside of work, you can find me exploring outside with my husky, travelling, or curled up with a good book.

Client Focus: Adult individuals

Types of therapy: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy

Areas of Practice: Adult Psychotherapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety, Addictions, ADHD, Borde... Read More

Areas of Practice:

Adult Psychotherapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety (Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, Health Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Phobias), Adjustment to Injury (Brain Injury, Stroke Recovery, Illness), Chronic Pain, Depression, Emotion Dysregulation, Grief/Loss, Identity, Insomnia, Life Transitions, Low Self-Esteem, OCD, Personality Disorders, Relationship Difficulties, Trauma/PTSD

Who I See

A lot of the people I see in my practice are grappling with a constant fear of judgment, feelings of inadequacy, and a relentless drive to achieve. This combination results in overachievement as a way to avoid failure or criticism, but often leads to burnout, isolation, and a deep sense of hopelessness.

They worry that making one mistake will ruin everything they have worked for. There’s no room for error. They think that although others may think they’re capable, it’s only because they haven’t seen their flaws yet. They may overprepare, and frequently criticize themselves, procrastinate, and avoid asking for help. Deep down, they fear they’re broken and will be like this forever.

Many find themselves trapped in these cycles of negative thinking, struggling to manage their emotions, and feeling disconnected from their goals and what matters most to them. This can lead to avoiding people and situations that get in the way of their personal and professional growth, leaving them feeling stuck, frustrated, exhausted, and worthless.

My Areas of Focus & Approach

I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

I integrate the structured, goal-oriented nature of CBT with the mindfulness and acceptance strategies found in ACT. I find this approach empowers my clients to identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns while also cultivating acceptance of their feelings without judgment. By building awareness and encouraging commitment to actions based on our values, we move towards healthier coping strategies and more balanced perspectives.

Through our work together, you can expect to experience improved emotional regulation, a greater sense of control over your life, and more peace and contentment with yourself.

You will learn to approach your thoughts and feelings with compassion and curiosity, enabling you to take meaningful steps toward your goals. Ultimately, clients leave therapy equipped with practical tools and insights that promote long-term resilience and fulfillment. They feel more confident in themselves and capable of navigating life’s challenges.

About Me

I graduated from Simon Fraser University with a PhD in Clinical Psychology. I have applied for registration as a Psychologist in British Columbia and am working under the supervision of Dr. Shauna Randhawa, Registered Psychologist and Clinic Director, during the registration process.

I have extensive experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and PTSD-related difficulties.

Additionally, I have worked with organizations that help individuals overcome obstacles to return to work after being on disability, military veterans recovering from PTSD, and individuals who have experienced a traumatic brain injury and their caretakers.

Outside of work, I love to explore the unique landscapes of coastal BC by ski, hiking boot, and kayak. I get particular enjoyment from encountering especially windy and curious arbutus trees! And if I am staying in the city, I love to move my body around a dance floor or nestle into the couch with a mug of licorice tea, a heavy blanket, and a chocolatey treat.

Client Focus: Adult Individuals

Types of therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

Areas of Practice: Adult Psychotherapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety (Social Anxiety, General... Read More

Who I See:

In my practice, I often see people when they’re stuck in unwanted emotions, such as fear, anger, sadness, guilt, or shame. Their emotions control them, not the other way around. Sometimes, it feels like things will never change. They often have a negative internal dialogue, criticizing themselves for not being enough, or predicting or anticipating that others will judge them, reject them, and they’ll end up alone. Although they want closer, more satisfying connections, their emotions are getting in the way.

I also see people who have difficulty expressing their emotions and needs. They learned to “swallow them,” “push them down,” or avoid them in some way. They learned to rely on themselves and no one else. Although this strategy makes perfect sense given their lived experience and has served them well in the past, it can be a lot of weight to carry on their own and, at times, a lonely place.

Most people I see have also been let down by important others. They were mistreated or their feelings and needs were ignored, invalidated, or dismissed, whether by a parent, a spouse, or an influential other. They are left with lingering hurt or resentment that they want to let go of and, yet, it follows them wherever they go. The past remains alive in the present and has a negative impact on their lives and relationships.

My Approach:

I specialize in the practice of Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) with clients struggling with their emotions, including in response to unresolved childhood trauma, issues related to family of origin, adult interpersonal trauma, grief, depression, social anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationships, including issues related to infidelity and other relationship injuries. In addition to EFT, I integrate other evidence-based approaches into treatment, as relevant, to meet clients’ unique needs. I offer sessions to adults 19+ both in person at our Burnaby office and online.

