Dr. Gordon Davidson, R. Psych. June 8, 1952 - March 1, 2018

Dr. Davidson had an extensive background working with trauma. As well as treating hundreds affected by trauma, he conducted critical incident debriefings for over 25 years in many settings. He has trained first-responder groups in peer debriefing processes. He has conducted several hundred psycho-legal PTSD assessments for those involved in workplace traumas, police and military settings, as well for survivors of native residential schools. As a counsellor for members and former members of the military and RCMP, Dr. Davidson developed a sensitivity to the unique challenges and rewards involved in such work.

An innovator, Dr. Davidson introduced mindfulness and yoga methods to the BC Mental Health system in the mid 1970s. He was also an early user of biofeedback methods and has developed strategies using such technology for the treatment of PTSD. In 2013, he started an outpatient treatment centre for PTSD, conducting individual and group treatment. In 2016, he started a 4-week residential program for those suffering with PTSD, the first of its kind in Canada. The results were very encouraging. As a natural result of this, has developed the Operational Stress Recovery Program, with a specific focus on police and military personnel.

A specialist in workplace stress issues since the 1980s, Dr. Davidson has consulted for provincial and municipal governments, hospitals, First Nations groups, professional partnerships, corporations and NGOs. He also started a consulting practice with labour lawyers to offer workshops on workplace bullying and harassment. He has been quoted extensively in the media on workplace issues, including the Vancouver Sun and Toronto Globe and Mail. Published in the Journal of Family Psychology and the Organizational Development Journal, Dr. Davidson has presented his research at provincial and national conferences and in Europe.

He has taught on trauma related topics for the Okanagan School of Massage and has taught in the Psychology, Social Work and Education departments at Okanagan University College, now UBC Okanagan. He was called upon to testify in court as an expert witness in areas including parental fitness, custody and access, and trauma. Dr. Davidson held a BA in Social Work (University of Montana) MA in Applied Behavioural Science (Whitworth) and a doctorate in Counselling Psychology (UBC). Dr. Gordon Davidson’s spirit keeps inspiring all the staff on a daily basis.

Dr. Tina Rochford, RN, BScN, MEd, PhD CCC #7804

Clinical Director, Clinical Counsellor, Registered Nurse

Dr. Tina Rochford is a highly esteemed clinician, educator, and administrator with over thirty years of experience in the field of mental health. She holds a Diploma in Registered Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a research focus on attachment. Her extensive academic background and clinical expertise make her a valuable asset to our team at the Davidson Operational Stress Recovery Clinic.

In her private practice in Vernon, Dr. Rochford works with a diverse range of clients, offering compassionate and evidence-based therapy. She has a wealth of experience in various areas, including Trauma Recovery, Anxiety and Depression, Stress Management, Work and Career Issues, Disordered Eating, Addiction Recovery, and Parenting Issues. Dr. Rochford is adept at working with individuals, couples, and families, providing tailored interventions to meet their unique needs.

Dr. Rochford is a preferred provider for WorkSafe BC, ICBC, and numerous EFAP programs, underscoring her reputation as a trusted expert in the field. She also serves as a consultant to the legal system, offering her valuable insights and expertise. With a particular focus on trauma, Dr. Rochford has conducted countless group and individual critical incident debriefings and defusings. Her extensive experience working with first responders, including fire, police, and military personnel, has equipped her with a deep understanding of the unique challenges they face.

In her therapeutic approach, Dr. Rochford utilizes evidence-based modalities, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Cognitive Processing, Mindfulness and Meditation, and HeartMath. These approaches have proven to be effective in addressing trauma and promoting healing. Additionally, she brings her expertise in couples therapy, drawing from the work of John Gottman and Sue Johnson (EFT), to help couples navigate their relationship challenges.

Dr. Rochford’s vast experience, exceptional skills, compassionate demeanor, and sense of humor make her an invaluable member of the OSR program. She feels honored to be a part of the healing journey alongside her esteemed colleagues, dedicated to supporting individuals on their path to recovery and resilience.​

Adrienne Helgerson (Davidson), BBA(HRM), MA, Director of Operations

As the Director of Operations and a Clinical Counsellor at the Davidson Institute, I work closely with the general public as well as Veterans and Retired RCMP members through our Intensive Outpatient Program for PTSD and Operational Stress Injuries. My role bridges leadership and clinical care, allowing me to contribute both strategically and therapeutically to the healing journeys of those we serve.

