Listening to people like you is one of the greatest privileges I have. Growing up, I was usually the one my friends came to to talk about their stuff. Today, I am privileged to work in two contexts that allow me to continue to listen:
1) As a counsellor and psychotherapist in private practice
(Currently operating virtually only)
2) As a geriatric care Social Worker in long-term-care
(3 days a week in Kelowna, BC)
Hi, I'm Lauren.
As your therapist,
I strive to create a warm, empathic space, utilizing multiple approaches to create a truly customized care plan for your therapeutic needs and goals. My approach can also be straight-forward, and I like to utilize humor where appropriate. I draw from various theories and therapeutic modalities while considering the context in which you are in. What this means is looking at the bigger picture and considering: societal influences, privilege(s), systemic barriers, and other factors that influence (directly and indirectly) your wellness.
It is important that you can be your true self in the space we co-create and that you feel seen and heard to ensure that the therapeutic work we engage in is safe and manageable.
A little bit more about me:
I grew up in Fort McMurray, AB and left in 2008 to attend the University of British Columbia 'UBCO' in Kelowna, BC where I am still happily living with my partner and our cat, Rupert. We are very privileged as settlers, to live work and play on the unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan peoples.
For fun you'll find me spending quality time with those I love, attending live events like concerts and the theatre (once social distancing restrictions are lifted and it's safe to do so!), snowboarding at Big White, and reading.
My credentials:
I am a Registered Social Worker #12770 in good standing and a psychotherapist who has been working in the beautiful, unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan peoples (Kelowna) the last 5 years. I graduated from the University of British Columbia Okanagan campus Masters of Social Work program in 2015 after completing an undergraduate degree focused on psychology and cultural studies in 2013. I belong to the British Columbia College of Social Workers as well as the British Columbia Association of Social Workers. I also hold membership as an Allied Health Member with Canadian Academy of Geriatric Psychiatrists. I work with older teens, adults of all ages, and welcome folkx of all backgrounds, identities, and orientations.
I look forward to working with you.
Honorary Team Members:
Misty
Many of you knew Misty. She peacefully passed away at the age of 15 in May, 2020.
Rupert
Rupert, is the new office cat and is an absolutely sweetheart. Although a little bit shy at first, he loves to snuggle and purr.
