Welcome
It’s not unusual for people to occasionally experience difficulty navigating stressful events or challenging circumstances in their lives, which can put strain on careers, relationships, and one’s sense of competence and well-being. Working through such difficulty by opening up to someone close — be it a family member, dear friend, or trusted colleague — can be difficult, if not impossible. Having someone who is objective, impartial, and informed to consult with can help foster the confidence and fortitude needed to make important life changes and resolute decisions. I can fill this role for you and help you gain the clarity, insight, and perspective that you need to move ahead in your life and reach your full potential.
NEW PERSPECTIVE
With my background as a professor of psychiatry and psychotherapy training director, I offer a unique perspective to my clients. That informed and objective perspective enables my clients to look at their lives, careers, and relationships differently and see new opportunities. My experience and training help bring clarity to complex situations, the compassion and professionalism to develop and maintain trusting and confidential relationships, and the skills to develop effective solutions.
CLIENTS
My consulting services are intended to help individuals in various areas of their lives; for example, gaining more clarity and perspective during life and career transitions; navigating relationship issues; confronting existential issues; making difficult decisions; and learning strategies for overcoming the obstacles that stand in your way.
I have a particular interest and experience in working with elite athletes, focusing on early transitions into professional sports (or high-performance sport environment) and transition away from an athletic career when it comes to an end.
MY APPROACH
I approach each client in a non-judgmental manner, being sensitive to the circumstances of their issues, and empathic to their experiences. Clients can expect to work within a collaborative relationship. Together, we will clarify the primary issue(s) to be dealt with, set concrete and attainable goals, and regularly appraise your progress.
ABOUT ME
I am a Professor and Director of the Psychotherapy Program in the Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia. In my role as Director, I oversee the operations of one of North America’s largest medically based psychotherapy training program. My research has been supported by various provincial and national funding bodies, and has led to more than 250 publications. I am the Founder of HeadsUpGuys, a leading global resource for men with depression.
Training: Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of British Columbia; PhD, University of Alberta; BA, University of Calgary.
Book Consult
Getting started is as easy as an introductory email message to book an initial appointment. You can feel confident that I take every request for appointment very seriously, and will commit my experience, knowledge, and energy to assist you.
Consultation sessions are typically 50 minutes, once-per-week. However, depending on your circumstances, we can consider a schedule of less or more frequent sessions.
Don’t be discouraged from reaching out if you feel the issues that you’re struggling with are somewhat ambiguous or difficult to put your finger on. This is quite common.
Some clients are unsure of what they want or where they want to head, but know that they feel “stuck” or “lost”. Others may know what they want but aren’t sure of how to get there. Some people just want an objective evaluation of their circumstances and specific guidance, as well as accountability. I’ll work with you to clarify your needs and develop a strategy for resolution.