Vancouver | Director of Training & Assistant Professor, Master of Counselling Psychology: Art Therapy
My teaching philosophy is founded on creating an inclusive, student-centred learning environment that values diversity, collaboration, and evidence-based practices. I aim to empower students to shape their professional identities by fostering ethical and professional standards, cultural competence and diversity awareness, creative processes and expressive arts knowledge, research and evidence-based practice, interpersonal and communication skills, and social justice and advocacy strategies. Through experiential learning paired with theoretical frameworks, I encourage students to explore the intersections of art therapy, social justice, and mental health, preparing them to address diverse community needs with empathy and cultural sensitivity.
As an educator, I strive to equip students with both technical expertise and interpersonal skills essential for effective therapeutic practice. At Adler University, I am committed to advancing a curriculum aligned with the institution’s mission of socially responsible practice. By incorporating research-based methodologies such as the Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC) framework, I support students in confidently applying art therapy interventions across varied clinical and cultural settings while maintaining a strong ethical foundation.
Adler University’s emphasis on social justice and equity resonates with my values as a clinician and researcher. I am continually inspired by the students’ dedication to fostering meaningful change. In my role as Director of Training, I facilitate opportunities for students to connect academic knowledge with real-world applications through carefully designed practicum placements that promote professional growth, technical competence, and ethical reflection.
In the classroom, I foster a dynamic and reflective learning experience that emphasizes dialogue, creativity, critical analysis, and personal growth. Drawing from my knowledge in art therapy and research with older adults and children, I bridge theory and practice, helping students navigate the complexities of the field. My ultimate goal is to inspire students to lead with compassion, advancing the profession while advocating for equitable mental health care access.
Please feel free to contact me via email or phone (+1 236-521-2406).
Adler University in Vancouver has been, like Canada itself, born and built with an open mind. Located in the midst of one of the world’s most exciting and breathtaking cities, Adler University reflects a true Canadian spirit. It’s smart, inclusive and determined to make a world of difference. By design, our Vancouver campus echoes the Adler values and intent down every hall and in every room. It is built to live, breathe and inspire those with the passion to pursue a more just society. This is where the work gets done.
At Adler Vancouver, you’ll find multiple collaborative areas with the absolute latest technology. Learning areas and windows have literally been situated to stimulate thought. To some, that may sound odd, but these things do matter. If students are given the space, opportunity and technology to achieve their goals, they are more likely to rock the boat of conventional thought.