I have been in the counselling field for well over 35 years and my experience includes working as a School Social Worker in the diverse region of Peel where I supported families, students, and staff. Also, I have worked as a Social Worker in the healthcare system, specifically, in cardiac surgery, crisis intervention, outpatient mental health support, critical incident debriefing, employee assistance, oncology and long term care. My Master's Thesis proposal explored creative expression as a coping strategy to mitigate anxiety before cardiac surgery. 

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Since my move to Muskoka in 2020, I have volunteered at a local food bank in Baysville and Enliven Muskoka Cancer Care. I am a member of the Muskoka Author's Association and I participate in local (Write for Wellness) and international writing circles.

 

As a longstanding breast cancer survivor/thrivor, I weave my lived experience, my pain and my growth, into my connections with others. When times have been hard, I have accessed therapy for myself. I strongly believe that many therapists initially become helping professionals in order to heal themselves. 

 

Nature, environmental advocacy, social justice issues, poetry, creative expression, laughter, friends, family and spirit serve as my many muses!  In my spare time I enjoy writing poetry, cycling, singing, dancing, kayaking, and swimming.  I have a passion for working with families and adults of all ages including seniors and couples with the goal of moving towards a state of curiosity, wellbeing and healing. The blue heron has been one of several of my animal inspirations. She always reminds me to be in the moment and take in all that is right in front of me.

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It would be an honour to listen to your story.