Synchronicities, Heart Opening & the Wisdom of Michael Singer

Over a decade ago I encountered a book that transformed my personal and professional life - Michael Singer's "The Untethered Soul" (& later the sequel “Living Untethered”). This profound work opened my eyes to the concept of heart opening, which paved the way toward a more mindful and compassionate existence with less anxiety/depression and more meaningful, deep relationships. Since I first discovered his work, I have often revisited Singer’s teachings, and recently, when life presented some new challenges, I paid him another visit.

Today, October 23rd, 2023, a series of synchronicities unfolded that left me in awe and clearly re-affirmed to me the importance of Singer’s teachings in my life. These synchronicities seem to echo the insights of psychologist Carl Jung around the interplay of the collective unconscious and personal experiences in our lives. Based on all of this, I feel compelled to write and share about what this means to me, so here we go:

Synchronicity #1: Journey to the Heart

The first synchronicity occurred when I opened Melody Beattie's "Journey to the Heart - Daily Meditations on the Path to Freeing Your Soul" (as I do most days) and turned to the entry for October 23rd. The content of this passage was so closely related to the theme of heart opening that I had to laugh:

“Cherish You….Embrace joy. Relish it. Even if those around you don’t have it right now, you can feel your joy. You don’t have to be disrespectful of their feelings, nor do you have to let their lack of joy diminish yours.

You have done your work. You have chosen to open your heart.”

Synchronicity #2: The Book of Awakening

Next, I picked up Mark Nepo's "The Book of Awakening" (as I do most days) and read the entry for October 23rd. The passage resonated deeply, offering wisdom that felt like a direct message from the universe, reaffirming the importance of heart opening, letting go and trusting the process of life and existence.

Synchronicity #3: The Angry Therapist Podcast

The synchronicities didn't end with the books. Later today, while at the gym on a break between clients, I decided to listen to a podcast, and randomly selected "The Angry Therapist” (which I have never listened to before). To my amazement, the podcast for October 23rd was also centered around the exact topic I had been exploring - heart opening and the wisdom of Michael Singer. “How to Unblock Our Energy (Heart Opening as a Practice)” I laughed out loud on the treadmill. This unexpected alignment further emphasized to me the message that seems to be being broadcast to me: Keep Your Heart Open!

The Carl Jung Connection

Carl Jung introduced the concept of synchronicity. He believed that events in the external world could be connected to our internal experiences and that such meaningful coincidences were not mere accidents but rather a manifestation of the collective unconscious.

Today’s synchronicities were like a dance between my inner world and the external events, echoing Jung's concept of meaningful coincidences. The universe seemed to conspire to emphasize the importance of heart opening and the teachings of Michael Singer in my life.

As I continue on this profound journey of heart opening, I am grateful for the wisdom of Michael Singer and the mystical tapestry of synchronicities woven into my life. These experiences serve as evidence to me of the boundless wisdom of the universe, guiding us along our chosen path and affirming the importance of living with an open heart.

Carla Mae Leuschen, MSW, RSW

Finding Peace Within: Yoga as an Effective Coping Strategy for Anxiety

In today's world anxiety has become a common companion for many of us. The demands of work, social pressures, and the challenges of everyday life can leave us feeling overwhelmed and stressed. However, there is hope for relief from anxiety through a practice that dates back thousands of years: yoga.

Understanding Anxiety

Before delving into the ways in which yoga can help alleviate anxiety, it's essential to understand what anxiety is. Anxiety is a natural response to stress, characterized by feelings of fear, worry, and unease. When these feelings become excessive and interfere with daily life, it may be diagnosed as an anxiety disorder. While there are various treatment options available, including therapy and medication, many people use complementary practices like yoga to manage their symptoms.

The Mind-Body Connection

Yoga is often described as a mind-body practice because it emphasizes the connection between mental and physical well-being. This holistic approach to health makes it particularly effective in addressing anxiety, which affects both the mind and the body. Here's how yoga helps:

1. Stress Reduction: One of the primary causes of anxiety is stress. Yoga encourages relaxation through deep breathing and mindfulness techniques, reducing the production of stress hormones like cortisol. This, in turn, can alleviate anxiety symptoms.

2. Improved Physical Health: Regular yoga practice has been shown to lower blood pressure, improve heart health, and boost the immune system. These physical benefits can help reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heart or muscle tension.

3. Mindfulness and Self-Awareness: Yoga promotes mindfulness, which involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. This practice can help individuals become more aware of their anxious thoughts and learn to manage them effectively.

