ABOUT ME

Joan creates  a warm gentle counselling environment where clients  feel respected and accepted. She strives to provide a space that is culturally safe and inclusive for all.

Her hope is that those who work with her at Exhale Centre will feel safe to be him/her/them self. It is a space to catch your breath… away from the fast paced busy world, and work on self-care.

Joan has her Masters degree in Social Work from the University of British Columbia, and is a Registered Social Worker with the BC College of Social Workers. Joan integrates both Expressive and Synergetic play therapy into her practice. Her training with Marie Jose Dhaese (Centre for Expressive Therapy) is holistic in practice  as it considers the physical, emotional, cognitive and spiritual needs of the person. This aligns well with Indigenous ways of knowing and being. Synergetic play therapy (Synergetic Play Therapy Institute)  is based on neuroscience and focuses on co-regulation, where the therapist can support the child to process stresses through play.  

When working with youth, Joan’s work is child-centred and therefore usually non-directive, meaning the child takes the lead. There are instances where the approach is more directive if needed. For instance, in the case of teaching coping strategies such as breathing techniques or purposely presenting something during play. The focus in the beginning of therapy is never on the presenting issue or stressor it is on creating trust and safety while having the person  connect with their inner strengths. Play therapy is a magical process and appropriate for all children and youth who may be facing different stresses in their lives. These can include: Anxiety, Depression, Regulation, Behavioral challenges ,Grief & Loss, Self Identity/Esteem, Life Changes.

 Joan devotes a lot of her practice to children and youth, but also does work with adults. Her approach with adults is holistic and strength based. She understands trauma and inter-generational trauma. She also understands the importance of culture when it comes to healing. There is always the opportunity to incorporate meaningful cultural practices or rituals if appropriate.  Conventional talk therapy can be utilized but this can also be integrated with other expressive therapies based on clients wants and needs. Therapy can include art therapy, play therapy, sand tray, storytelling, movement, imagery/visualization, sewing/beading/felting, music/dance,talk.  Her hope is that whoever she is working with; child or adult  will discover or reignite their light within. She believes that healing happens through having compassion for ourselves and self acceptance.

Joan is of mixed heritage Secwepemc and English settler but is very thankful to be able to share Secwepemlulew with people from all races, religions, and walks of life. She enjoys art shows, theatre music and any event where she can learn about other cultures (or experience new culinary delights).