After nearly two decades as a nurse, I've seen firsthand how hard health issues can hit people. It's not just about the physical stuff—often, the mental and emotional part gets brushed aside. It’s overwhelming and can feel like you’re on a rollercoaster. I've also watched families struggle to support their loved ones while dealing with their own overwhelming emotions.
From new diagnoses to chronic pain, terminal illnesses, or any other health curveballs, so many folks and their loved ones end up feeling afraid, angry, overwhelmed, powerless, exhausted, anxious, or just plain alone. It's hard to put those feelings into words, but talking about it can make a world of difference. That's why I decided to pursue further education in counselling psychology—to be able to offer the support I saw was desperately needed.
Professional Background
2005 - Obtained my Bachelor or Science in Nursing. Since then I have worked in many areas including orthopaedics, oncology, home care, palliative care, community health, public health, inpatient withdrawal management (detox), and corrections.
2016 - I attended a workshop called Counterbalancing Life with Chronic Pain/Chronic Health Conditions with the Dalhousie University School of Social Work which increased my interest and passion for helping those dealing with chronic illness/pain.
2019 - I began my Masters in Counselling Psychology. I felt that the healthcare system was not doing a good job at addressing the mental or emotional toll that chronic illness/chronic pain takes on individuals and their loved ones. My goal was to open a private counselling practice with a focus on empowering people to live the life they want despite the health challenges they face.
2023 - I obtained certification as a sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE).
2023 - I completed an opioid use disorder treatment course from CAMH.
2023 - I completed my Masters in Counselling Psychology. I have received training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I was fortunate enough to work with the chronic pain clinic during my clinical placement and received training in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), and Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET).
Credentials
Registered Counselling Therapist - Candidate (RCT-C)
Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC)
Registered Nurse (Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories & Nunavut)