Jessica Keras, Student Intern

Hello, my name is Jess, and it is nice to meet you! 

I am a passionate intern counsellor who cares about people's happiness. I believe in being understanding and kind and adjusting my approach based on what you want from our time together. 

I work from a perspective that focuses on the person and their experiences, and I know how difficult experiences can affect people. I help people who are 12 years and older deal with feelings of worry, anxiety, sadness, depression, and big life changes. I think it is important to set achievable goals that match what you believe in, what's important to you, and where you come from. With me, you'll feel comfortable, not judged, and you'll have a safe place to move forward at your own speed. 

In my work, I make space where you can talk about your thoughts and feelings freely and explore what's inside you. I want to understand what you are going through and encourage us to talk openly with each other. I think that accepting and learning about yourself is important! You can think of me as a safe and welcoming place where you can grow and heal. It is important to be open and kind to yourself during this healing process. Like Max Ehrmann said: "Be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here." 

When I am not working, I love going to greenhouses (also known as the plant shelter) to look at and sometimes buy plants for my collection. I enjoy spending time digging in the soil and helping plants grow healthy! And when I am not doing that, I often hang out at the local playground with my nephew, playing games like hide and seek! 

Credentials: 

I've been helping people since 2010. I have worked with seniors, people who don't have homes, people struggling with addiction, young people, parents, families, and kids. I have a degree in Social Work, and I'm officially recognized by the British Columbia College of Social Workers: Registration #12452.