About Kristen
I was identified as a gifted individual in childhood and I am continually exploring the complexity and beauty of this label as I work to better understand myself. I have learned about my own need for connection and compassion and also about the deep links we all have between our bodies, our hearts, and our minds. This exploration requires courage and is both personal and professional. I hope to reflect this commitment to connection, compassion, and courage with all of my clients.
I began my career as a high school science teacher. After following a childhood dream of playing with dolphins, I studied marine biology and while volunteering at an aquarium, I witnessed the awe of discovery in learners and quickly knew I wanted to contribute to that as an educator. While teaching, I was delighted to find that students and I connected on a deep human level and that I was seen as a trusted and safe person to be with. This led me to complete a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology at the University of British Columbia with a focus on adolescence.
My personal story entered at this time and revealed the need for deep self-care so I began exploring my own therapeutic journey, one that continues today. After several years of working to support emotional wellbeing and career exploration in elite independent schools, I “walked the talk” and jumped into an adventure by moving to Europe and becoming a counsellor in international schools, first as a college advisor and then as a therapist. Many years were spent learning about myself and the world and also about diversity and interconnectedness of our globally minded youth. So many families bravely invited me to walk with them on journeys of pain, discovery, and growth.
Most recently, I am the partner to someone with Long Covid and as a caregiver, I deeply appreciate the complexity of both medical and psychological care required to explore a new version of a much-changed life.
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So, here I am with you, curious about your path and humbled to potentially join you on an exploration of self, of purpose, and of identity. I look forward to learning alongside you and both courageously and compassionately exploring your connection to yourself and to the world around you.