Therapist
Chris is a registered clinical counsellor who provides in-person counselling to youth and adults within the Greater Vancouver area and virtually for folks living elsewhere within British Columbia. As a therapist, his ultimate goal is to help clients enhance resiliency in their lives. He sets out to accomplish this by engaging in a collaborative and strength based approach. He incorporates several different modalities and strategies based on each client's unique situation and preferences.
Speaker
Chris provides presentations to the general public as well as educators and other mental health professionals. Whether it’s in a school or corporate setting, he customizes the learning experience to fit the needs of the participants. Recognized for his creativity and humor he makes the presentations engaging and informative. He is currently offering 3 presentation topics: ‘Wellness 101’, ‘Anxiety: Our Super Power!’ and ‘How to Use Pop Culture for Positive Change’
Writer
Continuing education and learning is a pivotal component of being a therapist. Writing has provided Chris the opportunity to share ideas and knowledge rooted in research and experience. He is a regular contributor to PsycHealth and Psych Central. To read some of his current work please visit the ‘articles’ section listed above. Chris has also co-authored a children’s book called ‘The Ugly Christmas Sweater Rebellion.’ Scroll down to learn more!
Clinical Focus
Anxiety
Trauma
Chronic Pain
Substance Use
Depression
Modalities & Approaches
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Existential Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)
Positive Psychology
Mindfulness
Podcast
Chris along with three other practicing therapists (Dr. Brooke Lewis, Joanna Boyd, and Dr. Ryan Howes) created a podcast in 2020.
The format: after a casual check-in, one member ‘ambushes’ the other three with a mental health question to ponder and answer. If you want to have a listen, the ‘Mental Health Boot Camp Podcast’ is available on most platforms, including on Apple, Google and Spotify.
Ugly Christmas Sweater ™
Original Party
The year was 2002. Chris, along with friends Jordan and Scott, threw the cheesiest, most festive party imaginable. Ugly Christmas Sweaters were at the heart of the celebration, plus carolling, tree decorating, eggnog, music and of course—milk and cookies. The annual event grew in size before setting up shop at the Commodore Ballroom, attracting crowds of 1,000 for well over a decade. The Party is credited with starting the ‘ugly Christmas sweater’ trend that has spanned the globe.
Dash
Located each year in Port Moody B.C., the Ugly Christmas Sweater Dash is a family friendly 5km walk. With a complimentary ugly toque for each participant and lively warm-up dance and post Dash festival, the event quickly has turned into a holiday favorite for locals. The Party, along with the Dash, has raised around $225,000 for various charities.
Children’s Book
What better way to carry on the spirit of Christmas than through a heartfelt and fun book for kids?! The Ugly Christmas Sweater Rebellion book launched in November 2020. The story explores the true spirit of Christmas: to give, connect and be kind. To secure a copy, check out our website: here!