Living Systems Counselling

02/02/2026

How would you explain differentiation of self to a stranger in a 30-second elevator ride?

That’s the challenge at the heart of the Elevator Systems podcast!

Join podcast hosts Dixie Vandersluys and Katie White for their February 19th presentation with Bowen Center for the Study of the Family as they walk you through the podcast’s format, share some of their favourite moments, and reflect on how creating the podcast has deepened their own understanding of Bowen theory.

This presentation will explore both the usefulness and the challenges of presenting Bowen theory in ways that are brief, accessible, and still staying true to the theory.

How would you describe differentiation of self to a stranger in a 30-second elevator ride? That is the challenge put out by the Living Systems podcast, Eleva...

01/30/2026

Here is a recent list showing 19 ways to have happier relationships, which is particularly useful when looking at it from systems perspective.

Read blog post here:
https://livingsystems.ca/differentiation-the-key-to-better-relationships

01/27/2026

📢 New workshop coming up in April!
Family of Origin Workshop: Observing Family Ties

What role does our family history play in our life? Birth order, nodal events, our parents' relationships, and the rules we were brought up can affect our current functioning.

Family of origin work can help us understand ourselves in the context of our relationships so we can respond with more clarity, confidence, and thoughtful intention.

This short hands-on workshop is offered in Spring (6 Wednesdays Noon-2pm) - don't miss out!

Visit website for dates and registration details: https://livingsystems.ca/education/family-systems-courses/family-of-origin-course/

01/23/2026

We have a team of experienced registered counsellors as well as intern counsellors to provide support to individuals, couples and families of all income levels, starting at $25!

We currently have no waitlist, contact us today to learn more!

https://livingsystems.ca/about/contact/

01/20/2026

Our social life is rewiring your cells one mitochondria at a time. Our relationships and emotional processes run deeper than we may think.

Read more in our latest blog post:
https://livingsystems.ca/social_life_of_mitochondria/

01/16/2026

As we continue the conversation about no contact with family members, what do you think about starting at the edges?

In our conversation with Dr. Mariana Martinez, we explore what it can look like to begin working within your own family.

Listen here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6ynI3fo2kg

01/15/2026

Looking for affordable counselling support?

We’re currently accepting referrals at our North Vancouver office for our low-fee counselling program. Sessions start at just $25 with our wonderful intern counsellors.

E-mail us at info@livingsystems.ca for more info!

01/13/2026

Our ministry course is starting next month - don't miss out!

Faith communities are emotional systems where dynamics under the surface can both enhance and disrupt the harmony that is find within them.

Bowen theory can help you think through these dynamics and learn more about how you can function your best as a faith leader.

Register here:
https://livingsystems.ca/education/family-systems-courses/courses-ministry/

01/09/2026

Our Intro to Bowen Theory Lunch & Learn is starting in a month - don't miss it!

This engaging series will introduce you to the core concepts of Bowen Family Systems Theory and help you learn what it’s like to see relationships and dynamics through a systems lens.

Ideal for graduate students, clinicians, and anyone interested in Bowen theory.

Register here:
https://livingsystems.ca/education/family-systems-courses/bowen-intro-lunch-learn/

01/06/2026

Oprah explored a growing trend of going "no contact" with family members in her recent podcast episode. How do you think about cutting ties?

In one of our Season 3 Elevator Systems podcast episodes, we also looked at this topic of family rifts with our guest Lisa Moss. Listen to the full episode for more:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0yUlUBA0sM

01/02/2026

A new year is an invitation to be a little more thoughtful and a little more self. Wishing you all a great year ahead!

12/30/2025

Do you want to function better in 2026? Let's see how you can do that by using principles to define yourself!

https://livingsystems.ca/function-better-in-2026/