4. Regulation of the Nervous System: Yoga's focus on controlled breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for the body's "rest and digest" response. This counters the hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the "fight or flight" response commonly associated with anxiety.

Yoga Poses for Anxiety

Several yoga poses and sequences are particularly effective for managing anxiety:

1. Child's Pose (Balasana): This gentle pose helps release tension in the back and shoulders, encouraging relaxation and calmness.

2. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana): Bridge pose opens the chest and can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety by promoting deep breathing and reducing tension in the body.

3. Legs Up the Wall Pose (Viparita Karani): This restorative pose relaxes the nervous system, reduces stress, and can be especially soothing for anxiety.

4. Corpse Pose (Savasana): Savasana is often used as a closing pose in yoga practice, allowing for deep relaxation and integration of the benefits of the practice.

Incorporating Yoga into Your Routine

If you're interested in using yoga as a coping strategy for anxiety, here are some tips to get started:

1. Start Slowly: Begin with simple poses and gradually work your way up to more challenging ones. Consistency is key, so establish a regular practice routine.

2. Seek Guidance: Consider taking a yoga class or working with a certified yoga instructor, especially if you're new to yoga. They can provide guidance on proper alignment and technique.

3. Focus on Breath: Pay attention to your breath during yoga practice. Deep, controlled breathing is an integral part of managing anxiety.

4. Mindfulness Meditation: Incorporate mindfulness meditation into your practice to enhance self-awareness and reduce anxious thoughts.

5. Listen to Your Body: It's essential to honor your body's limits and avoid pushing yourself too hard. Yoga is about self-compassion and self-care.

Yoga offers a powerful tool to find inner peace. Its holistic approach, combining physical postures, deep breathing, and mindfulness, can effectively reduce anxiety symptoms and promote overall well-being. Whether you're new to yoga or an experienced practitioner, incorporating it into your routine can lead to a more balanced and tranquil life. Remember that yoga is a journey, and with patience and dedication, you can harness its potential to cope with anxiety and find a sense of inner calm.

Contact us to work with a Counsellor specialized in yoga.

Expert Strategies to Manage Fear & Anxiety

Fear is a natural and often necessary emotion that has evolved to protect us from danger. However, when fear becomes overwhelming, it can have a significant impact on our mental health and overall well-being.

Understanding Fear

Before delving into strategies for managing fear, it's essential to understand what fear is and why it occurs. Fear is a natural response to perceived threats, whether they are real or imagined. It triggers a cascade of physiological reactions, such as an increased heart rate, shallow breathing, and heightened alertness, preparing us to respond to danger. However, fear can also manifest as excessive worry, panic attacks, or phobias.

Strategies to Manage Fear

1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce anxiety and promote emotional regulation.

2. Self-Compassion: Being kind and compassionate toward oneself can counteract the negative self-talk that often accompanies fear.

3. Educate Yourself: Understanding the nature of your fear can demystify it and make it feel more manageable. Knowledge is empowering.

4. Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out to friends, family, counsellors, or support groups. Sharing your fears with trusted individuals can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging.

5. Set Realistic Goals: Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps. This can make the process of facing your fears less daunting.

Fear can be a complex and powerful emotion that can have a profound impact on mental health. Working with a mental health counsellor in Victoria BC or online can be a crucial step in managing fear and regaining control over your life. By providing a safe and supportive environment, identifying root causes, and teaching coping strategies, Strength in Heart counselling in Victoria BC equips individuals with the tools they need to confront and overcome their fears. Remember, you don't have to face your fears alone—help is available, and there is hope for a brighter, less fearful future.

🌟 Don't let life's challenges hold you back. Discover your inner strength with Strength in Heart Counselling in Victoria, BC. 🌟

The Power of Self-Care: Nurturing Your Mind, Body & Soul

In the fast-paced and demanding world we live in, self-care is now more essential than ever. It's not a luxury; it's a necessity for maintaining our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Self-care isn't selfish; it's an act of self-love and self-preservation.

Understanding Self-Care:

Self-care encompasses any intentional action you take to care for your physical, mental, and emotional health. It's a holistic approach to well-being that acknowledges the interconnectedness of these aspects of our lives. By nurturing yourself in various ways, you build resilience and maintain a sense of balance, which is crucial for navigating life's challenges.

