Hi, I’m Claire and I’m a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.
My passion is in helping people who struggle relationally. When our relationships are strained it puts immense stress on our lives and can lead to anxiety, depression and self-isolation.
As a relational counsellor, I work with both individuals and couples. Relational work begins within the self. We are all in relationship first to ourselves and secondly to others. If our relationship to ourselves is disconnected, this in turn affects our relationship to others.
My Journey to Counselling
My interest in personal development began at the age of ten when I read a book from my father’s bookshelf called “The Magic of Thinking Big.” I had no idea I could be somebody different from who I was. That book taught me that change was possible.
After a childhood of trying to be what others wanted me to be, simply to fit in, I eventually sought out my dream of a career in writing, where I would be able to explore my identity and express myself. Once I realized that my writings were helping others find their path and heal through the practice of journaling, I took a course in journal therapy. At that point I knew counselling was also a part of my journey.
Approach
For over 9 years I have been helping others heal, grow and make important life decisions. These are the main therapy approaches I use in my work:
- Attachment theory
- Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT)
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Journal therapy
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)
Education & Trainings
I hold a diploma in Professional Counselling from Vancouver College of Counsellor Training (VCCT) and a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology through the City University of Seattle. I am also trained in the following modalities:
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy).
- Gabor Mate’s Compassionate Inquiry.
- Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples.
- Internal Family Systems
I look forward to walking alongside you on your healing journey through change and growth.