MY STORY

Growing up in the Kootenays, I experienced the values associated with small town living and a close-knit community. I was born and raised in Trail, BC, a smelting town that had some limitations but also provided good experiences and opportunities to engage in many activities and sports. As a result of my upbringing, I feel I have an inclusive and empathic demeanour that lends itself to being outgoing and caring for those around me.

After graduating high school, I pursued my undergraduate studies with a science-related focus. I started with physiotherapy and switched to a general biology degree with the thoughts of becoming a teacher or nurse. Upon reflection, I feel I have always been innately drawn to working in a helping profession. As such, this led me to teaching English in South Korea and Japan. Upon returning to Canada, I completed my Education degree and I began my teaching career in Creston in 2006.

Through 10+ years of teaching and coaching, I connected with students and was fascinated with their life stories. Moving from a classroom teacher to a school counsellor, to fully meet the needs of students, I recognized I needed to enhance my knowledge and skills in this area. In 2017, I was accepted at the University of Lethbridge to complete my graduate degree in counselling psychology. Accepting this challenge to try something new invigorated me and helped with my growth along my life’s journey. I completed my graduate studies in 2020 and now have a Master of Counselling (MC) degree in applied counselling with a focus in counselling psychology.

My wife and I have known each other since 2000 and have been married for 15+ years.  We have two amazing kids who light up our lives and mean the world to us. Our dog is full of energy and our cat keeps to herself - we love them both and they complete our family. I am grateful for our family and am often reminded that becoming a parent is the most challenging and rewarding work I have done.

Finding a semblance of balance in life is not always easy; however, setting aside time for myself to recharge is paramount. To unwind, I like being outside in nature; I like to play hockey or ski in the winter and go camping and swimming at the lake/river in the summer. Engaging in these activities, and connecting with family and friends, keeps me mindful of the personal work I need to do on an ongoing basis.

Thank you for getting to know me, I look forward to learning more about you!

~ Mike