Hello!
Reaching out for counselling help can be one of the scariest things a person can do. And then, meeting with a complete stranger and sharing the most intimate and personal details of your life can be even more terrifying! I’m hopeful that by learning a little bit about me, you might feel more comfortable in taking those first big steps!
I have worked in the helping field since the age of 14, starting as a volunteer candy striper with the Chinook Regional Hospital. My mom was a nurse and I knew that helping others was also my passion, but I wanted to do so in a different way. I also volunteered with the Lethbridge Police Service Victim/Witness unit.
I completed my Bachelor degree in Social Work and after practicing for about 20 years, completed my Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. I completed further supervision and obtained my designation as a Registered Clinical Social Worker.
I am trained number of counselling strategies, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness skills, which I often use as a beginning place to help people manage the anxiety and fear, especially when coming to counselling for the first time.
Working with people who have experienced trauma is my passion and area of expertise. I am trained in several counselling strategies to treat trauma, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
I recently retired from working with Alberta Health Services, where I worked in the mental health and addiction programs for the past 20 years. I am excited to be able to devote my time to working with clients who come to our office.
In my spare time, I enjoy camping in the BC mountains with my spouse and our dogs. I also have a grandson who reminds me of how to focus on the simple things in life and have fun! I also have a slight addiction to sparkly things and the colour purple!! J
Coming for counselling can be challenging, as you are facing things in your life that may be causing stress. My goal is to help you address those things in your own way. I see my role as an educator, supporter, and listener, providing tools and ideas as needed. I consider it an honour to be a part of your life
journey and hope that together, we can make it a positive experience and good outcomes for you. You can learn more about Crystal on her full website: crystalhartmancounselling.ca
