Who Am I?

HI! My name is Imane, I am Moroccan-American woman, raised in Minnesota with a dream to one day make a difference in the world through mental health and psychology. I completed my masters in Psychological Sciences in Duluth, Minnesota. Following, I decided to move somewhere colder (because -30 was not enough), fast forward a year and here I am, a Provisional Psychologist in Edmonton, Alberta!

From a young age, my passion has always been helping people. I am dedicated to providing mental health services to all individuals regardless of race, religion, color or creed. I believe that all people deserve compassion. I work to incorporate cultural competency and unconditional positive regard in my work. During my time in the field thus far, I have had the privilege of working with individuals overcoming trauma, neglect, abuse, anxiety and depression. My goal is to help people find their sense of self, empowerment and build the skills to reach their potential in life.

I understand firsthand how difficult asking for help can be. I am committed to providing you with a safe space where you can express yourself without judgement and where you can pursue your journey of growth at your own pace.

Working With Me

You are the expert of your own life. It is my opinion that you know yourself and your needs better than anyone else. Following a briefing on ethics and the ethical guidelines surrounding the client – my main goal in our first couple of sessions is to get to know you. I will ask you about your goals and intentions regarding why you decided to come to therapy and about your present and past circumstances. Do not feel pressured to address everything all at once. Our goal is to explore your needs and goals at your own pace.

In our first few sessions we will also likely spend some time talking about your expectations for me. I find that it can feel a little overwhelming to work with a stranger and, especially for those who have not worked with a psychologist before, it’s hard to know where to start. It is my goal to make it as easy as possible for you and give you the opportunity to ask me questions and to communicate to me your expectations. Therapy is your time, it is you-focused and it’s guided by you.

I am there to provide you with guidance through your journey, to offer you insight into internal and external conflicts you may be facing, and to provide you with tools and skills that you can implement in your life. Regardless of where you are right now, I am here to support you in whatever you need. If you are interested in working with me, please feel free to reach out for a consultation or book an appointment.

I look forward to embarking on this therapeutic journey with you!

Who Am I? HI! My name is Imane, I am Moroccan-American woman, raised in Minnesota with a dream t... Read More

Who Am I? What a question to start with! Identity is so incredibly complex it’s hard to know where to begin. Let’s start with a name. My name’s Tatyana, but please call me Tat. I was born and raised here in Canada, with family from coast to coast. (What can I say, we all love to roam!) I completed my BA in Psychology at MacEwan University and have been hard at work completing my Masters in Counselling, since graduating from there.

My journey towards becoming a counsellor started with an introductory psychology course while taking my undergraduate degree. Growing up, I always wanted to find a path that would allow me to help others and that course made me choose this path. As a physically disabled member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am well aware of some of the gaps in care that exist within our healthcare system and hope to be able to provide support to others that I had always wished to see. My aim is to create a safe environment that supports you and allows you to flourish as yourself, whoever that might be! Everyday life can be exhausting sometimes, and I hope we can find space to celebrate the smallest of joys alongside the biggest successes.

In my spare time I enjoy practicing various art forms, including drawing, dancing, and sewing. I’ve never much enjoyed the outdoors but have always loved astronomy. I also enjoy learning about new languages and cultures and hope to one day be able to travel to meet people from all the places I’ve only been able to read about in textbooks. I’m currently working on learning more ASL and furthering my ability to read in Japanese.

Working With Me As a counselling psychology intern, I will be working under supervision to support you on your journey. With that in mind, it’s important to me that you know that you, the client, are the one steering the ship on this voyage! Where we go depends on you. I’ll be right there by your side helping you navigate the highs and lows of life. In doing so, I hope to get to know you as a person and use the strengths you might not even know you have to make your journey through life a little easier.

