Bio - Tricia Raysnford
Education
I attended McMaster University and graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Behaviour (BASc) in the spring of 2020. With all my free time during the COVID-19 pandemic, I received a graduate certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy from Wilfred Laurier University. Later, I completed a certificate in the fundamentals of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Currently, I am enrolled at McMaster University in a Masters of Psychotherapy (MSc) program that I will be finishing in the spring of 2024.
Work
In my undergrad, I worked as a camp coach with children ages 5 to 14 years old at a multi-sport camp and sports facility. I provided a highly energetic curriculum and creative classes to contribute to the wellness and development of each child while fostering a sense of community. It was here that I discovered my passion for working with youth and young adults and harnessed my silly inner child!
After my undergrad, I began working as a research assistant in the McKinnon Trauma and Recovery Lab at McMaster University and learned some of the fundamentals of research, psychometric testing, and trauma-informed care.
Leading up to and during my masters, I worked as a Youth Support Worker at Good Shepherd. Located at a youth shelter, I worked with vulnerable youth between the ages of 16 to 21 who are homeless or street-involved due to family violence, conflict, abuse, neglect, poverty and experience with mental health and addiction issues. I worked as a case manager to ensure they have the support, advocacy, and resources they need to overcome obstacles, break down barriers, and improve overall wellness. I learned about the necessity for person-centred care and approaching mental health treatment through a holistic lens, while also completely enhancing my capacity for empathy and connection.
Personal
In my personal life, I enjoy seeking out and experiencing new things to make the most out of this life! I take as many opportunities as I can to travel with friends or partner, my favourite being Italy or my many Rocky Mountain hiking trips. I’m a big animal lover, a newly big reader (thank you BookTok!), and have played soccer since I was old enough to pay attention to the game (and not get swept up in picking dandelions!). Some of my favourite things are sitting by a campfire, listening to some good music, listening to my grandparents life stories, and being in the company of my good friends.