Hello, I'm Derek, MACP, CCC Registered Provisional Psychologist

I enjoy helping people to take next steps to a life worth living. Sometimes stress from work, relationships, and life challenges, can lead to feeling burned out, alone, and left wondering where to turn. I know these feelings as I have experienced and overcome work-related stress and worked through personal life challenges. My training in science-based approaches such as EMDR, DBT, mindfulness and structural dissociation combined with a neurocognitive perspective and my life experience informs how I help people. I have found that helpful therapy arises out of a supportive and collaborative relationship, where you can feel heard and validated.

I work with you to use your strengths to achieve your goals. I can help you understand some of the ways the body and brain are connected, how stress and trauma influence you and how it is possible to survive and thrive. I respect your thoughts and feelings, and your decision to take the steps which are right for you at a pace that is helpful for you. Using Gottman Method Couples Therapy, I am also able to provide couples therapy where I work with you and your partner to strengthen your relationship.

Drawing on my experience as a husband for over 26 years, a father of two young adults, and having a range of career experiences, I know the importance of family, friends, and work while navigating different stages of life and career. I have an interest in working with people to develop a life worth living as individuals, couples, and parents.

My typical clients have complex trauma experiences, often having anxiety, depression, and relationship tensions. I have experience integrating faith into clinical sessions and working with people for whom faith has caused pain or is available as a resource.

Outside of my professional responsibilities, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. Regular exercise, walking, cycling, hiking, stand up paddleboarding, backcountry camping and skiing are some of the activities I find refreshing. I also enjoy giving back to my community through volunteering. I currently help facilitate a mindfulness meditation group, and in the past, I have served as volunteer crisis line counsellor and as a volunteer firefighter.

As a helping professional I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist in Alberta, and a Canadian Certified Counsellor. I also belong to the Psychologist Association of Alberta.