Commitment to Community

My Approach to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

Over the past few years, I’ve been hard at work examining my internal and external practices to provide affirming care in a welcoming, positive, and judgement-free space. I’m committed to continuous growth and learning to serve the diverse Bow Valley community better, and offer appropriate help and support for all individuals. Because everyone deserves to heal.

Here are just a few of the ways I’m delivering on my commitment:

Inclusivity

I explicitly welcome all individuals and focus on problem-solving, not appearance. I celebrate non-binary and gender-diverse individuals by using inclusive, gender-neutral language. I do not assume the sexuality of my clients. Nor do I assume relationship status. When we meet, you will be invited to share your name and pronouns. Any information you choose to share will remain confidential.

Confidentiality

I recognize that trans, transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse people may need extra care when handling IDs or legal forms. I am trained to act sensitively in these situations. I am also bound by confidentiality legislation in Alberta, so you can rest assured I will not share your personal information with a third party unless you consent to that disclosure.

That said, I have a duty to protect my clients and others from harm, and must report suspected child abuse or neglect. I may also be required to disclose client information in response to a court order or subpoena

Accessibility

Appointments are held online or in-person. Physical spaces within the building are gender-neutral. This includes a changing facility with additional security features. Unfortunately, the building is not accessible for wheelchair users. Virtual appointments are available. Please let me know if you require additional assistance with technology, and I will gladly make arrangements.

Training and Education

I recognize that 2SLGBTQ+ folks are often asked to educate others. I commit to alleviating marginalized populations from the burden of education as much as possible by participating in regular awareness and sensitivity training.

My training to date, and future commitment to training, includes:

  • Cultural Diversity in Counselling. 5-week program completed in November 2023.

  • Counselling Queer Clients. 3-hour webinar completed in February 2024.

  • Global History of Sex and Gender: Bodies and Power in the Modern World. 16-hour program due to be completed in March 2024.

  • Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Training. Training dates delivered by Bow Valley Pride Network are TBC.

Reconciliation

I acknowledge historical and ongoing injustices and disparities within the healthcare system, and am working to decolonize my practice. My approach is trauma-informed and people-centred, with a focus on equity and inclusivity. Discrimination has no place here.

I work hard to ensure my services are accessible and effective for everyone, without exception, but recognize that some individuals may have needs that I cannot meet. If you have specific needs that you do not see addressed here, please let me know. Together, we can make a plan or find a cognitive hypnotherapist who is a better fit for you.

Land Acknowledgement

The First Step to Freedom Cognitive Hypnotherapy is located on sacred, stolen land, stewarded by generations of Indigenous Peoples including the Îyârhe Nakoda Nations of Chiniki, Goodstoney, and Bearspaw, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, the Kainai, Siksika, and Piikani nations of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) Confederacy, and Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III. As a mental health practitioner, I acknowledge historical and ongoing injustices and disparities within the healthcare system as I work to decolonize my practice, guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action.

*Disclaimer: Please note outcomes may vary individually and advertised results are not guarantees.

In the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation, I acknowledge that I live and work on sacred, stolen land, stewarded by generations of Indigenous Peoples including the Îyârhe Nakoda Nations of Chiniki, Goodstoney, and Bearspaw, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, the Kainai, Siksika, and Piikani nations of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) Confederacy, and Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III. As a mental health practitioner, I acknowledge historical and ongoing injustices and disparities within the healthcare system as I work to decolonize my practice, guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action.