Favourite Quote:
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”
- Carl R. Rogers
For me, this quote highlights that while we are all aim to improve and change ourselves, it is also crucial to have some self-acceptance and compassion for ourselves just as we are. When we accept and get curious about parts of ourselves, the answers we find may be surprising. From this place of understanding and
compassion we often find that change may come more easily.
Hey! My name is James and I'm a Registered Provisional Psychologist here in Alberta.
For as long as I can remember two of my passionate interests in life have been wellness and stories. For
me, my work brings these together in unique way that I find special.
First, I must earn and understand the story of those who I work with. To truly listen and honour someone’s
story is essential to create the sense of safety and openness required for effective therapy. I aim create a space completely free of judgement and with compassion for the reality of being human. I hope this allows people to feel able to share about all parts of their life they wish to discuss. I have always been drawn to the stories of others and always feel honoured to have them shared with me.
Second, we go to work to see what can be done to help our clients with whatever has brought them in. I always want to tailor this process to whatever they are hoping to get from therapy, so every approach is a little bit different. I draw from approaches including CBT, DBT skills, ACT, mindfulness-based practices, attachment work, and parts work to form a plan that will help them meet their goals. My own interest in wellness, both mental and physical, has caused me to explore many different avenues including diet, exercise, yoga, meditation, and even my own personal therapy on top of my learning as registered provisional psychologist. I aim to integrate this experience into care wherever it is helpful.
I am particularly influenced in my approach by parts work and often frame things from this lens. I believe
this non-pathologizing and compassionate approach tends to help people better understand and extend
kindness to themselves. I also aim to provide trauma-informed care and a strength-based approach, which
fits well with parts work. Once there is a better understanding of how and why someone feels the way they
do, additional resource can be drawn in as needed to help them meet their goals.
I work a wide range of concerns that include anxiety, depression, childhood emotional neglect, trauma,
various men’s issues, burnout and stress management, grief and loss, and relationship concerns.
Outside the office you can find me weightlifting, hiking and camping, spending as much time as I can
outside, and spending time with my family and friends.
I look forward to the privilege of guiding you through your unique therapy journey!