Erica Howes
Registered Social Worker
As a Registered Social Worker, Erica understands individuals are impacted by the multiple systems within which they are centered. In effort to unpack these complexities, Erica engages with clients to explore their perceptions, strengthen their relationships, and develop meaningful life goals based on an understanding of personalized core values. This is done through the creation of a safe, empathetic, and collaborative space. Erica believes that resiliency is embedded within the human spirit.
As a specialist in the mental health field, Erica supports adults suffering with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance misuse, grief & loss, and complex mental health disorders. Her core belief is that each individual carries inherent strengths and it is through the curious exploration of these inner resiliencies that change, growth, and acceptance can be cultivated.
Erica is currently in training as a Somatic Experiencing (SE) practitioner, which is a body oriented therapeutic approach. SE aims to resolve symptoms of stress, shock, and trauma that accumulate in our bodies. When we are stuck in patterns of fight, flight, or freeze, SE helps us release, recover, and become more resilient.
In addition to SE, Erica draws from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). CBT is a time-sensitive, structured, and present-oriented form of counselling that focuses on problem solving and teaching individuals how to modify these unhelpful thinking patterns. ACT is an evidence-based approach that seeks to transform the root sources of human suffering by balancing mindfulness and acceptance processes with commitment and behaviour change in the service moving towards a life aligned with individualised values.
Erica’s methods also incorporate mindfulness, nature, anti-oppressive, and strength based practices.
From a trauma informed lens, Erica understands that when individuals experience harm, stressful situations, or life transitions, it is not uncommon for complex reactions to develop. Although suffering is a human experience, the individual journey towards wellbeing is intrinsically unique. Working collaboratively, you and Erica will find a modality best suited to your individualised needs.
How will your life be different after seeing Erica?
- You will gain a deeper awareness of your whole self, including what is happening in your body and how to balance your sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system.
- Recognition of unhelpful thinking patterns and how to use this awareness to strengthen decision making and change behaviour patterns.
- The ability to manage difficult emotions and life circumstances.
- Understanding of your unique values and strengths and how these can help you achieve your personalised goals.
History and Training:
Erica has worked in the mental health field for more than 8 years supporting individuals with complex mental health needs. She holds a Bachelors of Social Work Degree from Thompson Rivers University and a Masters of Social Work Degree from University of British Columbia (Okanagan Campus). She has been a Registered Social Worker with the B.C. College of Social Workers since 2017.
Social Work Theories draw from psychology, philosophy, economics, education and other fields to attempt to explain what drives and motivates people at various stages of life. There is no one element that shapes our experiences, rather, what Social Work has taught Erica, is that it is the multifaceted intersection of systems and impacts that need to be considered. This is particularly insightful when considering trauma, relationships, life transitions, and mental health. A wholistic understanding is required in order to shape the path forward.
Professional Memberships:
- British Columbia College of Social Workers
- British Columbia Association of Social Workers
- Canadian Association of Social Workers
Currently offering weekday availability. Please get in touch to learn more.