About Me:

I completed my Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) degree at Adler University and pre-doctoral residency at Sam Houston State University’s Counselling Centre in Texas. I have practised in numerous outpatient settings, including private practices, university counselling centres, and interdisciplinary rehabilitation clinics in Canada and the US. I enjoy being actively involved in the psychological community and am a member of the British Columbia Psychological Association, the International Society for EFT, and the International Centre for Excellence in EFT.

As founding owner and director of Oceanside Psychology Group, I am excited to expand the practice of EFT on the west coast in support of providing the highest quality of clinical care to individuals and couples in Burnaby and surrounding areas, and communities across BC. EFT is grounded in more than 30 years of psychotherapy research and gets to the core of people’s struggles – what hurts the most – and it helps people transform this experience. At Oceanside, we believe that people already have the wisdom to navigate life’s challenges, they just need someone to guide them in working through emotions and experiences that are getting in the way, and to help them connect with and harness more adaptive emotions which can be used as a compass in life.

Who I See: In my practice, I often see people when they’re stuck in unwanted emotions, such as f... Read More

Areas of Practice:

Adult Psychotherapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety, Depression, Emotion Dysregulation, Grief/Loss, Identity, Life Transitions, Trauma

Who I See:

A lot of the people I see in my practice find it hard to enjoy life because they are overwhelmed by painful or difficult feelings. Sometimes these feelings aren’t related to any specific incident, but rather what seems like a lifetime of feeling unseen, unheard, and like everyone else’s opinions and feelings matter more than theirs. They may notice that they don’t speak up in relationships or at work because they don’t want to look foolish or “stupid.” They anticipate being criticized, so they dismiss their thoughts, feelings, ideas, and needs. They put themselves down a lot, sometimes out of the belief that it will be less painful than if others put them down first. Over time, however, they often feel dissatisfied, resentful, or envious of others. They find it difficult to enjoy being in the moment with other people because they’re self-conscious and constantly fighting back painful thoughts telling them that no one likes them or they’re not enough in some way.

When this pattern continues for a long time, people may start withdrawing from friendships and relationships, fearing that others will discover that they are weak, flawed, or don’t have much to offer. They may keep themselves from dating, looking for a satisfying career, or going after their dreams because they can’t bear the thought of failing or being rejected. Or they may behave in ways that create trouble later, such as by trying to control others, procrastinating, or trying to be perfect. Regardless of what their outside behaviour looks like, on the inside, they often feel anxious or depressed, and ashamed for feeling this way. It can feel like there is no way out, and yet they long for nothing more than to feel that they belong, are loved, and have people in their lives who care for them. These are basic human needs that we all have. And we all deserve to have these needs met.

My Approach:

I specialize in Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), which involves building clients’ awareness and acceptance of their emotions. Together, we explore difficult emotions to make sense of and eventually transform them.

Along the way, clients learn how to regulate and soothe painful feelings so these feelings stop dominating and dictating their lives. Many of the people I see are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, complex trauma, childhood emotional neglect, grief, social anxiety, and family-of-origin issues.

In addition to EFT, I often incorporate aspects of other evidence-based therapies into my practice, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I offer sessions both in person at our Burnaby office and online.

About Me:

I completed my Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree in Counselling Psychology at the University of British Columbia and am registered with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors. I have practised individual counselling in private practices and in a community counselling centre. I have also co-facilitated mindfulness groups for adults and teens who struggle with anxiety, and parenting groups for parents with children aged 0-5.

Most of all, I am passionate about helping people transform their pain into a life that includes more peace, joy, and connection.

Areas of Practice: Adult Psychotherapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety, Depression, Emotion Dys... Read More

Areas of Practice:

Adult Psychotherapy & Teen Counselling (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety, Acculturation, Chronic Pain, Depression, Dissociation, Grief/Loss, Life Transitions, Issues Related to Family of Origin, OCD, Relationship Difficulties, Self-Esteem, Substance Abuse, Trauma

Couples Therapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Conflict and Communication Problems, Affair Recovery, Sexual Difficulties, Clarify Commitment, Lack of Closeness or Intimacy

Family Therapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Communication Difficulties, Conflict/Tension, Relationship Issues

Who I See:

People seek counselling for a variety of reasons and arrive with different stories. For some, they feel defined by a trauma that happened many years ago while others arrive newly wounded by a great loss and in a state of shock and confusion.

Many of the adults I see describe a lack of meaning and purpose in their lives. They feel lonely, anxious, and isolated, including in their relationships.

