Counselling Intern

Education

MC (Counselling) – City University in Canada (Pending)
Advanced Child and Adolescent Mental Health Practice – Douglas College
BA (Psychology) – Simon Fraser University

Special Interests

Anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, chronic pain, child and youth mental health

Certificates and Special Training

DBT Skills with Marsha Linehan
CHI School – Child Mindfulness and Meditation
Connect Parent Attachment Group

About Sonja

I have spent the past two decades supporting adolescents and their families through mental health crises in both community and hospital settings. Through these experiences, I’ve realized the importance of early intervention, which led me to pursue the path of a clinical counsellor.

I hold the belief that each of us is striving to do our best with the skills and knowledge that we have. Life’s challenges and emotional struggles are part of the journey, and sometimes, they require additional support. Guided by a person-centred and trauma-informed approach, my goal is to provide a safe, respectful and nonjudgmental space where individuals can navigate these challenges, learn new skills and find the support they need to manage and thrive. I am excited to bring my experience and compassion to this internship, with the aim of fostering positive change and growth for those I have the honour of walking alongside with.

When and why did Sonja join Alongside You?

I wanted to offer counselling services in a practice that takes a holistic approach to mental health, and, as a Delta resident, somewhere that invests in the well-being of my community’s members. Alongside You meets these internship goals and is the perfect fit to complete the last part of my Master of Counselling journey. I am excited to be joining the team in September 2023.

How do you relax when you are outside of work?

As a mom of two busy kiddos, I am unsure if “relax” is currently in my vocabulary. However, I do ensure I engage in daily self-care practices, including mindfulness activities and physical exercise, and make space for what I love most; spending time with my family, walking my rescue pup, and, if time permits, watching a baseball game or reading a good book at the beach.

What would you be doing if you did not pursue the career path you have right now?

From a young age, I knew I would spend my career helping others. I can’t really imagine doing anything different, but if I had to choose, I’d combine my love of travel with my love of writing and become a travel writer.

What do you consider the most important value?

For me, as an intern, the most important values in counselling are integrity, respect and kindness. They guide my approach, ensuring I maintain trust through integrity, create a safe space through respect and foster authentic connections through kindness. These values inspire me to offer genuine support and guidance to my clients as they navigate their wellness journey.