Bringing together nearly two decades of dental experience and a deep commitment to emotional wellbeing

I am a Licensed/Certified Dental Assistant, counselling psychology graduate student and lifelong Vancouver Island resident with a special interest in supporting people who experience dental anxiety.

Since building my career in dentistry in 2007, I have worked closely with patients through many different kinds of dental care. Over the years, I have seen how fear, past experiences, embarrassment, sensory discomfort and feeling a loss of control can affect a person’s ability to seek or receive treatment.

I have also seen the courage it can take to walk through the dental office door.

These experiences inspired me to bring my dental background into my work as a developing counsellor. My goal is to offer a space where dental anxiety is taken seriously, explored without judgment and met with genuine compassion.

Why Dental Anxiety Counselling?

Dental anxiety is often misunderstood. People may be told to “just relax” or feel ashamed about how long it has been since their last appointment. However, anxiety is not a personal failure, and avoiding dental care does not mean that someone is lazy, irresponsible or difficult.

For many people, dental fear is connected to painful or frightening experiences, fear of judgment, sensory sensitivities, difficulty trusting providers, a strong gag reflex or feeling powerless while receiving treatment. Sometimes people understand exactly where their anxiety began. Others simply know that the thought of visiting the dentist feels overwhelming.

I chose this area of counselling because I understand the dental environment and the emotional experiences that can accompany it. I want clients to feel heard before they are asked to make changes. Together, we can explore what is contributing to the anxiety, identify individual needs and develop practical ways to approach dental care with greater confidence and a stronger sense of control.

My Professional Background

I graduated from the Camosun College Certified Dental Assistant program in 2008 in Victoria, giving me nearly two decades of experience within the dental profession. This background has provided me with a detailed understanding of dental environments, procedures, terminology, patient communication and the moments when individuals may feel particularly vulnerable.

In June 2024, I completed a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Victoria, combining studies in biology and psychology with a minor in business. I am currently completing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology degree through Yorkville University, with an anticipated graduation in 2027.

My education and professional experience allow me to understand dental anxiety through both a healthcare and psychological lens. However, I also recognize that every person’s experience is different. I approach each client with curiosity rather than assumptions.

Professional Registration & Memberships

• Licensed Dental Assistant registered with the British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP)

• Member, Certified Dental Assistants of British Columbia (CDABC)

• Student Member, Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA)

• Student Member, British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC)

Continuing Education & Professional Development

Alongside my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, I am committed to continued learning that strengthens my ability to support clients through anxiety, change, grief, identity development and other significant life experiences.

I am currently completing the following professional development programs through PESI:

• Life Transitions Specialist Certificate: Clinical Skills for Life Changes That Cause Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Identity Shifts & More

• Certified Youth Mental Health Specialist Course: Advanced interventions for common mental health and developmental concerns affecting children, adolescents and young adults

These courses complement my graduate education by expanding my knowledge of developmentally responsive, strengths-based and evidence-informed counselling. Both programs are currently in progress and will be updated upon completion.

A Little More About Me

I was raised on Vancouver Island in Brentwood Bay and feel deeply connected to this community. Outside of dentistry and graduate school, I value time with family and friends, fastball, reading, quiet moments near the ocean and life with my cat, Leo.

People often describe me as kind and emotionally attuned. These qualities are at the centre of the counselling environment I hope to create: one where you can show up exactly as you are, without needing to minimize your fear or pretend that you are comfortable when you are not.

You Are Welcome Here

Whether you have been avoiding dental care for years, are preparing for a specific procedure or simply want to understand why dental appointments feel so difficult, your experience deserves to be heard.

You do not need to be completely free from anxiety before receiving dental care. Together, we can work toward helping you feel more informed, prepared, empowered and supported.

* Dental anxiety counselling coming January 2027 *

In-person appointments in Victoria, British Columbia
Virtual appointments available

Territory Acknowledgement

I respectfully acknowledge that I live in Brentwood Bay, work as a dental assistant in Sidney, and complete my counselling education online from the traditional territory of the W̱SÁNEĆ Peoples.

The W̱SÁNEĆ Peoples have maintained enduring relationships with the lands and waters of the Saanich Peninsula since time immemorial. They are represented today by the W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip), SȾÁUTW̱ (Tsawout), W̱SIḴEM (Tseycum), BOḰEĆEN (Pauquachin) and MÁLEXEȽ (Malahat) First Nations.

I recognize that a territory acknowledgement is only one small part of reconciliation. As a developing counsellor, I am committed to continued learning, cultural humility and reflecting on my responsibilities as a guest on these lands.

As my future counselling work develops, I will continue learning about and acknowledging the Indigenous territories from which I practise and connect with clients.

As I connect virtually, I also acknowledge the many distinct Indigenous Nations and territories from which clients may join me.