In my clinical practice, I support individuals of all ages in navigating life’s complex and deeply personal challenges. These may include trauma, relationship and family dynamics, pregnancy and postpartum transitions, parenting, burnout, stress, grief, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, chronic health concerns, and recovery from abuse or divorce. I also specialize in supporting individuals who struggle with people-pleasing, difficulty setting boundaries, or who are healing from relationships involving emotional manipulation or personality disorder traits.

Clients who work with me are often seeking a holistic, integrative approach—one that honours the interplay between biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of wellness. They are motivated to understand and transcend their past, enrich their present, and move forward with intention, clarity, and self-awareness. My clients value having a compassionate, knowledgeable partner to walk alongside them through healing, growth, and self-mastery.

I practice from a trauma-informed lens, and bring specialized training in areas including neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, Giftedness), psychopharmacology, self-regulation, women’s mental health, Veterans and First Responder issues, mental health and nutrition, fitness and athletics, anxiety, and grief. My approach is active, strengths-based, and contextually grounded. I draw from lived experience with neurodivergence, trauma, cancer, grief, loss, suicide, and parenting children with special needs—deeply understanding how challenging it can be to simply be human.

Services:

I offer therapy sessions both in-person in Vernon and Kelowna, and virtually for clients across British Columbia. I am currently available Tuesday through Thursday during business hours.

Therapeutic Approach:

My work is rooted in a holistic, trauma-informed, and relational approach that honours the full complexity of being human. I draw from a range of psychological theories and healing modalities, tailoring support to each individual’s lived experience, nervous system, identity, and goals.

I practice from the following foundations:

Attachment-Based & Relational Therapy

I believe healing happens in connection. I work to create a safe, attuned therapeutic relationship where trust, co-regulation, and emotional repair can take place.

Somatic & Nervous System Regulation

Using polyvagal-informed and somatic approaches, I help clients develop body awareness, self-regulation, and capacity for resilience by working directly with the nervous system.

Strengths-Based & Empowerment-Oriented Practice

Rather than viewing challenges through a pathologizing lens, I support clients in identifying their strengths, honoring their survival strategies, and fostering confidence, agency, and growth.

Narrative & Meaning-Making

I support clients in examining the stories they’ve inherited or internalized—about themselves, others, and the world—and help them rewrite those stories with compassion and clarity.

Contextual & Culturally Sensitive Perspective

I consider the broader cultural, societal, and intergenerational influences that shape each person’s experience. This includes understanding how roles, expectations, and life circumstances—such as military service, parenting, or gendered responsibilities—impact mental health and well-being.

Integrative Mind-Body-Spirit Connection

I acknowledge the deep interplay between physical health, mental health, and spiritual well-being. My work integrates insights from psychopharmacology, nutrition, movement, and existential reflection.

This integrative model allows me to meet clients where they are—with presence, respect, and depth—and walk alongside them toward healing, growth, and self-mastery.

okgntherapy.ca

Consulting Registered Psychologist #1731

Dr. Lewis is a highly qualified and experienced Registered Psychologist (#1731) specializing in clinical and forensic psychology. She obtained her undergraduate degree from UBC and pursued her graduate studies at the University of Regina (M.A.) and the University of Saskatchewan (Ph.D.).

With a diverse background, Dr. Lewis has worked with clients in various clinical settings, including in-patient and out-patient units at Vancouver General Hospital, community mental health clinics in BC and Saskatchewan, Federal and Provincial Correctional Services, and the BC Operational Stress Injury Clinic. In 2009, she established her private practice, where she focuses on providing assessment and treatment services to First Responders, such as the Canadian Armed Forces, RCMP, Abbotsford Police Department, Vancouver Police Department, and BC Ambulance Services.

Dr. Lewis is highly regarded for her expertise and has been sought after for consultation by the RCMP Crisis Negotiation Team, colleagues who are new to working with First Responders, and the College of Psychologists of BC. She remains actively engaged in research, particularly in the areas of risk assessment and violent offender treatment, with numerous publications in esteemed peer-reviewed journals.

In her clinical practice, Dr. Lewis incorporates evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), trauma-informed CBT, prolonged exposure, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She recognizes the importance of tailoring treatment to meet each client’s unique needs, working collaboratively to identify research-based skills that will facilitate tangible improvements in their daily activities.

