Dr. Sue Johnson

Founder of EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy)

In the evening’s line-up, we are thrilled to present our friend, Dr. Sue Johnson, a globally revered clinical psychologist, researcher, and author, and the founder of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Sue has made an immense contribution to clinical psychology over the course of her illustrious career, bringing attachment theory, a developmental and relational theory of personality, to the forefront as a guide to psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families.

Dr. Johnson developed EFT in the mid-1980s as a method to help couples and families resolve conflicts and distress within relationships. The approach has had a major impact on family and couple therapy throughout the world, and her approach is accepted as the Gold Standard for empirically validated couple interventions.

Sue Johnson has received many awards and accolades during a career that has spanned several decades. In 2016 she was named Psychologist of the Year by the American Psychological Association (APA), and in 2017, she was inducted into the Order of Canada, the highest civilian honor given by the Government of Canada recognizing outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to Canada.

Gorge-side Chat Host
Sheryl MacKay

Dr. Sue Johnson will be joined on stage by former CBC Radio host, Sheryl MacKay, in an interview-style conversation that will illuminate the latest theories and best practices in mental health development, counselling and the role nature can play in healing relationships. 

Sheryl MacKay was, for 22 years, the voice of weekend mornings in BC on CBC Radio’s North By Northwest.  Before that she worked as a producer, reporter and host in tv and radio on the east and west coasts for two decades.

These days she produces a podcast called Listen With Sheryl MacKay so she can continue having conversations with creative people!

She has a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology, is trained as a Death Doula and is an active volunteer in the community.

Away from work, Sheryl volunteers as a counsellor with the ALS Society of BC and continues her efforts to learn to play a musical instrument!

Sheryl will be hosting this conversation with Dr. Sue Johnson at the new Esquimalt Pavilion.

Esquimalt Gorge Park Pavilion

Welcome to the Esquimalt Gorge Park Pavilion (1070 Tillicum Road)

The building features remarkable Japanese-inspired architecture to complement the scenic Japanese Gardens. 

The Esquimalt Gorge Park Pavilion is accessible, parking is plentiful and free for this event.

Overlooking the beloved Gorge waterway, the Pavilion combines heavy timber elements with distinctive granite and glass to form an iconic landmark.

Event Details:

• Doors open at 6:30PM – Interview with Sue and Sheryl starts at 7:30PM
• Come and mingle with community members passionate about health and well-being
• HNCS Staff and Board members will be on hand.
• Sue Johnson’s books and those authored by HNCS staff will be available for purchase
• Kicking Horse Coffee, tea and treats/appies will be provided.
• A great chance to learn more about Human-Nature Counselling Society
• Come and enjoy the beauty of the Japanese Gardens!