In my practice, clients are helped through an educated, informed integration of traditional psychological approaches with arts-based methods for change. This means that I rely on methods that have been shown in the research to work with specific problems - and that I also draw from creative and expressive methods when it makes sense to do so.

The model is helpful in times of crisis and struggle as well as when someone is experiencing a creative block, or just wants to further their development. It is also of great benefit in relationships. Typically, it takes a few sessions until a necessary trusting relationship is formed, where a client feels understood. Change doesn't happen immediately for anyone based on a stranger's advice, therefor counselling can take time. Things can at times feel worse before they get better (symptoms may worsen while we work on the core issue). After an initial intake/assessment session, feedback will be provided and goals will be set with an estimate of how many sessions will be required. I regret that I cannot offer a valid opinion without gathering adequate information about background, health, history, etc. I must also have a confidentiality and consent agreement with a client before I can proceed to provide any kind of service.

I believe a good connection with your counsellor is essential. You need to trust me and to feel hopeful before you can even identify what the real issues are and how you want to change. I aim to help you feel understood and validated by being genuinely caring and non-judgemental.

Research shows that the more energy you put up front in understanding a problem, the better results you will get in working on the solution. For this reason, I believe it is crucial at the beginning to gather information. I am well trained in assessing the nature of problems and have a number of tools available to enable me to do this well. I may explore many dimensions in understanding how your issues or concerns developed.

I believe in a holistic model of helping and healing. This includes indivual emotions, thoughts, behavior in the context of relationships and experiences. I will help you understand how your experiences have shaped your thinking, and how your thoughts, feelings & beliefs have influenced your experiences.

Sometimes all you need is an understanding ear and acceptance, like when you are grieving. But usually people need more - to experience a different view or new behaviors/choices. The view can come from many different methods, once things make sense. Thats where the real therapy comes in - and the hard work! This is also when you can rely on my training and experience to help. When you need more than a supportive listener, I do more than listen and say "uh huh, tell me how that feels for you". I help you work on your new goals.

I believe that people are driven and motivated to grow and change. I depend on your openess and collaboration. Together we work towards change or healing. I am there to support you while you try out new ways of being in the world if that is what you are trying to do. Together we will make sense of things so you can move towards greater awareness, greater wellness and more effectiveness."