Holding space for healing, connection, and what matters most

My Journey

I bring a diverse background in social work and mental health, with experience supporting individuals across community, housing, outreach, and animal welfare settings. My work has included roles with Vancouver Humane Society, Lu’ma Native Housing Society, Lookout Housing & Health Society, Phoenix Society, and MPA Society, where I have supported people navigating complex life circumstances, including housing instability, substance use, mental health, and systemic barriers.

I hold a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Victoria, an Associate Degree in Psychology from Douglas College, and a Professional Counselling Diploma from Rhodes Wellness College. I later returned to Rhodes as a teaching assistant and practicum student, which deepened my commitment to learning, mentorship, and reflective practice.

My approach is also shaped by my own lived experiences. I have navigated challenges within both the medical and social service systems, as well as experiences related to mental health, substance use, and trauma. These experiences have not only informed my understanding of how systems can impact people, but have also strengthened my commitment to offering care that is grounded in empathy, respect, and dignity.

As a queer woman, I hold awareness of both privilege and marginalization, and I continue to reflect on how my identity and experiences shape the way I show up in this work. I view healing as a non-linear and deeply personal process, and I aim to create a space that is collaborative, non-judgmental, and rooted in unconditional positive regard.

A Bit More About Me

Outside of my work, I share my life with my dog, River, and my cat, Jackson. They have been steady and grounding companions for me, especially as I’ve navigated the loss of my dad to terminal lung cancer. My relationship with them has deepened my understanding of the human–animal bond—not just professionally, but in a very real and personal way.

I also find a lot of healing in nature. Being near water—especially waterfalls—feels both grounding and meditative for me, and continues to remind me of the importance of connection, presence, and slowing down.

Many of the photos you’ll see across my website are ones I’ve taken myself, often during these moments. They reflect the spaces and experiences that support me, and that I often encourage others to gently explore in ways that feel accessible and meaningful to them.

Areas of Focus

While I bring experience across a range of areas, my current work centres on supporting individuals navigating:

  • Grief, Loss, and Bereavement
    Including companion animal loss, anticipatory grief, traumatic loss, and complex or disenfranchised grief

  • The Human–Animal Bond
    Support around the emotional, social, and practical impacts of relationships with companion animals

  • Identity, Self-Understanding, and Life Transitions
    Exploring sense of self, personal values, and navigating change

  • Relationships and Connection
    Including dating, boundaries, attachment, and patterns in relationships

  • Emotional Wellbeing
    Experiences such as anxiety, low mood, overwhelm, and navigating daily stressors

  • Boundaries and Self-Advocacy
    Building capacity to navigate relationships, systems, and personal limits in a way that feels safe and aligned

  • Personal Growth and Reflection
    Creating space for self-exploration, healing, and meaningful change

  • Stress and Nervous System Awareness
    Understanding responses to stress and developing supportive ways to regulate and care for yourself

A Note on Approach

My work is grounded in a trauma-informed, strengths-based, and person-centred approach. I recognize that people’s experiences are shaped by broader systems, relationships, and lived realities, and I aim to create a space that feels collaborative, respectful, and supportive of your autonomy.

Qualifications

  • Grief & Loss Counseling Certified

  • TRU Animal Welfare Certificate

  • Cultural Competency Safety Training

  • UniSask Animal Awareness for SUW’s

  • Mental Health First Aid Certified

  • Motivational Interviewing Certified

  • Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Trained

  • Non-Violent Communication Trained

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Trained

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Trained

  • Psycho-dynamic Therapy Trained

  • Life Skills Coaching Certified

  • BCBH Traumatic Loss Facilitator Certificate

  • Workshop Creator & Facilitator

  • Pet First Aid Trained

  • Grief Coaching for Pet Loss

  • Occupational Level 3 First Aid Trained

Scope of Practice & Support

I am committed to offering care that is trauma-informed, respectful, and grounded in my scope of practice. At times, this means recognizing when someone may benefit from a different level or type of support than I am able to provide.

At this time, I am not able to offer services in the following areas:

  • Substance Use Support
    I am not currently able to provide treatment for severe or active substance use concerns that may require specialized or intensive care.

  • Violence & Legal Matters
    I do not provide services related to active involvement in violence or criminal legal matters.

  • Complex Mental Health Needs
    I am not able to support individuals experiencing severe mental health conditions that require intensive, specialized, or multidisciplinary care.

