Bridging Two Worlds: Nursing and Counselling
My path to becoming a Counselling Therapist has been a unique blend of compassion and expertise, deeply influenced by my many years serving as a Registered Nurse. My nursing career exposed me to a diverse range of healthcare settings, offering me the opportunity to engage with patients from all walks of life. This rich experience has added layers of depth to my counselling practice, enabling me to approach each client’s situation with a multidisciplinary perspective.
A Shared Humanity
At my core, I am fundamentally human—just like the clients I serve. My life’s journey has provided me with a diverse array of experiences that have shaped the empathetic and skilled Counselling Therapist I have become.
The Personal Resonance of ADHD and Sleep Issues
Being diagnosed with ADHD later in my life opened a window into the complexities of feeling perpetually misunderstood and out of step with the world. From developing systems for organization and time management, only to struggle to maintain them, I’ve come to deeply understand the challenges and frustrations associated with ADHD and sleep problems. This self-journey informs the cornerstone of my therapeutic approach.
Empowering Lives: More Than a Profession, a Passion
The sheer joy of helping individuals overcome obstacles and create the life they’ve always wanted is what makes my work deeply rewarding. I find immense satisfaction in offering a beacon of hope where hope seemed absent. Committed to uplifting my clients, I empower them to make transformative life changes.
An Atmosphere of Acceptance and Discovery
In both my nursing and counselling roles, I’ve been told that I possess an innate ability to unearth what lies beneath the surface. I offer an environment that is accepting, open, and without judgment. I take pride in being an exceptional listener, creating a therapeutic space where clients feel seen, acknowledged, and truly understood.
Customized Care for the Whole Person
With the belief that effective therapy should address the entirety of human experience—mind, body, and spirit—I make certain that our sessions are customized to meet your specific needs and challenges. I subscribe to the idea that sometimes small, incremental steps in the right direction can lead to monumental changes over time.
I look forward to partnering with you on your journey towards a more fulfilling life.
Brenda
My Professional Background
Credentials
Registered Nurse College of Registered Nurses of Alberta
Canadian Certified Counsellor Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association
Counselling Therapist The Association of Counselling Therapy of Alberta
ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) Certification
Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional (CMIP) Certification
Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Alberta
Masters in Counselling from Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington
Post-Graduate Training
Cognitive-Behavioral Conjoint Therapy (CBCT) for PTSD (for couples)
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Intensive Training: Mindfulness Informed Professional Certification Course
Evidence-informed Sleep Solutions for Clinicians Working with Teens and Young Adults
Effective Treatment Strategies for People with PTSD & Insomnia with Colleen Carney
Treating Sleep Problems: A Transdiagnostic Approach Book by Alison G Harvey and Daniel Buysse
Mindfulness for Adult ADHD: A Clinician’s Guide Book by Lidia Zylowska and John Mitchell
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Adult ADHD: Targeting Executive Functioning Book by Mary Solanto (CBT ADHD)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Training: Master the Core Skills and Competencies of CBT
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): Evidence-based Insomnia Interventions for Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Chronic Pain, & more
Certified ADHD Professional (ADHD-CCSP) Intensive Training Course: Evidence-Based Strategies for Managing ADHD Across the Lifespan
Dr. Sue Johnson Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT): Attachment-based Interventions to Treat Trauma, Anxiety and Depression
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Trauma Conference: The Body Keeps the Score Trauma Healing with Bessel van der Kolk
Dan Siegel on Attachment, Trauma & Psychotherapy: Neural Integration for Resilience & Well-Being
Brain Story Certification
Indigenous Awareness and Sensitivity Certificate
Level 1 & 2 Health Change Methodology
Licensed Craving Change Clinician
Our Cancellation Policy: Consistency to Ensure Your Progress and Well-being
At Aspen Grove Counselling, our commitment to providing the highest quality therapy extends beyond the counselling room. We understand that consistency is a crucial aspect of the therapeutic process, which is why we emphasize the importance of adhering to our cancellation policy for existing and potential clients alike.
Respecting Your Time and Our Commitment:
We value your time and investment in therapy. By maintaining a consistent schedule, we ensure that you have the support you need to progress on your journey towards healing and growth. We plan our sessions in advance, creating a safe space for your personal exploration and development.
Caring for Our Therapists:
By upholding our cancellation policy, we prevent therapist burnout and promote a healthy work-life balance. This enables our therapists to offer their best care, unwavering in their dedication to each client’s well-being.
Protecting Your Investment:
We recognize that investing in therapy involves emotional, financial, and time commitments. Our consistent cancellation policy ensures that you receive the full benefits of your investment, supporting your progress and growth.
Supporting Your Therapeutic Progress:
Therapy is a transformative process that thrives on continuity and consistency. Building a strong rapport with your therapist is essential for trust and open communication. By attending sessions regularly, you create a foundation that fosters personal insight and positive change.
Equitable Access to Therapy:
Consistency in the cancellation policy ensures that all clients have fair and equal access to therapy. By managing our caseload effectively, we can accommodate everyone’s needs with compassion and professionalism.
Setting Boundaries and Structure:
Our consistent cancellation policy establishes clear boundaries and structure within the therapeutic relationship. This framework empowers you to take ownership of your therapeutic journey with confidence.
Embracing Accountability:
We encourage clients to take an active role in their mental health by honoring their commitment to therapy. By adhering to our cancellation policy, you demonstrate accountability for your well-being and the investment you’ve made in yourself.
Understanding and Compassion:
While we value consistency, we also recognize that exceptional circumstances may arise. If you encounter challenges adhering to our policy, we encourage open communication. We are here to support you through any difficulties. We believe that the journey to healing and self-discovery requires a consistent and nurturing environment. Our cancellation policy serves as an essential foundation for fostering growth, personal empowerment, and meaningful change in your life. Thank you for choosing Aspen Grove Counselling as your partner in the pursuit of a fulfilling and balanced life. Together, we will navigate the path towards a brighter future.