The Benefits of Self-Care:

1. Stress Reduction: Regular self-care helps lower stress levels, reducing the risk of burnout and anxiety.

2. Improved Mental Health: Self-care practices can boost self-esteem, increase self-awareness, and enhance your overall mental health.

3. Physical Well-Being: Prioritizing self-care can lead to better physical health, including improved sleep, immune function, and reduced risk of chronic illnesses.

4. Enhanced Relationships: When you care for yourself, you're better equipped to nurture meaningful connections with others.

5. Increased Productivity: Taking breaks and practicing self-care can boost your productivity and creativity.

Practical Self-Care Tips:

1. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary and establish clear boundaries to protect your time and energy.

2. Mindfulness Meditation: Engage in mindfulness practices to stay present, reduce stress, and improve emotional regulation.

3. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity releases endorphins, which can boost your mood and overall well-being.

4. Healthy Eating: Fuel your body with nutritious foods that support your physical and mental health.

5. Quality Sleep: Prioritize sleep by creating a relaxing bedtime routine and ensuring you get enough rest.

6. Hobbies and Interests: Make time for activities you're passionate about, whether it's reading, painting, or playing a musical instrument.

7. Connect with Loved Ones: Spend quality time with friends and family members who uplift and support you.

8. Seek Professional Help: Don't hesitate to reach out to a counsellor when you need guidance and support.

9. Unplug from Technology: Take breaks from screens to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.

10. Practice Gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal to remind yourself of the positive aspects of your life.

Making Self-Care a Habit:

Incorporating self-care into your daily routine requires commitment and consistency. Start by identifying activities that genuinely make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Schedule these activities into your calendar, just as you would with work meetings or appointments. Remember that self-care is a lifelong journey, and it's okay to adjust your self-care practices as your needs evolve.

Self-care is a powerful tool for maintaining balance and well-being in our hectic lives. By prioritizing self-care, you're not only taking care of yourself but also building the resilience needed to face life's challenges. Remember that self-care is a personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. Find what resonates with you, and make self-care a non-negotiable part of your life. You deserve it, and your well-being will thank you for it.

🌟 Don't let life's challenges hold you back. Discover your inner strength with Strength in Heart Counselling in Victoria, BC. 🌟

Mental Illness Awareness Week 2023: Breaking Stigmas and Offering Support

Mental Illness Awareness Week is an annual event that takes place from October 1st to 7th in Canada. Organized by the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health, this week serves as a crucial opportunity to promote understanding, reduce stigma, and improve access to mental health and substance use care across the country. At Strength in Heart Counselling in Victoria, BC, we believe in the power of awareness, empathy, and support to transform lives. This year's theme, "Awareness, Access, and Parity for Mental Health and Substance Use Care in Canada," emphasizes the need for these essential aspects in mental health care.

Understanding Mental Illness: A mental illness is defined by a clinically significant disturbance in an individual's cognition, emotional regulation, or behavior. It often leads to distress or impairs vital areas of functioning. It's crucial to note that having a mental illness doesn't equate to poor mental health, and conversely, one can experience poor mental health without a diagnosed mental illness. Just as we care for our physical health, nurturing our mental health is equally important.

Factors Influencing Mental Health: Various factors can influence an individual's mental health, such as stress, family dynamics, community support, and environmental conditions. According to the World Health Organization, some individuals may be more resilient to life's challenges, while others face higher risks due to factors like poverty, violence, disability, and inequality. Protective factors and risk factors also include individual psychological and biological factors, such as emotional skills and coping strategies, as well as genetic factors.

Key Facts:

• One in five Canadians experiences a mental health illness each year (Mental Health Commission of Canada).

• More than half of struggling Canadians do not receive the mental health help they need (Mental Health Research Canada).

• Over 20% of Canadians experience mental health concerns each year, but only one-third seek help or treatment (Statistics Canada).

Taking Action: During Mental Illness Awareness Week, we encourage everyone to educate themselves about mental health and illness. It's imperative that we work collectively to raise awareness, combat stigma, and provide support to those in need. If you or a loved one requires assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out for help.

Coming Soon: On November 30, 2023, the 988-suicide crisis line will become available to all Canadians in both English and French, offering 24/7 support through phone calls and texts. This service will provide trauma-informed and culturally appropriate assistance from trained crisis responders.

At Strength in Heart Counselling, Victoria, BC, we proudly support the promotion of mental health awareness and extend our hand to those in need.

Your Path Out of Depression

In this journey we call “Life” we sometimes face difficult times of darkness or depression. We know, because we’ve been there too!

