About Fran Ferguson:

Fran Ferguson grew up on a farm in Manitoba and has a deep appreciation for rural lifestyles and communities. For many years, she enjoyed a business career as owner/manager of a highly successful audio-visual production and staging company. Then, in mid-life, Fran decided to return to educational pursuits. The natural empathy of her personality and her sincere interest in people led her to the field of counselling.  Fran earned an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Winnipeg, and received her Master’s degree in Education from the University of Manitoba, specializing in counselling.

Credentials:

Fran Ferguson M. Ed is a  Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC), a designation given by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.  Fran Ferguson is also a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) as a member of the BC Association of Clinical Counselors, and a certified Stress and Wellness Consultant with The Canadian Institute of Stress. (Hans Selye Foundation).

Fran began her practice as a full time counselor in 1998, helping individuals and couples to solve problems, improve communication, set and reach personal goals, and to make decisions with more confidence. Fran implements Cognitive-Behavioral, Solution-Focused, and Expressive theoretical styles in her practice as well as play therapy. Her experience as a Stress & Wellness Consultant has also helped clients to identify stressors and to reduce the negative impact of useless worry.

Fran believes that:

1. Everyone is worthy of love and has a place in the world.

2. Everyone has resources and strengths – although we may lose sight of them when we’re struggling.  Everyone also has difficulties and challenges at some point or another in their lives.  Recognizing and naming our strengths can be a huge step forward in helping us overcome our difficulties.

3. Intimacy is our birthright.  We all crave meaningful connections with others… to be deeply understood by another, and to understand.  It is our connection with others that fulfills us and gives meaning to life.  We all deserve to be cherished, and to cherish others.

4. Within us all lays a greater capacity to love – to be creative – to be happy and fulfilled – more than any of us really knows.

5. Healing can occur when we are supported by a compassionate listener, and a safe and nurturing environment.

6. Life is a precious gift.  Let’s not wait another moment to start living the live you really want.

Fran would like to encourage you to live life to the fullest, and to enjoy satisfying relationships and rewarding endeavors. If she is unable to help you with your particular problem, Fran will refer you to a more appropriate person or resource.

Unsolicited Testimonials:

"I wanted to take a moment to thank you for all of your help with M's anxiety.  He has taken the tools you have taught him and is taking positive steps forward towards a healthier life.  Today he is strong, and taking on challenges that would normally throw him into a tailspin."

"I believe that when someone touches your life in a profound way, they should be told.  You did that to us.  I can see why you do what you do."

"I attended an eldercare planning group where Fran helped us with the emotional aspect of caregiving.  Her compassion and kindness made it easy for us to tell our stories and feel supported."

"Thank you so much for all the care and attention you gave my daughter during a very difficult time."

"Thanks for all your help over the past few months.  I've learned a great deal about myself and my responses in this relationship.  Thanks for all your great advice and wisdom."

"You have helped me to see who I am and will be -- a strong, authentic, empowered woman who will be able to live out the rest of my days in truth and integrity."

"I have lots to work on and possess the tools you have given me.  I thank you again for all your support and guidance.  You are an amazing person, and you are so generous to share yourself and your wisdom with people like me who need your help.  I feel like I have confidence and more understanding of myself, largely thanks to you."

"I will do my best to stop and remember what you have taught me, what was so freely given to me -- a deep abiding acceptance and love.  The many gifts I have received from you are now mine to share with the world."