A Little Bit About Me…
From an early age I was curious about the way people interacted with one another. I developed a keen observation of the relationships between people and this fascination led me to pursue an education in psychology and applied behavioural science. It was my master’s degree in applied behavioural science, and family systems theory in particular, that really directed my approach to therapy. Even during individual therapy I consider significant relationships and how they are impacting client patterns and changes.
The importance of social support systems while healing from trauma became a focus for me when I worked with the Victoria Brain Injury Society. I provided counselling to individuals trying to make sense of their new lives after brain injury, working through issues of depression, identity loss, anxiety, and anger. These are just a few areas impacted by the trauma of a brain injury. I also counselled family members and couples working to understand the impacts and challenges to their lives and relationships as a result of this devastating injury. It was while working at the Victoria Brain Injury Society that I really understood the extent to which trauma impacts not only an individual, but the entire support system.
People often ask me if working with trauma is depressing and sad. And yes, at times the stories people tell me are very sad, but I see the courage in the person who has survived the traumatic experience. I am ready to work with them to rediscover their strengths and to help them move toward their goals in recovery. It is watching this process that motivates me to continue to work with this population. People, especially those in healthy relationships, have an inspiring ability to heal.