Depression can cast a shadow that not only affects our mood, but also our relationships, which can lead to isolation & further overwhelm. Reaching out to ask for help takes courage & strength, at a time when we might be at our lowest reserve of energy. Not an easy task at all! At Strength in Heart Counselling, Victoria, BC we understand how difficult this can be & we are here to support you along every step of the way.

Personalised Individual Counselling: We honour the uniqueness of each individual’s journey and will tailor our strategies to your specific needs. We will work closely with you to identify triggers, develop coping strategies & explore the roots of the depression that you experience. With a focus on re-wiring & re-connecting to your strengths, we'll guide you toward regaining control of your life & relationships.

Revitalizing Relationships for Couples: Our couples counselling offers a haven for partners to openly & safely communicate, fostering understanding & empathy. Through effective communication techniques & collaborative problem-solving, our counsellors will help you rebuild intimacy & strengthen the foundation of your relationship.

For in person sessions we offer a comfortable, soothing & confidential office environment (for a virtual tour please click here) where you can express yourself safely. We also offer encrypted virtual sessions for those who prefer to be in their own home for their counselling session.

The path to healing begins with a single step - a step that can lead you to a life filled with strength, hope & possibility.

Reach out to us to take the first step towards a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow.

🌟 Don't let life's challenges hold you back. Discover your inner strength with Strength in Heart Counselling in Victoria, BC. 🌟

New Online Psychedelic Preparation & Harm Reduction Group Program Starts Sept 20th!

We are excited to announce that our partner Higher Growth’s next Psychedelic Preparation & Harm Reduction Program is now open for registration.

Psychedelic Preparation & Harm Reduction Group Program (live online). A 6-week online support structure & course led by experienced psychedelic integration therapists. This program is for anyone seeking information & guidance around how to minimize risks & maximize benefits when taking psychedelics in a controlled setting. Those who participate in this course gain access to Higher Growth members only community events, workshops & retreats.

When: The program begins September 20th, 2023 & will run for 6 weeks on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:00 PM PST (9 hours).

Limited spots available - Register now!

If you are…

• interested in psychedelics or non-ordinary states & would like to discuss effects, safety, preparations & integration with qualified & experienced therapists.

• interested in microdosing or sitting.

• looking to join a growing community of people who are informed & passionate about psychedelic/non-ordinary state work.

• looking for connections to community events, workshops & retreats.

• confused about a non-ordinary state experience, the meaning of things you saw or heard, or about what to do next.

• looking to deepend your understanding of the lessons of one or more experiences.

• looking to integrate insights from psychedelic experiences into day-to-day life & maintain positive outcomes.

  …Then this course is for you!

Please note: Psychedelic integration is not about encouraging the consumption of psychedelics, it is about harm reduction & post-consumption management. We do not provide substances (legal or illegal), nor do we provide referrals to underground therapists. However, due to the current psychedelic renaissance, we consider psychedelic integration support to be a necessary service. We will compassionately support you to integrate your experiences safely & effectively.

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Respect Your Journey: Embrace the Lessons, Trust the Process, & Honour Your Path

In today’s entry in "Journey to the Heart" by Melody Beattie, the author reflects on a personal journey and the lessons she learned along the way. What I take as the key lesson from this entry, and find extremely relevant to the work that we do here at Strength in Heart, is to not only to trust the process of your journey, but also to respect it. Go beyond mere trust and develop a deep appreciation for your own journey. This means to respect your emotions, allow them to surface, express, and lead to new discoveries. It also means to respect past experiences, both the positive and challenging ones.

Each of our journeys is unique and valuable. By cultivating respect for both oneself and others, we can navigate through life with a greater sense of appreciation and understanding.

Here is the full entry:

Journey to the Heart, by Melody Beattie  (June 14)

Learn the power of respect 

I watched as my journey unfolded this spring. Each place I visited gave me a lesson. People would show up at the right time and place with exactly the words I needed to hear. Sometimes the lesson would be announced loudly, clearly. Sometimes an awareness would surface softly when I least expected it, when I was beginning to wonder if any lesson or purpose was there at all. Everything I saw and experienced ultimately reinforced my trust in God, the universe, and the power of my heart to lead me on. After all I had taken this trip on just a moment's notice with no itinerary, and a magical adventure had unfolded. By the time the journey ended and I pulled into the driveway at home, I had learned more than just to trust the process. I had learned to respect it. 

