How I Work
Why Should You See Me for Counselling?
If you’re experiencing problems in your life and identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender, and are seeking a Vancouver 2SLGBTQAI+ therapist, you have come to the right place.
When you come to your first counselling session, I work hard to make sure that you feel not only safe and comfortable, but also confident that you’ve chosen the right course of action to deal with your problems. I’m very experienced in dealing with issues specifically related to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender population. Some of the issues I deal with regularly are:
- Confusion regarding sexual orientation or gender identity (coming out issues)
- Relationship issues specific to 2SLGBTQAI+ individuals
- Depression and anxiety related to sexual orientation or gender identity
- Intimacy issues specific to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals
I’m open to answering any questions you might have about me, my background, and experience, and I’m interested in hearing your concerns and discussing with you the best ways to address them.
From the start, we will begin to formulate an effective counselling plan designed to give you relief from whatever problems are causing you discomfort or holding you back from reaching your fullest potential. We will also make sure that future therapy appointments fit in with your particular needs and schedule.
I’m committed to helping my clients become aware of the unlimited possibilities in their lives, and my goal is to motivate individuals to take action. These actions lead to positive life-changing experiences.
I believe in the power of the mind – the ability to refocus thoughts to create a positive present and hopeful future.
The Therapy Approaches I Use
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Counselling Services
As a lesbian counsellor in Vancouver, I have a deep understanding of both the issues and the diversity of culture within the Vancouver 2SLGBTQAI+ community. My clients appreciate seeing a therapist who doesn’t need them to explain their unique issues before therapy or counselling can even begin. 2SLGBTQAI+ clients have often told me that because I’m a lesbian who‘s been out for more than 30 years, they know they can automatically trust that I will understand and not judge them for who they are. You don’t have to worry about educating me about your unique issues.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is known to be effective in helping people overcome difficulties they may be experiencing. These problems can include relationship and intimacy issues, as well as anxiety and depression. It is designed to give you a sense of control by helping you unleash the power of your mind. It’s based on the fact that often your thoughts create your reality. So if you’re in the habit of thinking negative or self-destructive thoughts, chances are your life or reality will reflect those thoughts. I use CBT to help you reframe negative and self-destructive thoughts and create a more positive and hopeful life.
Queer Family Systems Therapy
Do you ever wonder how your experiences within the dynamics of your family system or your family of origin have affected your life and your relationships today? Chances are, there are many connections between your past experiences and the challenges you face in your relationships now. Through Family Systems therapy, I’ll help you make those connections and help you stop the past from infecting your present experiences. Move on from the past and start living a positive life today.
Equine Assisted Counselling and Therapy
Equine Assisted Counselling (EAC) is a therapeutic approach that incorporates the natural sensitivity of horses with the guidance of a professional Therapist. It’s designed to help people learn and retain valuable life lessons and important life skills. Everyone can appreciate and benefit from the lessons the horses have to offer. They teach people leadership and communication skills. They help build confidence and self-esteem. They help individuals find hope when they’re locked in depression and can show them how to overcome anxiety by focusing on being in the moment, while immersing themselves in a natural environment. www.wisemare.ca