Counselling and
Art Therapy
- when words are not enough
When working through trauma, grief, loss, stress, anxiety or depression, behavioural or communication issues, Art Therapy techniques combined with Clinical Counselling philosophy is a wonderful approach when working with children, adolescents, families, or individuals who feel ‘stuck’.
A mindfulness-based approach
connecting heart, body and spirit
I am a mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend, student, teacher and facilitator. I have a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology and am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). I am a qualified Art Therapist with a diploma from the Vancouver Art Therapy Institute (VATI) and hold a BC certificate with the British Columbia teacher federation (BCTF). I am licensed and insured and follow a strict code of professional ethics. I am a member of the Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) as well as the British Columbia Art Therapy Association (BCATA). I keep my knowledge current by reading extensively, attending
conferences and professional supervision. I follow a personal mindfulness-based creative practice for my own personal and professional growth.
My Approach
Im in it with you.
I'm not here to fix you.
I'm not here to feel it for you.
I'm here to feel it with you and let you know you are not alone.
-Brene Brown
My approach is holistic, mindful-focused and emotion-based. I draw from attachment theories, developmental and neurobiological research and am driven by your values and needs. I use both clinical psychotherapy interventions as well as art therapy techniques to help you become in tune with yourself so you can become more connected with others and aligned with what matters to you.
In my practice I work from the perspective that people already have the tools within themselves to heal and grow but sometimes need help accessing or strengthening them. Art therapy can act as a catalyst for discovery, understanding and movement.
Considered a bottom-up approach to healing, creative arts therapy helps us bypass the noise inside our heads to get to the root of our suffering.
Children and Adolescents
Coming to a place of rest
With an understanding of child development and neurobiology, I use integrative art therapy techniques to work through feelings, thoughts, and emotions so individuals feel validated and supported. Through the arts, children and adolescents can come to a place of rest.
Throughout childhood and adolescence so much change is happening within that affects how we see ourselves and our place in the world. From brain development, to body growth, to being more aware of the dynamics between the self and peer and family relationships, there is a constant push and pull on the psyche. When trauma occurs, many of the necessary systems for self-regulation and adaptation shut down or become overwhelmed. Sometimes the effects can manifest themselves as behaviour challenges or physical and emotional dis-regulation. My approach when working with children is to establish a relationship and create an environment that feels safe and welcoming while using art therapy techniques to explore feelings and emotions that underly presenting behaviours.
Children who have neurobehavioral challenges such as ADHD or ASD can benefit from counselling art therapy as it can calm the nervous system, build and develop problem solving skills, promote self-regulation, self-esteem and confidence while developing self- awareness. When working with parents and their children, my approach is collaborative and practical. I help to identify patterns, recognize and encourage interactions that promote both secure attachments and healthy individuals.
Individual therapy- Adults
The path isn't a straight line; it's a spiral. You continually come back to things you thought you understood and see deeper truths.
-Barry H. Gillespie
I work from the perspective that people have the tools within themselves to heal and grow. However, when unhealthy patterns persist or the feelings of being 'stuck' or overwhelmed consume you, guidance and support may be necessary. I believe the counselling art therapy process can foster mental flexibility, relieve emotional stress, promote mindfulness and facilitate restorative practices to relieve emotional suffering. Rather than working to change or remove thoughts and emotions, we work together to notice and accept perceptions and make room for alternatives.
“The wound is the place where the Light enters you.”
-Rumi
Schedule a Session
Complementary Consultation (10-15 min, no fee)
I am happy to have a brief conversation on the phone or in person to discuss your needs and your intentions for wellness.
Child and Adolescent Sessions (60 min $135 - although time and cost may vary depending on needs and age). When working with school aged children who are experiencing social or emotional challenges, I find it beneficial to spend time with the parents/caregivers as well.
Adult Sessions (60 min $135).
Sessions are structured based on individual needs.
Health Care Coverage
The fees for my services are covered by many health care plans. If you have medical insurance benefits, including FNHA, check your health coverage for Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC) with BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC).
#303-5710 Teredo Street
Sechelt BC
604.657.7292
