My Not So Straight Journey Into Trauma Therapy
My path to becoming a nurse psychotherapist was not a straight line, but a journey of discovery that has profoundly shaped the way I practice today.
Like many people, my early career path was influenced more by what I thought I should do than by what I was truly called to do. I began my nursing career in the high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled environments of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Emergency Medicine. While the work was challenging and I gained invaluable medical experience, I always felt a persistent pull toward a different kind of healing — one that focused not just on the physical body, but on the mind and the heart. I eventually realized that I was on a path built on someone else's preferences, not my own.
That realization was a turning point. I made the conscious decision to pivot toward my true passion: mental health. The transition wasn't immediate, but it was intentional. While building my skills and seeking out opportunities, I embraced the breadth of what nursing could be. I worked in Telehealth, providing care and guidance over the phone; I worked in Home and Community Care, meeting people in their own environments; and I even spent time as a Northern Nurse, providing care in remote communities. Each role taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of meeting people exactly where they are.
The moment I finally landed a position on a dedicated mental health unit, I knew I was home. It was as if every diverse experience I'd had was preparing me for that role. For the first time, my work felt completely aligned with my purpose. It was during my time working with the forensic mental health population that my purpose sharpened into a clear calling. In listening to the stories of my clients, I saw a profound and undeniable thread: the deep and lasting impact of developmental and childhood trauma. It was then that I knew I wanted to dedicate my career to the practice of trauma-informed care.
The final piece of the puzzle fell into place when Registered Nurses in Ontariobecame authorized to provide the controlled act of psychotherapy. This was the open door I had been waiting for, allowing me to formally merge my passion for mental wellness with my extensive nursing background. I absolutely love that I get to provide psychotherapy while maintaining my identity as a Registered Nurse. I believe this dual perspective adds so much more value for my clients; my nursing experience provides a deep understanding of physiology, the nervous system, and how mental and physical health are inextricably linked. This allows me to bring a truly holistic lens to our work, bridging the gap between your psychological experiences and your physical well-being.
This unique combination of experience is the foundation of my practice today, where I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of their past to build a more empowered and peaceful future.
“Every client gets the psychiatric care they need, while I get to keep my identity as a Registered Nurse. Mental wellness is my calling, and I'm so grateful I get to do what I love while helping those around me.”
Stephanie EdmondsRN PsychotherapistWhy “Fera Verto”
Fera Verto is a transfiguration spell from Harry Potter. The meaning is loosely translated to “transform the beast." I wanted my business to represent change, going from a state of messiness, chaos, and distress to one of order, calm, and wellness. I believe everyone deserves their own Fera Verto moment, where healing is transformed and you no longer feel the weight of trauma. Where you let go of behaviors that no longer serve you, and where you are empowered to make change. Not only change in your own life, but in the lives of those around you. Creating change in people's lives is what Fera Verto is all about, and that's what I will continue to build my practice on.
My Commitment To Safety And Inclusivity
Above all, my practice is a space where you can feel safe, seen, and respected. I am committed to creating a non-judgmental, affirming, and collaborative environment for individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and compassion. It is only within this secure container that the vulnerable and courageous work oftrauma healing can truly happen. Your comfort, agency, and safety are my up most priority at every step of our journey together.