BSW Registration Pending with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
Disability
Affirming, Empowering, Consent-Based Care
I am passionate about supporting Disabled folks to build a life based on acceptance of limits, a good ability to self advocate and a solid understanding of the value of adequate accommodation. I work with clients to build a life that is based on self knowledge, self-acceptance and that de-constructs self limiting internalized ableism.
Physical Energy and Why it Matters
For many folks who are disabled physical energy may be impacted by their disability creating challenges at work and at home. I work with clients to establish sustainable frameworks, improve boundaries and reduce demands to address energy concerns.
When the People Around you Just Don't Get it
One of the challenges for people living with disability can be a lack of understanding from friends, family, workplaces and school. I work with clients to facilitate setting boundaries, gaining insight into the impacts of disability in your own life, and working with you to support relationships.
The Challenges of Hidden Disability
While some disabilities are immediately obvious, others are invisible. Some people who are neurodivergent, or living with mental health issues, or chronic pain, or fatigue may not immediately present as disabled. For some people this means that they are able to maintain privacy about their challenges and may provide some comfort. Other people experience diminishment from the world around them in the form of misunderstandings and erasure.
Gaslighting
I work with clients to process gaslighting in their lives. For some disabled people, members of their family, members of the medical profession, even friends can minimize the impact of disability, it's frequency or the pain or exhaustion that may be present. This minimization can lead clients to feel distress and sadness. I work with clients to process these emotions and to use coping skills to reduce the impact of other's thoughts and opinions.
