If you had told me years ago that I’d end up building a counseling practice to help people navigate workplace challenges, I probably would’ve smiled politely and said, “That’s nice, but I’m going to be a teacher.” Well, life had other plans and honestly, I couldn’t be more grateful that it did.
My path into social work wasn’t a straight line. It was more like a winding trail. Early on I realized that what truly inspired me wasn’t standing at the front of a classroom – it was walking beside people as they faced life’s toughest moments. That realization led me to study Social Work at the University of Manitoba. Then I moved back home to be closer to family.
Influenced by my mother and sister, passionate mental health nurses, I found myself drawn to the same Centre where they worked. There I discovered something extraordinary: the power of connection and the deep fulfillment that comes from helping others find hope in the midst of struggle.
Learning from the Best
In my early career, I was blessed to be surrounded by a team of dedicated professionals who believed in me and mentored me. They taught me that compassion isn’t just a soft skill – it’s a strength. They showed me what it means to lead with integrity, to listen deeply, and to meet people where they are.
Over nearly 36 years in mental health, I’ve been very fortunate to work with so many bright, talented and passionate mental health and addictions colleagues. And I have had the opportunity to wear several different hats: social worker, advocate, manager, and sometimes maker of a batch of beetniks, a taco salad or a fresh carrot cake for the team. Each role taught me something new about growth, resilience, and the quiet power of simply being there for someone. I’ve seen people rise from some of life’s darkest moments with renewed strength and those experiences continue to inspire me every day.
A New Chapter
Earlier this year, I decided to (as the former cowgirl in me would say)…“hang up the stirrups!” Retirement sounded great: sleep in, catch up on reading, maybe finally organize that closet. But the truth? I missed the work. I missed the connection. I missed the moments when someone realizes, “Hey, I can do this. I am stronger than I thought.”
Don’t get me wrong…I’ve loved having more time for leisurely morning coffees, family dinners, backyard gatherings, and laughter that fills my home. Balance is a beautiful thing. But the part of me that finds purpose in helping others never really clocked out.
Launching My Practice
And that brings me here – to this exciting new chapter. I’ve launched my own private counselling practice, built around strength, empowerment, and your well-being. This venture allows me to keep doing what I love most: helping people find clarity and confidence, especially when it comes to the challenges of work life.
I know firsthand that workplace stress, conflict, change and burnout can take a real toll – not just on your job but on your sense of yourself and your life outside of work. That’s why I’ve created a safe space where you can talk openly, gain understanding, recognize your inner resources, explore solutions, and rediscover your balance. I offer flexible appointments (because business hours don’t work for everyone), minimal paperwork (because nobody finds healing through forms) and an atmosphere where you can feel truly heard and supported.
Why This Matters
Workplaces are evolving fast and so are the pressures people face within them. My practice is here to help you navigate those changes, rebuild strength, and cultivate growth – both personally and professionally. Whether you’re dealing with conflict, anxiety, burnout, or simply feeling “stuck,” my goal is to help you rediscover your own power and resilience. Together, we’ll focus on what’s working, what’s not, and how to create lasting change grounded in integrity and self-compassion.
Ready to Begin?
If you’re ready to find your footing again – to feel more empowered, balanced, and connected – I’d be honored to walk alongside you. Let’s build a path toward well-being that fits your life, your goals, and your vision of success. Reach out today to schedule an appointment. Together, we can turn challenge into growth, stress into strength, and uncertainty into empowerment—one conversation at a time.
