I’m Mel, a registered psychologist dedicated to working with young people!

My Favourite Things: dogs, Americano coffee, concerts & music festivals, beaches, playing records with my husband, travelling to remote places, interpreting song lyrics, farmer’s markets, metaphors, trees, and making brunch for my family.

One of my fears: Math!

It’s OK to be stuck…challenges are growth opportunities in disguise!

A little bit about me!

I predominantly work with teens and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, emotional regulation, peer & family relationships, and the impact of trauma.

My professional journey began as a teacher and later transitioned into school counselling. Having been immersed in schools for over 23 years has taught me a lot about the pressures that young people face as they navigate their relationships and performance, particularly during times of change, development & transition.

I’m a psychologist who is authentic, conscientious, and passionate about continuous learning. I approach my work with genuine care and a commitment to growth, always seeking to expand my understanding and best support those I work with.

I have advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), as well as training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Motivational Interviewing (MI).

Send me a message.

Therapy Dog in Training!

Meet Lola, otherwise known as…

The Smooth Criminal.

Although she is not ready for the world of therapy (yet!), she is still a “therapist’s” dog!

Obsessed with:

Costco dental sticks, chillin’ belly up,

and speed swimming.

“You are not a drop in the ocean.
You are the ocean in a drop.”

- Rumi

In therapy with me…

We’ll dig deep or keep it simple

You’re in charge & will be respected

you can be honest & unfiltered

MY BACKGROUND

I have dedicated 11 years to supporting adolescent mental health.

  • I draw from a variety of evidenced-based modalities and adapt them to fit a client’s specific goals and needs. These include:

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    • Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

    • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

    • ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy)

    • Registered Psychologist, in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists

    • Master of Counselling, Division of Applied Psychology with Specialization in Counselling Psychology, University of Calgary

    • Bachelor of Education, University of Toronto (Ontario Institute for Studies in Education), General Science & Family Studies

    • Honours Bachelor of Science, Human Ecology (Nutritional Science), University of Western

    • Cognitive Behavioural Approaches: DBT Intensive, DBT Skills for Adolescents & Families, ACT Essentials, ACT for Perfectionism

    • Brain Story Certification

    • Motivational Interviewing, Level 1

    • EMDR, Level 1 Basic

    • Advanced EMDR for Children & Teens (Ana Gomez)

    • IFS-Basic, & Clinical Applications of IFS Therapy: Integrative Approaches for Trauma, Attachment, Neurodiversity

    • Ego-State Interventions-Robin Shapiro

    • Change Triangle -Hilary Jacobs Hendel

    • Basic & Advanced Trainings in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

    • Partnering Therapist with the Lionheart Foundation

    • Member of the Psychologists Association of Alberta

Sometimes, life can get messy.
Reach out!