The beginning is the most important part of the work.
~ Plato
I am a Registered Psychologist (#1361) and have been in private practice since receiving my Ph.D. in 1998. I see individuals and couples in my Langley office (#B150 - 20161 86th Ave. @ The Xchange Building). I recently spent 7 years as an Associate Director at the SFU Clinical Psychology Centre and I have also provided clinical supervision, consultation and contract work to a variety of organizations, including a community service agency (SOURCES), First Nations communities (Sto:lo & Haida) and the provincial government (Forensic Psychiatric Services).
When someone really hears you without passing judgment on you, without taking responsibility for you, without trying to mold you, it feels damn good. When I have been listened to, when I have been heard, I am able to re-perceive my world in a new way and go on.
~ Carl Rogers
At a first session, a client is often looking to change ways of thinking, feeling and behaving which result in emotional distress and interpersonal difficulties. I believe it is important to not only look at symptoms, but also to help a client to explore some of the underlying causes of a problem. Many clients find it helpful to gain some insight into their difficulties – then apply effective tools and actions towards addressing the issue.
Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.
~ Marie Curie
The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes of mind.
~ William James
Some clients simply are seeking relief from emotional distress. However, others wish to go further and choose to explore aspects of ‘positive psychology’ which can help a person to fulfill their potential by looking at issues such as meaning, happiness, accomplishment and compassion. By doing so, I believe it is possible to live a more mindful, balanced and contented life.
I have more information available on my website, including short psycho-educational videos and articles which may be helpful. Please feel free to review the information and contact me if you have any questions.
