Welcome!
My name is Maxine (she/her/hers). I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Certified EMDR Therapist.
I am of British, Northern Irish and Scottish descent and was born and raised in the North-East of England. I moved to Canada in 2002, and now live, work and learn on the beautiful, unceded, traditional territory of the Quw’utsun, Halalt, Stz-uminus, Lyackson and Penelakut nations.
How I Came to Counselling
The desire to help others comes naturally to me. I started my career as a Youth and Community worker in the UK and come to my clinical work with insight and knowledge gained from over 30 years of experience working with individuals, youth and families in a diverse range of settings.
Seeing many clients struggle with deep, unresolved trauma, I felt drawn to support folk at a deeper level. This desire led me to earn master’s degree in counselling psychology, train in EMDR Therapy, and start my own practice. Here, I aim to guide clients beyond just ‘managing symptoms’ towards long term relief and healing. Today, I work mainly with adults navigating the impact of childhood trauma (neglect, emotional, physical & sexual abuse), complex trauma, PTSD, sexual assault, chronic stress and anxiety.
How I work
I know deep healing is not always easy and I’m assuming you’re coming to see me because you want something different in your life. With a deep understanding of the complex nature of trauma, I provide compassionate and evidence-based therapy tailored to meet your unique needs and experiences. I am passionate about helping individuals - you - heal from trauma, build resilience, and reconnect with what matters to you most.
Understanding that reaching out for help can be challenging, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment that honours all parts of you - your culture, identity, story, pain, strengths, and resilience. I truly belief that we all have the capacity to heal and grow, and that you are the expert of your own lived experience. The journey through therapy may feel daunting, but I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Beyond The Office
Outside of work, I love spending time with loved ones, and I also love spending time alone! Pottering in the garden, and time in nature, grounds and restores me; hiking, travelling and exploring new cultures inspire and invigorate me. In the cooler months, I love curling up with a good mystery novel and doing jigsaw puzzles.
Professional Experience, Education and Credentials:
Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC)
Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology
Bachelor’s degree in Youth & Community Work
Certified EMDR therapist through the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA)
EMDRIA Approved Consultant