Postsecondary Students
I have worked with postsecondary students at the University of British Columbia's Psychological Services and Counselling Training Centre and Simon Fraser University's Health and Counselling Centre. Issues have included anxiety, depression, relationships, stress, career, identity, and transitions. As a student myself for many years, I can relate to postsecondary students' needs and stage of life. I spend quality time getting to know each unique student, help identify their goals, strengths, and areas of development. My work also includes working with mature students.
Therapists (Counselling & Music Therapy)
As a Registered Provisional Psychologist, a Certified Music Therapist (MTA), and a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), I offer mentorship to students who are working towards becoming therapists themselves. Areas of work can include evolving professional identity, development in clinical work, career exploration, and personal growth. If interested, the use of expressive arts, such as music, drawing, and metaphor can be incorporated. I am also a Music Therapy Supervisor.
Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)
I work with people who are highly sensitive individuals (HSP) or who have sensitive qualities. Dr. Elaine Aron is a psychologist who has done extensive research on this trait. She describes highly sensitive individuals as "a person who has a sensitive nervous system, is aware of subtleties in their surroundings, and is more easily overwhelmed when in a highly stimulating environment." (Aron, 2023) People with this trait may have a rich and complex inner life, experience emotions deeply, and is moved by beauty and the arts. Highly sensitive people benefit from a gentle approach that is catered to their strengths, pacing, validating emotions, and understanding themselves.
Healthcare Workers
I can relate to the unique needs and circumstances of healthcare workers as I am a healthcare worker myself and I have family members who work in the healthcare field. Issues can include burnout, stress, balancing family life with the demands of work, boundaries, and implementing self-care. The work can include exploring personal strengths, values, purpose in healthcare, (re)discovering resources, and creating time for oneself.
Caregivers
Caregiving for a loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. I work with caregivers who may need extra support, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic. Issues can include burnout, stress, fatigue, feelings of guilt/shame, boundaries, and self-care. I have experience working with caregivers for seniors with dementia, parents and children with Autism, and other chronic health issues.
Children & Teens with Autism & ADHD
Using music and the expressive arts can be an effective way in connecting with children and teens with Autism and ADHD. The work can include emotional expression, communication, building relationships, identity, self-esteem, and building confidence. Ways of working can include learning communication skills, identifying emotions, and relating with the therapist. The use of expressive arts can include improvising, play, learning an instrument, drawing, and movement.
Seniors with Dementia & Alzheimer's Disease
Using a combination of music and verbal counselling can be an effective way of reaching a person with dementia or Alzheimer's. The work can include gathering the individual's and family's history, understanding the needs of the person, using familiar music, and creating art. Issues can include anxiety, depression, feeling lonely, identity loss, life transition, and finding meaning. I have experience working with seniors with dementia & Alzheimer's as a music therapist in long-term care homes and hospitals.
People with Disabilities
I recognize people with disabilities may have specific needs when coming to therapy. Therefore, my intention is to customize my approach to meet those needs. I have a wealth of experience working with people with disabilities including visual impairment. Please contact me for an initial consult to customize care that is best suited for you.