With her extensive training, wealth of experience, and commitment to evidence-based practices, Dr. Lewis is dedicated to supporting clients on their journey to healing and personal growth. Her compassionate approach and dedication to the well-being of First Responders make her a valuable asset to our team.​

www.drkathylewis.com

Ivan Trofimoff, Consulting Registered Psychologist #2236

Ivan is a registered psychologist in BC, Quebec and Mexico and Formerly registered in New Zealand. He is a member of the Canadian Psychological Society and of the Mexican Association of Sexology.

Ivan has a Masters (M.A.) of Clinical Sexology from the University of Quebec in Montreal, a Master (M.A.) of Clinical Psychology from the Institute of Couples Therapy in Mexico City, and a Bachelor (B.A.) of Clinical Psychology from the Iberoamericana University in Mexico City. He completed postgraduate diplomas in Advanced Methods of Psychotherapy, Symbology and Dreams, Mythology, Ancient and Comparative Religions.

He works with individuals and couples suffering from a variety of difficulties such as PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, insomnia, anger, grief/loss, life transitions, retirement, cross-cultural psychology and current or retired members of the Armed Forces, Police Forces and First Responders.

As a Psychologist he uses an array of counselling techniques that he adapts to the particular needs of his clients such as Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic, Systemic, Humanistic, Forensic Psychology, Jungian, Solution Focused and CBT.

As a Sexologist, sex therapist and sex educator he has helped clients with issues such as sexual satisfaction, sexual fears, sexual dysfunctions, desire problems, variations of desire in couples, gender, masculinity, sexual identity, multicultural couples, positive sexuality, sexual abuse and sexual offending.

He has been practicing with clients from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, including indigenous populations such as First Nations, Inuit, and Maori. He has taught university courses and given various lectures and conferences. He has experience talking in professional, corporate and public forums, has worked in Forensic Psychology since 2004, and in private practice since 1994.

Dr. Gary Lea, PhD, Consulting Registered Psychologist

Dr. Lea is a highly respected clinical psychologist who has been dedicated to providing exceptional care to individuals in Kelowna for over three decades. As the first full-time clinical psychologist in the city, he played a pivotal role in establishing Okanagan Psychological Services Inc., which has been serving the community for many years. Dr. Lea’s commitment to his profession and his clients led him to co-found the Kelowna Professional Group, which later evolved into the Kelowna Psychologists Group, fostering collaboration and excellence among local practitioners.

With his vast experience and expertise, Dr. Lea has been sought after as an expert witness in various courts throughout British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario. His testimony has been invaluable in numerous legal proceedings. Dr. Lea’s dedication to staying current in his field is evident in his commitment to lifelong education. He regularly reviews materials and attends multiple workshops each year to enhance his knowledge and skills for the benefit of his clients.

Dr. Lea’s longstanding commitment to his clients and his profession is a testament to his passion for helping individuals achieve positive outcomes and overcome challenges. His reputation as a skilled and compassionate clinical psychologist has made him a trusted resource for the RCMP, VAC, and the local community. We are honoured to have Dr. Lea as part of our team, contributing his expertise and dedication to the wellbeing of our program participants.

Cheryl Turner obtained her Masters Degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Alberta and holds the designation of Chartered Psychologist in Alberta. She began her career as a School Psychologist in the Prince George and Vernon School Districts, earning her charter with BCASP. Cheryl then transitioned to the role of Itinerant School Psychologist, serving districts in Prince Rupert, Terrace, Quesnel, Gold Trail (Ashcroft-Lillooet), and Nisga’a.

Throughout her career, Cheryl dedicated herself to specialized training in working with students affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, and Reading disorders (Dyslexia and LD). She possesses a comprehensive understanding of neurological and child development, enabling her to provide valuable insights and support to individuals.

Cheryl has also acquired extensive training in therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Hypnosis. As a Registered Professional Counsellor licensed in British Columbia through the Canadian Professional Counselling Association (CPCA), she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice.

With a rich background spanning from intensive graduate training to her present professional practice, Cheryl has amassed a wealth of experience working with individuals facing a broad range of issues in diverse settings. Her commitment to ongoing learning and her passion for helping others have shaped her into a highly skilled and compassionate practitioner.

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​https://cherylturnertherapy.com/

Shannon Warner, BSW, MSW, RSW #08291, Clinician

Although we have likely heard ‘time heals all’ in Shannon’s personal journey as a trauma survivor and clinician, she has found that having authentic connections can impact our ability to fully engage ourselves in the work needed to create change. Rooted in positive psychology and mindfulness, Shannon integrates several evidence-based approaches for anxiety, depression and PTSD including EMDR, emotion-focused family therapy, as well as cognitive behavioural and dialectical behaviour informed therapies. Shannon aims to create a non-judgemental, comfortable, yet somewhat challenging therapeutic space where individuals, couples and families feel supported to explore places they may feel ‘stuck’ and affirmed in letting go of ‘old’ thoughts, feelings and behaviours that no longer serve them.

