My educational background in mental health started in my undergraduate degree in Neuroscience at Carleton University, Ottawa. I went into neuroscience because I wanted to understand the biological reasons why we behave the way we do and what happens when our brain chemistry is slightly off. Through that process, I confirmed a belief about myself, that I have had since I was 13 and first decided I wanted to be a therapist – that I am someone who wants to work with people to understand them and help them, not study them. So, with that in mind, I did a Master’s Degree in Social Work, with a clinical specialization in adult mental health and addictions at the University of Calgary. 

Given this history, my approach to therapy mixes my two educational backgrounds. I know a lot about what happens in our brains to make us do things (Neuroscience part), and I also understand that our relationships (familial, romantic, you name it!) impact our brains, which in turn makes us do things (Social work part)! Sometimes we need to address one of these areas to improve the other! And sometimes a therapist is the person to guide us through this process! 

To complement my education, I have a diverse experience working with people from all walks of life. I have worked with Caregivers of people with Dementia, youth struggling with their mental health, and in academia, where I did research. I have also worked in the eating disorder field for over two years as a peer mentor, where I have worked to support folks in maintaining their recovery journey in the ways that they see fit. On top of all of this experience, I also have experience working with people struggling with childhood trauma, domestic violence, relationships, anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, anger, body image and self-esteem during my time at the Calgary Counselling Centre. There, I found a love for acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness and self-compassion-based therapy. That being said, I am always excited to learn new things, and I am so happy to learn about different therapies!