Professional Background and Expertise
- My undergraduate degree is in Child and Youth Care and I graduated from City University of Seattle (Edmonton Campus) with a Master of Counselling. I am a Certified Canadian Counsellor with the CCPA and am also trained in EMDR and Gottman levels 1 & 2
- I am passionate about trauma-informed care and nurturing our emotional/spiritual components, however, that may look to you. I take a holistic approach to find the balance between the body, mind, heart, and spirit
- I have been a therapist since 2020 but have been in counselling roles since 2012
Approach to Therapy
- I am attachment and emotion focused, with a depth approach. Some clients want or need more structure with their sessions, which I will then use more CBT, DBT, and solution focused strategies in order to support them and meet their needs. I check in with my clients often throughout our time together to assess the approaches used, discuss what has been working and what might need to be changed
- I love using metaphors and humor in my practice, as well as incorporating my clients interests such as music, nature, art, journalling, worksheets, podcasts, etc.
Personal Insights
Ever since I was young I was able to hold space for people in my life and sit through the uncomfortable conversations.I started counselling when I was in the 4th grade and saw the benefits of having a positive support in my life and knew I wanted to be able to provide that for others
In my full time job at the George Spady Society I am lucky enough to work on a diverse team of amazing people and we consult weekly. We also have monthly ethics meetings and training opportunities. I also love researching different topics and am enrolled in an online program that offers therapy courses as well
Client Experience
I have had many clients come to me years after trying therapy for the first time and unfortunately having a negative experience, or many first timers who are very hesitant to therapy, come to me consistently and see some real change. When I debrief with them, they tell me that I have a gentle approach that doesn’t seem too “clinical” and they feel comfortable with me right away.
I believe in the power of acknowledging that we are all human. I don’t pretend to know more than my clients do, as they are the experts in their life. I show that I am also human, and that we can explore the tough stuff together as a team, going at whatever pace feels safest for my clients. Being honest and transparent and gentle as a therapist can go a very long way. I also love to laugh and learn the humor that my clients appreciate
Special Considerations
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In addition to working with Hello Maya, I work with The George Spady Society working with individuals who have experienced houselessness and are needing supports with their mental health and addictions. Since 2012, I have worked in the non-profit sector and have a lot of experience working with marginalized populations and complex cases.
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Many of the individuals I have supported had significant trauma histories, low socioeconomic status, 2SLGBTQ+, and I also have a lot of experience working with Indigenous clients.
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I am honoured to support youth, adults, and couples who have experienced or currently experience domestic violence, grief and loss, addictions, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship issues, and support with sexuality and gender identity.
