Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or uncertainty, making it difficult to keep a sense of control in your life? Are you craving a deeper connection with your relationships and the world around you, but finding it challenging to open up and trust amidst the chaos? Have you felt dissatisfied with previous therapy experiences, where the support provided may have felt impersonal and ineffective? If you resonate with any of these struggles, I want you to know, our lives, and journey towards healing, doesn’t have to be the way.
We are all wired for connection, and therapy should serve as a nurturing space that fosters personalized support, genuine empathy, and a safe haven for your emotional well-being. As a therapist, my goal is to develop a safe and inclusive environment where we can work together to address the nuanced challenges you're facing. Honouring your embodied experience, I aim to compassionately equip you with effective tools to manage your symptoms, collaboratively support you in processing your traumas, explore the meaning in your circumstances, and work together to reconstruct the vibrant future you deserve.
Drawing from neuroscience, my approach to therapy is experiential and integrative, with a strong emphasis on attachment and relational healing. By integrating cutting edge therapeutic techniques that acknowledge the complexity of our internal worlds, I've witnessed profound and lasting healing in my clients.
If you're ready to embark on a transformative healing journey, I invite you to reach out and say hello! Together, we can create a therapeutic approach tailored to your unique needs, allowing you to grow, heal, and thrive. I look forward to the opportunity to support you on your journey.
Niche Education and Training
Christen holds the credential of Registered Clinical Counsellor (R.C.C.) with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors. Her diverse educational background includes a Graduate Degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University, specializing in trauma and neuroscience-based approaches to mental health, and a Master of Arts Degree in Organizational Leadership from Trinity Western University.
In addition to her formal education, Christen has niche training as a Certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA approved Certified EMDR Consultant, providing advanced level expertise and consultation in treating complex trauma among other concerns.
Christen is formally trained as an Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapist, with Level II certification in IFS Couples Therapy (IFIO), and over 400 supervised hours of training with The IFS Institute. Christens training in IFS extends further through training via specialized seminars on Somatic IFS with Susan McConnell and participation in the IFS circle with Dr. Richard Swartz.
Christens training in relationship therapy extends further with formal training in Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) through the robust didactic externship with the Vancouver Centre for Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Christen has also completed her formal Level I & II Certification hours in Observed Experiential Integration Therapy (OEI) trauma therapy, under the direct consultation of Developer Dr. Rick Bradshaw. Christen is further undergoing her formal training hours to become a Level II approved OEI trainer.
Moreover, Christen integrates her supplementary training in neurophysiology, integrative health and nutrition, and Somatic Trauma Release techniques into her approach; recognizing the vital connection between mind, body, and mental health.
In the realm of neurotherapy, Christen has received specialized training in various neurotherapies, including LENS Neurofeedback, QEEG Assessment, Audio Visual Entertainment systems, Heart-Rate Variability and EEG Biofeedback training. She is currently undergoing supervision towards board certification with the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA). This additional training allows Christen to integrate neurotherapy techniques within her therapeutic approach, addressing the neurophysiological aspects of mental health and tailoring her approach to suit your unique needs and goals.
Experience
Christen is a dedicated trauma therapist with over 6 years of experience in helping individuals overcome various mental health concerns and the effects of traumatic experiences. Her goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can heal, grow, and reclaim their lives.
Area of Concern
Christen works with individuals from diverse backgrounds and populations. While she have a specific interest in supporting clients with issues such as PTSD, CPTSD and Pre-verbal trauma, Spiritual Abuse, Shame, Self-Esteem, Relationship and Attachment Concerns, and ADHD in women. Christen is equipped to assist individuals with a wide range of mental health concerns.
Client demographics
Individuals, Adults (20+), Couples.
Types of Therapy Offered
Formal
OEI, EMDR, IFS/ IFIO, EFT, Somatic Release, Photobiomodulation, HRV Training, LENS Neurofeedback, EEG Biofeedback & QEEG Assessment.
Supplementary
Somatic Processing Therapy, AVE Neuro-therapy, Integrative Nutrition support for Mental Health, Complex Trauma and Dissociation, Parts & Ego State Therapy, ADHD management in adult women.
More than just my work
Shared experience can be a powerful therapeutic tool. My therapeutic style often includes the integration of therapeutic self-disclosure that allows a more personal and relational connection to form. In both my personal and professional life, I prioritize values such as kindness, compassion, empathy, integrity, curiosity and respect. I am also a professional dog lover and my Goldendoodle Kona is often present with me in the office on days I’m working.
Beyond Therapy I am a lifelong learner and enjoy exploring the world with my friends and husband. Music is a long standing passion of mine and I try to incorporate it into my life whenever possible. Recently, I've also discovered the joy of pottery hand-building as a creative outlet and have loved exploring these aspect of my creative parts!
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