I look at the words About Me and think to myself, where to begin. As a child I began writing stories, poems and plays. I think the first time my work was recognized was when I was eleven years old and a teacher decided to make one of my plays part of the end of the school year celebration. From that point on, I became hooked on writing. Poetry was my first love; it allowed me to express my many emotions and thoughts. It also took me to a spiritual place in my life that I did not know existed.I returned to further my education at the ripe age of forty. Received my Bachelor’s Degrees in Psychology and Social Work, as well as Diplomas with Honours in Child Psychology, Adult Psychology, and Counselling and an Associates Degree in Life Coaching.I started a private practice counselling others, but was always drawn back to my writing. With my career on track I decided to tackle my ultimate dream of having my own book of poetry and thoughts published. To experience the feelings of seeing my hard work come to fruition in the form of Soulful Inspirations was my dream come true.Since that time I have started writing Mental Health columns for two newspapers. I give my words freely to each paper in hopes of helping others recognize if they have a need to seek help .I love to use my brain to write whatever comes to mind.The gift of writing should be shared, helpful and enjoyed. I do everything in my power that will help people to become mentally healthy. I recently completed and graduated with a Bachelor of Sciences in Substance Abuse and Addiction Counselling and became Master Neuro Linguistic Program Practitioner. Turning Point Detox and their ever evolving programs has given me the passion to focuson counselling in the addiction field. I don't believe I can put into words how rewarding it is when someone suffering addiction does the Turning Point Detox program and leaves excited to begin their life over, feeling physically well, mentally stable, and emotionally grounded. They have the hop in their step and the twinkle in their eyes. This is truly dealing with the Body, Mind and Spirit. My belief is that they all have to be equally supported for anyone to have a chance at feeling healed. My experience with Turning Point is that their Holistic approach to recovery makes the most common sense and supports everything I have learned and value in my career both emotionally and academically.
http://www.helpinghandcounselling.com a vast collection of helpful sites that cover many aspects of mental health and links to them. ACADA Services
Today's world is full of daily stressors. As well, individuals have been faced with traumatic experiences that have caused them to create unhealthy coping mechanisms such as drugs, alcohol, sex, gambling, overspending, overworking and unhealthy relationships. Many times there is more than one unhealthy de-stressor used in an attempt to cope with very painful experiences. The inability to cope leads to increased sadness, despair and anger. These feelings increase over time and are sometimes undetected even though the person is crying out for help.
Our goal is to help each individual with compassion and understanding. With appropriate counselling and/or treatment the person can deal with the underlying core issues, create balance in their lives and works towards supporting their Body, Mind,and Spirit in a healthy manner. To only deal with one component of our beings; it is not possible to be whole. It's like having a new car and only taking it to the car wash, eventually the engine will burn out or the interior will eventually deteriorate. I have been working with reputable centres in Canada and the US for many years. With this hands on experience I can and have confidently recommended many centres that have been best suited to the individual and families needs. I have also worked with many individuals who were frustrated, angry or sad. With good support, they realized they didn't have to live this way. It's time to wake up and feel happy for no apparent reason at all. With no substances, no baggage, no guilt and no regrets. Just happy to be alive and to have the opportunity to take one more breath. I am here to get you back on your RIGHTFUL PATH,While working with clients I strongly believe that my place as a counsellor is not to judge. I am there to listen and not tell a client what to do. I help them to realize their own potential in whatever issue/s they need to work on. I am not authoratative and believe in a layed back, relaxed atmosphere which creates the ambience of two people visiting over coffee and discussing problems that are stopping them from being mentally healthy.