As a Ph.D. Registered Psychologist, University instructor, and former elementary teacher, my life experiences and education align with best practices and novel approaches to child development, holistic approaches to counselling, and social justice.

I became a Ph.D. Registered Psychologist to understand and research the complexities of children’s and women’s health and well-being. Over the years, my approach to counselling has evolved to focus on holistic, integrated and trauma healing perspectives. My approach to counselling is informed by reflecting on and integrating life experiences, science, and intuition. My broad educational experience and holistic perspective enable me to serve children, women, families, and communities in a myriad of ways.

Hakomi and Zen principles are a foundation of my philosophy and approach to the art of being human: Mindfulness, Nonviolence, Unity, Organicity and Mind-Body Integration. In the words of Holocaust survivor Etty Hillesum, “Ultimately, we have just one moral duty: to reclaim large areas of peace in ourselves, more and more peace, and to reflect it toward others. And the more peace there is in us, the more peace there will also be in our troubled world.”

A feminist social justice lens is important to my philosophy and approach to counselling and advocacy. This approach examines and integrates the following issues:

• Listening to voices that are typically silenced

• Equal worth and equal rights for women, children, and marginalized people

• Education and understanding of unjust inequalities

• Addressing gender, power, and relational issues of oppression, abuse, and betrayal

• Fostering allyship and alliances (e.g., family-school-community collaborations)

As a survivor of violence, complex trauma, and medical trauma (Long COVID and medication injury), I have developed a deeply lived knowledge of bio-psycho-spiritual approaches to healing and the importance of Post-Traumatic Growth. I turn to the healing powers of nature, art, and spiritual traditions for daily guidance and insight.

I strive to walk my talk. I believe my work on this Earth is to listen deeply to provide solace and facilitate healing for women and children who face complex life challenges and traumatic experiences. I will sit quietly alongside you on your journey to wholeness and wellbeing and speak loudly for the betterment of future generations.