Many people wonder this before reaching out. You don't need to be in crisis or have everything figured out to benefit from counselling. Sometimes people seek therapy because they're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, grieving, stuck, or disconnected. Others simply want to understand themselves better or make lasting changes in their lives.
If something in your life isn't working the way you'd like it to, counselling can provide a safe place to explore what's happening and decide where you'd like to go from here.
The first session is simply a conversation.
We'll talk about what has brought you to counselling, what's been happening in your life, and what you hope will be different. I'll ask questions to better understand your experiences, and you'll have an opportunity to ask me anything you're wondering about.
You don't need to prepare or know exactly what to say. We'll begin where you are.
I believe that meaningful change happens through a balance of compassion, curiosity, and accountability.
Clients often describe our sessions as warm, thoughtful, and connected. My role is to create a space where you feel genuinely heard while also helping you understand patterns, explore new perspectives, and make choices that move you toward the life you want.
Every person is different, so I tailor therapy to your individual needs rather than following a rigid formula.
The relationship between counsellor and client is one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy.
Finding someone you feel comfortable with matters. I encourage you to ask questions and pay attention to whether you feel heard, respected, and understood. If we're a good fit, we'll work together toward the goals that matter most to you.
I work with adults experiencing concerns such as:
If you're unsure whether your concern fits within my practice, you're welcome to contact me to discuss it.
My work is grounded in existential-humanistic therapy and is informed by Internal Family Systems (IFS), grief therapy, trauma-informed practice, and current research in psychology and brain health.
Rather than focusing only on symptoms, I help clients understand the deeper patterns influencing how they think, feel, relate to others, and respond to life's challenges.
Successful therapy isn't about becoming a different person. It's about becoming more fully yourself.
Over time, many people notice they understand themselves more clearly, respond rather than react, feel more connected in their relationships, and make choices that better reflect the life they want to live. While therapy can't remove every hardship, it can help you develop the insight, resilience, and confidence to meet life's challenges with greater freedom and intention.
Yes.
Confidentiality is one of the foundations of counselling. What you share remains private except in the limited circumstances required by law or professional ethics, such as concerns about immediate safety or situations involving abuse or neglect of minors or dependent adults. We'll review confidentiality together during our first session so you understand exactly what to expect.
Yes.
I offer both in-person counselling in Nelson, BC, and secure online counselling for clients throughout Canada. Many people appreciate the flexibility of online sessions, and research shows they can be just as effective as meeting in person for many concerns.
Many extended health benefit plans cover services provided by Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) and Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCCs). Coverage depends on your individual insurance plan, so I recommend checking with your provider before your first appointment.
Receipts are provided after each session for reimbursement.
No.
You can book an appointment directly with me. A referral is generally not required, although some extended health plans may have specific requirements.Receipts are provided after each session for reimbursement.
There isn't one answer that fits everyone.
Some people come for a few sessions to work through a specific issue, while others choose longer-term therapy for deeper personal growth. Together we'll regularly review your goals and ensure therapy continues to meet your needs.
Whatever response you bring to therapy is completely okay.
Many people worry they'll need to have their thoughts organized before coming to therapy. You don't. It's my job to help guide the conversation. We'll begin wherever feels most comfortable for you.
There is no right or wrong way to experience therapy.
Some people cry. Others laugh, sit quietly, or need time to think. All emotions are welcome. My role is to provide a space where you can express yourself without fear of judgment or pressure.
Sometimes difficult emotions arise as we begin exploring painful experiences. That can feel uncomfortable, but it doesn't mean therapy isn't working.
My goal is never to overwhelm you. We move at a pace that feels manageable, building understanding, resilience, and practical ways of coping while working toward meaningful change.