About Me

I founded Block House Counselling & Psychotherapy because of my deep passion for mental health, a journey that began with undergraduate psychology courses at the University of New Brunswick (UNB). This passion followed me to the University of Toronto (U of T), where I pursued graduate studies in psychoanalysis and social psychology during my Master’s and PhD programs. Initially, I aspired to become a full-time university professor, dedicating my days to teaching, research, and writing.

However, during my PhD program, I realized that my true calling lay elsewhere. Taking a leap of faith, I left the PhD program to pursue a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology, aiming to become a counselling therapist. Although the role of a full-time professor wasn’t for me, my love for teaching remained strong. Over the past 15 years, I have had the privilege of teaching at U of T, UNB, and St. Thomas University (STU). Currently, I continue to teach part-time at UNB as a Graduate Teaching Associate in the Counselling Psychology Program.

My personal experiences have shown me the profound impact therapy can have. I have faced my own battles with anxiety, panic attacks, and depression. Being human means we all struggle at times with our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. My goal is to help you navigate these challenges and achieve success. Through individual therapy, we will work together to alleviate your struggles, enabling you to lead a more fulfilling and enriched life.

Beyond my expertise in mental health, I also have extensive experience in issues related to sex, sexuality, gender, and sexual identity. You can find more details about my background and training below.

Qualifications

I am a Licensed Counselling Therapist (License #LCT17-243) with the College of Counselling Therapists of New Brunswick (CCTNB) and a Certified Canadian Counsellor (Certification #1002989) with the Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). I have also completed a certificate in Interpersonal Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy from the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology.

Alongside my Master’s in Counselling Psychology, I have earned a Master’s degree and completed all coursework toward a PhD in Sociology & Equity Studies from the University of Toronto, in collaboration with the Mark S. Bonham Centre for Sexual Diversity Studies. This academic background equips me to address issues related to sexuality, sexual identity, gender, gender identity, sexual health, sexual dysfunction, and sexual relationships. My training in equity studies enables me to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds, utilizing a culturally sensitive approach in my practice. Additionally, I have authored peer-reviewed articles and book chapters on topics related to diversity and inclusion.