Lived Experience Consultant

What is a Lived Experience Consultant?

Think of it as having a Ph.D. in life. A lived experience consultant is skilled with the ability to share wisdom and insights they have gained from walking their particular path.

A photo of Heidi holding up two books. The DSM and another Psychology Book.
A photo of Heidi smiling.

What do you specialize in?

I have lived experience with mental illness, specifically, depression, anxiety, and C-PTSD. I have invaluable knowledge of what it is like to live with these conditions, and I’m not afraid to talk about it. I have given hundreds of presentations and have a vast catalogue of articles. I am honored to have been quoted in Psychology Today and the Los Angeles Times.

I have also created a workshop titled: Understanding C-PTSD.

“Excellent information shared by an expert in the topic who uses equal doses of down-to-earth charm, dry humor and compassion. I left feeling encouraged, and that's saying A LOT! “ -Workshop participant.

I have a Master’s Degree in Counselling. I am also trained in First Aid, Peer Support, Mental Health First Aid, Suicide Intervention, Workplace Safety, and more. I am currently available in a limited fashion, please feel free to reach out with any inquiries using the form below.

What can you do for me, or my organization?

I am open to a conversation regarding your needs and goals. The following are examples of how I can assist you.

  • Sharing details of my lived experience for your conference, panel, training or similar event.

  • Presentations for your professional development days or community organization.

  • Assistance with creating a Trauma Informed Practice.

  • Providing a lived experience voice for your article, report, project, podcast, or publication.

  • Reviewing your forms, website, posters, etc; to assist with illuminating problematic or stigmatizing language.

  • Recommendation of books, websites, pieces of training, and other suitable resources.

  • With permission, providing consultation or support regarding a client or group of clients with similar life experiences. This can include accompanying a client within your organization, facilitating improved communication, increasing understanding, & assisting with accommodation.

  • And more!

What are your fees?

Fees will differ based on many factors. Size of project, type of organization, time commitment, schedule, audience, ongoing relationship, preparation required, complexity, and so forth.

Please keep in mind that this is a service that I am providing. A service that requires my time, energy, effort, and commitment. Who I am and what I am providing has value.

For some quick consults, a small donation to my coffee page may be suitable. If you are unsure or simply curious if I can help you, there is no harm in asking regardless of what your budget is. Feel free to use the contact form or email me at mentalhealthyxe@gmail.com