Who Am I? What a question to start with! Identity is so incredibly complex it’s hard to know wher... Read More

Hi there! Thank you so much for taking the time to check out my bio. I am so grateful to have the opportunity to grow and learn from the team at Dóchas. I was born and raised in a rural community on an acreage and spent most of my childhood exploring the outdoors. I continue to love the outdoors, camping, hiking, and a good bonfire. I have been fortunate enough to have always known that this was going to be my career path, as I have always had an innate desire to help others. I completed my undergraduate education majoring in psychology and then pursued a 10-year career with a not-for-profit agency in Edmonton. After that, I took some time to start and build our little family with my husband. I am now happily married with two young boys ages 7&8 and enjoy raising them in a similar setting as my childhood, on an acreage in the Parkland County area. Raising children is not an easy feat, let alone having two in less than two years! I experienced post-partum anxiety and depression after my second born and that experience validated my passion for mental health and helping others. I have a particular interest in helping other mothers who are struggling with raising children and maintaining their sense of purpose and individuality at the same time. Working with me. Upon meeting you in our clinic, I look forward to building a strong therapeutic relationship and using that as the main vehicle for encouraging change and growth in your life. My goal is to foster an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and hope. I will approach our session with compassion, optimism, humor, honesty, and a genuine curiosity to understand your story. I believe in a person-centered approach as you are the expert in your life and your story. You are the driver in this journey of growth and healing, I am just here to help with the directions! Thanks so much for taking the time to check out my profile. I look forward to meeting you and learning from you as I grow in my professional therapeutic career.

I am here to learn and grow professionally. I believe that we can never learn enough from each other, and I look forward to building positive therapeutic relationships with my clients as we grow together.

Hi there! Thank you so much for taking the time to check out my bio. I am so grateful to have th... Read More

Life is a journey. An oh so difficult one. But something profound can happen. As Scott Peck wrote in the Road Less Traveled, once we realize and accept this truth, life is no longer difficult.

Of course, this is by no means an easy task and can often feel like a lonely one. That’s where I can help. Hi, I’m Pooja, an East Indian Scottish woman who is trying to make a difference in the world. After completing a Masters of Science in Psychological Counselling in my hometown, I made it all the way here and become a Registered Provisional Psychologist.

Within that time, I have had the privilege in working with people who wanted to know more about their Self, improve their relationships and build their potential. This includes people with autism spectrum disorder and their caregivers and people who have experienced trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression.

Having been on both sides of the therapy room, I can understand some of the fears about embarking on a journey with pretty much a stranger. But with our experiences, I will provide a safe space for you and connect with you as we journey along the path of growth.

Life is a journey. An oh so difficult one. But something profound can happen. As Scott Peck wro... Read More

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Who Am I?

Qigong is a mind-body-spirit practice originating in China that uses your vital life energy to create and maintain a healthy mind and body. It uses simple poses and slow, purposeful movements along with breath and body awareness to create a healthy flow. Proper flow of our life force energy, or Qi, allows the bodies to use its own healing processes, and prevents the energy from becoming “stuck”, which is what can interfere with health and healing. Some reported benefits of this practice include:

Reduces stress. Balances emotions. Improves overall well-being. Improves memory. Increased Energy and Vitality. Builds the immune system. Improves sleep. Greater flexibility. A sense of contentment and peace.

Working With Me

Bob has been practising Qigong since 2014 and received his Level 1 & 2 in Qigong in 2016. He attended the Five Elements Healing Retreat in 2018 and practises Qigong on a daily basis. He incorporates various Qigong movements and breathing patterns so the students can experience their own Qi or energy first hand. We are so excited to have him join the Dóchas team as he brings a light-hearted, compassionate, and calming essence to support the work we are doing!

Who Am I? Qigong is a mind-body-spirit practice originating in China that uses your vital life e... Read More

Who Am I?

“Life is pain, highness. Anyone who tells you differently is selling something.” – William Goldman (from The Princess Bride). All sarcasm aside, life can be painful. Not being okay can be scary, especially if no one in your support system feels comfortable talking about emotions or mental health. If you’re looking for someone to talk to, you’ve probably gotten to the place where seeking help is less scary than staying where you are right now. I’ve been there. Asking for help goes against what Western society tells us: that we should be able to figure it all out on our own while also being productive. No wonder we don’t like feelings.

