About Jennifer

I am a Registered Canadian Art Therapist with the Canadian Art Therapy Association. I have been working as an Art Therapist for over 20 years.  I am also trained in play therapy, complex trauma and I am currently completing the supervision component in mentalization based treatment (MBT-C, MBT-A).

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I grew up in Prince Albert in Northern Saskatchewan and attended university at the U of S fresh out of high school. I graduated with a Bachelor of Education with the intention of going to law school but I was side tracked by art and the creative act.   

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There is something magical about the deep connection and the synchronicity that happens when embodying an image and discovering its form, balance and beauty.

 

I became interested in the therapeutic value of art after taking some painting classes at Concordia University in Montreal and working as a painter.  I was fascinated by the effect that my painting process had on observers in my studio.  I enrolled in training at the Kutenai Art Therapy institute in Nelson BC and it seemed all my paths had converged.

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My first job after completing my training  was working at the Edmonton People in Need Shelter Society.  This fantastic organization is devoted to enhancing the well-being, comfort and fellowship of individuals suffering from severe and persistent chronic mental illness.  Here I designed an art therapy studio and led groups on many memorable recreation adventures.

 

I was completing my thesis on art therapy with children who have "behaviors of concern" and this interest led me to a position as "behavior management teacher" at  Ministikwan Lake Cree Nation  ᒥᓂᐢᑎᑿᐣ in northern Saskatchewan where I worked for 2 years.  Working and living in this community was a formative and fulfilling experience for me.  

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Looking to work more clinically I returned to BC and started working  as a Child & Youth Mental Health Clinician and therapist (MCFD) with children, youth and their families.  In this position I have worked with children and youth who presented with a wide range of mental health issues.  I have specialized in complex trauma and working with clients and their families who have experienced sexual abuse.  In the past 10 years I have been working closer with parents and integrating reflective parenting and mentalization approaches.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In Private Practice I have worked online and in person as a therapist with adults, youth, children and families.  Working by zoom allows me to connect with clients all across Canada.  

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I am a clinical supervisor working with art therapists who are employed in a variety of different positions. 

 

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