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Shannon hold a Masters degree in Social Work and brings 16 years compassionate experience in community-based, healthcare setting and private practice providing trauma-informed, spiritually sensitive and culturally safe counselling and support. Maintaining her registration with the BC College of Social Workers, Shannon is committed to ongoing professional development to learn new therapeutic approaches and is passionate about supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief & loss, trauma and intra-personal distress. Authenticity, trust and respect are the cornerstones of Shannon’s practice, and she works with clients to identify and build upon their strengths & resources, and discover which approaches will be most effective to help heal past wounds, reach personal goals and create a more balanced and joyful life.​

Shannon believes in the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure competent, comprehensive and compassionate client-centered care. As a part of the OSR team, Shannon is deeply grateful for the privilege of walking with veterans as they experience new personal freedoms and come to recognize the significance of their post-traumatic growth.

To learn more please go to: www.sagewoodcounselling.com

“Start where you’re at. Use what you have. Do what you can.”

​- Arthur Ashe

Susan Guttridge, MA, CCC #9521

Susan Guttridge is a highly skilled and compassionate clinician with a wealth of experience in counseling. She holds a master’s degree in counselling psychology and is registered with the Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association. She is also an EMDRIA-certified therapist, demonstrating her commitment to providing evidence-based and effective therapeutic approaches.

With over 20 years of experience, Susan has worked extensively in trauma therapy and has received specialized post-graduate training in this field. Her expertise extends to working with post-traumatic stress, anxiety, panic, traumatic loss, depression, and life transitions. She has a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals navigating these issues and is dedicated to providing effective support and guidance.

Susan’s therapeutic toolkit includes a range of approaches, such as EMDR, narrative therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and mind-body attunement therapy. These modalities enable her to tailor the therapeutic experience to the unique needs of each individual, fostering healing and growth.

In addition to her private counseling practice, Susan has made significant contributions to the community through her work as the Trauma Therapist at the Vernon Women’s Transition House (Archway Society). Her dedication to supporting individuals and families affected by trauma has been invaluable in promoting healing and resilience.

With Susan’s expertise, compassionate approach, and commitment to utilizing evidence-based therapies, she is a valued member of our team at Davidson Operational Stress Recovery Clinic. We are honored to have her join us in providing exceptional care to our clients on their healing journeys.

More info: http://www.livehappycounselling.com/

Sacha Schenker, Certified Trauma Sensitive Yoga Therapist

Sacha Schenker is a dedicated and experienced Yoga Therapist who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our program. With over 17 years of personal yoga practice, Sacha’s journey has inspired and transformed her own life, fueling her passion for helping others.

As a Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT) and trauma-sensitive yoga facilitator, Sacha understands the profound connection between mind, body, and spirit in achieving holistic healing. She is trained in Yoga Therapy and Trauma-Sensitive Yoga, and her extensive studies and practical experience enable her to offer personalized guidance and movements that are tailored to the unique needs of each individual.

Sacha’s commitment to continuing education is evident in her completion of the 300-Hour Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) Certification with The Center for Trauma & Embodiment at JRI. She is also actively involved as a mentor at the Yoga Therapy Institute, supporting students with their case studies.

Currently, Sacha facilitates TCTSY sessions for veteran groups through our Operational Stress Recovery Program, which provides comprehensive support and treatment for military veterans and RCMP personnel with PTSD. Her compassionate and trauma-informed approach creates a safe and empowering space for participants to explore healing through yoga.

Sacha’s expertise in yoga therapy and trauma-sensitive practices greatly contributes to the well-being and recovery of our program participants. We are privileged to have her as a valuable member of our team, guiding individuals towards greater balance, resilience, and transformation.

Angela Magill, BA, R.H.N.

Angela is a registered holistic nutritionist who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field of mental and cognitive health to our program. With a strong focus on the powerful connection between nutrition and mental well-being, Angela conducts interactive cooking classes for our program participants.

Through her sessions, Angela guides participants in preparing nutritious meals that are specifically designed to support brain function and emotional well-being. She emphasizes the importance of incorporating wholesome ingredients that provide essential nutrients and promote optimal mental health.

