About Carla

A thoughtful place to be heard

Choosing a counsellor is personal. Alongside knowing someone's qualifications, you may want a sense of who they are and whether you could speak openly with them.

I am drawn to this work by a belief in people's capacity for growth and restoration, even after experiences that have changed their lives profoundly, such as early relational betrayals in childhood and later relational betrayals in adult intimate partnership. I value careful listening, honest conversation and the understanding that comes from being taken seriously.

Since opening my private practice in 2019, I have worked with adults navigating anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship difficulties and significant life transitions. My particular focus here is supporting individuals affected by relational betrayal: the hurt of broken trust, the uncertainty that can follow and the work of finding a way forward.

How I approach counselling after betrayal

After a painful discovery, you may have many questions. In our sessions, we give ample space to ask what this has been like for you. The goals of your work will be unique to you, but in a broader sense the goals of individual counselling are to help you make sense of what has happened to you, and to attend to that wounding in ways that are supportive and grounding.

I want to understand the experience in your words, including the parts that may have been overlooked or difficult to explain. We will consider both your immediate concerns and the wider effect on your relationships, identity and sense of meaning.

My approach is informed by attachment theory and grounded in existential-humanistic therapy. In everyday terms, this means paying attention to how important relationships shape our lives, while respecting your ability to make choices and live according to your values.

I will listen carefully and help you examine difficult questions. We can be thoughtful about the commitments you hold while taking your wellbeing and boundaries seriously. There is no expectation that you will quickly forgive, feel ready for closeness or know what the relationship's future should be.

Training that supports this work

In addition to my Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology and Internal Family Systems Certification, I have completed APSATS training in the Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model (MPTM), a framework for understanding and supporting people affected by partner betrayal.

My MPTM training informs how I attend to the impact of what has happened, the support you need now and your ability to make informed choices. In practice, our work may include:

Finding greater steadiness. Identifying immediate concerns, developing ways to manage overwhelming moments and considering what helps you feel safer in daily life.

Making room for grief and understanding. Talking through painful experiences and losses at a pace we agree on together.

Reconnecting with your life. Strengthening your confidence in your own judgment, relationships and interests, and considering what you want for the future.

These areas can overlap. We will return to what you need as your circumstances change.

Education and professional credentials

• Master of Counselling Psychology
• Registered Clinical Counsellor — RCC #17327
• Canadian Certified Counsellor — CCC #11261757
• IFS Certified Practitioner
• APSATS trained in the Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model (MPTM).

My further education includes grief and loss, trauma and substance use. I draw on my training in response to the person in front of me and the goals we identify together.

Respect for your values and privacy

Betrayal can raise difficult questions about commitments, family, identity, meaning, faith and what you believe about yourself or others. If these are part of your experience, there is room to discuss them. Your beliefs and priorities will be respected in our work.

I take client privacy and professional boundaries seriously. I do not ask clients to provide testimonials which is why you will not see them here. I hope the information here helps you decide whether my approach may be a good fit, and you are welcome to bring questions to our first meeting.

What we talk about is confidential outside of specific circumstances where counsellors are required to report to authorities. You will be provided this information before your first session.

A little about me

Outside my practice, I find renewal in my faith, time with my family and the natural beauty of the Kootenays. I enjoy hiking, being near the lakes and rivers, and getting outdoors with our dog.

I hold a steady hope that, with understanding and support, people can find more room for peace, connection and purpose in their lives.