ABOUT
At the heart of MALM Counselling is an unwavering belief and optimism towards each client and their unique journey towards connection, healing, self-compassion, resiliency and ultimately personal growth. As we navigate through our lives, we are often met with unforeseen life events, relationship hardships, health challenges and barriers that may threaten our ability to thrive and maintain hope in ourselves and others. In forging a strong working and collaborative alliance, counselling can help facilitate the safety, trust and hope needed to facilitate positive changes in our lives.
Theraputic Approach
My therapeutic approach stems from a strong clinical foundation in Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) which promotes higher functioning, community integration, recovery and enhanced quality of life for clients living with mental health and substance use concerns. My style can best be described as integrative and adaptive; drawing from several evidence-based treatment modalities and counselling interventions tailored to meet the specific needs of the client. Most often I collaborate with clients using a strength-based, Humanistic perspective and adapt my training and professional experience utilizing Person-Centred Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Narrative Therapy concepts and techniques. Other therapeutic modalities incorporated into my practice include:
• Motivational Interviewing
• Solution-Focused Therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
• Existential Therapy
• Family Systems Therapy
• Emotionally Focused Therapy
Background and Experience
Over the last twelve years, I have accumulated a broad range of experience helping individuals and families struggling with mental health and addiction issues to reclaim, maintain and improve their overall wellbeing. I have worked and volunteered in the mental health community for agencies such as MPA Society, Coast Mental Health, BC Crisis Centre, and the Vancouver General Hospital, as well as clinical settings such as VCH Eating Disorders, Vancouver Detox, and Venture often alongside mental health teams which may include psychiatrists, addiction and vocational counsellors, nurses and social workers. I have also done research on hope and addictions at the UBC.
Prior to MALM Counselling I have provided therapy as an independent contractor with Manifest Wellness focusing on men's mental and physical health, relationships and career success. I have also provided clinical counselling and assessments in private and public settings to youth, adults, couples and families collaborating closely with the Ministry of Social Development (MSDS) and agencies such as Harbourside Family Counseling Centre.
I completed my Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of British Columbia (UBC) and two post-baccalaureate diplomas in Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Guidance Studies and I am currently a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counselling (BCACC).