I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety at 13 after self-harming and suicide attempts. Even before the diagnosis, I knew I was different and wished I was less ‘sensitive.’ Emotions and tears are natural, but if no one teaches us how to accept and communicate them, we will feel lost. Self-acceptance and love are game changers but takes time and effort.

Working With Me

As a Counseling Psychology student, I balance listening deeply with challenging clients to acknowledge blind spots. I trust you to trust yourself – even the parts you don’t like or want to get rid of. Acceptance is a key buzzword for me. I will meet you where you are now, and we can explore where you want to go. You are not alone in this journey. Chat soon!

Who Am I? “Life is pain, highness. Anyone who tells you differently is selling something.” – Wil... Read More

Hello! David here. I’m a practicum student at Dochas in the September 2024 cohort and it is a privilege to be part of a welcoming and supportive environment like this one.

About me…

I took a winding path that led me to pursue my third career in psychology. Before enrolling in Yorkville’s masters program, I pursued an array of business and agricultural interests.

When I was completing my undergraduate studies at the University of Alberta, I took two psychology courses before enrolling in the Faculty of Business. Those courses really “clicked” for me. Fast forward 15 years and the interest that piqued during those courses has never faded. It took me two years of psyching myself up (pun intended) before I finally submitted my application for a graduate program, but I did the scary thing. I am so glad I did, because it led me to be here with Dochas today. It’s a good reminder that bravery often pays off.

I live in the country, surrounded by animals—many horses, two dogs and a cat—and I love anything outdoors. I am hiking, skiing, riding horses and camping every chance I get.

Working with me…

I love to work with others and combine ideas. I believe something collaborative will always be greater than the sum of its individual parts.

Horse training over the past 25 years has taught me a lot about the value of having a diverse toolbox. In psychology, this translates to having a strong theoretical orientation while approaching challenges in unique ways that best suit each individual. Together, these two key ideas form the foundation of my therapeutic approach.

I aim to provide support that is tailor-made for clients and driven by their needs. We’ll progress at your pace, in the warmest, most accepting and non-judgmental way I can offer. Therapy can be a difficult journey, but as we work together, it’s my deepest hope that you find comfort and value in the time we invest together.

Hello! David here. I’m a practicum student at Dochas in the September 2024 cohort and it is a pri... Read More

Who Am I? In November 2016, I was offered a counselling position at a non-profit, marking a pivotal moment in my life. Soon after, my dad passed away, but his memory fueled my determination to keep pursuing my dreams. Inspired by my family’s sacrifices escaping the civil war in Sudan and my deep desire to help others, I poured my heart into my role and a master’s program in counselling psychology. This path has confirmed my purpose to serve others. I’ve had the opportunity to study abroad in Cuba, volunteer in Morocco, and become a proud member of Pi Beta Phi. My journey started as a girls’ counsellor at a summer camp and has led me to where I am today. In my spare time, you’ll find me listening to podcasts, doing karaoke, enjoying sunsets, getting hooked on documentaries, travelling, crafting, doing photoshoots, or having heartfelt conversations with loved ones. I also love learning, whether it’s a new recipe, a mental health topic, or an organizational life hack. Working With Me My counselling style has an ‘in it together’ collaborative approach, designed to have you feel heard, supported, empowered, respected, and connected. My core anchoring theory is humanistic, and as a mental health therapist, I am thrilled to walk alongside you as you navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in issues like grief and loss, trauma, relationships, and life transitions. I focus on working with individuals and couples, providing a safe and professional space where you are genuinely cared for.

Who Am I? In November 2016, I was offered a counselling position at a non-profit, marking a pivot... Read More

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Who Am I? Hi, I’m Skye!

Here is a little about me on a personal level-

I am Mama to two sweet but spicy girls; one doodle girl and one toddler girl. Being a Mama is the best job in the world to me, but also the most challenging role I’ve had. I have learned so much about myself since my daughter was born and love teaching her everything I know.

What else?

I love the mountains, travel, hot yoga, and hiking.

I am fun loving, easy going, and love connecting with people.

There is something about sunshine, heat, fresh flowers, and coffee that make me happy.

I love to read the first chapter of a book, get busy, and re-read it months later. Repeat.

