We are IH: Spiritual health practitioner has found true calling

With an undergraduate degree in theology and a master's from Regent College, Erik taught at a theological college before joining IH. His true calling, however, has always been connecting with people: listening to their stories, offering comfort, and guiding them through difficult times. Erik’s calming presence is so genuine and reassuring, he creates space for those he serves. 

For Erik, spiritual care is about meeting individuals where they are, helping them explore the big questions, and providing a safe space to be vulnerable and heard. “Trust isn’t built by making others know who I am,” Erik shares, “but by me knowing and understanding them.”

Erik’s path to becoming a spiritual health practitioner was not just shaped by his professional experience but by the profound challenges in his personal life. It was a journey that tested Erik’s own beliefs and pushed him to dig deeper when the answers weren’t easy to find. 

It’s this personal experience of grappling with grief and uncertainty that has deepened Erik’s empathy and understanding of life’s challenges. He knows what it means to feel lost, to question everything, and to slowly find a path forward. 

This journey has given him an even stronger passion for walking alongside others in their own struggles—whether they’re facing illness, loss or the uncertainty of life. Erik's approach is never about forcing beliefs on anyone, but about offering genuine care, understanding and support in a way that honours everyone’s journey.

At home, Erik is surrounded by a family of five children who keep him and his wife busy with soccer games, trips to SilverStar Mountain Resort, and boisterous family board game nights. On weekends, they enjoy hiking and swimming in Kalamalka Lake, making the most of life in the Okanagan.

Having witnessed the incredible dedication of the VJH staff firsthand, Erik feels deeply honoured to have joined the team. He’s grateful to offer spiritual support and comfort to both patients and staff, walking with them through their own unique challenges and helping them find peace, healing and hope in difficult times.

His role at VJH represents a growing recognition that spiritual health is an essential part of overall well-being. By addressing the emotional and existential aspects of the human condition—the innate desire to be understood and accepted as we are—spiritual care can significantly influence both mental and physical health. 

In his work with patients, Erik has already seen that when they feel heard and supported on a deeper, spiritual level, they are often more open to receiving other treatments for their physical and mental health.

His presence as part of the care team helps bridge the gaps between disciplines, promoting a holistic approach where spiritual, mental and physical health are treated together. Erik believes that true healing happens when care providers work collaboratively, breaking down silos and ensuring that patients feel cared for in every aspect of their lives. His work is about offering patients a safe space to explore their emotions, confront their struggles, and ultimately become more open to the healing journey ahead.

This well-rounded, team-based approach ensures that VJH continues to offer the best care possible—care that treats the whole person, not just the condition. Erik’s heartfelt care and life experience is surely a comforting presence for all.

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