Definition of counselling

Counselling is a relational process that facilitates change and empowers individuals, families and groups to achieve their emotional, psychological and educational needs. Counsellors are guided by ethical principles, engaging clients in a respectful, caring way to understand client uniqueness, values and needs.

A counselling relationship is a place of safety, where clients discover their resources to develop the courage to change and live well. The counsellor engages in active listening, is present and supportive as they come alongside the client. They provide guidance, help clients make sense of their experiences while promoting client autonomy. The quality of the counselling relationship combined with the evidence-based intervention is the best outcome for clients to heal and achieve their therapeutic goals.

Trauma-informed approach

With this approach, clients can safely explore and learn how their past experiences impacts their present situations. In the process, they learn autonomy, create boundaries, how to regulate emotions, and how to express and fulfill their own needs.

My theoretical approach

I am a trauma-informed, person-centred therapist who believes whole-heartedly in the power of the therapeutic relationship and our ability to heal and thrive. From my perspective, humans function best when we feel valued, heard, and have our emotional needs met. I offer acceptance, hope, and encouragement.

I utilize an integrated approach to help clients heal. I draw from attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy (EFT), and the discoveries of neuroscience to guide my practice when working with clients to learn new and healthy ways of functioning. I also incorporate acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to help the client become aware of thinking patterns. Narrative therapy provides clients with the language to re-author their stories, to experience joy and live fulfilling lives.