With youth, I often hear themes that include negative views of themselves. They struggle with relationships, their mood, issues related to identity, or a lack of direction.

The couples I work with often describe a profound sense of disconnection. Some have experienced significant injuries to their relationship, which can range from an affair to physical or emotional abandonment in critical moments of need. Others describe a gradual erosion in the security of their bond over time.

The vast majority of couples are stuck in a negative pattern of communication. One partner tends to become angry and critical when they experience their partner as emotionally unavailable. This partner often feels unimportant, abandoned, and like their partner doesn’t care. The other partner tends to respond with either an angry defense or they shut down and withdraw; inside, they feel like nothing they do will ever be enough. Behind these surface reactions, the deeper hurt and fear often go unseen. Communication becomes strained and neither partner feels emotionally safe in their relationship.

My Approach:

In my work with clients, I see the whole human in front of me. I help you uncover your hidden potential, broaden your perspectives, and process painful emotions so that you can heal experiences that have hurt you, find purpose in your life, and feel more at ease within the self and connected in your relationships.

While the techniques I use may vary, the common theme in my approach is an unconditional appreciation for your experience and judgement-free empathy.

Working from an existential perspective, I understand that a pain-free life is an impossibility; however, we can lessen the impact of the pain we experience and grow from these experiences.

I see perfectionism as a common enemy of a peaceful existence for many of us: It creates a striving for an unattainable standard that takes us out of the present moment and diminishes the accomplishments and joys we might otherwise experience. Often, our therapeutic work will focus on helping you shed expectations and pressures you have internalized so that you can live a life less shackled by these standards.

My work also emphasizes working with multiple parts of the self. I will help you reconnect with parts of you that have been suppressed or unacknowledged and strengthen resilient aspects of you to aid in healing and living a life that is more authentic to who you are.

With couples, I work to help you get out of stuck patterns of communication by helping you hear the deeper, more tender longings, hurts, and fears behind the reactivity on the surface. By creating new corrective experiences with our partners, we chip away at blocks to connection and rebuild trust, intimacy, and closeness where it’s been lost.

About Me:

I completed my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology and am registered with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors.

As the daughter of a University Professor of Psychology, I consider counselling to be a family tradition. My mantra is “Life is too short to over-think and worry about hypothetical scenarios that may never happen!”

Client Focus: Adult Individuals, Couples, Families, & Youth (10+)

Types of Therapy: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, EMDR, Existential Psychotherapy, Imago Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy

Areas of Practice: Adult Psychotherapy & Teen Counselling (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety, ... Read More

Areas of Practice:

Adult Psychotherapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety, Addictions, ADHD & Neurodiversity, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Emotion Dysregulation, Gender & Sexuality Support (2SLGBTQIA+ identities), Grief/Loss, OCD, Life Transitions, Personality Disorders, Sexual Health & Sexuality, Self-Esteem, Trauma

Couples therapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Improve Communication, Tension, & Conflict, Strengthen Couples’ Enjoyment, Intimacy, & Closeness, Polyamorous Relationships, Affair Recovery, and Issues Related to Sex and Sexuality

Teen Counselling (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety, ADHD, Bullying, Depression, Neurodiversity, Relationship Difficulties, Disordered Eating, Issues Related to Identity & Coming Out, Substance Use, Trauma

Family Therapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Communication Difficulties, Conflict/Tension, Maintaining Parent-Child Relationships Through Adolescence

Leave of Absence Notice: Please note that Hanna is expected to be on leave from Jan. 30, 2025 to April 7, 2025, inclusive. These leave dates are subject to change.

Who I See

I collaborate with my clients to create validating and empowering therapy for individuals and couples who identify as heterosexual, 2SLGBTQ+, monogamous/non-monogamous, kinky, gender-diverse, alternative, and people with intersectional identities.

The individuals I work with often seek support in expressing their sexuality, forging meaningful connections, and living an authentic and meaningful life. They may be navigating complexities in their relationships or personal identity, and my approach offers a non-judgmental space for exploration and growth in these areas.

In individual therapy, I work with clients who want to explore and heal from issues related to sex and sexuality, identity, trauma, neurodiversity, and relationship dynamics. Whether it’s anxiety, shame, or grief holding you back, we can work together to process these emotions and move toward a more authentic and fulfilling life.

In relationship and couples therapy, I support clients who are working to resolve conflicts, improve communication, and re-establish intimacy. Many couples come to me when they feel disconnected or stuck in patterns of conflict, especially in relationships that are experiencing sex and sexuality-related challenges.

