Inner Strength Wellness

10/21/2025

10/07/2025

A quiet Saturday morning, a small moment, and a reminder worth sharing.

Recently, I had a thoughtful conversation with a friend and trusted colleague about how I want to show up here—on this platform, in this space. I kept coming back to one thing: it has to mean something to me.

As I settled in with my book on Saturday, a page lit up with something I’ve seen before—but this time, it landed differently. Many of my clients have heard me ask, “How did that feel?” This was one of those moments where I felt it.

Some psychologists and counsellors call these moments glimmers—the gentle, hopeful opposites of triggers. Tiny instances that remind us we're safe, connected, alive.

This is the feeling I want to share.

My wish for you this week is that you notice the glimmers too. They’re there. 🌿

10/03/2025

I’m happy to share that I’ll be expanding my availability at Inner Strength Wellness to better support both new and returning clients. Starting mid-October, I will also be offering sessions on Tuesdays, creating more flexibility in scheduling.

Please note that the hours listed below serve as a general guideline and may vary slightly from week to week.

09/30/2025

09/19/2025

You've probably heard this before....but it is worth repeating (because it is always explored in therapy):

What do you actually like to do?
Yes, your to-do list is full -responsibilities, tasks, deadlines.
And sure, crossing off things feels good.
But here's the thing:
There is another list that matters just as much - maybe more
The one filled with things that light you up.
That brings you joy.
That makes you feel like you.

This is not about productivity. It is about personal engagement.

You deserve space for that.
We all do.

08/28/2025

08/15/2025

07/11/2025

"Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become."
– James Clear, Atomic Habits

Many clients come to therapy feeling stuck, disconnected, or not quite like themselves. One helpful way to begin moving forward is by asking: What would the version of you that you want to become do each day?

This doesn’t mean making big, overwhelming changes. Often, it starts with something small and intentional—something manageable that gently shifts your daily rhythm.

For example, if you're hoping to feel more grounded or focused, you might try waiting until after breakfast to check your phone.

Each day, you eat without distractions and simply notice how that feels. It may seem minor, but these consistent, conscious choices are what shape meaningful change over time.

In therapy, we’re not aiming for perfection—we’re building awareness, choice, and alignment with who you truly want to be.

--
Vanessa

06/26/2025

As clients begin their therapy journey, they share their hopes for positive change. While they may not always notice the progress they're making, I've observed and shared with them some indicators that suggest they're finding therapy helpful. I love discussing progress reflections together. Here are a small few of them.

06/06/2025

Canadian Certified Counsellor CCC

Mindfulness - Solution Focused - Strengths Based - Compassion Focused

04/28/2025

While attempting to locate my creative side for social media content, I found myself scrolling instead. However, a trending reel caught my attention with the phrase 'I almost forgot this was the whole point,' prompting me to reflect on how many clients struggle with striving for perfection. Yet, it's essential to acknowledge that perfection is unattainable. The ultimate goal is to learn from mistakes, as this process facilitates the creation of new neurological connections in our brains. We are not born with innate knowledge; rather, we are born to learn and cultivate curiosity, which can only be achieved through embracing imperfections.

04/01/2025

Values are a concept that has likely been emphasized since elementary school. I believe values may be undervalued, and they frequently arise in discussions I have with clients. Reflecting on personal and family values can be highly beneficial.