ABOUT ME
From an early age, I can recall being curious about humans and the diversity of experiences among us all.
During my youth, I was an observer – motivated to understand people’s personal experiences beyond what I could see.
Today, my passion for counselling is rooted in many years of connecting with at-risk and marginalized youth in a variety of workplace settings including youth homelessness, counselling for addiction, and within the youth justice system. Within these roles, I gained perspective of the unique challenges that young people may face during this developmental time in life, in addition to the opportunity to promote healthy decision making, strengthen resiliency and advocate when needed.
My involvement with youth has been complimented with over ten years of experience counselling parents and care providers as a Family Preservation and Reunification Counsellor for Sea to Sky Community Services Society, to address the challenges that perpetuate stress and conflict within families.
Over three years, I worked as a Campus Counsellor at Quest University in Squamish. This role provided me incredible opportunities to support young adults as they learned to navigate the intersections of independence, identity, academics and social relationships.
I am a graduate of Opt’s Sexual Health Educator Certification (SHEC) program. Through individual sessions, small groups and workshops, I aim to share relevant and accurate sexual health knowledge that celebrates sexual and relationship diversity.
In addition to my clinical work, I was an active member of the former Safe ‘n Sound Squamish, which promoted understanding, respect, safety and compassion for the LGBTQ2S+ community. In 2016, I began co-facilitating Sounding Room (a monthly drop in group for LGBTQ+ individuals, families and allies). In 2020, I began Queer Conversations – an online series of discussions which promoted support and community for Trans*, gender diverse and Two-Spirit folks. Currently, I am a co-founder and co-facilitator of Sea 2 Sky Allies – a monthly drop in for parents and caregivers of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, and allies who want to take action. We promote support, education, resources and community building with the goal of creating a safer, more inclusive community for all (learn more @seatoskyallies).
I am committed to being a visible, supportive and resourceful ally.
I acknowledge that I am an uninvited settler on the unceded, ancestral and traditional land of the Squamish Nation. I am grateful for the opportunity to build my life and work in connection to this land. I enjoy paddle boarding, and hiking the incredible trails in our big backyard with my partner and our two kiddos.