Frequently Asked Questions

The initial appointment provides space to introduce you to the counselling process, gather necessary information from your personal history and present concern(s) and to clarify your goals for counselling. 

 I support clients who experience a variety of symptoms and struggles:

• Anxiety
• Career Planning
• Coping Skills
• Depression
• Emotional Regulation
• Faith
• Grief and Loss
• Life Transitions
• Motivation
• Relationships
• Self Esteem
• Sleep Issues
• Stress

Many theories have influenced my style, including the humanistic, person-centered, and existential approaches. I often draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) techniques to explore the concerns presented and discover meaning or direction.  

Understanding that everyone is different, I work with you to determine the best fit for you and your situation. 

Observed & Experiential Integration Therapy (OEI) is a somatic-based trauma processing therapy that utilizes the connection between the eyes and the brain to reduce the symptoms of posttraumatic stress. It draws from neurophysiology principles to address various forms of nervous system dysregulation. OEI involves covering and uncovering the eyes, and tracking movement through the visual fields. These techniques result in major shifts, not only in mood and somatic intensity, but also in perceptions of self and others. 

OEI works to integrate differing perceptions and unprocessed experiences using bilateral stimulation.

Disturbing memories that are brought into consciousness while engaging in bilateral stimulation are stored back into long-term memory with less vividness and emotional intensity. This translates into more positive self-esteem and social confidence, more close and loving relationships, and better performance as there will be less “getting in the way” fewer negative distortions in your perceptions of yourself and others. 

OEI does not require that you retell your disturbing experiences to benefit from the healing process. 

Experiences that you wish to work through can simply be called “the target.” How much you share with your therapist is your decision. 

What can OEI Therapy help with?

Research has shown that OEI is effective at treating a number of symptoms and challenges. 

These include:

· PTSD

· Anxiety

· Phobias

· Depression

· Childhood trauma

· Eating disorders

· Negative self talk

· Relationship Conflicts

· Low self worth

· Core beliefs

We have long since been aware of the health benefits of being in nature, and being in motion (see articles below). Walk and Talk is a method of therapy that combines the healing forces of nature with the benefits of physical activity and counselling. Many people enjoy being in nature and find it comforting. Others find they think and focus better when they are on the move. There are many reasons to enjoy this method of therapy, including the opportunities for mindfulness and gratitude that come with being surrounded by nature!

What if it’s supposed to rain?
If the day before, or morning of your scheduled appointment calls for rain, we will reschedule the appointment, or you could opt for an in-office session. If it begins to rain during the session, we can discuss ending the session early, continuing in the rain or moving to a more sheltered location (such as a pavilion, or the office).

What about confidentiality?
It is important to be aware that there is potential for our conversation to be overheard while we are in public. Additionally, it is possible that we will run into someone either of us knows. Prior to beginning Walk and Talk therapy, we will take some time to review a consent form tailored to this method that addresses such occurrences. This provides time for us to discuss various responses, such as limiting conversation as we pass others on the trail, or keeping some topics for in-office appointments. This is your time and it will be tailored to your wishes. 

Here are several articles that discuss the benefits of Walk and Talk therapy:
https://www.choosingtherapy.com/walk-and-talk-therapy/

https://www.apa.org/monitor/2013/09/natural-fit

"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” –John Muir

My interest in personal development began in childhood and has continued into my professional life. 

I desire to be an effective counsellor and work toward this through continual learning and ongoing professional training. 

I am an Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC) with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA) The CPCA is dedicated to the promotion of public confidence and trust in the counselling profession in Canada. As such, members meet rigorous standards for education and training and are held to the highest ethical standards of the profession before they can use the RPC (Registered Professional Counsellor) designation.