learn to listen INWARD and heal, one step at a time
When you’re looking for a therapist, “fit” is key. Talking with someone whose personality and approach resonates with you will make all the difference (and scientific research backs that up!). So I am really glad you are reading this, bravo!
My approach tends to involve an eclectic mix of evidence-based psychotherapeutic practices that are tailored to each client. As a clinician with specialty training in trauma, ultimately, listening to what each unique client needs is very important to me. That said, so are results - the process I use is backed by scientific research, my training and credentials, and my life and work experience.
I started Kernel of Wisdom in 2014, supporting mental health as a mindfulness meditation teacher. I have been working in mental health as a psychotherapist since 2017. I have a wide variety of experience in private practice, hospital, and community environments. Some of my experience had included working as a clinician with The Trauma Centre, at Bellwood Health Services, and at Georgian College. I also have work experience with “urban schools”, Catholic Children’s Aid Society, organizations for individuals facing unique obstacles / having gone through abnormally challenging circumstances, and through a number of not-for-profit organizations such as UNICEF Canada and Outward Bound Canada.
In terms of my credentials, I am a Registered Psychotherapist in good standing with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO Registration #005767). I am also an EMDR Certified Therapist with EMDRIA, a Certified Canadian Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, and a member of the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP). I received my Master of Counselling Psychology (MA) from Yorkville University and have a Bachelor of Education (BEd) and Honours Bachelor of Arts (HBA) from York University.
I have training and/or certification in the following areas:
EMDR Basics from Niagara Stress & Trauma Clinic + EMDRIA EMDR Certified Therapist
Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy training from Credo-Oxford
Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR) Level 1, 2 & 3 with DBR Training and Certification Co / Dr. Frank Corrigan
Ego State Therapy Foundations Course Level 1 with Lemke Counselling & Consulting
Fundamentals of Clinical Hypnosis Level 1 with Lemke Counselling & Consulting
Effective Clinical Supervision (30hr course)
Introduction to DBT from Broadview Psychology
Radically-Open DBT from Radicallyopen.net - Levels 1 and 2
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Fundamental Skills from OISE at the University of Toronto
Cybercounselling: Level 1 from Therapy Online
Cognitive Processing Therapy via Veteran’s Affairs
Foundations of Mindfulness and Applied Specialization in Mindfulness certifications from the University of Toronto
MBCT 8-Week Group Participation and MBCT Basics from the Centre for Mindfulness Studies
ASIST Suicide Intervention from LivingWorks
Mental Health First Aid from The Mental Health Commission of Canada
General training on Obsessive Compulsive Disorder from ECHO OCD
Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I had 8+ years of experience working in business, marketing, advertising and digital media. This experience gives me a sound understanding of what work looks like for most of my clients, and the types of challenges that come up in the average workplace.
I also have training as a clinical supervisor and my aim is to provide at least one practicum to Masters-level counselling students each year, especially those looking to learn more about working with eating disorders and/or trauma.
When I’m not working, I enjoy time with my little-ones (one human, one dog); time in nature and the outdoors; meditation and exploration of a variety of spiritual/theological models; fine art (especially drawing, painting, photography and design); music (especially drumming); and travel where and when I can fit it in.