Working With Me I have always been deep feeling and curious about behaviour. In short, I believe that our world needs less judgment and more love! Somewhere along the way, I developed a passion for assisting individuals to heal, find peace, and have the courage and confidence to navigate challenges. Everyone needs a little support every now and again.

My goal is for clients to feel seen and heard, but also empowered. I am not here to solve your problems or answer your questions persay, but rather to give you the space to explore your needs, values, and goals to do that for yourself.

As a student, I am thrilled to explore my professional identity and ultimately learn and grow alongside you.

Who Am I? Hi, I’m Skye! Here is a little about me on a personal level- I am Mama to two sweet b... Read More

Hello, my name is Sagal, and I am a practicum student with Dochas Psychological, working under the supervision of Kim Long. Born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, I completed my Bachelor of Arts at MacEwan University and am currently pursuing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. As a first-generation immigrant, my parents’ journey to Canada in the late ’80s has deeply influenced my perspective and passion for helping others.

My background in mental health is extensive and diverse. I’ve had the privilege of working with the Canadian Red Cross, providing psychosocial support to those affected by natural disasters, and managing crises for an addictions and mental health helpline. These experiences have fueled my desire to further my education and make a more profound impact, leading me to enroll in the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology program.

When I’m not studying or working, I love spending quality time with family and friends, travelling to new places, working out, binge-watching my favourite shows, and exploring different restaurants.

Working with Me:

As a counselling student, I will be working under the supervision of Kim. I like to think of therapy as cultivating a garden. In our sessions, we’ll carefully tend to the areas of your life that need attention, nurture your strengths, and create a supportive environment where you can grow and flourish. My approach is person-centred, meaning that I focus on you and your unique needs, ensuring that our sessions are tailored to support your journey.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Hello, my name is Sagal, and I am a practicum student with Dochas Psychological, working under th... Read More

Who Am I?

Hi there! I was born in Poland, then resided in Germany and immigrated to Canada at the ripe age of four- been here ever since! Amidst my own adversities, it was the outlets that I pursued that allowed me to learn to face and overcome challenges and to grow, day by day. I knew early on that I wanted to work in the helping profession and I have always felt a deep sense of purpose to seek and help. Rest assured, people pleasing tendencies have been worked through- now it is all about prioritizing and balance! Graduated with a Bachelor in Secondary Education and I eased my way into helping by guiding a group of junior high students, in a classroom. Easy peasy, right? Then I pursued the high school dynamics and had an even better time! I knew at the onset that education was a stepping stone for a career in the counselling field and after a few years in the classroom it was time to retire the teacher hat and pursue graduate school. Did just that, graduated with a Masters in Counselling Psychology.

In the midst of learning theory, studying for exams and writing papers, I do enjoy the finer things in life- when I am not engaged in the aforementioned tasks, I thrive being outdoors- walks around the neighbourhood, hiking in the mountains, kayaking, playing tennis, essentially anything that I can do to move my body in any capacity, every day. I read, yes, for pleasure, engage with friends and family and occasionally get hooked on a netflix special. It’s all about finding balance! Every day is a new day and I work hard to embrace the good and persevere through the bad- things are not always going to be peachy, although I make an active choice and put in the effort to make it peachy. Love me some peaches!!

Now taking all that I have gained through personal triumphs, experience in the classroom and with my desire to continuously seek new information, training and insights, mixed with humour and gratitude, I aspire to fulfill my desire to help in a different seat- literally, cause as a therapist, we sit, a lot… So shall we chat?!

Working With Me

Expect to be greeted in a warm and desirable manner- I yearn to get to know you and will ask questions, not to be intrusive, rather in a way to give you the space to share your story.

Whatever you share, I will meet you with an open and empathetic listening ear. I often say that I do not give advice, instead I like to guide. You are the expert in your life, the driver in the seat and I am here to provide you with tid bits of insight that help you make choices best suited for you. If you have come to see me, you have some sort of hurdle, a problem, a discrepancy in your life, that is out of your control.