Do more than trust the process, the journey you're on. Become so awestruck by it that you respect it, too. Respect your feelings and the timely manner in which they surface, heal, and lead you into new discoveries. Respect your experiences, the places you've been, the scenarios you've been through. Respect the way you've gained gold and jewels, The treasures of the soul, from each one. 

Respect the darker moments, the more difficult times when you're uncertain and don't know what to do next. Respect the timing as your life and journey unfolds. Don't remember about why such and such has to be the way it is. Don't limit how your growth can happen. 

Learn to respect the path of others. 

Learn to respect your own.

Affordable Counselling Now Available! Free 20 Minute Consults. In Office, Telephone or Virtual.

Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health concern, we're here to help.

Free 20 minute consultations. 1 hour session (50 min): $70 (sliding scale also available)

At Strength in Heart Counselling, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered counselling services that are tailored to your unique needs. We believe that mental health should be a priority for everyone, and we're committed to providing affordable, high-quality counselling services to our clients.

Don't let financial concerns keep you from getting the help you need. We're here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth.

Contact us today to learn more.

Happy Bicycle Day!

Tomorrow, April 19th marks the annual celebration of Bicycle Day, a holiday commemorating a pivotal moment in the history of psychedelic substances. It was on this day in 1943 that Dr. Albert Hofmann, a Swiss chemist, ingested a small amount of a chemical compound he had synthesized in his laboratory known as lysergic acid diethylamide, or LSD. Hofmann had first discovered the substance’s psychoactive properties five years prior but had not fully understood its effects until his fateful bicycle ride home on that spring day in 1943.

As he rode home, Hofmann began to experience a series of intense and unusual sensations, including vivid colors, swirling patterns, and altered perceptions of time and space. He later described his state of mind as a "dreamlike condition" that felt both "pleasant and threatening." It was a transformative experience that would inspire further research into the effects of psychedelics on the human mind.

Bicycle Day has since become a holiday celebrated by individuals and communities around the world who are interested in exploring the potential of psychedelics for therapeutic, spiritual, or creative purposes. While LSD remains a controversial substance due to its history of misuse and abuse, many people believe that it has the potential to offer profound insights and experiences when used responsibly and in the right set and setting.

While it is important to approach the use of psychedelics with caution and respect, many people find that they offer a unique and valuable perspective on the world and their place in it. Whether used for personal exploration or in a therapeutic setting under the guidance of a trained professional, psychedelics have the potential to open up new avenues of thought and understanding that can be transformative in ways that are difficult to articulate.

As with any substance or activity that has the potential to alter our consciousness, it is important to approach Bicycle Day and the use of psychedelics with care and responsibility. This means being informed about the potential risks and benefits of using these substances, being mindful of our intentions and motivations for doing so, and ensuring that we are in a safe and supportive environment with people we trust.

Ultimately, Bicycle Day is a celebration of the human capacity for curiosity, exploration, and self-discovery. It is a reminder that we are capable of experiencing the world in ways that transcend our everyday perceptions and that there are many paths to personal growth and understanding. Whether or not we choose to explore the world of psychedelics, the legacy of Dr. Hofmann’s discovery and the experiences it has inspired serve as a testament to the power of human ingenuity and the limitless potential of the human mind.

Affordable, Sliding Scale Counselling Now Available! In Office, Telephone or Virtual.

We understand that seeking counselling can be a significant financial burden for many individuals & families. Even with insurance, the cost of therapy can add up quickly. That's why we offer a sliding scale fee structure, which means that the cost of your therapy sessions will be adjusted to your income & ability to pay. You don't have to worry about whether you can afford therapy or not. We will work with you to determine a rate that works for your budget, so you can focus on feeling better.

Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health concern, we're here to help.

At Strength in Heart Counselling, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered counselling services that are tailored to your unique needs. We believe that mental health should be a priority for everyone, and we're committed to providing affordable, high-quality counselling services to our clients.

Don't let financial concerns keep you from getting the help you need. We're here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth.

Contact us today to learn more about our sliding scale fee structure or to book a counselling session.

Do you struggle with depression & overwhelm? You are not alone.

Depression can be isolating. We know. We’ve been there & know the ways out.

Depression can make it difficult to enjoy life, connect with others & feel motivated. Counselling can help you to regain control over your thoughts & emotions so that you can re-wire old ways of thinking and feel better.

