About
I started my career as a lawyer in Mi’kmaq territory, where I was admitted to the practice in 1995. I continued my career as a lawyer initially in Snuneymuxw territory, in what is widely known as Nanaimo, British Columbia, where I was admitted to the practice in 2014. I relocated to Lekwungen territory, widely known as Victoria, British Columbia, in 2016. I now live in Coast Salish territory, home to the T’Sou-ke Nation, in what is widely known as Sooke, British Columbia. I’ve practiced law on both coasts of Northern Turtle Island, widely known as Canada, assisting clients through family law matters, criminal proceedings, and representing survivors of institutional abuse (physical and sexual abuse experienced in institutional settings like prisons and churches). I have also practiced labour law and employment law.
I developed Create Your Freedom Portfolio in 2004 and I’ve been coaching people towards claiming their freedom by moving into their own dream of why they are here ever since.
My work in coaching started when a few of the professionals I was working with on some health issues asked me what I was doing to move through things so quickly and suggested assisting others. I came up with a journey of 9 steps that I began walking people through. That’s how Create Your Freedom Portfolio was born. In Create Your Freedom Portfolio, I first guide you deep within to the essence of who you are and what gives your life meaning. From there we move to supporting the manifestation of what you uniquely bring to the world.
I also offer Intuitive Coaching, which is a very fluid, client-driven approach to supporting you with whatever intention or goal you have set for yourself.
Over the years, I have worked in the non-profit/social enterprise sector. My work in that sector has included:
- project management of novel pilot projects using a peer-based approach to encourage residents of the downtown eastside of Vancouver to make improvements to health and housing in their neighbourhood
- working as an Executive Director for a child and youth serving organization
- working as a Consultant, developing board governance tools within organizations
- acting as the Chair of a Board of Directors for a mental health serving organization
- developing Social Enterprises (for profit organizations with a social and/or environmental purpose)
- working for the Canadian Bar Association, BC Branch as a writer and policy lawyer on law and policy reform initiatives
In June, 2021, I obtained certification as a legal coach.
My work as a lawyer has included:
- working in a mid-sized firm
- working in a few small firms (including a feminist, social justice law firm)
- working as a sole practitioner at my own firm
In 2018, I was diagnosed with an early stage breast cancer. I learned so much about true health in my recovery using minimal surgery, combined with a strong emphasis on naturopathic, homeopathic, and spiritual approaches to healing. I have never felt better in my life and the improvements I feel are backed up by the test results I have been receiving. Working with Shauna Janz on somatic practices, grief and loss, and ancestral healing and reclamation have also been instrumental over the last number of years.
What I have found along the way is that if we are given the right support at the right time we can grow and flourish throughout our lives. I have had many friends and teachers along the way. I know that life is better when we are able to live more fully into who we are and experience the true freedom of sharing our gifts with others in ways that are deeply satisfying. Supporting others in stepping into this way of life is my greatest joy and honour.