While I cannot change those problems or take them away, I can help you change the relationship to those problems. With a strong emphasis on putting yourself first and acknowledgement that you’ve made it thus far in your life journey I will tell you that you’re doing great at this point! You may be stuck, in a feeling, a behaviour, with a complex and tough decision- together, and if you are ready to trust and put in the work, we can work to build up your toolkit of skills to help you face and overcome those adversities. Whatever you bring forth, we can work at.

We cannot rush the process, as much as we cannot bake a cake faster or grow money on trees. Part of my role in the counselling seat is allowing you the space to just be- life comes at you in all sorts of ways- I get it. Together we can work through “the stuff” and enrich that mind, body and soul connection. I will support you and try to offer the guidance that you seek, with your permission of course.

And, if I am not the right fit as a therapist for you, there are no hard feelings- you need to find your person and I hope that you continue to do what is best suited for you. In the meantime, let’s just breathe…

Who Am I? Hi there! I was born in Poland, then resided in Germany and immigrated to Canada at th... Read More

Who Am I?

Hello! My name is Melanie. Daughter, wife, mother, aunt, and grandmother are some of the roles I fill in my personal life. It is after a lifetime of living that I find myself realizing my dream of helping others as part of the team at Dochas Psychological Services.

In 1994 when I was 18 years old, I took my first psychology course and was completely fascinated by what I learned and was interested in going further in this field. However, as I like to say, you make plans and then life happens. As a newly married woman I had my first child in 1996 and life took me on another path. After raising my 3 sons and retiring from the accounting field, I have been blessed with the opportunity to focus on helping others.

In the last 5 years I have been working along side of others who are overcoming addictions, depression, anxiety, anger, childhood trauma, and other mental health issues. I have also had the privilege to work along side a psychologist as a psychometrist completing forensic psychological assessments. Through my experience I have learned that life can throw you some curveballs and having someone walk alongside you through these twists and turns will make the journey much more meaningful.

Working With Me

Client safety and progress is my top priority.

I approach sessions with a Cognitive Behavioural lens which is an evidence-based approach to helping others resolve problems and reach goals. I believe that a person-centered approach is important as it keeps you in the driver seat of our sessions ensuring we don’t venture into areas before you are willing or ready to do so. I know that beginning therapy can be a daunting task but I have confidence that you can take this courageous step towards wellness and healing!

Who Am I? Hello! My name is Melanie. Daughter, wife, mother, aunt, and grandmother are some of t... Read More

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Who Am I?

Hey! My name is Rachael, but feel free to call me Rach.

Growing up in Alberta, I moved from a small hamlet to a small town, and finally to Edmonton. The diversity in the areas I have lived in has allowed me to cultivate a variety of interests from outdoors activities, like camping and hiking, to embracing the arts by supporting and visiting art galleries, theatre, and music.

As a kid, I always wanted a career helping people and originally was pursuing a career as a medical doctor. However, as I got older, I noticed the increased need for mental health workers and felt that pursuing a career in counselling and psychology was a better fit for me. I was drawn to counselling as there is greater time dedicated to learning and developing understanding and a relationship with a client and their situation prior to working on developing solutions. I have found that helping people through developing that healing connection, which is often missing with doctors, was more important to me than all the cool science stuff medical doctors learn. However, I am still very much a nerd about the science of the human body and mind, and am always willing to learn more or talk about the biological and chemical processes that make us tick.

Working With Me

During our first session we will begin by discussing the important ethical information of engaging in therapy, what a registered provisional psychologist is, and the role of my supervisor. Then we will begin learning more about you and what brought you to therapy.

When I think about mental health, I like to compare it to the weather. Sometimes everything is good, at times we can tell a storm is brewing (problems starting), now and then we find ourselves in the middle of a massive storm, and other times we are cleaning up after a storm. No matter what the weather is like in your world, I am here to help you maintain the calm, navigate through the storm, or clean up after. My role is to help you develop and recognize the skills needed to ensure you can handle whatever weather (mental health issues) come your way.