At Strength in Heart Counselling we offer a safe & supportive environment where we work with people to address their unique needs & concerns. Together we will create a custom tailored therapy plan to explore & re-calibrate the root causes of the depression that you experience. Whether you're dealing with situational depression, major depressive disorder, or another form of low mood, we will provide you with the tools & resources you need to feel better.

You deserve to live a life that is fulfilling, happy & free from the weight of depression. Let's work together to make that a reality. If you're ready to take the first step towards healing, please reach out to us.

Let's start your journey toward a brighter future today.

#depressioncounselling #mentalhealth #therapy #healing #selfcare

Psychedelic Integration Counselling - Our Speciality Area Since 2018

Have you ever had a profound experience with psychedelics that left you feeling like you had gained a new perspective on life? While these experiences can be incredibly transformative, they can also be intense and challenging to process. This is one of the areas that psychedelic integration counselling can be useful.

Psychedelic integration counselling is a type of therapy that can help individuals make sense of their psychedelic experiences and integrate the insights gained into their daily lives. It can be especially helpful for those who have had difficult or challenging experiences, as well as those who want to explore the deeper meaning behind their psychedelic journeys.

Strength in Heart believes that everyone deserves access to safe, non-judgmental support. We offer custom-tailored therapy plans to ensure maximum safety and effectiveness for each person that we work with.

If you're interested in learning more about how integration counselling can help you, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Let's continue to support each other on our journeys of healing and personal growth. ❤️ #psychedelicintegration #counselling #therapy #healing #growth

Talk Less - Heal More!

Are you tired of talk therapy, re-telling your painful stories over & over?

Does talking about your problems bring you no relief, or only short term relief, followed by the same unhelpful thought loops & behaviours?

We’ve been there & we get it!

At Strength in Heart Counselling we will support you to actually re-wire old ways of thinking & feeling so that you can start telling a new, more happy story.

Your Healing Journey Can Begin Now.

Affordable, Sliding Scale Counselling Now Available!

We are excited to announce that our student counsellor, Misha Greig, is now accepting new in office & virtual clients.

1 hour session (50 min): $70 (sliding scale also available)

In office, telephone or virtual options.

Although Mischa is currently completing her Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology, she also has a decade of previous experience in care & support work.

Mischa Greig [she.her], MA in Counselling Psychology (in progress)

Mischa’s areas of specialty:

• Stress, anxiety, overwhelm

• Depression

• Transitions

• Trauma

• Dysregulation

• Self-worth & self-esteem

“As an artist & creative, I draw on the power of imagination & wonder. Through my background in Anthropology & Sociology, I carry a critical practice lens, attentive to dominant narratives that exclude bodies or make them feel small.”

— Mischa Greig

If your finances are limited please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your options.

Final 6 Week Psychedelic Integration Group of 2022 (Oct 25th) - A Few Spots Left!

Our partner Higher Growth is still accepting applications for their next 6 week Psychedelic Preparation & Harm Reduction Program!

You can read more about it below, or email them to apply info@highergrowth.ca

New curriculum now includes an introduction to sitting & micro-dosing!

A 6-week (2 hours per week) in person support structure & course led by experienced psychedelic integration therapists for anyone seeking information & guidance around how to minimize risks & maximize benefits when taking psychedelics in a controlled setting. This course will also prepare you to leverage insights gained through altered states of consciousness (not necessarily psychedelic induced) so that you may achieve positive, sustainable transformations in your life. 

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This program is for you if you are:

Please note: Psychedelic integration is not about encouraging the consumption of psychedelics, it is about harm reduction & post-consumption management. We do not provide substances (legal or illegal), nor do we provide referrals to underground therapists. However, due to the current psychedelic renaissance, we consider psychedelic integration support to be a necessary service. We will compassionately support you to integrate your experiences safely & effectively.

• interested in psychedelics & would like to discuss effects, safety precautions, preparation & integration with qualified & experienced therapists.

• curious to understand your own internal mechanisms & how they affect your daily life, regardless of whether the catalyst of your experience has been psychedelics, breathwork, or any other altered state of consciousness.

• confused about an experience, the meaning of things you saw or heard, what it was trying to teach you, or what to do next.

• looking to deepen your understanding of the lessons of one or more journeys.

• stuck at a certain level &/or wanting to go deeper in your personal growth or entheogenic work.

• looking to integrate insights from a psychedelic experience into day-to-day life & maintain positive outcomes.

When: Beginning Oct 25th 2022, each Tuesday for a total of 6 weeks from 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST (total 12 hours).

