The way I care for myself best is by incorporating exercise into my weekly routine, making time for my creative and artistic interests, and ensuring I have adequate wind-down time at the end of the day.

The moment I walked out of my first personal therapy session, I knew I wanted to become a counsellor. I was astounded by the simple beauty of having someone fully listen to your story, validate those experiences, and shower you with empathy. Everyone has challenges in life, and I hope that I can provide that same warm and compassionate listening ear to others who need support.

The way I manage my chronic illness. I was diagnosed with a digestive disorder about four years ago, and it was a complete shock. It turned my life upside down. Even the simplest tasks of eating or drinking water were suddenly a huge challenge. It has taken me several years, appointments with professionals, doctors’ visits, exams, personal experiments, and exceptional commitment, but I feel that I have finally found a way to live my life that is fulfilling while managing my chronic illness.

I always thought I would be a teacher, either in school or in a dance studio. I am grateful that I was able to experience the latter for over a decade.

I’m spending time with my husband and kitties, family, or close friends. I enjoy being outdoors kayaking and hiking, I am an avid knitter, and I keep dance as a part of my life through teaching and taking my own classes as a student.

As the client, you are in the driver’s seat. It is common for people to feel intimidated about starting counselling because they might not be ready to share a lot of personal information. I get it. It is overwhelming and scary to sit down in front of essentially a stranger and unload your life story onto them. There is anticipation of judgment from the therapist because that might be what we are used to from our friends and family. The good news is that your therapist takes a non-judgmental and not-knowing stance. They follow your story with curiosity and genuine caring. You get to control the speed of the session, you have the power to pause, and you get to take the lead because you are the expert of your own life.

There is something so incredible about the therapeutic relationship between the counsellor and client. Sometimes the two individuals will click immediately, and it feels wonderful for both parties. There is a sense of trust, knowing, patience, and understanding that provides a safe space for the client to truly open themselves to the experience of therapy. Sometimes the click does not happen right away. Sometimes it takes a session or two, sometimes even three, to feel that connection. Once both the counsellor and the client know the therapeutic relationship is there, the potential for positive growth and healing feels endless. The moment I know I click with my client is different every time, and every time it is just as humbling and affirming as the last.

Calming, steady, and insightful. I maintain a stable and warm presence during sessions and always have an alternative perspective to consider.

“If we wait until we are ready, we will be waiting for the rest of our lives.” – Lemony Snicket This quote means a lot to me in my personal life, and many of my clients have found freedom from knowing that they don’t have to be 100% prepared to take their next step in life.