Even though I am here to help you prepare or find your way through difficult times, you are still the expert in all things you. So, as we work together, it is important to openly communicate about what you are experiencing so we can make sure we tailor our work to your needs. And, if you feel like I am not the right fit for you, that is okay too! We can work together to find someone who is (Therapist are sort of like shoes, not every shoe is the right fit but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other options)

Who Am I? Hey! My name is Rachael, but feel free to call me Rach. Growing up in Alberta, I move... Read More

Who Am I?

“The spirit of a [person] is constructed out of [their] choices” – Irvin Yalom

Hi! My name is Vlady and I am thrilled to be part of the Dóchas Psychological Services Team. My roadmap has involved eclectic experiences from public health, theatre, administration, science, and medical simulation that has led me to the profession of counselling psychology. Being of service to others, love for learning, and active listening have been recurring motifs throughout my life that I see as aligning with this field.

Outside working hours, you can find me reading a book, biking in the river valley, exploring new coffee shops and restaurants with family and friends, at the gym, catching a play and/or philosophizing in conversations with family and friends.

Working With Me

Change. A word that can bring up a variety of feelings, thoughts, and behaviors for a person. From navigating work and/or personal transitions to wanting to make better sense of a life event, I value connecting and meeting you wherever you are in your life journey. I believe we all possess strengths, resources, and a learning capacity to help us navigate life obstacles.

Sometimes what it takes is dialogue with an outside observer to help in personal understanding and growth. Unconditional positive regard, empathy, curiosity, and active collaboration are important ingredients that you can expect to see in our sessions together. Ultimately, you are the expert of your own life and my hope is that you can leave each session feeling empowered in recognizing the choices available for you.

Who Am I? “The spirit of a [person] is constructed out of [their] choices” – Irvin Yalom Hi! My... Read More

Hello, my name is Renee Prins and I am so excited to be joining the team at Dochas Psychological! I am a mother, wife, sister, friend, aunt, and daughter – in all these roles, I treasure my relationships. I love running, volleyball, hiking, swimming, skiing… all the sports. I also love traveling, reading a good book, and listening to podcasts while I tinker in my yard. What drew me into this profession was the opportunity to create a space where people could feel supported and cared for. There is something profound that happens when two people meet in a therapeutic space and create a relationship together, like fellow travelers on a journey. The simple act of helping another person understand they are not alone, and that their feelings are normal, can be transformative. What I offer is a depth of personal experience, now turned into passion, for issues related to reproductive mental health, grief, hospice, marriage, and parenting. I am committed to supporting clients with these life experiences, facilitating their journey of loss, grief, healing, and growth. Working with clients from a trauma-informed perspective means that healing work begins through facilitating empathetic witnessing of parts of themselves that still hold the pain. Another population I would love the opportunity to work with are teens! I have a knack for connecting with them and am passionate about supporting and mentoring them as they explore uncertain and, at times, daunting futures. I consider it an honour to share space with clients in their vulnerable moments. Also, I believe that not everyone who comes to therapy must be in crisis! Part of looking after our overall wellbeing is attending to our mental health. This can mean optimizing our strategies for self-care, goal setting, and working on becoming more self-aware and self-actualized. By caring for ourselves, we can show up as the best version of who we are for our families, friends, careers… you name it! I am dedicated to empowering my clients to reach their potential. If any of this resonates with you, please don’t hesitate to connect with me. I would be honored to journey alongside you.

Hello, my name is Renee Prins and I am so excited to be joining the team at Dochas Psychological!... Read More

Who Am I?

Hi there, I am so privileged to be a part of the Dochas Psychological Team. Sometimes life gets complicated, and we need someone to walk alongside us on our path to growth and healing. My name is Alessandra, and for me it is an honor to help guide you on your road to success.

Some things about me… I enjoy being outside, walking around the city and staying active. I also enjoy listening to music or warming up to a good movie with a nice cup of coffee. I have inherited the travel bug from my parents and enjoy experiencing the cultural diversities within each destination. One of my favorite destinations was Capri, Italy. The lemon trees amongst the beaches were beautiful. It makes me think of the saying “when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.” I believe having a sense of humor is essential in life and I am always ready to laugh together at a good or bad joke.

