About
Susannah-Joy specializes in therapy for trauma, including Acute Stress Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Complex Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, and Developmental Trauma. She has extensive experience locally and globally working with survivors of motor vehicle accidents, First Responders, adult survivors of childhood abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, & psychological) victims of violent crime, intimate partner violence, refugees, military (active duty & retired), victims of war, and human rights abuses. Susannah-Joy holds safe and confidential space for people wounded by life to process and resolve painful experiences which have impacted quality of life. Focusing on the specific needs of each individual client or couple, she brings 30+ years of experience to the therapy room, a huge toolbox of techniques and interventions, and unshakeable compassion throughout the process.
Her interest in trauma blossomed early. In grade 7 her exasperated teacher said, "I have nothing more for you to do. That boy is failing. Make it different." Thus she began tutoring at 12 years old. Unable to name it then, Susannah-Joy came to recognize that many individuals are traumatized through no fault of their own in the effort to get an education. This experience led her to pursue an understanding of trauma in all its forms and she continually adds to her knowledge and experience as a specialist in this area of clinical practice.
Fun fact: Susannah-Joy thinks one of the best things in the world is spying on fishes. So far, she's been able to snorkel while visiting Egypt, St. Kitts & Nevis, the Maldives, and Belize. The next thing on her Bucket List is 'Learning to SCUBA dive with the Opasons'.
KelownaNow In Focus featuring Susannah-Joy (09/2016)
KelownaNow In Focus featuring Susannah-Joy (11/2019)
The Manbits Podcast #25 Men and Suicide
Qualifications
2018
Diploma of Applied Psychology and Counselling
Specialization in the Practice of Psychotherapy
2005
Diploma of Professional Counselling
2004
Master of Religious Education (non-traditional)
Professional Credentials
Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC)
Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling (MPCC)
Certified Complex Trauma Professional (CCTP-II)
Diplomate, American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress
Qualified Clinical Supervisor (Canada)
Approved Clinical Supervisor (US)
Approved Provider – Crime Victim Assistance Program
Adjunct Instructor ~ Kelowna College of Professional Counselling
Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA)
Member #1901
Association of Counselling Therapy of Alberta (ACTA)
Member #1171
International Association of Trauma Professionals (IATP
Member #292-28126
American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress (AAETS)
Member #5178
Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE-Global)
Member #ACS01238
Member (2017-2019) – Registration Process Working Group, FACT-BC
National Registrar (2015-2017) Canadian Professional Counsellors Association
Past President (2013-2015) Middle East Psychological Association
Founding Member (2010) Middle East Psychological Association
Past President (2005-2007) BC Chapter, Canadian Professional Counsellors Association
