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ABOUT

Koa Counselling is about counselling that works for you--whether that means processing life events by talking things out with someone who can listen, be present and not judge or give advice, or getting perspective by having thoughtful questions asked.  

 

As people, we are so much more than "conditions", "syndromes", or "labels".  Understanding ourselves sometimes means finding a label for what we are experiencing, and sometimes it means getting past the labels to live a fuller life. 

 

Counselling can take place  in-person in my downtown Kelowna office (Innovation Centre), by video / telephone,  or outside on a walk, and may include:  talking, doing exercises, or engaging in EMDR, Dreamwork or hypnosis for those who are interested.   I work with your goals and help you find ways to achieve them--whether that is through taking specific action, or by talking things out and getting perspective. 

For those with limited mobility, it is also possible for counselling to take place in a location most convenient for you.  

My story

I studied psychology at the U of A (Edmonton), then studied dental hygiene, and worked in the dental field for a number of years.  As a hygienist I gained an appreciation for the scientific approach and working with people.  I returned to studies at UNBC, attaining my Bachelor of Education degree, and a Masters degree in Counselling.   I  am a certified Buteyko Breathing Educator, did training in Emotionally Focussed Therapy for relationships, training in hypnotherapy, EMDR, and did research during my studies in Dreamwork (function of sleep and dreaming in health).  I have taken a number of workshops learning about neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD/LD), and enjoy working with people who experience challenges from their diversity.   I have given numerous  workshops on Trauma-Informed Practice, Wellness at the workplace, the Buteyko Breathing method, on Dreamwork, and other areas of interest in psychology.   I have experienced significant loss and many challenges in my life. I am curious, love learning and experiencing what life has to offer. I'm especially interested in the bigger existential questions--meaning, responsibility, isolation, death and purpose.

I worked as a school counsellor with kids, as well as working in my private practice with people of all ages. 

I have also travelled extensively throughout the world, and am keenly interested in other cultures and ways of being in the world.

Another huge part of my life has been getting outside--whether that is for a hike, bike, snowshoeing, rollerblading, canoeing, kayaking, skiing, or just sitting and enjoying nature.  I believe in the healing power of the natural world, and of movement. 

I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor with a Masters Degree in counselling. 

Extended benefits plans which cover my services (check your specific policy for limitations) :

  • Sunlife                                                                                

  • Pacific Blue Cross 

  • ICBC                                                  

  • Green Shield

  • Equitable Life of Canada

  • Claim Secure

  • ComPsych

  • Manulife

  • Canada Life

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