The first seed of my interest in therapy was planted when I was thirteen. As a teenager, I struggled a lot, and when the darkness felt overwhelming, my first experience with a wonderful therapist made a huge difference. Over the years, I returned to therapy for various reasons, but like many, I initially pursued a completely different career, one I stayed in for over twenty years.
Therapy is a profession that deeply values life experience and the wisdom gained from it. In my thirties, while in the midst of a particularly deep and insightful therapeutic relationship, I made the decision to fully embrace the passion that started in my youth and make a bold career change. Five years of intensive training followed.
The journey was incredibly tough at times, but I never lost hope. As they say, the rest is history. I believed in myself, found resilience and perseverance, and am grateful to have followed it through. Now, after several years of full-time practice, I’m thankful to be living my dream.
What motivated me to leave behind a secure, well-paid career in public sector management? Quite simply, it was a lifelong dream since my teenage years. Therapy helped me profoundly, transforming my life in meaningful ways, and I wanted to pass that gift on to others. I care deeply about people, am naturally curious, and I see a growing need for mental health support in today’s world.
In my approach to therapy, I focus on creating a safe, trusted, and non-judgmental relationship, rather than positioning myself as ‘the expert in the room.’ I strongly believe in dissolving the power dynamics that can sometimes exist in therapy, fostering a spirit of equality. I’ve often been told I’m approachable and easy to open up to—and you’re more likely to find me in a t-shirt and baseball cap than a shirt and tie! I bring my authentic self to every session, and what you see is what you get when working with me.
Those I’ve supported have described me as down-to-earth, pragmatic, caring, and attentive, while maintaining a relaxed, unintrusive, and well-paced environment in our sessions. I also believe therapy doesn’t always have to be heavy or daunting. When appropriate, I bring humour and lightness into the work. Many of my clients and I share a good laugh, and I find that creating a real, human connection serves as the foundation for positive change and healing.
