Why Deep Roots?

 

I chose the name Deep Roots Psychology as it symbolizes the importance of addressing foundational aspects of experiences and emotions, being more fully present and embodied in the physical, forming and connecting more fully to who/what you are and your life purpose, and accessing and developing internal supports and resources, akin to a tree with deep roots fostering growth and resilience. The name implies a holistic approach, integrating trauma expertise, healing, spirituality, mindfulness, and positive psychology principles to promote well-being and resilience. It conveys a commitment to exploring the roots of trauma, fostering healing, and empowering clients to thrive in adversity.

 

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About Me and My Process

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The enjoyment in my work as a therapist comes from guiding clients on their journey to discover what brings them joy and to help them reconnect to their inner resources – their strengths, a sense of wholeness and peace, and their own internal wisdom and guidance.

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Grounded in 30 years of mindfulness meditation practice, body work, and alternative healing approaches, my client centered and trauma informed approach is supported by training in somatic approaches (Somatic Experiencing (SE), and EMDR), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), positive psychology, group therapy, therapeutic art, and solution-focused therapy.

 

As a certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), a body based trauma processing modality that is informed by the Polyvagal Theory. I have completed over 200 hours of training and now assist with the Edmonton trainings. I am also interested in and well informed about the neurobiology that underlies thought, emotions, behavior, and the stress response.

I also recognize and incorporate the spiritual dimension of human existence. This can involve exploring questions of meaning, purpose, and interconnectedness, and allowing clients to incorporate their spiritual beliefs or practices into their healing journey.

 

Thirty years ago I spent time living, working, practising, and studying in various Buddhist meditation centers and ashrams in three different countries. Over the course of several years I immersed myself in the unique and transformative experience of living in centers in India, Australia, and the US. Living in these communities offered me a unique opportunity to experience the Buddhist way of life firsthand. I participated in daily chores and contributed to the upkeep of the center, which fostered a sense of community and shared responsibility. However the crux of my experience centered on meditation. Under the guidance of season meditators, I devoted many hours to meditation, honing skills in calming the mind, self-regulation, emotional processing, and cultivating a deeper sense of equanimity and inner peace. Through this firsthand experience I gained insight into processing trauma and managing nervous system activation.

These hours of practice were challenging yet deeply rewarding, leading to profound experiences, rapid personal growth and insight, and a fuller understanding of the power of meditation. In addition to practical experience, I also engaged in academic study of Buddhist teachings. I delved into ancient scriptures, attended discourses, and participated in discussions, gaining a comprehensive understanding of Buddhist philosophy and its application to everyday life. It was a period of profound personal transformation that left an indelible mark on my life.

Having a diverse life experience helps me to connect and communicate more effectively with various clients and issues. I have traveled extensively, living abroad for three years in India, Australia, Germany, Japan, Sri Lanka, and the U.S.A.

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Upon my return from 3 years of international travels, I embarked on a journey to deepen my knowledge in alternative healing methodologies. This led me to attain certifications in craniosacral balancing, Reiki, and visceral manipulation, enriching my understanding of holistic wellness. Subsequently, I dedicated a year to volunteering at the Cross Cancer Institute, providing clients with an empathetic presence and compassionate touch therapy to support their healing journey.  

My varied career history began with an undergrad degree in electrical engineering from Queen’s University. After working in this field for a few years designing circuits for space satellites, I went back to school at Simon Fraser University to become certified as a teacher. After, I taught at the senior high school level and in NAIT’s Physics department for 20 years. While teaching at NAIT I was nominated for the Instructional Excellence Award three times, winning it in 2005. My experience in engineering and teaching physics allows me to relate to and work well with clients with related backgrounds who might think in similar ways and be more cognitive in their approach to life.

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My experience supporting students during challenging times and my desire to provide even more meaningful assistance were key factors that led me to pursue a career as a therapist. Additionally, my dedication to helping individuals in crisis, demonstrated by three years of volunteering on a distress line, as well as my experience with alternative therapies, fueled my passion for entering the field of therapy. I decided to pursue further education and training in counseling psychology.

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After earning a master's degree in counselling psychology from City University of Seattle in 2014, I dedicated 8 years to practicing as a therapist at Jewish Family Services. During this period I facilitated 8 week grief groups for The Edmonton Healing Center for Grief and Loss and gave presentations to various community organizations and conferences on grief and loss and other topics. For example, I was a keynote speaker at the Alberta Shorthand Reporters Association in 2019, presenting on "Test and Performance Anxiety.” In 2022, I spoke at the Second Wind Conference on “Saying Goodbye to a Special Someone,” providing guidance to seniors and retired teachers facing loss.

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My journey at Edgar Psychological began in August 2021 as a registered provisional psychologist, and I achieved full registration as a psychologist by August 2022. At Edgar, I facilitated 12-week trauma-focused Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) groups.

I am currently offering therapy in person, online, or on the phone. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples on a variety of issues including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, life purpose, stress and burnout, chronic pain, insomnia, life changes, self esteem, spiritual integration, and existential issues. Additionally, I specialize in handling Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVAs) and Section B insurance claims.