In January, I became a team member at Spirit Lift in Vancouver. At Spirit Lift, the philosophy is that "Happiness and healing are found when we honour ourselves, our past and our stories. The most profound thing we can do is connect with who we really are—and like all good things, building and maintaining that connection takes work." The Spirit Lift Space was thoughtfully and intentionally designed to be a neutral, calming atmosphere where personal growth is the main focus in the room. I'm so thrilled to be a part of this time and invite clients into a warm and welcoming space each week. I mean just look at it!
So, when they asked me to answer a few questions for my bio, I chose to be thoughtful and intentional in my responses - after all, if the goal is connection, I need to show up as my authentic self. I am sharing my responses here as a fun Q&A for anyone interested in learning more about me and my work.
What unique perspective do you bring to the Spirit Lift team?
As a clinical counsellor and art therapist, my practice utilizes the transformative power of imagination, intuition and the presence of the creative process. The duality of words and images allows for a deep personal dialogue that can instinctively present the needs of the soul.
Why do you do what you do?
I like to consider myself a seeker of everyday magic – and I get to glimpse this magic everyday in the people that I work with. I witness the tiny sparks of inspiration, the a-ha moments, and the simple power of words and images to inspire growth and self-expansion. I do what I do because the resiliency of the human spirit is the best sort of magic.
This quote by artist and poet Morgan Harper Nichols really resonates with me:
"May you always be the one who sees the light in the little things".
Our lives are made up of little things. My best hopes for my clients is that the little time we spend together provides even a little bit of clarity and illumination to see those sparks of everyday magic within themselves. The best part about my job is witnessing that human magic, growth and self-expansion.
What is your favourite way to unwind?
I get out into nature as much as I can. But on rainy days, you’ll find me cozying up with a good book, an art project and my cat Nimbus.
What is your hidden talent?
I can play the bagpipes! This wasn't a very hidden talent before I moved to Vancouver. I used to compete nationally in solos and band competitions, but small apartment living makes it a little difficult to practice a very loud instrument.
If you could choose another profession for a day, what would it be?
I would be a lepidopterist (butterfly researcher) during the monarch migration in Mexico. I just think it would be so cool to see all of those butterflies finally back home again after a long flight.