We are excited to share a conversation with Lisa, a compassionate and dedicated member of our staff whose work is deeply rooted in a passion for authentic human connection. Specializing in couples counselling and grief and bereavement, she helps her clients navigate both the joys and challenges of relationships, as well as the intense pain of loss. Lisa’s work is driven by a deep desire to help others and love for facilitating personal growth. Through her insightful answers, Lisa shares more about her journey into the profession, her approach to counselling, and her own personal interests.
What drew you to this profession?
I was drawn to the counselling profession out of a desire to help others and a passion for fostering meaningful, authentic connections. I have always placed great value on relationships as I have often experienced my greatest successes, lessons, challenges, and appreciations in relation to them. Although my journey to ICC pivoted through various professions, having spent some time many years ago working in sales and hospitality, I feel that counselling served as a natural destination for it married my passion for personal growth with deep desire to support and connect with others.
What mental health concerns are you most passionate about treating? What is it about these areas that interests you?
The value I place on human connection largely inspires two key areas of speciality: couples counselling and grief and bereavement counselling. I have come to learn that many of us can unite in our desire to seek and attain meaningful, loving relationships and relate to the despair that comes from losing those we love. I feel beyond privileged in my ability to support and walk alongside the most courageous, insightful individuals as they develop their ability to foster enhanced connection, and/or process and move forward from significant loss.
What modalities are you most drawn to? If you use multiple ones, is there one or two that you would consider your “bread and butter”?
To support my work, I draw heavily upon the Gottman Method and Attachment theory while integrating various modalities and specialized trainings including CBT, SFBT, certified grief training, and strength-based counselling. More than anything I remain committed in a desire to grow skills and develop newfound knowledge and understanding so that I can support each client as best as possible.
What is something you’ve learned in your work as a counsellor? Has there been anything that has surprised you?
I am forever moved and inspired by the commitment and resilience that I witness daily when working in this field and have grown immensely in my own abilities and relationships from witnessing such strength.
When you are not at work, what do you enjoy doing? What hobbies or activities are part of your regular routine?
Outside of work, I am all about family and can often be found exploring various parts of this beautiful island with my husband, daughter, and German Shepard fur baby. Next to family I am an avid animal lover who is also a huge NFL fan …go Bengals!!
Lisa works out of our North Nanaimo office on Mondays and Thursdays and the Downtown office on some Saturdays. If you feel she would be a good fit for you, please book a free consultation through either location.
Written by Cat Zydyk