Hi, I’m Monique
I’m committed to deeply listening to you in a non-judgemental manner and truly being with you as we explore the ways you can create shifts in your life. Together, we can identify how your past experiences shape your present behaviour and understand the obstacles that are preventing you from living a fulfilling life. We’ll learn to identify your feelings, and help you act on them more effectively. I’ll support you to uncover your self-knowledge and strengths and, in the process, identify your own solutions.
I always build a relationship with my clients based on the utmost respect, compassion, sensitivity, and confidentiality. I do this by being a skilled listener, an optimistic supporter, and a trained professional.
It would be an honour to work with you.
I’m so happy you’re here
My background
I’ve been in private practice for over 15 years. I have a MA in Counselling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. I am certified as a CCC through the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association and as an RCC through the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors.
I also have a MFA in Photography and Integrated Media from the California Institute of the Arts. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a professor for many years teaching darkroom and digital photography, video, web design and cultural studies.
I have extensive training in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and Somatic Attachment Psychotherapy. You can read more about how I integrate these approaches into my practice here.
Throughout my life I have often struggled with feeling like an outsider: culturally, emotionally, and intellectually. I have deeply craved connection and a true sense of belonging. Despite this desire, I overcame the urge to be who the world expected I “should” be, and have stayed true to myself instead. This longing to belong, coupled with my fierce commitment to my own authentic self, have brought me to where I find myself today.
As a professor in the arts, I supported my students to hone their voice and represent their authentic selves in a visual form. I encouraged them to answer this wildly important and liberating question: who are you, really?
And while the transition from art professor to therapist may seem strange, I realize this inquiry remains at the core of the work I do now. I ask my clients that same question, and traverse the unknown with them to help uncover their answer.
My Story
And so I ask you:
Who are you, really?
As a therapist, I’m interested in what matters to you so that you can find meaning in your unique way. I am here to take a stand for your right to experience belonging and connection. I am committed to unraveling the expectations others have placed on you and get at the heart of what it is that you desire for yourself instead — even when it’s hard.
I’ve come to know myself well, and in doing so I have created a life that works for me. I start my morning with a long dog walk in the forest and my evenings curled up with knitting needles in my hands. I make intentional choices about how and when I work to best support my body, mind, and soul. I create in ways that delight me. And I do the work I am most called to in this world.
I hope you’ll join me.