Hello! My name is Monica.
I’m a graduate student currently completing a master’s degree in Counselling Psychology at Adler University. Alongside my coursework, I’m completing a thesis that investigates the mental health and recovery of victims (survivors) of sexual assault whose cases went through the criminal justice system. My hope is to put forth recommendations based on these findings to better support victims and their mental health as they navigate this process.
I approach therapy through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Attachment Theory. This means that I view people as having many different “parts” that have been shaped through life experiences, such as important relationships, significant life events, and trauma. Some of these parts that were once necessary for protection may now be keeping us in patterns that no longer serve us. As an Intern Counsellor, my role is to support you through this journey - as we uncover these inner parts and patterns, meeting them with empathy and compassion for doing the best they could and getting you here today, and in making the changes you want to see in yourself or your life.
When you walk into your therapy session with me, you can expect to be met with warmth and empathy. Know that it’s natural to feel nervous if this is your first time trying therapy, and anytime you start seeing a new therapist. We’ll work together to shake out the nervous jitters and create a space built on safety and trust.
While completing my practicum at Scott Sheere Wellness, I have availability at the Vancouver and Port Moody locations, as well as online. My practice will be directly supervised by Nina Sheere and Heather Scott.
If it sounds like we might be a fit or if you would like to learn more, I welcome you to reach out for a free consultation prior to booking our first session.
Areas of Practice:
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Challenges
Suicide Ideation
Trauma
Therapeutic Approaches:
Trauma Informed
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Attachment Theory
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Emotionally
Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT)
Relationship Counselling
Gottman Therapy (Level 1 Certified)
Hi! I’m a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC (#12112), providing counselling services online and in Vancouver’s Mt. Pleasant community. Using a range of therapeutic modalities I provide trauma-focused therapy for adults, with the bulk of my practice focusing on the experience of cis & trans women.
With me, you can expect a warm and inviting space, as well as an approach that’s gently challenging and sprinkled with humour. We will address your current challenges, explore deeper emotions, beliefs and disruptive patterns, experiment with new coping resources, and increase your sense of connection to yourself, your loved ones, and your community. My work is guided by feminist and person-centred principles, meaning your resilience and strengths are always at the forefront of therapy.
Personal and professional interests have driven me to complete additional post-graduate training in evidence-based modalities including: Complex Trauma Theory, Dissociation & Attachment Neuroscience, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindful Self-Compassion, and First Responder Health.
As a survivor of complex trauma, I understand what it’s like to think and act like you have it all together yet, feel deeply like something is missing. I’ve experienced the shame and fear that’s associated with reaching out for help. You’re not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Let’s connect and thrive!