Session schedule:

• Tuesday Oct 25, 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST

• Tuesday Nov 1, 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST

• Tuesday Nov 8, 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST

• Tuesday Nov 15, 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST

• Tuesday Nov 22, 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST

• Tuesday Nov 29, 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST

Where: Live, in office in Victoria, BC (address will be shared when your registration is complete). An online video version will also be available in the near future.

Cost: $495 (payment plan available)

Please contact Higher Growth for more information.

6 Week Psychedelic Integration Group (Sept 12) - A Few Spots Left!

Our partner Higher Growth is still accepting applications for their next 6 week Psychedelic Preparation & Harm Reduction Program!

You can read more about it below, or email them to apply info@highergrowth.ca

New curriculum now includes introduction to sitting & micro-dosing!

A 6-week (2 hours per week) in person support structure & course led by experienced psychedelic integration therapists for anyone seeking information & guidance around how to minimize risks & maximize benefits when taking psychedelics in a controlled setting. This course will also prepare you to leverage insights gained through altered states of consciousness (not necessarily psychedelic induced) so that you may achieve positive, sustainable transformations in your life. 

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This program is for you if you are:

Please note: Psychedelic integration is not about encouraging the consumption of psychedelics, it is about harm reduction & post-consumption management. We do not provide substances (legal or illegal), nor do we provide referrals to underground therapists. However, due to the current psychedelic renaissance, we consider psychedelic integration support to be a necessary service. We will compassionately support you to integrate your experiences safely & effectively.

• interested in psychedelics & would like to discuss effects, safety precautions, preparation & integration with qualified & experienced therapists.

• curious to understand your own internal mechanisms & how they affect your daily life, regardless of whether the catalyst of your experience has been psychedelics, breathwork, or any other altered state of consciousness.

• confused about an experience, the meaning of things you saw or heard, what it was trying to teach you, or what to do next.

• looking to deepen your understanding of the lessons of one or more journeys.

• stuck at a certain level &/or wanting to go deeper in your personal growth or entheogenic work.

• looking to integrate insights from a psychedelic experience into day-to-day life & maintain positive outcomes.

When: Beginning Sept 12th 2022, each Monday for a total of 6 weeks from 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST (total 12 hours).

Session schedule:

• Monday Sept 12, 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST

• Monday Sept 19, 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST

• Monday Sept 26, 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST

• Monday Oct 3, 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST

• Monday Oct 10, BREAK - No session this week

• Monday Oct 17, 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST

• Monday Oct 24, 6:30 to 8:30 PM PST

Where: Live, in office in Victoria, BC (address will be shared when your registration is complete). An online video version will also be available in the near future.

Cost: $495 (payment plan available)

Please contact Higher Growth for more information.

Research Study Looking for Brain Injury Survivors

This summer, the Victoria Brain Injury Society is conducting a program evaluation study on the benefits of its flagship educational program, Acquired Brain Injury 101. This study is the first step in our long-term goal of promoting the program to a larger audience with the hopes of expanding rehabilitation options for brain injury survivors. Study participants will be asked to commit 12 hours of their time over the span of 3 months. This time will involve attending the ABI 101 course and responding to 3 surveys pertaining to their experience. This project is being conducted with care and consideration of participant wellbeing and safety; all data collected throughout the study will remain anonymous.

New Psychedelic Preparation & Harm Reduction Group Program in Victoria, BC

We are excited to announce that our partner Higher Growth is almost ready to launch their Psychedelic Preparation & Harm Reduction Program! You can read more about it below, or signup here to be the first to know when registration opens.

A 6-week (2 hours per week) in person support structure & course led by experienced psychedelic integration therapists for anyone seeking information & guidance around how to minimize risks & maximize benefits when taking psychedelics in a controlled setting. This course will also prepare you to leverage insights gained through altered states of consciousness (not necessarily psychedelic induced) so that you may achieve positive, sustainable transformations in your life. 

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This program is for you if you are:

Please note: Psychedelic integration is not about encouraging the consumption of psychedelics, it is about harm reduction & post-consumption management. We do not provide substances (legal or illegal), nor do we provide referrals to underground therapists. However, due to the current psychedelic renaissance, we consider psychedelic integration support to be a necessary service. We will compassionately support you to integrate your experiences safely & effectively.

• interested in psychedelics & would like to discuss effects, safety precautions, preparation & integration with qualified & experienced therapists.

