Get to Know Me

When I was in my early 20s, I couldn’t understand why I felt anxious, sad and angry a lot of the time. I had difficulties maintaining relationships and had very low self-esteem. 

When a Quest Institute Cognitive Hypnotherapist came into my life, I was able to turn things around. As I worked through past trauma and learned valuable tools, my self-esteem and confidence grew. I could manage my anxiety and I felt happier. I was finally able to develop deep and meaningful relationships, and over time, my insecurities diminished. My company name, The First Step to Freedom, echoes this journey where it all started with one step. A phone call that led me to find freedom from the things that were weighing me down.

I’m originally from the UK and I qualified as a Cognitive Hypnotherapist with the Quest Institute at Regents University London in 2014 after my therapist suggested I train for both personal and professional development. I have lived in Three Sisters, Canmore (Chuwapchipchiyan Kudi Bi) with my partner since 2015, enjoying all the beauty and fun that the Bow Valley has to offer. We now have a puppy who keeps us busy in the mountains and lakes.

As a mental health practitioner, I’m committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and judgment-free space. I recognize and celebrate the unique qualities and experiences that each individual brings to the therapeutic process. And I’ll work with you to address your concerns using a holistic approach that respects your individuality. Learn more about my approach to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility.

Since training as a Cognitive Hypnotherapist and building a local business within the Bow Valley community, my life has changed in so many positive and powerful ways.  I hope your journey to wellness does the same for you, too.

Discover My Biggest Tip for Managing Stress

In this 5-minute interview, I speak with Laura Lohk at the Quest Institute. We discuss my specialities as a Cognitive Hypnotherapist, why I became a hypnotherapist and what my biggest tip is to help you manage stress and anxiety.

Questions? Get in touch with me  – I'd love to chat.

Qualifications and training

• Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology - Yorkville University, Canada

• Hypnotherapist Practitioner Diploma (HPD) - National Council of Hypnotherapy

• Diploma in Cognitive Hypnotherapy - The Quest Institute

• Master NLP Practitioner - The Quest Institute

• BSc (Hons) Psychology - The Open University

• Accredited Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) Practitioner - EFT International    

• The Simmons Method: Smoking Cessation Specialist Training – The Simmons Clinic

• Trauma Informed Practice Training: Level 1 – The Trauma Informed Practice Institute

• Teaching Trauma Informed Mindfulness Training – Center for adolescent studies

• New Hope for Treatment-Resistant Depression Training – Envision Learning Platform with Dr Janina Fisher

I am a member of the Quest Institute (QCHPA), Professional Board of Hypnotherapy, National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH), Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) and Association for Emotional Freedom Technique (EFTi).