Angela’s interactive cooking classes go beyond just teaching recipes; they empower participants to make informed food choices and adopt a mindful approach to eating. By understanding the impact of nutrition on mental health, participants gain practical skills and knowledge to enhance their overall mental and physical vitality.

With her expertise and compassionate approach, Angela plays a vital role in promoting the holistic well-being of our program participants. Her passion for nutrition and mental health integration makes her an invaluable member of our team, helping individuals foster a healthier relationship with food and improve their overall mental wellness.

https://www.nutritionwithangela.com/

Dirk Terpstra, Certified HeartMath Trainer

Dirk is an internationally recognized Intuitive Speaker, Coach and HeartMath® Certified Trainer. Through his work, Dirk has helped many individuals and organizations. He is also the founder of Coherence Hotspot, and former CEO with a Fortune 500 Company.

As a HeartMath® Certified Trainer, Dirk works with individuals and organizations throughout Canada and teaches the science based Resilience Advantage Training Program. This program helps to strengthen stress resilience and promotes optimal well-being, and enables us to live healthier, more productive and more fulfilling lives while building a brighter future.

Since 1991, the Institute of HeartMath® has been conducting scientific research into the effects of the electromagnetic heart field on the brain and body. Their research has found that a ‘coherent’ heart rhythm has many benefits for the body and mind, including more energy, ease, ability to think more clearly, and increased communication skills.

As the Veterans Administration (VA) expands the number and scope of specialized mental health programs to improve veterans’ access to care and services and treatment outcomes, innovative and promising interventions such as HeartMath’s heart-rate-variability coherence biofeedback (HRVCB) training can prove highly beneficial in ameliorating PTSD.

HRVCB training can be a significant addition to existing PTSD treatments: It can deliver benefits to veterans effectively, safely and perhaps most important, quickly. HRVCB has provided immediate relief in many cases. Heart-rate-variability coherence biofeedback (HRVCB), which has been used successfully in a variety of other clinical settings involving stress and anxiety, provides tools to achieve autonomic balancing, emotional restructuring and psychophysiological coherence.

​As our senior HeartMath Trainer and Internationally recognized speaker who has been with our program since its inception, Dirk works along with a female HeartMath trainer in our Women’s Programs. Dirk is a kind and compassionate man who is well aware of the issues women face, and has been a beneficial part of our Women’s Programs.

More info: DirkTerpstra.com/heartmath

Rennie F. Genaille, MSW, RSW, RCC, RCC#10993

Rennie is a person of mixed ancestry, Saulteaux and Metis originally from the Keeseekoose First Nations reserve near Kamsack Saskatchewan. Rennie has a strong background in cultural teachings and traditional ceremonies, including drumming, singing, and is a competent Native American flute player. Rennie holds a MSW degree from the University of British Columbia; a BSW degree from Thompson Rivers University; a diploma from the College of New Caledonia, and a Substance Abuse Counselling Certificate from the University College of the Fraser Valley.

Mr. Genaille is a registered member in good standing with the British Columbia College of Social Workers (RSW #9484), the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (R.C.C.#10993), and holds an Indigenous Certified Addictions Specialist Level III (ICAS III #0067) with First Nations Wellness/Addictions Counsellor Certification Board. Rennie is also a registered service provider with the Crime Victims Assistance Program, and Veteran Affairs Canada.

Mr. Genaille was a member of the counselling team at Round Lake Treatment Centre from April 2006-July 2013. Through out his tenure at Round Lake, Rennie has continually expanded his skill sets and knowledge of evidenced-based paradigms. Rennie is adept with integrating traditional forms of healing with mainstream modalities. Bridging the void between academia and cultural sensitive practices, is one of Rennie’s greatest strength.

During his tenure with Round Lake, Rennie joined the faculty with the School of Social Work at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops BC. As a Sessional faculty, Rennie instructed HUMS 1770 Introduction to First Nations Studies in Human Service Practice, SOCW 3540 Introduction to First Nations Issues and Human Services, SOCW-3530 Social Work Practice with Individuals, and SOCW-3590 Advanced Social work Practice with Individuals. This experience has truly enhanced Rennie’s knowledge of evidenced-based mainstream modalities, particularly how these approaches can be adapted to an Aboriginal world view. Rennie practices from a Holistic Strength based, Client Centred approach, and strongly holds the philosophy that “Culture is Treatment”.
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Rennie resides with his wife Valerie on the Okanagan Indian Band, along with two feisty cats— Austin-Chalupa and Akando.​

More info: http://www.rfgenaillecounselling.com/