What are your credentials and theoretical approach?
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I hold a Master's Degree in Family Systems Counselling/Applied Behavioral Science from the Leadership Institute of Seattle/Bastyr University (1996). I am on Faculty at the Neufeld Institute and a Parent Consultant, fortunate to have enjoyed a 2 year Internship with Dr. Gordon Neufeld.
I am inspired by the Neufeld Approach and use this developmental perspective in my parent and professional consulting.
How long is a parent consultation or counselling session?
Sessions are 50 minutes. I offer a complimentary 15-minute initial phone conversation for those who would like it. This gives you an opportunity to get a feel for my style and to see if we are a good fit.
Who comes to the parent consultation sessions?
Consultations are provided for the parents (and, if requested, other care providers involved with the child). It is advisable NOT to tell the child that you are seeking assistance in trying to understand them.
Do you counsel children or teenagers?
PLEASE NOTE: I AM CURRENTLY NOT TAKING ANY MORE ADOLESCENTS IN MY PRACTICE.
I work with parents to guide them and help them make sense of the challenges they face with their children. I do not need to see the child to be able to assess the problems and provide support for intervention.
Fees
Counselling services may be covered in full or in part by your health insurance or employee benefit plan. Please check with your insurance provider or employer in advance to ask whether Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) are covered. I will provide you with a receipt for the fees paid. You are responsible for filing a claim with your insurance provider.
My session fee is $150/50-minute session. Fees are payable by cash, e-transfer or cheque at the start of each session.
Kindly give 48 hours advance notice if you need to cancel or reschedule appointments. Session fees will be charged for missed appointments and late cancellations.
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can book online through my secure private practice portal. If you would like to book a get-to-know-you session, please email me at heartmatters@shaw.ca.
If you are in an emergency, please call the Vancouver Island Crisis Line at 1-888-494-3888.
Biography
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Parent Consultant with a private practice in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island, B.C. I work with individuals, couples, and parents. I am also on Faculty with the Neufeld Institute. I am inspired by the relationship-based developmental approach that has so deeply enriched my life as a mother to 2 children, ages 18 and 24.
I completed an extensive Traumatic Stress Studies Certificate Program with Bessel van der Kolk and the Trauma Research Foundation, and utilize Somatic Experiencing (Peter Levine), Internal Family Systems (Frank Anderson and Dick Schwartz), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Pat Ogden), and other body approaches to stress and trauma.
I completed my Master's degree in Family Systems Counselling through LIOS/Bastyr University (1996). In addition to my private practice, I have worked with family service agencies, community mental health clinics, and schools. I have also consulted with large organizations in conflict management, organizational change, executive coaching, and leadership development.
As a mother of two, I bring compassion and heartfelt understanding to the challenges of raising children in today's world. I use Dr. Neufeld's approach in my day-to-day life both as a mother and professional and draw from my personal as well as professional experience to support parents and professionals in making sense of the children in their care. I am committed to work that fully honors our humanity and nourishes the spirit.