Shauna Paynter
Registered Clinical Counsellor
As a RCC, Registered Clinical Counsellor, I am equipped to support individuals experiencing generalized anxiety, post-traumatic stress syndrome and depression using Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). This empirically-proven method of intervention focuses on discovering and understanding your values. We then refine these down to your CORE values and it is from here that we base your goals and actions. I specialize in ADHD and support many individuals & families within this realm. I am a member of the Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance.
How will your life be different after seeing me?
- Ability to accept and make space for your anxiety and other difficult emotions.
- Clarity during decision making- doing what is right for you and staying true to who you are despite difficult circumstances.
- Knowing exactly what your core values are, what you stand for and why.
- The ability to create meaningful personal goals and take effective action toward those goals.
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy
Woven throughout ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy) is mindfulness. Mindfulness training is a big part of ACT, which effectively addresses issues of emotional regulation, self-regulation including the Pause, Notice, Accept of what might be flowing through us in any given moment. Tools for dealing with crisis situations or overwhelming anxiety are covered and practiced. Breathing in, I notice my suffering. Breathing out, I smile at my suffering.
Scientifically Trained
I have earned two Bachelor degrees, one in Science and the other in Education. My BSc is focused in Biology, from the University of British Columbia.
I taught high school science for 16 years prior to becoming a therapist. I am very somatically based in my practice. Furthermore, completion of a Master of Art in Transpersonal Psychology, has brought me to a deep knowing of what it means to effectively serve and support others in need.
I trained for two additional years under the supervision of Dr. Natalie Rogers, the daughter of Carl Rogers. Under her direction, I obtained my certification as an Expressive Art Therapist.
Autism As Lived-Experience
As part of my work in this world, I apply Acceptance & Commitment Therapy and Training to families raising a child (or children) diagnosed with autism or other pervasive developmental disorders. As a mother myself, with two sons diagnosed with autism, I possess direct lived experience of navigating through chaos and difficult behaviours. I had to first learn how to manage my own beliefs, anxieties, depressions and grief as a parent faced with ubiquitous challenges.
University Professor
Teaching for Seattle City University, I am able to continue my passion for supporting others in education. In this program I teach teachers who are striving to become school counsellors within the Master of Education School Counsellor Program. I specialize in Group Counselling and Management.
I also teach for a non-profit organization called, NOW Canada within their Essentials Program.
Published Works
Fractus Learning, an educational website based out of Ireland. Applestory, a children’s book addressing behaviour and connection with others.
The Journal of Creative Aging, I wrote an article titled, “Cultivating a Kind Sanctuary”.
Professional Active Memberships
BC Association of Clinical Counsellors
International Family Therapy Association
International Expressive Arts Association
BC Teachers Federation
Association for Contextual Behavioural Science
Canadian Association for Child & Play Therapy
Currently offering weekday availability. Please get in touch to learn more.