“It’s never too late to be what you might have been”
George Eliot
True happiness will present itself once we learn how to deal with our emotions, know our passions, norms and values.
Hi, I’m Monique
REGISTERED THERAPEUTIC COUNSELLOR,
MASTER THERAPEUTIC COUNSELLOR, BC CANADA
I have been working in mental health care for over 9 year, including volunteering as a police based victim service worker and earning a Diploma of Professional Counselling. Along with my ongoing continuous education, I also dove into the intriguing world of Dog Emotion and Cognition –because let’s be real, dogs are basically furry therapists in disguise.
My past came knocking on my door when I lost one of my last members of my non-judgmental furry cheerleading squad; always radiating strength, unconditional love and solid loyalty. It hit me with a gut-wrenching blow.
It left me with pain, feeling alone, and at times, completely helpless.
I made a vow to keep their legacy alive, and in doing so, I discovered a way of reconnecting with my own self, finding solace within, and embracing the unexpected twist of this beautifully “abnormal” world we live in.
Your journey through grief, trauma, being emotionally bullied or other changes in life may feel you disconnected from today’s demanding society.
I have gained an appreciation for the therapeutic qualities that our canine companions possess. When suitable, I combine these qualities, an integration of psychotherapy and somatic attachment therapy to support my clients in reconnecting and reclaiming their true authentic self.
Monique
Credentials and Training
I have a special interest in Pet Loss and Grief, Trauma, Emotional Well Being for Pet Owners facing challenges with their beloved pup, Major Life Changes, and Stress and Anxiety
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Member of the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists #2201
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Registered Therapeutic Counsellor, Master Therapeutic Counsellor
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Vancouver College of Counsellor Training - Diploma
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EMDR - Kase & Co - Certificate
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Somatic Attachment Therapy - Dr. Scott Lyons & Kai Cheng Thom MSW, MSc - Certificate
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Healing Wounds of Trauma – Gabor Maté - MD
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Positive Psychiatry and Mental Health – The University of Sidney - Certificate
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Existential Psychotherapy and Counselling – Adam Godwin, MA
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Pet Loss and Grief – Kari-Änn Thor, M.Ed
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Balancing Acceptance and Change – Nadine Groves, MED, RCC
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Loss and Grief – Sarah Lipsett, MA, MTC, RCS
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Safe Talk Suicide Alertness – Living Works
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Dog Emotion and Cognition – Duke University - Certificate
Organizations and Affiliation
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Until We Meet Again Pet Memorial Services - Pet Loss and Grief Support Group Facilitator and Co-Facilitator
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Food For The Soul Project – Depression and Anxiety Group Facilitator Volunteer
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CooGo Dog Rescue - Volunteer
My Approach
I specialize in supporting adults dealing with the challenges of losing a beloved pet, managing overwhelming emotions, self-blame, feelings of unworthiness during life changes and navigating the stigma of caring for a handicapped or specially-behaved dog. My approach is collaborative, focusing on compassion and vulnerability. I incorporate the mind/body connection, mindfulness, EMDR (Eye Motion Desensitizing and Reprocessing) and psychoeducation to meet you where you are in your unique journey.
EMDR
I am excited to share that I am currently undergoing comprehensive EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) training. I am working closely with EMDRIA (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing International Association) approved trainers and supervisors to enhance my skills and provide the best possible care for my clients. EMDR is a therapeutic approach aimed at helping you process and heal from distressing memories and experiences.
Why EMDR?
EMDR has shown remarkable effectiveness in assisting individuals dealing with trauma, anxiety, and various mental health challenges. It is a structured and evidence-based approach designed to help your mind process difficult memories.