Jona (she/her) believes in the power of connection. Humans are not meant to struggle nor celebrate alone in this life’s journey – there is value in shared human experiences. This is why Jona is committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental counselling space that makes an individual feel that they are not alone in their journey. Her aim is to provide a supportive role in the counselling process as she believes that every single person who finds themselves in a counselling space possesses expertise, resilience, and strengths towards their wellness and recovery. Jona is committed in supporting adults, children, new parents, couples and families to gain and apply coping skills, distress management, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Jona holds a master’s degree in Social Work from Windsor University in Ontario and is a Registered Social Worker in British Columbia. Jona has over 11 years of experience in children’s mental health, attachment, parenting supports, early intervention as well as years of experience in individual, children, couples and family counselling. She also had experience in community development work both locally and internationally. Prior to her post-graduate studies, Jona received a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and Family Support from Toronto Metropolitan University. She also has a professional certificate in infant mental health from York University.
Jona offers accessible and engaging online sessions for children (minimum 9 years of age) and adults. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Attachment Theory, Systems Theory, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Play Therapy and Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT) perspectives in her counselling process. Jona’s therapeutic theoretical approach is rooted in relationship-centred, cultural humility, anti-oppressive and person-centered and strength-based frameworks.
We know that struggles happen in family systems, not individuals. This is why Jona always provides parents with supportive coaching to explore their own patterns in the family system. When scheduling appointments for clients between the ages of 9-16 years old, Jona requires parents or caregivers to schedule a 25-minute counselling appointment within a week of their child’s counselling session.
Jona is a curious and life-long learner who is passionate about community building, and personal and professional growth. In her spare time, she loves to travel, go for a walk/hike, explore coffee shops, and listen to her favourite podcasts (such as Mindshift and In the Light).
Jona’s informed consent form can be found here.