  • Age of Clients
    My services are currently offered to adults (18+) only.

  • Diagnosis & Medication
    I do not provide formal mental health diagnoses or prescribe medication.

A Gentle Note

If your needs fall outside of my scope, this does not mean your experiences are too much or that support isn’t available. It simply means that a different type of care may better meet your needs right now.

I am more than happy to help connect you with appropriate services and resources within the Lower Mainland, and to support you in finding care that feels safe, accessible, and aligned.

Professional Engagement

I regularly provide training, consultation, and professional education at the intersection of social services, grief support, and animal welfare. My work focuses on strengthening cross-sector understanding of the human–animal bond and the social, emotional, and systemic factors that impact people and their companion animals.

Recent and upcoming engagements include:

  • How Veterinary Social Work Helps People and Pets  — Guest on the Informed Ally podcast

    October 28, 2025

    A conversation on the role of veterinary social workers, the human–animal bond, and how social work practice intersects with animal welfare and grief support.

  • Pet Loss & Grief  — Webinar for the BC Bereavement Helpline (BCBH)
    January 29 | 7:00–8:00 PM
    Exploring the unique nature of pet loss, disenfranchised grief, and trauma-informed approaches to supporting individuals and families.

  • Pet-Inclusive Shelter and Housing Practices — Webinar for the Homelessness Services Association of BC
    March 4 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
    Focused on reducing barriers and strengthening support for people who have companion animals within shelter and housing systems.

  • Pet Loss Support Group (Closed Group) — Hosted by the BC Bereavement Helpline (BCBH)

    Begins April 9 | 8-week series

    A facilitated therapeutic support group for individuals grieving the death of a companion animal, offering community connection, validation, and structured grief support.

  • BC Bereavement Helpline’s Pet Loss Support Program - Guest on News Talk 730 CKNW The Jill Bennett Show

    April 13 | 2:00 PM

    Joined The Jill Bennett Show to discuss the significance of pet loss, the impact of disenfranchised grief, and the development of the BC Bereavement Helpline’s Pet Loss Support Program.

  • Introduction to Veterinary Social Work & Grief and Loss — Webinar for the BC Association of Social Workers (BCASW)

    April 14 | 6:30–8:00 PM

    Co-presented with Brenn Clark, this session introduces veterinary social work as an emerging field and explores grief and loss through the lens of the human–animal bond.

  • Building Veterinary Social Work in Western Canada: Education, Practice, and Community Integration - Webinar for the International Association of Veterinary Social Work (IAVSW)

    June 16 | 9:00 AM

    Exploring the gaps and opportunities for Veterinary Social Work in Western Canada’s animal welfare and social services sectors and the university education system.

  • Effective Document and Report Writing -Webinar for the Homelessness Services Association of BC

    July 15 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

    Explores practical strategies for writing concise, objective, and meaningful case notes, reports, and incident documentation. Participants will learn how to document interactions in ways that support accountability, continuity of care, and client dignity.

  • Opportunities for Pet Loss Support Within Veterinary Social Work Programs - Roundtable Session at the 9th International Association of Veterinary Social Work (IAVSW) Summit

    October 14-16 | In person in Toronto, CAN

    Exploring opportunities to integrate pet loss support within veterinary social work programs, with a focus on expanding compassionate, accessible care across practice settings.

  • Pet Loss Support Group (Closed Group) — Hosted by the BC Bereavement Helpline (BCBH)

    Fall TBD | 8-week series

    A facilitated therapeutic support group for individuals grieving the death of a companion animal, offering community connection, validation, and structured grief support.

Theraputic Approach

Inherent Worth & Possibility

I begin from the belief that every person is inherently valuable and capable of growth. Our work together focuses on reconnecting you with that sense of worth and possibility.

Safe, Inclusive Space

I hold space grounded in respect, consent, and care. All identities and experiences are welcome; gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, and family status are never barriers.

Client-Led, Process-Oriented

You set the pace and priorities of your healing journey. I listen deeply first, then offer reflections and tools—intervening only after we’ve built understanding together.

I believe that counseling or consulting is most effective when we engage in a healthy dialogue that taps into your strengths and promotes your personal growth.

Get in touch

This form is simply to get us connected. To protect your privacy, please avoid including sensitive personal details here. We’ll create a safer space to talk more once we’re in contact.
If you’re in immediate danger or need urgent support, please reach out to emergency services (911).