• curious to understand your own internal mechanisms & how they affect your daily life, regardless of whether the catalyst of your experience has been psychedelics, breathwork, or any other altered state of consciousness.

• confused about an experience, the meaning of things you saw or heard, what it was trying to teach you, or what to do next.

• looking to deepen your understanding of the lessons of one or more journeys.

• stuck at a certain level &/or wanting to go deeper in your personal growth or entheogenic work.

• looking to integrate insights from a psychedelic experience into day-to-day life & maintain positive outcomes.

• and more…please contact Higher Growth for more information.

Microdosing Psychedelics: A Paradigm Shift

Written by Yvonne Paquette, MSW (Cand)

Every so often, individuals or even whole societies will go through what’s called a ‘paradigm shift’ – meaning something has happened to cause a big change in how we view the world, other people, our selves, and our priorities. As we become less rigid in our beliefs, we begin to look for new solutions to persistent problems.

Right now, at this very moment, you are living in the midst of a major paradigm shift within the fields of mental health and medicine. Psychedelic molecules are being researched for new insights into how the brain works, along with effects on emotions, thought processes, and memories. But wait – using psychedelics for personal growth and exploration isn’t new, so what’s this paradigm shift I’m talking about?

Despite a veritable cornucopia of therapeutic drugs, and various styles of therapy, from body-feeling somatic based treatments to intellectual cognitive approaches, mental health distress is on the rise globally. In their search for relief from negative or ‘stuck’ feelings, people are seeking alternative treatments outside of those largely considered tested, regulated, and ‘evidence-based.’ This is the paradigm shift – this questioning of values and beliefs about what is therapeutic, and the discarding of fear-based stereotypes about substances that are not innately good or bad, they simply are.

The practice of microdosing psychedelics is one of the more visible and trendy developments of this mental health treatment paradigm shift happening now. Micro-dosing is the practice of consuming a psychoactive substance in a low enough quantity that the person can not perceive the effects of the substance. The person should not be able to readily feel changes in their body or visual perception. If they notice anything, like visuals or body sensations, they aren’t micro-dosing, they’re just straight-up dosed now. Whoops!

So, if micro-dosing is a sub-perceptual treatment, how do we know it works? How do we know the positive effects are more than just a placebo effect? That answer is, we don’t know yet. But thanks to the spread of this paradigm shift, we want to know!

Much of the apprehension around psychedelics as tools to assist therapies and healing is around safety. Safety is the primary concern of any researcher or therapist, and it needs to be yours too. Some psychedelics, like ketamine, psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD have a large body of research and clinical trials that show the effectiveness and safety concerns regarding larger, therapeutic doses, in relation to specific mental health conditions, and given in the short-term. As microdosing increases in popularity, so do questions around safety and effectiveness of using micro amounts of psychedelics over long periods of time.

Interest in micro-dosing as a cost-effective, less intense, and generally more accessible way to access psychedelic assisted therapy is encouraging the research community to increase the size and rigour of microdosing studies. For now, we need to be honest and acknowledge that many claims to the effectiveness of micro-dosing are anecdotal, and can not be generalized to a larger audience at this time.

Image from: Psychedelic microdosing benefits and challenges: an empirical codebook. Anderson et al., 2018, Harm Reduction Journal.

Here are some links to materials that informed this post, and some links to micro-dosing studies:

Can Micro-dosing Psychedelics Improve Your Mental Health? Grabski, 2020, Science in the News, Harvard University.

Microdosing Psychedelics Is Trendy, But Does It Work? Here’s What Science Says. Siebert, 2020. Forbes.

Psychedelic microdosing benefits and challenges: an empirical codebook. Anderson et al., 2018, Harm Reduction Journal.

Self-Rated Effectiveness of Microdosing With Psychedelics for Mental and Physical Health Problems Among Microdosers. Hutten et al., 2019. Frontiers in Psychiatry.

A systematic study of microdosing psychedelics. Polito & Stevenson, 2019. PLOS ONE.

The therapeutic potential of microdosing psychedelics in depression. Kuypers, 2020. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology.

Micro-dosing, highlights from our LSD micro-dosing research programme. The Beckley Foundation.

Adults who microdose psychedelics report health related motivations and lower levels of anxiety and depression compared to non-microdosers. Rootman et al., 2021. Scientific Reports.

Microdosing with 'shrooms or LSD no better than placebo, study finds. Rettner, 2021. Live Science.

Microdosing, a Placebo Effect. Makanda, 2021. University of Toronto, Dalla Lana School of Public Health.