My experience through various life adversities has allowed me to appreciate the importance of meaningful relationships. Providing a non-judgmental space to allow others to be vulnerable with their emotions and experiences is important to me. I aim to embrace the experiences that led you to take the courageous step and start your therapeutic journey.

Working With Me

As a Counseling Psychology student, I aim to support you on your journey helping you reach your full potential. I will work under the supervision of Kim Long getting the mentorship I need to grow as a professional psychologist. I welcome feedback and will use it to develop as a counselor each day.

I value genuine connection and intend to bring an authentic, positive outlook to our work together. Following an open and honest posture in conversation I hope to discover your inner strengths to move forward through difficult emotions and life stressors. Through acceptance we will highlight the innate tools we carry and act in ways that is true to us.

Together uncovering your resiliency, we will define what is valuable to you. I look forward to meeting you and embarking on this journey together.

Who Am I? Hi there, I am so privileged to be a part of the Dochas Psychological Team. Sometimes ... Read More

Who Am I? At 14, lying amidst self-help books, I discovered life’s guide beyond the children’s section. These books, once solace, proved inadequate when life hands you unique challenges you can’t easily read away. As a US Army brat, spanning 4 states, 4 countries, and 10 schools, each move prompted a restart, unravelling vital lessons about identity and the importance of connection. Consistent moves taught me that connection is paramount, shaping my life and work. A single empathetic ear can empower us to make profound life changes.

Despite my lifelong dream to become a psychologist, I was persuaded to pursue a Bachelor’s in Nursing. Leaving the hospital on the last day of my Bachelor in Nursing, I had the heartbreaking realization that this career was not for me. Through seeing a therapist, I gained the strength to make decisions that would make me happy. I then moved to New Zealand, a temporary stay extended by the pandemic, blossomed my ability to chase my dreams.

In my Master’s program, I was appointed Academic Student Representative for the Department of Behavioral Sciences. In this role, I worked closely with the Associate Deans to help shape courses to foster robust connections among students. Beyond the academic realm, my commitment to connection takes root in addressing the psychological impact of climate challenges. I’ve collaborated with my Faculty Lead professor in researching and presenting on Climate Anxiety, echoing the emotions of our smoky summers and forced evacuations.

As a former high-performing athlete, I intimately understand the unique anxieties that accompany high-level sports. Seeking therapy during my swimming career wasn’t just a game-changer; it transformed me from a swimmer to a record-breaker.

My personal experiences fuel my dedication to helping others navigate their challenges and utilizing the power of connection to bring about positive change. Join me on this journey of exploration and growth, where the core principle remains the same: the transformative potential of genuine human connection.

Working With Me As a Counseling Psychology student under Kim Long’s supervision, I warmly welcome you to embark on a transformative journey of self-exploration. Our collaborative work embraces genuine connections, and my commitment is to provide a professional yet warm space that values authentic connections and fosters empowerment.

You can expect a respectful atmosphere during our sessions where your unique story takes center stage. I am wholeheartedly interested in fostering a deep and authentic connection with you, appreciating the vulnerability that comes with self-exploration. I believe therapy is a shared journey, and we will navigate the complexities of your experiences together.

In our work, I bring a blend of professionalism and approachability, combining academic rigour with a sincere desire for a meaningful connection. As we explore your narrative, I emphasize reauthoring stories to empower you in embracing authenticity. I believe in the transformative power of compassion and aim to guide rather than dictate, celebrating your expertise in your own life.

Our collaborative efforts will focus on building a toolkit of skills to navigate challenges and foster personal growth. This journey is an invitation to explore and appreciate the beauty of your authentic self in a space that welcomes vulnerability and celebrates your resilience.

I am excited about the opportunity to work with you and contribute to your journey of self-exploration and empowerment. Together, let’s embark on a path of discovery, resilience, and transformation, cultivating a deep and genuine connection that forms the cornerstone of our therapeutic work.

If you are ready to explore and embrace authenticity in a collaborative and empowering therapeutic experience, I look forward to the privilege of working with you on this profound journey of self-discovery and growth.

Who Am I? At 14, lying amidst self-help books, I discovered life’s guide beyond the children’s se... Read More