Modalities

My work integrates several complementary modalities to support healing and growth. I draw from the Neuro Affective Relational Model (NARM), a gentle and powerful approach for resolving complex and developmental trauma by fostering connection to self and others. I also weave in Expressive Arts Therapy, which invites creativity, movement, sound, and imagery as pathways to insight and integration. Grounded in a trauma-informed and somatic lens, I support clients in reconnecting with their bodies, emotions, and inner wisdom. My approach is further informed by mindfulness, attachment theory, and nature-based practices, creating a space that honours diversity, inclusion, and the natural rhythms of healing.

My approach is based on the premise that healing and creating positive life change takes time, patience, and compassion. In this spirit, the therapeutic process is not linear, but a dynamic process of reclaiming and remembrance. - Anni

​🌿 Relational & Attachment-Based Approaches

NARM (NeuroAffective Relational Model) focuses on healing developmental and complex trauma through connection and regulation:
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  • Somatic Experiencing (SE) – helps release trauma stored in the body and restore nervous system balance.
  • Sensorimotor Psychotherapy – integrates body awareness with emotional and cognitive processing.
  • Internal Family Systems (IFS) – works with different “parts” of the self to restore harmony and self-compassion.
  • Attachment-Focused – integrates attachment repair with trauma processing.
  • Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) – emphasizes safety and connection in attachment relationships.

​💠 Body-Oriented & Somatic Practices


  • Hakomi Method – a mindfulness-based somatic therapy for uncovering unconscious patterns.
  • Integrative Somatic Parts Work
  • Polyvagal-Informed Therapy – grounded in nervous system regulation and safety.

🎨 Expressive & Creative Arts Therapies- Expressive Arts Therapy (EXA)

 Integrates visual art, movement, music, writing, and drama for embodied healing:
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  • Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT)
  • Music Therapy
  • Expressive Art Facilitation
  • Poetic and Narrative Therapies

🪶 Mindfulness & Compassion-Based Practices


  • Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
  • Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

🌍 Integrative & Culturally Responsive Model


  • Integrative Body–Mind–Spirit Therapy
  • Indigenous and Land-Based Healing Practices
  • Culturally Safe and Anti-Oppressive Frameworks
  • Relational-Cultural Therapy (RCT)
  • Ecotherapy / Nature-Based Therapy

🕊️ Classic & Evidence-Based Trauma Therapies


  • Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
  • Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
​"The guidance, practical tools, reflections, and insights you’ve offered during my sessions with you have been a pivotal part of my journey over the last several months — helping me move from a state of exhaustion and near crisis to rediscovery of my true self.... living more deeply from the heart than ever before.  For this I am so grateful!  You have a true gift, Anni!"
                                                                                                                                                                 - Individual Counselling Client

CERTIFICATIONS

  • Suicide Prevention, Risk Assessment and Management (Alberta Health Services, April 2025)
  • Creating Safer Spaces for 2S - LGBTQ + In the Workplace and Community (Safer Spaces Self-Paced Online Training, April 2025)
  • NARM Therapist Level 2 Certification - Neuro Affective Relational Model for Healing Developmental Trauma (a 2 Year Program @ The Complex Trauma Training Center 2023).
  • Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) Certification (PESI, 2023)
  • Motivational Interviewing Certification (PESI, 2023)
  • Sanyas' Indigenous Cultural Competency Certification (PHSA certified, 2022)
  • Gottman's Couples therapy certification (PESI, 2019).
  • Expressive Arts AOA Facilitation Certified (Art of Allowing Academy, 2018)
  • Complementary Medicine and Healing Practitioner Certification (PESI, 2012)
  • Equine-Assisted Learning Introductory for Social Work (EAGALA certified, 2010)
  • Indigenous Cultural Competency Training and Post Training (PHSA certified, 2011).
  • Trauma-Informed Practice (TIP, PHSA, 2006)
  • Lojong "Training the Mind" - a 12 Week Course with Dr. Duncan Grady (Shambhala Buddhist Meditation center, 2005).
"Anni is one of the most mature healers I have had the honour of working with... she has that rare ability to CREATE SACRED SPACE that allows others to step into unknown territory within themselves while safely exploring deep layers of healing and transformation."
~ Flora Aube, psychotherapist, painting Facilitator, Founder of Art of Allowing

EDUCATION & MEMBERSHIPS

  • Bachelor of Social Work (With Honors, UVIC, 2009 )
  • Masters in Counseling Psychology (University of Yorkville, 2015)
  • Neuro Affective Relational Model Level 2 Advanced Therapist for working specifically with Complex Trauma ​(NARM, 2023)
  • ​Registered Social Worker with the BC College of Social Workers (Reg #10120), the Ontario College of Social Workers,  the Saskatchewan College of Social Workers and the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers. Anni is also a certified Expressive Arts Facilitator and Equine-Assisted Therapist
  • Member of the Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association (2025- Current)
  • Registered Member of the BC Association of Social Workers (2016- Current)
Integrative Counselling, Expressive Arts and Retreat Facilitation, Nelson Counsellors, Castlegar Counsellors, Trauma recovery, Transpersonal Psychology, Plant Medicines Preparation and Integration,