Hello! My name is Lori and for over two decades, I’ve had the privilege of serving the Okanagan community. Initially, I worked as an educator and later transitioned to become a school counsellor and behavioural interventionist.
Supporting children in realizing their fullest potential has been a passion of mine since childhood. I am deeply fascinated by how children perceive and interact with the world. From my observations, I've noticed that when children endure pain, their behaviors often serve as expressions of that hurt. I firmly believe in the transformative power of play for children. Through play, children can naturally navigate their experiences, articulate their feelings, and find avenues for healing.
I am dedicated to guiding my clients, regardless of their age, towards inner peace, belonging, and profound healing. I aim to liberate them from the burdens of shame, guilt, and loneliness. As renowned vulnerability and shame expert Brené Brown beautifully expressed, "Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we'll ever do." Through compassionate counseling, I aim to create a safe space where children and parents can bravely confront their stories, embrace their vulnerabilities, and begin a journey towards healing and self-love.
In addition to my professional work, I have gained profound training through the experiences of raising two daughters who are now entering early adulthood. Witnessing their growth, learning, and self-discovery has been the greatest joy of my life. When I'm not helping others on their healing journeys, you can often find me enjoying the stunning views while hiking, exploring local wineries, reading, playing board games, or sharing moments of connection with friends and family over coffee or dinner.
Indigenous Cultural Safety Course – PHSA BC
Treating Anxious Families: Active and Process-Based Approaches to Get Families Moving -Lynn Lyons, LLC
CBT Essentials (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)-APT Canada
SFT Essentials-APT Canada
ACT workshop-APT Canada
Gottman Method Couples Therapy-Level 1 (Gottman Institute)
Dealing with Big Emotions – Seminar by Lori Fender (Counselor and SD#23 Behaviour Support Teacher)
Ross Greene's Collaborative and Proactive Model Workshop
Play is The Way: Teaching Social Emotional Skills Through Guided Play
Creating a Culture of Character: Encouraging Social Responsibility with Virtues
Methodology courses for all the core subjects.
Expertise & CareerPrimary Generalist Teacher with SD#23
School Counsellor and Behaviour Intervention Teacher with SD#23
Facilitator with Respectful Relationships Program
EducationMaster of Counselling from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA.
Master of Education (M.Ed) in Leadership and Administration from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA.
Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) in Educational Technology from Okanagan University College
Teacher Certification Program from Okanagan University College/Vancouver Island University
Regulating Emotions
Self Connection
Nervous System Rebalancing
Social-Emotional Skills, Coping Strategies, and Mindful Practices
Play and Expressive Therapies
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
Walk and talk (nature-based therapy-seasonal for adolescents/parents)
Trauma/Attachment Injuries
Healthy Relationship Skills
Divorce Support for Children
Parent Coaching and Support
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Grief and Loss
School Difficulties
50 Minute Session - $140
80 Minute Session - $210
50 Minute Session - $165 per DYAD / Family
80 Minute Session - $247 per DYAD / Family
Testimonials