In my role as your therapist, I acknowledge the power and privilege I hold in my position. It is important for me to be rooted in our shared humanity and how we connect in ways that feels authentic, compassionate, and dignifying.
I don't operate from a place of "knowing" rather, I come from a place of understanding. Understanding that your journey is your own and I can only act as a conduit in your process of meeting versions of yourself that you have yet to experience.
I am values-driven, compassion-focused therapist and what that means is that the core of my practice is centered in dignity, humanity, ethics, and compassion.
Hi, I'm Janine.
Narrative Approach
The stories you carry matter. They shape how you see yourself, your relationships, and your place in the world. Through narrative therapy, we gently explore these stories together—creating space for new perspectives, deeper understanding, and different possibilities for your life.
Emotion-Focused
Your emotions are powerful guides. In Emotion-Focused Therapy, we slow down and gently explore your emotional experiences with curiosity and compassion. By understanding what your feelings are telling you, we can process difficult emotions, heal unresolved wounds, and create new emotional experiences that support growth and self-understanding.
Somatic Approach
Your body holds important parts of your story. A somatic approach to therapy recognizes that our bodies often carry the impact of stress, trauma, and overwhelming experiences. By gently tuning into body sensations, we can better understand how your nervous system responds and learn ways to release tension, restore balance, and feel more grounded.
Trauma-Informed
You hold the power to lead. A trauma-informed approach recognizes how past experiences can shape the way we feel, think, and respond to the world. In therapy, we focus on creating a safe, collaborative space where your nervous system can begin to settle, your experiences can be processed with care, and you can reconnect with a sense of safety and control.
LGBTQIA+ Affirming
You deserve to be in a space where your identity is honoured. LGBTQIA+ affirming means that we move beyond heteronormative and mononormative frameworks (i.e., patriarchy and binary) to explore your identity, relationships, and lived experiences. Together, we challenge assumptions, unpack internalized narratives, and support you in living more fully and authentically.
Justice-Oriented
Your experiences don't exist in a vacuum. A justice-oriented and anti-oppressive approach to therapy recognizes that systems like racism, colonialism, sexism, homophobia, and other forms of oppression can shape our mental health and life experiences. In therapy, we create space to acknowledge these realities while centering your strengths, lived experience, and cultural context.
Education
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Masters in Counselling, City University in Canada
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Bachelor of Arts Degree major in Psychology, University of British Columbia
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Associate of Arts Degree in Psychology, Langara College
Trainings & Certification
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Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #22289), BCACC
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Adult ADHD Specialist Certificate
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Justice Fundamentals Anti-Oppressive Therapy Training Level 1 and 2
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Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
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"Trauma" & Resistance: Innovative Responses to Suffering Oppression and Harm by Vikki Reynolds
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Inclusive Trauma-Informed Practice Certificate
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Refugee Mental Health and Front-Line Workers Training