Stewart Cranston

A Note from Stewart…

I often work with survivors of trauma and those who feel they have been negatively impacted by the meaningful relationships in their lives - people who often experience trauma symptoms, find it difficult to manage their emotions, and find themselves trapped in complex interpersonal conflicts that result in strong emotions like shame, hopelessness, anger, and a losses of meaning and self-concept. I focus on understanding the adaptive functions of thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, rather than pathologizing them. I focus on promoting psychological flexibility, encouraging acceptance of difficult internal experiences, and fostering self-actualization aligned with insights about client strengths, and values. This helps clients to shift from self-blame to self-acceptance and empowerment. The goal is not just symptom reduction but fostering a more flexible, value-driven, and empowered 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. I read and write: I'm working on a novel - a southern gothic inspired by Flannery O'Connor and Jacqueline Baker that takes place around my hometown of Salmon Arm. I really enjoy being creative in the kitchen with my wife. 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.