Read more about our practitioners
IFS Practitioner & Psychedelic Guide, Ex-Google
IFS Practitioner & Psychology PhD Scholar, McGill University
How is our approach different from traditional psychotherapy?
Collaborative: We view therapy as a collaborative process that is non-heirarchical, non-judgemental and non-prescriptive. As you navigate your healing journey, we guide you to discover your inner universe, access your intuitive wisdom, and build trust with your psychic parts. As such, we are your partners in self-discovery and personal growth.
Non-pathologizing: We treat an emotional/psychological issue as a difficulty arising from burdens held by psychic parts, not as pathology. This is different from traditional psychotherapy that often categorizes individuals within descriptors of mental illnesses. In contrast, our approach creates an open, shame-free space that welcomes all aspects of an individual.
Roots Focused: We work with the internal dynamics of an individual's psyche, following the intuitive guidance of their system, and identifying roots of behavioural patterns in the subconscious mind. This is in contrast to traditional therapeutic modalities that focus on modifying conscious cognitive patterns and behaviours. In the long run, our approach requires less effort to sustain behaviour changes as the root cause of many emotions, and beliefs are addressed. Furthermore, the changes experienced are more lasting, as they emerge from healing the root of the issue.
Systems Thinking: We see the mind as an intricately interconnected system, where all constituent parts influence and impact all others. Our work is also guided by a deeply internalized truth that all aspects of the psyche are operating with the best of intentions, even when their external impact might seem negative. This perspective enables truly holistic healing, embracing all parts, both the light and the shadow within the human mind.
Our approach is influenced by a combination of formal training, informal learning experiences, personal practice, and our own lived experiences. We incorporate multiple healing modalities in our therapeutic engagements. Click on the images below to read more on each one:
IFS therapy is based on two core principles : the recognition that an individual is made up of multiple inner personalities or "parts", and that these "parts" are lead by a central "Self" which serves as an innate healing resource. The relationships between parts and the Self impact an individual’s psychic balance. When parts become antagonistic with each other and lack connection to the Self, one experiences inner turmoil. The goal of IFS therapy is to help parts release burdens they carry, and create harmony between them, by harnessing the calm and compassionate presence of the Self.
Vipassana is the meditation technique discovered by Gautama Buddha, more than 2500 years ago. It is based on an intuitive and experiential understanding of the mind-body phenomenon. The practice of Vipassana rests on two principles - mindfulness and equanimity. The goal is to train the mind to abide by these principles in every moment. As Vipassana meditators we have completed silent meditation retreats and maintain a regular practice. Vippassana is a core part of our being. In sessions, we draw upon lessons from our practice, and enable clients to cultivate mindfulness and equanimity in their lives.
Psychedelic medicines, especially serotonergic plant psychedelics with a long history of ceremonial use, are powerful agents of emotional, psychological and spiritual healing. They have been known to ancient cultures around the world for thousands of years. By working with these plant teachers for two decades, we acquired valuable lessons about ourselves, reality and spirituality. In our therapeutic practice, we draw upon insights gained from these plant teachers on the dynamics of mind, the phenomenon of consciousness, the nature of the ego, and how they impact our psychological and spiritual health.
Improvisation, or Improv, is a form of live theatre in which all the aspects of the performance - plot, characters, dialogue, scene or story - are created on the spot. Improv performance is designed to make players be wholly open to any situation, be authentic in their responses and remain fully present in the moment. Applied Improv refers to the use of these principles in non-theatrical settings. Use of applied Improv in therapeutic practice is a novel approach that fosters openness and radical acceptance among participants. As Improv practitioners since 2015, we have been part of multiple shows and workshops. In our therapeutic practice, we use Improv principles, as appropriate, to nurture authenticity and presence during sessions.
