Stewart Cranston

A Note from Stewart…

I often work with survivors of trauma and those who have been negatively impacted by the meaningful relationships in their lives - people who may experience difficulty with their emotions, find themselves trapped in interpersonal conflicts, and experience strong emotions like shame, hopelessness, anger, and losses of meaning and belonging. I compassionately work with clients to understand and accept what their thoughts and feelings are trying to do for them, rather than to label them good or bad in an effort to avoid or control them. The goal is to foster self-compassion and psychological flexibility so that clients can be more adaptive within relationships, and freely engaged with life in a way that fits their essence and values. One of my strengths is my ability to safely hold space for strong emotions and dissociation while remaining present and supportive in the therapy room. Another is to engage in philosophical, existential, and spiritual discussions that lead to insight and hope, rather than confusion and despair. The goal is not just symptom reduction but fostering a more flexible, value-driven, and meaningful way of navigating life's challenges.

Before coming to Summit Counselling, my psychotherapy experience began in 2023 as an intern therapist at a non-profit clinic that works with clients impacted by sexual violence. After completing my internship, I remained on as a volunteer therapist before becoming a Canadian Certified Counsellor, and now as a Registered Provisional Psychologist. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Macewan University, and a Master's of Counselling from City University of Seattle.

I am an avid gardener and enjoy activities surrounding self-reliance, like woodwork and foraging for fungi. Prior to working in mental health, I worked in the oilfield in non-destructive testing. I read and write. Much of my reading has been in the genres of philosophy, drama, and literature. I'm working on a novel - a southern gothic inspired by Flannery O’Connor that takes place around my hometown of Salmon Arm. I really enjoy being creative in the kitchen with my wife of 26 years. Oddly enough, I find washing the dishes to be peaceful and rejuvenating. On that note, (regarding mindfulness), I have just gotten back into Tai Chi.