Practice information:

I am a Certified Art Therapist and a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) serving the Oak Bay and Westshore communities.

Prior to working at VICYFCS, I worked in private practice providing art therapy to children and youth. Joining a group practice is important to me as it creates a sense of community and
connection to an ever-growing hive mind. I bring with me 9 years of experience working with children, youth, and adults who have been marginalized within society.  I lead my practice from a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed lens. Additionally, I bring a strong knowledge of children and adolescent development, welfare and protection, gender-affirming care, creative-therapeutic environments, and the Canadian Justice System. I hold an Associate Degree in Pre-Social Work, a Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies, a Post Bachelor’s Diploma in Art Therapy, a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and a Youth Probation Certificate. My passion is helping children and youth within the community flourish to their full potential.

Throughout the years my work has led me to advocate for youth, gender equality, reconciliation, the housing crisis, and mental health. My front-line work transitioned smoothly into a therapy role and has allowed me to apply empathy and hold space for others who need it. When not working at VICYFCS, you can find me painting, listening to music, reading mystery
novels, working on community projects, and wandering around in the city testing out all the coffee shops.

Art Therapy
Not every emotion or feeling can be expressed through words. Art therapy can assist in bringing out emotions and feelings that you have left untouched or are unable to touch alone. Art therapy allows an individual to create verbally and physically through different mediums, in a safe, and non-judgmental space. It is helpful for children, youth and adults who have difficulty expressing their emotions or have experienced trauma, grief and loss, mental health setbacks, learning challenges, behavioural challenges, family problems, and attachment issues.
Individuals do not need to have artistic skills to attend art therapy, as it only requires imagination. Art therapy is beneficial to an individual’s health due to the relaxation aspect of the nervous system. This results in improved self-regulation, reduction of anxiety, and acceptance and integration of oneself. Art therapy assists with self-awareness, problem solving and self-esteem. Art Therapy is an effective, efficient, and practical way of expressing feelings and working through challenges, no matter how big or small. Research has shown that trauma is a sensory experience; therefore, art therapy can allow a relaxation response and increase the ability to tolerate life stressors. Art is a universal language; although we may feel affected by emotion or trauma, art can express how we feel with minimal words. The art therapist is not responsible for analyzing and creating meaning in a client’s work. The meaning behind the work is found through a meaningful conversation about the artwork when the client is ready. Art therapy supports individuals in addressing presenting concerns and reconnecting with themselves.