Path Forward Counselling

Path Forward Counselling Path Forward Counselling provides individual, couples and family therapy in an office setting or online.

All counsellors at Path Forward Counselling have a Masters degree and are Registered Clinical Counsellors a designation of the BCACC.

In a world that tries to feed us truths and platforms that capitalize on differing opinions, can we see the power in col...
02/06/2024

In a world that tries to feed us truths and platforms that capitalize on differing opinions, can we see the power in collaboration? Do you prefer an echo chamber or can you sit with humans that carry differing opinions?



We all have different elements of self. Some call them parts, others call them masks and others intersections. Whatever the name it speaks to the complexity of humanity both between and within.



Curiosity, empathy, unconditional positive regard, healthy conflict and authenticity are terms thrown around in a person centred humanistic approach. When we are faced with differences can we take a breath, embrace our emotions and lean into the richness of the interaction. Differences can be a catalyst for evolution if we learn to keep ourselves in check.



Life can feel so overwhelming at times.  We can be faced with new situations that bring a plethora of thoughts and emoti...
02/05/2024

Life can feel so overwhelming at times. We can be faced with new situations that bring a plethora of thoughts and emotions. As difficult as it may feel this can bring an opportunity for learning and growth. By leaning into these new experiences we allow ourselves to expand our perspectives.



The discomfort can feel intense and we can reframe to use that awareness as a teacher. What lesson is this new situation providing and how can we embrace a new way of being. This is the idea of a growth mindset. By naming our thoughts and emotions, they don’t have to be so intense anymore. We can view them as companions in our journey.



Every new experience brings new uncertainties. Our brain likes certainty but we can learn to embrace uncertainties as well. Our brains are actually built for change and we can unlock that potential through acceptance of different ways of being!



What does it mean to put on an armour of logic?  Some of us grew up in environments that felt emotionally unsafe and we ...
04/29/2023

What does it mean to put on an armour of logic? Some of us grew up in environments that felt emotionally unsafe and we now may perceive threat in various human relationships. We have learned that operating from fear is the best way to keep ourselves safe. We have been so well trained in hiding and suppressing our emotions that all we know is to use an armour of logic. Just like a real armour we can put it in and use it to deflect by explaining, controlling, hurting and predicting. This can seriously get in the way of connection.



When we are ready we can say to the part that is scared that we don’t need that armour of logic anymore. We can metaphorically take it off and put it aside by being curious, exploring and sharing our inner world with those close to us.



This curiosity can bring the connection we are wired for. The type of connection that lets go of defensiveness, stonewalling, contempt and criticism (or as the Gottmans call the 4 horseman). This connection is based on vulnerability, transparency and openness. It may sound terrifying, however, you might be pleasantly surprised that with the right person profound healing through connection can follow.



We live in a society where we are bombarded with highlight reels of the lives of others.  It’s easy to fall into the tho...
04/20/2023

We live in a society where we are bombarded with highlight reels of the lives of others. It’s easy to fall into the thought that there are lives which are only full of joy.



With joy comes pain, these highs and lows are connected through a neurotransmitter called dopamine. The reward cycle that is linked to dopamine has its peaks and valleys. The issue is we do not see that in the lives of others and we are well aware of it in our own lives.



It is important to remember to work on the basics to maintain a manageable baseline. Things like sleep, excercise and light exposure (circadian rhythms) are very important. Also learning to celebrate the process of an activity, letting go of the outcome can assist in the acceptance of the pain and pleasures of life. Life has variation and this simply means we are human!



In attachment theory there is a principle that all behaviour has meaning.  If we want to leave the door of connection op...
04/19/2023

In attachment theory there is a principle that all behaviour has meaning. If we want to leave the door of connection open then curiously trying to understand the meaning of behaviour can be very important.



It’s not about finding the “right” answer. It’s simply about demonstrating curiosity to what the behaviour is trying to communicate. The child that is having a tantrum, a partner that is shut down, a family member that is always criticizing these are examples of behaviours that have meaning.



These behaviours can create a reaction within us. It we prioritize connection and get curious, we may find that below the surface the behaviour means so much more! Next time you are faced with a behaviour and want to try a different approach then try to take a breath, metaphorically step back and ask what are they trying to communicate.



Address

Vancouver, BC

Opening Hours

Monday 11am - 8pm
Tuesday 11am - 8pm
Thursday 10am - 6pm
Friday 9am - 6pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+17789526525

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