I have wanted to be a helper from my earliest memories. Empathy and compassion come easily, and I have experienced the difference support can make during difficult times. I have also always been keenly curious about why good people sometimes struggle in life. The combination of these factors drew me to studying psychology. Through my education came increased self-reflection and my own healing journey. The modalities I implement in sessions are empirically supported but also incorporate several tools I found most helpful in growing towards my best self. I believe as a therapist it is important to practise what you preach. So I try to live in ways that are mindful of my own physical, mental, spiritual and emotional wellbeing. This may include escaping to nature, losing myself in a yoga class, meditating, spending time with an old friend, or just being in the moment with family. That being said I am imperfect and always growing and learning too. I have also come to believe that the opportunity for personal growth is something that can stay with us for a lifetime. We may feel we have become a version of our best self only to have a life transition, loss, trauma or other difficult experience force us to redefine ourselves and how we cope. So the potential for learning and growing are infinite. I have been incredibly humbled and grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside so many people during their own healing journeys in discovering their best self. The resiliency of the human spirit is incredible and I believe a meaningful life is possible for anyone. We just need to discover the solutions to our own healing path.

Degrees and Registration

Bachelor of Health Sciences in Addictions Counselling - University of Lethbridge

Master of Counselling Psychology - Campus Alberta - Convocation University of Calgary

Registered with College of Alberta Psychologists #3939

Specialized Training

Certificate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Fundamentals, University of Calgary

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis, Beck Institute, Philadelphia, PA

Cognitive Behavioral Social Skills Group Facilitation Training for Psychosis, Calgary, AB

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Basic and Advanced Training, DBT Institute of Vancouver, BC

Certificate in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Life Journeys Counselling and Training Inc., Calgary, AB

Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model: Theory & Skills Practice, Dr. Alexia Rothman, Vancouver, BC

Understanding and treatment of psychosis through EMDR therapy, Dr. Michelle Gottlieb, EMDRIA approved training

Accelerated Resolution Therapy Basic Training, Colleen Clark, Calgary, AB

Trauma and PTSD in First Responder Populations, Dr. Megan McElheran, Calgary, AB

Experience

Employed by Alberta Health Services Addictions and Mental Health from 2005 - 2022

Registered psychologist since 2013

Operator of private practice since 2013

As a Registered Psychologist, I am privileged to support trauma survivors from diverse backgrounds, including first responders, veterans, accident survivors and their families. My work extends to clients recovering from the emotional aftermath of all types of traumatic events. This includes supporting people who are dealing with things like PTSD, CPTSD, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and anger. I also work with clients who are struggling with body image, eating disorders, and self-esteem. 

EMDR can be especially effective in reducing the emotional charge around trauma and painful memories, helping clients to feel less overwhelmed by their experiences. Over time, this process helps them regain a sense of control, whether that means experiencing less fear or anxiety, rebuilding self-confidence, or learning how to manage difficult triggers. By reducing the intensity of emotional responses, clients can reclaim their lives and engage more fully with the world around them. 

Through my therapy work I have developed a strong understanding of how chronic stress, high-stress professions and trauma affect both individuals and their closest relationships. My therapy often includes supporting family members by strengthening communication, managing stress, and addressing the effects of secondary trauma. I help families navigate the emotional toll of these experiences, offering strategies to reduce conflict, build emotional resilience, and foster healthier, more supportive relationships. 

In addition to providing therapeutic support, I also play an active role in coordinating care with other professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes for my clients. I regularly write psychological reports, advocate on my client’s behalf with third parties to ensure appropriate psychological care, and consult with physicians, case managers, and insurance providers. By combining personalized therapy with advocacy and collaboration, I aim to offer a comprehensive and supportive experience, helping clients achieve healing and personal empowerment.

My approach is always client-centered, recognizing that every person’s experience is unique. I believe in taking the time to truly understand what my clients are going through, so I can tailor our sessions to meet their specific needs. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for addressing unhelpful thought patterns, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help process and heal from deep emotional trauma, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients connect with their values and find new ways to approach challenges, and Mindfulness-based techniques to help clients become more present and grounded in their day-to-day lives. 

I am honoured to be part of this profession, and I am genuinely dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall quality of life. Through collaborative and evidence-based techniques, I aim to assist clients in gaining insight, developing coping strategies, and fostering resilience. It would be my pleasure to be a part of your journey, and I look forward to working with you.

Degrees, Registration and Membership

Master of Arts, Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University

Registered with College of Alberta Psychologists #6518

Canadian Psychological Association

EMDR Canada

EMDRIA

Specialized Training

Eye Movement Desensitzation and Reprocessing basic training, British Colombia School of Professional Psychology 

Non-suicidal self-injury: assessment and risk management, Calgary Counselling Centre, Calgary, AB 

Crisis de-escalation training, Calgary Counselling Centre, Calgary, AB

A condensed overview of empirical evidences and practical implications of telepractice and psychotherapy for adults, Canadian Psychological Association 

Becoming an antiracist and anti-oppressive clinician, Pivot Psychology 

Trauma informed training for children and families experiencing intimate partner violence, Calgary Counselling Centre, Calgary, AB

Experience

Six years of counselling experience in private practice

Registered with the College of Alberta Psychologists since 2022