Heidi's Story
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with many years of experience supporting individuals through a wide range of life experiences, challenges, and transitions. I bring both professional training and lived experience to my work, and I understand that life rarely unfolds in a straight line.
Throughout my own life, I have experienced marriage, parenting, career change, deep grief, and the process of building something new after loss. These experiences have shaped the way I sit with clients—with respect for the complexity of their stories, the weight of what they carry, and the strength it can take to move forward.
Being married for 20 years to an entrepreneur gave me insight into the work it takes to sustain a loving relationship while balancing the demands of family and work. The sudden loss of my husband also deepened my understanding of grief and the many ways it can impact an individual, a family, and a sense of identity. Now, as a partner in a new relationship, I understand how beginning again after loss can be both challenging and beautiful.
As a parent of adult daughters, I also understand the evolving nature of parenting and family relationships. My background as a former teacher and vice principal gives me additional insight into the needs of children, youth, and families, including challenges related to anxiety, ADHD, relationships, and emotional wellbeing.
Life is full of transitions. I understand both the difficulty and the possibility they can bring.
Approach
My approach is primarily informed by Internal Family Systems (IFS), which is based on the understanding that we all have different “parts” of ourselves. Some parts may feel anxious, critical, avoidant, overwhelmed, angry, or protective, while other parts may carry pain, fear, shame, grief, or past hurt.
Rather than judging these parts or trying to get rid of them, IFS invites us to approach them with curiosity, compassion, and understanding. Often, the parts of us that feel reactive, stuck, or hard to manage are working hard to protect us, even if their strategies are no longer helping in the way they once did.
In counselling, I support clients in slowing things down, noticing what is happening inside, and listening to the parts of themselves that need attention. As we learn from these parts rather than criticize them, there is often more space for clarity, self-trust, emotional regulation, and choice.
I am a Level 2 trained IFS therapist and an IFIO trained couples therapist. My work with both individuals and couples is grounded in this parts-based approach, helping clients better understand themselves, their relationships, and the protective patterns that may be getting in the way of connection.
Education
I hold a Bachelor of Education from Simon Fraser University, a Master of Educational Leadership from Vancouver Island University, and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University.
I am a lifelong learner and continue to engage in professional development that supports and deepens my clinical work. I am a Level 2 trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and have completed Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO) training for working with couples. My ongoing learning is especially focused on parts-based, relational, and trauma-informed approaches to counselling.
Away from Work
Away from work, I have earned the nickname “Outsidie Heidi” because I find so much joy in being outdoors. Whether I’m hiking, walking, boating, skiing, or spending time at the beach, I feel most grounded when I’m outside — especially when I’m with my family, friends, and dog.
I also love spending time in the kitchen, cooking, gathering around good food, and enjoying the connection that often happens there. Travel is another important part of my life. I love the adventure of exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and, whenever possible, discovering local food along the way.
Let's Begin Your Journey Together
Reach Out, Let's Connect
You can easily book your first appointment through the online booking page, which is tailored for your convenience. For more information or specific inquiries, the contact page is your go-to guide. Alternatively, feel free to fill out the contact form available below for direct communication.
