4 years’ experience

Specialisations

• Complex trauma (attachment, relational and developmental issues)

• Trauma-related symptoms/diagnoses

• Sexual abuse

• Eating disorders

• Teens and children

Clinical approaches

Trauma-informed, Relational Art Therapy, Internal Family Systems Theory, NARM (NeuroAffective Relational Model)

Cheryl is available for teams and group art therapy only.

Cheryl was practising as a clinical counsellor in the UK when she became curious about approaches which address the somatic impact of complex trauma. This eventually led her to discover art therapy as the missing piece in facilitating healing; a creative path which acknowledges that words are not always possible, or necessary.  

Cheryl offers a strengths-based, non-pathologizing approach. She works on the premise that we are wounded within the context of relationship, and we heal within relationship. She concurs with neurobiological evidence that trauma is held in the body and that the neuroplasticity of the brain means that creating new neural pathways through positive attachments is possible. She is convinced that connection and compassion facilitate this healing process. 

Cheryl is intent on holding hope and offering empowerment in addressing the impact of the past on the present and welcomes those with trauma-related diagnoses. She integrates Internal Family Systems theory into her art therapy practice, believing that problems occur when the internal system is in conflict and that each part of an individual needs to be welcomed and validated. Cheryl is also a certified NARM therapist. NARM (The NeuroAffective Relational Model) is specifically designed for working with complex trauma by addressing the attachment patterns that cause life-long psychobiological symptoms and interpersonal difficulties.   

Cheryl is a mother of four and has worked in various roles within the care profession for the past 30 years, including as a senior residential social worker in a therapeutic unit for severely abused children. She is passionate about the power of creativity in healing from trauma.

Cheryl’s services are covered by Crime Victim Assistance Program, and the BC Autism fund. She is a registered member of the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists, so many insurance companies fund therapy with her including Sunlife, and Pacific Blue Cross.