I am a professional member (#2058) in good standing with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapist of Canada (ACCT). I completed my Master’s degree (MA) through the University of San Diego (SDSU) in 2003. I continue to regularly upgrade my professional knowledge through a variety of professional development workshops, consultation and clinical supervision, particularly in the areas of CBT and pain management.
My experience and training in a variety of counselling settings has allowed me to develop expertise in working with many therapeutic concerns. My practice focuses on (but is not limited to) patients dealing with chronic pain and needing support with the accompanying life challenges and stress management (including workplace stress). I also support women during the peri-menopause/menopause transition & with facing the emotional toll taken by health related issues.
I began my counselling journey in 1994, as a Crisis Line counsellor with the Vancouver Crisis Centre. I continued my crisis counselling work in 2001 with the South Fraser Crisis Line. These experiences led me to work with the Surrey Community Services Drop-in counselling in 2002 and to full-time counselling with the Surrey school District from 2005, where I still work, currently as a District Resource Counsellor.
My story
I was born and raised in Quebec City and moved to BC on my own at 19, while a member of the Canadian Armed Forces. I travelled throughout Central America before graduating from Simon Fraser University In 1993 (I completed my graduate studies in 2003). My husband and I have raised three awesome kids, who are now young adults finding their own way in the world. Not having close family nearby, particularly when facing some real parenthood challenges, was at times incredibly difficult. To be able to be there for others, I have had to learn to walk the talk: taking care of myself and seeking out support/consult at different points in my own life. In my time off, I enjoy the outdoors, particularly walks with my dog.
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“I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better.” M. A.
Brigitte Bourassa 