I also work with families struggling with communication and those navigating issues related to their teen’s identity and growing independence.

My Approach

My therapeutic practice is rooted in research-based methodologies that I tailor to your unique needs. Whether we are working individually or in a couples or family setting, my approach is non-judgmental and centered around fitting into your life.

My approach incorporates several therapeutic modalities:

• I prioritize your voice through Person-Centered Therapy, collaborating with you throughout the therapeutic process.

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps us focus on accepting life’s challenges while committing to actions that align with your personal values.

• Using Internal Family Systems (IFS), we work with different parts of the self to heal past wounds and strengthen self-understanding.

• Additionally, I integrate somatic approaches, connecting the mind and body to process emotions in the nervous system.

For relationship and couples therapy, I draw from the Gottman Method (Level 2 Certified) to help couples build emotional intimacy, communication, mutual understanding, and trust.

Together, we will navigate challenges with empathy and validation. You will learn new tools for communication, emotional regulation, and personal empowerment that align with your goals.

Types of Therapy

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Internal Family Systems (IFS)
• Gottman Method for Relationship Therapy
• Person-Centered Therapy
• Sex Therapy
• Sensorimotor Psychotherapy
• Somatic Experiencing

About Me

I am registered with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors. I hold a Master of Counselling degree from City University in Vancouver with a specialization in Sex and Relationship Therapy. Inspired by my time studying at Humboldt University’s Mind and Brain program in Berlin, I aim to foster a diverse, open, and dynamic space where clients feel empowered to embrace their unique identities and experiences.

As a queer individual, I am deeply committed to uplifting 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in both my therapy practice and personal life. My therapeutic approach centers around inclusivity, intersectionality, and social justice. Inspired by the resilience of the queer community, I strive to create a safe, affirming space for clients to be themselves and grow.

When I’m not working with clients, I enjoy walking my giant dog, karaoke nights, and trying new foods.

Areas of Practice: Adult Psychotherapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Anxiety, Addictions, ADHD & ... Read More

Areas of Practice:

Couples Therapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Communication Difficulties, Conflict, Infidelity, Breaches of Trust, Sexual Difficulties, Clarify Commitment, Strengthen Couples’ Intimacy & Bond

Family Therapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Communication Difficulties, Conflict/Tension, Family Estrangement

Who I See

In my practice, I see couples, families, and individuals who are overwhelmed with difficult emotions. The couples I see are struggling to communicate with their loved one and feel alone, isolated, and misunderstood in their relationship. Communication has become a repetition of the same issues where nothing seems to get resolved, and feelings of doubt, anger, or withdrawal develop towards their partner. They want their partner to be there for them when they reach out, to be emotionally responsive, caring, and engaged. They want to feel emotionally safe and secure, to be able to trust implicitly and to be loved in return.

The families I see describe feeling frustrated and helpless. They’re struggling to communicate effectively with their teen as they grow and develop more independence, and describe scenarios of anger and defiance as common. I also see parents and adult children who are experiencing pain, hurt, and a deep sense of loss and grief in situations of family estrangement. They want to be a family again, but don’t know where to begin.

In individual therapy, I work with individuals who carry hurtful past experiences that are affecting their personal relationships and their sense of self. They feel unworthy, never good enough, and compare themselves to others. Some hide their true emotions beneath a mask of anger, withdrawal, or perfectionism. Some recall being a child and having no one who would listen to their feelings. They no longer trust others and often harbour an unspoken fear of abandonment. Others struggle with intense emotions and feel overwhelmed and powerless. They experience anxiety, panic attacks, and depression.

My Approach

I specialize in Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and offer individual, couple, and family therapy in person at our Burnaby office and online. In family therapy, I see teens (13+ years of age) and adult children. EFT helps people understand their emotions and needs and learn to reduce overwhelming feelings. I also weave in elements of somatic therapy, which looks at the important connection between mind and body, in addition to other evidence-based approaches, such as Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), based on the individual needs of each client.

About Me

I am registered with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors and completed my Master of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. I am a Certified Complex Trauma Professional. I have over 20 years’ experience as a health professional, and enjoy working in private practice, seeing individuals, couples, and families who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication.

My extensive life experience helps me to understand and have compassion for clients’ struggles. I enjoy working with people, and am committed to helping my clients develop resiliency in overcoming life’s challenges to enjoy a happier, healthier life, with more positive emotions and increased self-confidence. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you in this journey.

Areas of Practice: Couples Therapy (ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS): Communication Difficulties, Conflict... Read More