Therapeutic Approach

Appreciating the uniqueness and strengths of each individual, I am committed to working flexibly with you to help you meet your goals within a respectful and evidence-based therapeutic context.

The foundation of my therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), which is a type of psychological treatment that has been widely researched for the treatment of anxiety, depression, and a range of other conditions. CBT helps individuals identify thinking and behavioural patterns that may have hindered them in some way and develop new approaches to cope effectively with challenges. The therapist and client work together as a team to solve problems and make changes aimed at enhancing the client's functioning and sense of well-being.

My approach also incorporates elements of recent CBT variants (ACT: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT: Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy) that emphasize mindfulness, acceptance, self-compassion, and effective management of difficult emotions. These elements offer additional means for meeting clients’ needs and goals.

Having lived in different countries and cities across Canada, I greatly appreciate and embrace diversity. I am curious and love learning about varied life experiences and perspectives.

Professional Experience

I am a Registered Psychologist in British Columbia (#2009) with over 20 years of clinical experience. I am also certified in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy by the Canadian Association of Cognitive and Behavioural Therapies (CACBT).

I completed my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of New Brunswick. My doctoral research focused on deepening our understanding of Obsessive-Compulsive and Generalized Anxiety Disorders. I received specialized training in treating anxiety disorders and related conditions during my practicum at the Anxiety Treatment and Research Clinic (St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton), and during my residency at the Anxiety Disorders Unit (UBC Hospital). Throughout my residency, I also received training at Vancouver General Hospital in emergency inpatient psychiatry and the treatment of complex pain.

Prior to my full-time private practice, I worked at Vancouver General Hospital’s Cross-Cultural Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic, where I provided assessments and individual treatment. I also delivered lectures and clinical training to psychiatry and psychology residents, medical students, and other health professionals. I was also a staff psychologist at Changeways Clinic where I worked for 13 years. Additionally, I worked at the Vancouver CBT Centre, offering specialized CBT treatment for a variety of concerns.

In addition to my clinical practice, I worked as a Consultant and the Program Director for AnxietyBC (now AnxietyCanada). I was involved in developing website content to help the public better understand CBT and adults to self-manage anxiety. I was also involved in the production of an educational DVD for caregivers of children with OCD. During my time as the Program Director, I organized and presented educational lectures and workshops on evidence-based strategies for managing anxiety. I also led the development of websites for expectant/new mothers and youth, as well as MindShift, an anxiety management mobile app for youth and young adults.