WE ARE
NIKKI & CRYSTAL

I hold a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work, a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and thirty-one years of experience working with children, youth, adults and families. Registered and in good standing with the B.C. College of Social Workers since 2006 (registration #08815), the BC Association of Social Workers, the Canadian Association of Social Workers, (registration # 1007113), EMDRIA, (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing International Association #100072535) and recently completed 200 hours of Restorative/Somatic Yoga Teacher Training. 

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When I think about the comments on my high school report cards, it was clear what profession I was suited for. “Nikki is a good student, but grades would be better if she spent less time socializing with peers”. I was listening and (admittedly) talking, but, with my friends, we were maneuvering our way through the trials and tribulations of teenage-hood. Listening, reflecting, seeking to understand, and helping others has always come naturally. When I began my education in the Social Service Program at the age of 18, I knew I was where I belong. 31 years later, I am still exactly where I am meant to be.

 

My journey has lead me to certification in Choice Theory Counselling Certification, (1995), Bachelor of Social Work (2002), Masters of Social Work (2007), and various other certifications, including Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (1993), STEP-WISE interviewing (2002), SAFE Assessment (2005), EMDR Therapy Certification, (2000), EMDR Therapy Training, (Addiction, Dissociation, Grief, OCD).

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As the Coordinator of RCMP Victim Services in Mackenzie, BC, (1993-1999), the courageous survivors of crime and trauma taught me about endurance and strength in the face of powerlessness and loss. Child protection social work in Prince George, BC (2002-2005) showed how resilient children are while proving how oppression, marginalization and unhealed trauma are barriers to families providing the best for their loved ones. Adoption social work (2002-present) solidified my understanding of the power of choice, love, and tenacity in adversity. As a college educator (2009-2017) I was inspired by the intrinsic motivation that call people to the profession. My work as a clinical counsellor at an in-patient, residential treatment center for addiction (2017-2019) taught me how connection, vulnerability and openness result in self-compassion, freedom from shame and changed behavior. 

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As a client-centered, structural therapist, I use various modalities including EMDR Therapy to assist people struggling with critical incidents, grief, intergenerational and complex trauma.  As a post-secondary educator, I was the Social Services instructor for the following courses: addiction, advanced communication skills, self-care, group process and practice, social welfare policy, community development, child welfare policy, techniques for working with children and youth. In addition, I have been the educational supervisor for approximately 150 students entering the field of social work.

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As enriching as my professional journey has been, the greatest learning about hope, courage, trust and commitment has come from my children, (who are no longer children), and 3 little ones (who are no longer little) we were lucky to provide foster-care for. I am a proud spouse, mom, mom-in-law, and Grandma to a beautiful Grandson and Granddaughter. Our children joined our family through the gift of adoption. In the professional world, our family is referred to as a cross-cultural, older-child, high-needs, sibling group that was high-risk. Our family journey hasn’t always been easy, but the challenges are worth the struggle. 

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With compassion and a genuine desire to see people live their lives happy and content, I bring authenticity, non-judgment, safety and connection to my practice. I enjoy fishing, knitting, gardening and planting. I live in the Kootenays with my incredible husband, dogs, cats, and horses where we all share a love of hiking, exploring, and spending time in the fabulous rocky mountains.